Dwarf dog breeds: advantages and disadvantages, types, selection and care

Dwarf dog breeds for many years are at the peak of popularity. The undying interest in these miniature creatures is due to such factors as the possibility of keeping animals in small apartments, small expenses for food, as well as the prestige and status of some breeds.

To dwarf breeds are dogs whose height does not exceed 35 cm, and weight varies from 2 to 5 kg. The history of the appearance of small animals has its roots in the eighth century. BC e., when, according to modern scientists, there was a mutation of the gene IGF-1responsible for the growth of living organisms. This hypothesis was confirmed in laboratory studies, during which an identical sequence of mutated genes, characteristic of all miniature rocks, was discovered. Later, these dogs were divided into toys, whose height is 12-28 cm, and their weight does not exceed 2 kg, and dwarf individuals with an increase of 28-25 cm and a weight of 2 to 5 kg.

All small breeds have a standard set of 42 teeth, which is why they have a number of problems. The fact is that the jaws of dwarf dogs are very small, and they cannot accommodate all the teeth. Therefore, among such dogs infertility is often found - a serious defect that does not allow the pet to participate in breeding. In addition, in animals the wrong bite is formed, and the teeth grow curved and bump against each other. But fortunately, such problems are not found in all dwarf dogs, and most pets please owners with even and beautiful teeth.

Another physiological feature of most dwarf breeds is an unclosed spring. This is more common in toys, although dwarf pets are not uncommon. This pathology even entered the standard of many breeds, and is no longer considered a vice. Such animals safely participate in breeding work and live with an undeveloped fontanel to the end of days.

The next difference of dwarf dogs is the disproportion of the head relative to the body. Animal skulls are often excessively large in relation to the body, which is especially noticeable in puppies. And although a large head is one of the hallmarks of the exterior of many breeds, such a structure often becomes the cause of hydrocephalus. This is due to accumulation of excess fluid in the brain region, which leads to headaches and a significant reduction in the life span of the animal.

Bones in dogs of dwarf breeds are similar in their structure to birds, which is why a pet's jump from a height of 20 cm often threatens with a fracture or dislocation of limbs. Another problem is the general underdevelopment of internal organs and a predisposition to the appearance of an umbilical hernia. The latter is due to the weakness of the muscular corset, which is why the internal organs simply “fall out” from the abdominal cavity of the animal.

Besides, representatives of dwarf species often suffer from allergic reactions, which may begin to appear in quite a mature age, are often cold and more than other breeds are prone to colds. In winter, it obliges owners to dress dogs in warm clothes or, in general, not to drive them for a walk.

Describing dwarf dogs, one can not tell about their character.So, the majority of miniature pets are distinguished by absolute fearlessness and, despite their small size, they feel like full-fledged guards. Because of their exorbitant courage, many males are very cocky and rush "into battle" with large dogs. Therefore, the owner needs to socialize the animal as soon as possible to other dogs, avoiding aggressive attacks on their side. In relation to strangers, small pets behave cautiously, closely watching the reaction of the owner, but they love the household with all their hearts and very hard endure even a short-term separation from the owners.

Almost all dwarf breeds are well trained and highly intelligent. Many owners claim that the pet does not need commands, understands simple human speech and fulfills requests from the first time. However, to do this, you should start raising your dog as soon as possible, since many miniature breeds by nature have stubbornness and self-will. Besides Because of the puppet-like appearance of a puppy, it is often a pity for the owners to keep it strict. This often leads to the transformation of a small fluffy lump into a real mini-monster, which quickly sits on the neck of the owners and begins to command them. Many owners say that their pets literally throw tantrums, and do not calm down until they get what they want. Therefore, despite the decorative purpose of dwarf breeds, it is necessary to be engaged in their education.

The most popular mini-dogs are among the fair sex. Many celebrities and stars of show business carry their pets to numerous social events, buy expensive clothes for them and take them to dog beauty salons.

Another category of pet dog lovers is the elderly. They gladly take care of their little pets and love them dearly.

High popularity and stable demand for dogs of dwarf breeds due to a number of indisputable advantages of these miniature creatures.

• Due to the tiny size, animals are very convenient to keep in small apartments. The dog does not require a lot of space for sleeping and playing, and can even live in a hostel.
• Dwarf dogs do not need to be taken outside to the toilet several times a day, as they perfectly cope with their needs in absorbing diapers.
• Animals need moderate physical exertion, they are able to satisfy the motor need in the conditions of an apartment or regular walking. They do not need to make long exercises and evening runs, so these dogs are ideal for retirees.
• Pets have a very attractive appearance, touching around and resembling soft toys. However, despite their decorativeness, they are very brave, and in case of danger they are able to protect their master and frighten off the offender with a loud barking.
• Dwarf dogs are very convenient to take in travel. They are allowed to be in the cabin of the plane and the train carriage, they are allowed into most hotels and allowed to be transported in city public transport.
• Miniature pets are distinguished by high intelligence, respond well to training, and with proper upbringing are quite obedient.
• Small dogs are characterized by boundless devotion, and when the owner changes, they can not bear the separation from their family and die.
• With proper care and proper nutrition, most dwarf dogs are able to live up to 15 years or more.
• Many mini-breeds are odorless and do not cause allergies.

The disadvantages of dwarf species include poor health, a high probability of puppy birth with defects and pathologies, excessive bone fragility and a constant risk of injury. The disadvantages include the cost of puppies.

There are more than 20 species of dwarf species in the world, the most common of which are discussed below.

Mobile and very active dogs whose height does not exceed 28 cm, and the average weight is 4.5-5 kg. Brabancon is difficult to confuse with anyone, since few animals have such understanding and expressive eyes. Pets are distinguished by a sharp mind and ingenuity, are easily trained and well obey.

These dogs for a long time kept the palm in the ranking of the most popular dwarf breeds, they are characterized by good character, lack of aggressiveness and high decorativeness. The average weight of York is 3.1 kg, the growth of males does not exceed 23 cm, the bitch is 20 cm. Despite the angelic appearance, the yorks are very suspicious of strangers, and if they feel that the owner is in danger, they will certainly stand up for him. A distinctive feature of the breed is a special structure of wool, resembling human hair. Animal hair grows throughout life and requires careful and timely care.

Few people know but Attractive appearance and beautiful hairstyle with a bow conceal the “professional” Pied Piper, which is a Yorkshire terrier. The breed was specially bred for these purposes and was actively used when working in coal mines. The dogs were excellent at catching rats and mice, however, they were spotted on time by the social ladies. Those, in turn, quickly pulled them out of the dungeon and made them their companions at social events and other public events.

Dogs of this breed have a gorgeous appearance and something like shih-tzu. The height of an adult dog is 25 cm, females - 20-23 cm. The weight of animals depends on age, activity and nutrition, on average it is 5 kg. Breed is classified as the most ancient. Its representatives are very attached to the owner and in dire need of communication. Dogs have a keen ear and a subtle sense, which makes them indispensable caretakers of household goods. Of course, such a pet cannot bite anyone, but it is quite capable of signaling to the owner about the appearance of a stranger in time.

Dogs of this breed amaze those around with their beautiful snow-white coat and have an aristocratic disposition. They are calm and obedient, instantly respond to any request of the owner and love children very much. Growth of adult individuals never exceeds 25 cm, weight - 3-4 kg. Animals are quite active and love to play in the fresh air. However, for a too busy person, such a dog will not work: Maltese is very poorly tolerated by loneliness and will not be able to sit for long periods locked in an apartment.

Dogs of this breed do not grow above 26 cm, have a dense constitution and short limbs. The character of the pet is very inquisitive and friendly, however, when training can be stubborn. In our country, animals are used as a companion, while in some others they are still engaged in their direct duties - hunting. Dog hair requires regular trimming, which should be done at least once every 3 months.

Dogs of this breed have a cute appearance and almost human character. They never grow higher than 27 cm and do not gain weight more than 3-4 kg. Pets belong to the category of long-lived dogs and live easily to 18-19 years. However, papillon eyes, ears, teeth and wool require painstaking care. In addition, animals need daily active walks, a balanced diet and proper training.

In appearance, the dog resembles a Doberman of a reduced size, never grows above 25 cm. Initially, the breed was used to catch rats, but today's pinscher is an excellent companion and true friend.

Dogs of this breed are distinguished by their characteristic “monkey” face, on which, like beads, are located round shiny eyes. In combination with whiskers and a mustache it looks very funny and funny. Pets are excellent companions and could be a full-fledged family dog, if not for their excessive jealousy of the owner. Dogs require greater attention from the owner and often feel in children of competitors.

Like all other varieties of poodles, miniature pets have a very high intelligence and are considered the most intelligent among the dwarf dogs. Moreover, the poodle's hair is similar in structure to human hair, and therefore does not shed or smell. The only difficulty in keeping poodles is grooming, which consists of regular visits to the groomer and daily combing.

In their appearance dogs look like little deer, have huge eyes and thin limbs. Pets are very friendly, easily come into contact with adults and children. Dogs are very easy to maintain and do not require daily grooming. The average height of pets is 25 cm, weight - about 3 kg.

The dogs of this domestic breed are direct descendants of the English Toi and are of two types. The first is the smooth-haired representatives of the breed, the second is the long-haired. The height of an adult animal is 20-28 cm, weight - 3 kg. Dogs are highly active and need daily long walks, where they gladly rush and play with other dogs. Dogs respond well to training and have high intelligence.

The breed, along with the Yorkies, is one of the three leaders in the popularity of dwarf breeds, and its representatives are among the most miniature dogs. Their weight varies from 1.5 to 3 kg with growth from 15 to 23 cm. Chihuahuas are very brave and hardy dogs, but they can be stubborn when raising them. The price for them starts from $ 200 and depends on the pedigree and the exterior of the puppy. Due to the small weight and miniature size, such dogs must be worn according to the weather.

Along with poodles, the spitz are among the ten most intelligent dwarf breeds, but due to natural stubbornness and waywardness they are not trained very well. Dogs are infinitely loyal to the owner, communicate well with his children, but do not like other pets and neighboring cats very much. The growth of adult animals reaches 18-22 cm, and the weight does not exceed 3 kg. Spitz dogs have an unusual fox snout, triangular ears and thick hair that needs to be combed daily.

Breed is the most expensive among other ornamental species. The price for a puppy with a pedigree starts from $ 450 for a pet of a pet-class and can reach $ 2500 for a kid with an elite pedigree. The height of dogs does not exceed 27 cm, weight varies from 4.5 to 7 kg. A special feature of the breed is a sharp mind and some arrogance, because of which it is quite problematic to train pets. Such a dog is unlikely to run after the ball and begin to execute the commands of any family member other than the owner.

Representatives of this breed are up to 25 cm tall and weight from 1.8 to 3 kg. Dogs are distinguished by high intelligence, but because of their waywardness, they are also not easy to train. Unlike other dwarf breeds, the quinis bark very little, and do not fight hysterically if they are not given something. Pets are distinguished by good health and unpretentious care. To comb a dog once a week is enough; you do not need to cut it at all.

When choosing a dwarf puppy should take into account a number of important points.

• The presence in the house of young children should serve as a pretext for the acquisition of another breed. Dwarf dogs have very fragile bones, so it’s better not to risk the pet’s life and health.
• Before you buy a puppy, it is advisable to look at his parents, evaluate their reaction to strangers and other dogs. If the parents are too aggressive, then there is a high probability that the puppy will be the same.
• It is necessary to buy a puppy either in the kennel, or from trusted breeders, since buying a puppy "from the hands" can result in the acquisition of a small lump, from which a dog-sized dog will later grow.
• It is necessary to pay attention to the appearance of the puppy. The eyes and ears of the pet must be dry and clean, and the fur is beautiful and shiny. Acquire a sluggish or timid dog with current eyes should not be.

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