Pros and cons of small dogs
Little cute Spitz
Any breed has both pros and cons. The advantages of small dogs include:
- Possibility of living in a small apartment. Large dogs (for example, Labradors) in a small living space will be constrained by a lack of free space. Small dogs will feel great even in a one-room apartment.
- Walking at odd hours. The dogs are walked several times a day, when there is a need to go to the toilet. Little four-legged friends can easily get by with a diaper or newspaper on the balcony, and some can even be trained to use a litter tray.
- Reduced food costs. The truism is that the larger the dog, the more food it needs to maintain strength in the body.
- They have less odor and fur. The same rule applies here as in the previous paragraph: everything fits to size.
- Mobility. A small dog does not have to be left at the entrance to the store. You can pick him up and no one will mind, because he doesn’t bother anyone.
The disadvantages of small breeds include:
- Careful care. Any pet needs to be looked after, because this is a responsibility that the owner takes on his shoulders. However, such decorative dogs need to be looked after using the services of groomers (this is especially familiar to owners of furry dogs). A specialist must trim overgrown hair and claws in a timely manner, and a veterinarian must promptly identify problems in the functioning of the pet’s body.
- Fragility. Regular visits to the veterinarian are important in keeping such breeds. Typically, the smaller the dog, the more susceptible it is to various types of diseases.
- Loud barking. If the puppy is not taught to bark frequently and loudly, the neighbors may not like it very much.
English bulldog
The white coat color of this breed is one of the acceptable ones and is quite common. Despite their frightening appearance, representatives of this breed are very kind, calm and non-conflict. Lives well in an apartment. He can often get “lazy” and will have to be persuaded to go for a walk, but if he decides that someone or something is threatening his beloved owner, he will show remarkable courage and protect him.
He is very devoted to the family in which he lives. Caring for him is quite simple; it is enough to comb his short hair in a timely manner and wash him once every month or two.
The most popular small fluffy dogs
There are many breeds of small dogs, but some of them have won a special place in the hearts of breeders.
Australian Silky Terrier
Or, as it is also called, a snare. This is a dog similar to a Yorkie, since it takes its origin from it and the Australian Old-Type Terrier. Artificially bred in Australia. The terrier, which is the progenitor of the breed, is a hunting breed, and it is this quality that was passed on to the bred dog.
Despite the fact that the breed is decorative, its representatives have a restless and restless disposition, as well as a tendency to protect their home and family. They become very attached to the owner. They have a lot of energy and love for games. However, their temper can be curbed if you raise a dog.
Important! Despite its small size, you cannot unfasten the leash during a walk - the snare will chase insects, cats, and may get into other dogs. This is due to his character and can be trained.
Silky, Australian Silky Terrier
American Eskimo Toy Spitz
They can often be seen performing in the circus arena. They are easy to train. Eskies (like huskies) feel people well: because of this, a dog needs to be accustomed to society from the age of a puppy.
The dog has proven himself well in the role of a security guard, even despite his small size: at the slightest threat, he begins to bark loudly and let the offender know that he is not welcome here.
The Toy Spitz becomes very attached to its owner and loves children. Despite the high activity, the dog, with proper training, unquestioningly obeys commands.
Esky, American Eskimo Toy Spitz
Pomeranian Spitz
Previously, Pomeranian Spitz dogs were used as guards, but with the advent of the Middle Ages, thanks to their unusual appearance, small fluffy dogs took a place in the hearts of noble nobles. The dog began to be considered aristocratic. Over time, breeders tried to reduce the breed as much as possible and make it even cuter: as a result, from 15 kg, individuals began to weigh an average of 3 kg.
With good training, there will be no problems with such a dog, but without it, the dog becomes stubborn. It is because of this that Pomeranians are recommended for those people who already have experience with other breeds. If there are other animals in the house, then the Pomeranian will show its superiority in every possible way.
Spitz have a very cute face, and coupled with fluffy fur, they look like a little red bear cub. Due to their nature, they can tolerate short periods of loneliness, but it is better that the dog is always supervised.
The breed has a playful nature and needs to release its energy with frequent walks in the fresh air.
Attention! These dogs love to roll around in leaves or grass, so the owner needs to be prepared to regularly brush their long hair.
Pomeranian Spitz
Bichon Frize (French lap dog)
One of the most important indicators of the high prevalence of a breed is its hypoallergenicity. These are fluffy and curly dogs, but despite their fur, they practically do not shed and do not smell.
During the Middle Ages, this dog was a frequent companion of the French nobility. When looking at this small, white, curly-haired dog, the status of its owner was immediately clear.
These cute, curly-haired dogs are very energetic, so couch potatoes may want to consider other breeds. They love to make contact with people and other animals and are completely non-aggressive. Suitable for family living, no matter in a large or small apartment. Like most little furry four-legged friends, the French lapdog has a very clear voice.
They are easy to train, so they often perform with a circus group. However, the dog handler needs to be prepared for the fact that the dog is quickly distracted from routine commands; it needs to be involved in training in a playful way, or rewarded with treats.
Important! The Bichon Frize often tries to dominate other animals, and even people. In training, special attention must be paid to this, otherwise the dog’s character will not change for the better.
Bichon Frize
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is credited with resembling a chrysanthemum flower, and the name “Shizu” itself is translated from Chinese as “lion cub.” Long hair needs daily care. The dog has a very trusting character, it is not at all afraid of strangers, so it makes an unimportant guard.
He loves each family member equally and is attached to everyone with the same intensity. These dogs have a very calm disposition and a strong nervous system, so even children's pranks are not able to make them angry.
Shih Tzus have a fairly low activity level; they like to just lie on a soft bed and do nothing. Such pets are suitable for homebodies. They won’t go out for a lot of walks, let alone frolic - at most they will go out to satisfy their needs and return home.
Some difficulties may also arise with training. A slightly lazy dog, without proper encouragement, does not always see the “sense” in regular training. Perhaps he will learn some simple commands, but he won’t have enough energy and desire for the rest. Because of this character trait, the breed needs to be trained from a young age, when the little fluffy puppy’s character has not yet formed. It is not possible to change the character of an adult.
Shih Tzu
Yorkshire Terrier
Even those who do not have close contact with dogs in general have heard about this breed.
- He becomes attached to the whole family, but only one person stands out in particular.
- Very energetic, loves to walk and frolic.
- An excellent guard who will scare away any uninvited guest with his loud barking.
These are smart little furry dogs that can be trained, but they are unlikely to be able to master particularly complex commands.
Small Yorkie dogs are famous for their shaggy hair - it is straight, as if straightened by an iron, long, and hangs to the floor without being cut. They often win first place at dog shows thanks to their “hair.”
They get along well with other animals, although sometimes they try to prove their superiority. Dogs are very curious, so during a walk they will be interested in everything down to the smallest detail.
Yorkshire Terrier
Japanese Chin
Small fluffy Japanese Chin dogs are a common choice for many people. They have a calm character and it is almost impossible to provoke them into aggression.
They do not like to walk a lot, although they are active by nature, but in moderation. This is a friendly breed that loves children and becomes strongly attached to members of the household. He also gets along well with other animals and does not try to “pull the blanket” over himself, but with strangers he can behave warily and even bark.
Attention! Their main feature is the ability to adapt to the lifestyle of their owner.
Japanese Chin
Maltese (Maltese)
The Maltese is similar to toys - it is a small fluffy dog with snow-white fur. They are practically not subject to shedding, have almost no smell, which is why allergy sufferers often get them.
A very smart breed, but, unfortunately, it is not subject to complex training; it can only learn a few commands. She is very picky about food and will definitely not eat anything, so the owner should consult an experienced dog handler about the Maltese’s diet in advance.
They easily become attached to people, although they may not trust them at first. They also bark a lot, sometimes even for no reason. Like Japanese Chins, they can adapt to the character of their owner. However, it is better to buy such a dog for active people, because this breed is famous for its energy.
Maltese
Coton de Tulear
This breed was previously often found on ships to catch mice. Surprisingly, she coped with this even better than cats! Having a high level of activity, small fluffy dogs of this breed are very friendly towards both people and other animals (except mice, of course).
They cope well with security functions and will scare away any uninvited guest even without proper training. They absolutely cannot tolerate aggression from people, so they do not take root in a home where conflict situations often occur.
Without the attention of the owner, they quickly withdraw into themselves and lose their natural confidence. During separation from the owner, they can do small dirty tricks, for example, chew things or tear pillows.
Coton de Tulear
West Highland White Terrier
First of all, you need to take into account that this is a thoroughbred hunter. It was artificially bred for hunting small game. In modern realities, this breed has not lost its curiosity, playfulness and energy, so small Westies, fluffy dogs, need frequent walks in the fresh air.
They are characterized by high noise levels. Also, you should not have such a pet together with other animals, especially with all sorts of rodents - hunting instincts can play a role.
A born guard. Loves the whole family, but becomes attached to only one person. If there are a lot of flowers in the apartment, they need to be fenced off from the dog, because white terriers really like to dig in the ground and gnaw on plants.
Important! They have a natural tendency to dominate, so you need to pay special attention to this when training.
West Highland White Terrier
Toy poodle
At first glance, you can’t tell him apart from a toy, he’s so tiny! Although this breed was previously used for catching small game, through the efforts of breeders the size of the dogs was changed to a smaller size.
They do not tolerate loneliness very well, so it is better for busy people not to purchase this particular breed. They are easy to train, love games, and are very active. They also get along well with other pets.
Important! This breed is still used in the army to this day - due to its size, the mini-poodle can penetrate rubble and find people under them.
Toy poodle
Chinese Crested Powder Puff
The crested dog will always be with its owner - both in happiness and in sorrow. They are very loyal to their human. When caring for such a fluffy, special attention should be paid to the claws: due to the peculiar structure of the paws, the claws grow very quickly and practically do not grind off on their own.
The dog will adapt to the mood of its owner - if he does not have time or mood for games, he will wait for a more convenient moment to attract attention to his person. Unlike many of their small brothers, they are unpretentious in food.
Powder puff
Ratlik (Prague rat)
The dog owes its name to its love of catching rodents. Despite long evolution, dogs still have a hunting instinct in their blood when they see various kinds of mice.
Ratliks are born guards, despite their size. They are also thrifty: they can often steal some small change from the owner (sometimes even a few rubles!) and hide it under the sofa.
They are very easy to train, and also love to walk, hunt for insects and simply frolic in the grass. Without proper attention, he literally “withers away” and cannot tolerate being ignored at all. He will not bark a lot, as he is naturally quite well-mannered.
Ratlik
Lhasa apso
The breed is not suitable for novice breeders, as it has a rather stubborn character. A beginner simply may not be able to cope with her restless character.
Gets along well with family members and other animals. This little fluffy dog is a born guard and will protect your home from any uninvited guest, despite its miniature size.
Lhasa apso
Keeshond (German Wolfspitz)
In appearance, they look a little like wolves due to their fluffy fur and coloring. It’s surprising that they are also drawn to the forest: they help their owners a lot in picking mushrooms and berries, and also love fishing and general forays into the fresh air.
He loves to run and swim, so he needs regular walks in nature. Also, Wolfspitz dogs love to eat even on a full stomach, which is something that owners should pay special attention to and prevent the dog from becoming overweight.
For reference! When alone, he begins to whine and play pranks, so it is not suitable for busy people.
Wolfspitz
Russian toy terrier
Despite their low level of aggressiveness, Russian Toy Terriers are excellent watchdogs. These are very cunning dogs who will not fail to make their owner feel sorry for them and beg for something tasty. They love to bark loudly and protractedly, which may not please the neighbors on the floor.
The breed is very sensitive to any outbreaks of aggression from people, therefore it reacts very poorly to various quarrels and showdowns, even to health problems. Due to their natural memory, they perfectly remember the majority of even the most complex commands.
Russian toy terrier
Boston Terrier
Very smart dogs with innate “gentlemanly” qualities. They are very reminiscent of people: Boston Terriers are able to express their emotions through facial expressions, and in their sleep they can snore and grunt. Known for their sense of humor, they try to fill the owner’s life with bright colors.
They get along well with people, especially love children, winning their mutual affection. They adapt to their owner: they can be both lazy and active.
Important! Dogs of this breed react very sharply to weather conditions, so when walking on particularly hot or, conversely, cold days, you need to carefully monitor the behavior of the animal.
Boston Terrier
Brussels Griffon
Cute flattened noses and faces with mustaches are the calling card of the Brussels Griffon. They have a habit of following their owner everywhere, without leaving him a single step.
A born guard, he will bark long and loudly when a stranger appears. Due to their natural intelligence and discipline, they are well trained and trained, but are not suitable for beginners in the dog business.
Brussels Griffon
Rabbit dachshund
It owes its name to the fact that it was bred specifically for hunting hares. They become equally attached to all family members, without singling out anyone in particular. When children appear in the family, he begins to protect them and accompany them everywhere.
Despite the increased friendliness, when aggression is shown by strangers, the dachshund is capable of fighting back. The dog will not sit on the sofa at home; she likes active recreation. During walks, it will hunt insects or small animals, rodents.
Rabbit (rabbit) dachshund
Chihuahua
Everyone has heard about the Chihuahua - it is an indispensable companion for glamorous ladies and not only that. Thanks to its miniature size, the breed allows you to keep it even in the smallest apartments, and when going to the store, do not leave it at the entrance, but take it in your arms or even put it in your purse.
They love to bark and can do it even without a reason. They can be terribly offended by the owner for some flaws, and are very jealous of other pets. They can do without regular walks; the size allows them to go to the toilet and change a diaper.
Attention! You need to carefully monitor your dog's health - if not properly treated, its recovery can be very expensive.
Chihuahua
Pyrenean Mastiff
A huge snow-white dog. Males reach 77-81 cm at the withers, weighing 70-80 kg. Large head with a massive nape, looks slightly convex. The dog has a strong build with a small thick neck and a narrowed croup. The back is absolutely straight, without noticeable deflections. The dense chest hides widely spaced ribs. The stomach is slightly tucked.
The dog's body is covered with long, thick hair. Pure white color is considered elite. Two-colored individuals are more common. The spots should look contrasting. Puppies of this color do not have much value; they are valued much cheaper than white representatives.
How to choose a little four-legged friend
The choice of pet should be based on the character of the owner - a dog with a high level of activity is unlikely to be suitable for homebodies and vice versa. The temperaments of the dog and the person must match. Fortunately, there is plenty to choose from: there are a lot of breeds of small and shaggy dogs.
In addition, you need to know exactly how much money will be spent on caring for the dog each month. Any furry breed requires careful care, it’s just that some of them do not “grow in” as quickly as others, or can get by without a haircut at all.
Some of the presented breeds have dietary characteristics, and this must also be taken into account when choosing a pet fluffy.
Coton de Tulear
A small decorative dog, charming and cheerful. If she is in the family, she is definitely everyone's favorite. She is very devoted to her owners and follows them everywhere. The breed is ancient, its roots go back to Madagascar. Recognized by the world canine community only in 1978.
Despite dwarfism, she is very active, loves physical activity, and swims well. Obedient and smart dogs, they easily learn different commands and love to play with their owner. They are absolutely conflict-free, peaceful, and love to accompany their owners on trips and walks. At home they prefer to sit high - on the back of a sofa, armchair, or table.
Care includes proper feeding (there are many foods that this breed absolutely cannot eat), regular frequent washing, blow-drying after bathing, and constant brushing of the coat. Ears should be cleaned with a cotton swab dipped in olive oil.
What other breeds of dogs with white fur do you know?
How to care for a shaggy dog
The small furry dog needs especially careful care. Every day it is necessary to carry out the combing procedure, and bathe your pet once every few weeks. It is also necessary to trim the claws in a timely manner so that the animal does not injure itself.
The owner must monitor the dog’s diet and its balance. Often you need to visit specialists (veterinarian, groomer). The dog especially needs regular haircuts.
A large number of miniature decorative breeds makes it possible for every person to choose a dog to their liking. Our smaller friends have the same character traits as humans, so there shouldn't be any problems with emotional compatibility if you choose wisely.
Bichon Frize
These miniature dogs usually weigh 3-6 kg. At the withers they reach 20-30 cm. The round head, resembling a voluminous ball, is supported by a strong, flexible neck, widening towards the shoulders. Oval eyes have a black rim with dense eyelids.
The dog is distinguished by a strong physique, a wide croup, and has a slight convexity. The withers are almost invisible. The breed is distinguished by a strongly developed chest, with a tucked belly.
The Bichon Frize has only one color – solid white. Sometimes puppies are born with beige spots. As they grow older they disappear. Dogs with fur of a different shade cannot take part in exhibitions; no one is engaged in special breeding of them.
South Russian Shepherd
Its appearance resembles a huge lapdog. The body, together with the head, is covered with a long white fur coat. The dog has a large build. The body looks dry and fit. Body weight reaches 35 kg. The height at the withers can be approximately 62–66 cm. The belly, similar to greyhounds, is always tucked up high. The wide chest has clear outlines.
The head is wedge-shaped, with an elongated muzzle. The triangular ears hang down and are completely covered with fur.
A dog, in addition to white, can have other colors:
- light fawn;
- yellowish;
- grey-tan.
Only pure white dogs with soft hair are allowed to participate in the exhibition.
Volpino Italiano
Italian miniature dog, 25 - 30 cm tall, weighing 3-5 kg. It has a short, slightly pointed muzzle, an oval skull with a domed forehead. The tightly fitting lips are decorated with a black border. Wide-set eyes, dark in color, resemble round beads. The ears are in the form of a small triangle, located next to each other.
The dog has several types of color:
- ginger;
- white;
- pale yellow;
- black and tan.
White volpino is considered elite. Black color is very rare.
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino (Argentine Mastiff, Dogo Argentino) belongs to the class of service dogs. This is a large animal weighing 40-45 kg and 60-70 cm tall, covered with short white hair. The breed was developed at the beginning of the 20th century; the goal of the breeders was to obtain a dog that would be ideal as a companion, as a hunter, and as a watchman.
The brave, energetic and noble Dogo Argentino fully meets all these requirements. Currently, the White Great Dane does an excellent job as a guide dog or family guard dog, and is also used for police service. However, due to its dominant and overly independent nature, the Argentine Mastiff may not be the best choice for the inexperienced dog owner, as it requires training with an experienced trainer.
Training
This is an excellent companion who understands everything without words. Samoyeds often show deep affection towards their family members. These are very smart dogs that pick up everything on the fly. They remain alert and active until old age.
The Samoyed is an incredibly smart breed, so if you spend enough time with it and train it, there will be no problems. They listen well to the owner, and he does not have to resort to rough methods of education. Many breeders advise teaching your dog the “ Quiet ” command, since Samoyeds can be very vocal.
