Small dog breeds are ideal for keeping in small apartments. In addition to compact dimensions, they boast other advantages. But before purchasing a miniature family member, be sure to weigh the pros and cons, since such pets also have disadvantages. Focus not only on weight and appearance, but also on character, as well as care conditions.
The good and bad sides of small breeds
Many people have a passion for dog breeding. However, not everyone has the conditions to keep a large dog. A small apartment, being busy at work, the desire for a calm and measured life - these are the factors that guide people who prefer dwarf dogs.
But we must remember that living together with such “pocket” pets has both positive and negative sides.
Pros of small dogs
Small dogs are suitable for keeping in a small apartment. They do not require much space: an enclosure, a bed or a cage with an open door will not take up more than 1 square meter. m. Such animals do not need daily walking. This does not mean that they cannot be taken outside.
In good weather and if the owner wishes, you can take the dog on a leash and walk in a park or square. But in rain or frost, when you don’t want to go out the door at all, your indoor pet will relieve itself in a special diaper and continue to play on the soft carpet.
Small dogs don't eat much. For a pet weighing 3 kg, 1.5-2 kg of dry food is enough for a month. For comparison: a dog weighing 40 kg eats 15-20 kg monthly. Thus, even if you buy your pet expensive, balanced food, spending on it will not hit the family budget.
Small dogs leave less hair, dirt and odor in the apartment. You can use them to go to a store, travel by train or plane.
Even the smallest dog has its own character and temperament. This is not a toy that can be put on a shelf and forgotten.
She builds a relationship with the owner, tries to manipulate, ingratiate herself, begging for a tasty piece, consoles in difficult moments and sincerely rejoices at meeting even after a moment of separation. In addition, small dogs are long-lived. In a loving family with an attentive owner, they can live up to 18-20 years.
Despite their toy appearance, representatives of many small breeds successfully perform in sporting competitions, outperforming their large counterparts in agility, nosework, OKD, and freestyle.
Disadvantages of “pocket” pets
Representatives of small breeds need careful care. Therefore, they are regulars at grooming salons, where they are washed, combed, cut, and their nails trimmed, which do not grind down on their own, like large, active dogs.
The need for veterinary care also occurs more often than with shepherds or Rottweilers. This is due to the fact that, in pursuit of fashion, breeders are trying to make animals even smaller, allowing inbreeding and perpetuating dwarfism in future generations. Such pets are characterized by problems with the oral cavity, immune system, delivery (small dogs often cannot give birth on their own), atavisms and congenital deformities.
Another disadvantage of miniature dogs is that in case of danger they will not be able to protect the owner from the enemy.
The exception is representatives of such breeds as the miniature schnauzer and miniature pinscher, which, according to the FCI classification, are considered service dogs. But even such animals will be protected only after training in the sections “Obedience” and “Protection”.
Russian toy terrier
The short-haired breed was bred in the USSR back in the 50s , but received recognition from the FCI only in 2022. Despite this, the kids, whose weight never exceeds 3 kg, are loved by our compatriots.
The Russian Toy Terrier is distinguished by emotional lability and instability of character ; without feeling its size, it bravely enters into battle with large animals. They require the attention of the owner, as they become very attached to him, but they get along quite poorly with other animals. They are trainable, but do not tolerate authoritarianism ; the owner needs to be patient and persevering in order to achieve results.
What you can't forget
Behavior problems are more common in toy dog breeds than in large dog breeds. On the one hand, this is due to the stereotypes of owners who consider small animals to be safe and neglect their upbringing, training and socialization.
Another reason is the psychological characteristics of small pets who feel uncomfortable in the world of big people, transport, and urban architecture. Being in a state of constant stress, the dog finds a way out in cowardly aggression, directing it against owners or passers-by on the street. You can avoid such problems if you train the animal, actively walk it on the street, accustoming it to the noise of the big city.
Pomeranian Spitz
The first ancestors of the Pomeranian were twice as large and lived in the German province of Pomerania, where their name came from. At the end of the 19th century, the Spitz spread widely throughout Europe , where work began on developing a smaller breed with an improved exterior. On average, the height is 23-29 cm, weight is 2-4.5 kg, there are 11 colors of the Pomeranian Spitz.
They are active and cheerful by nature, they love to play and spend time with their owner . In the absence of proper upbringing, they try to dominate the family and become cocky. They often bark because they love to listen to their clear voice . Great for children and apartment living.
Choosing a companion according to preference
You need to choose the breed of your future pet based on your preferences and lifestyle. If a person loves active recreation, communication with nature and is ready to go for a walk in a nearby park every day, a dachshund, Yorkshire terrier, Prague rat, or Jack Russell terrier are suitable for him. A person who wants to train and participate in competitions in agility, nosework, ball herding, mini-OKD, will choose a border terrier, miniature pinscher, schipperke or corgi.
Short-haired Chihuahuas, pugs, and toy terriers require little grooming, while the most charming dogs are long-haired Spitz dogs, Pekingese dogs, lap dogs, miniature poodles, and Papillons.
Japanese Chin
A royal breed with an interesting appearance and small size, they are no taller than 25 cm, weighing from 1.8 to 3.2 kg. The Japanese Chin was brought to Japan in the 3rd century AD and immediately gained popularity among the nobility and emperors, but ordinary people were forbidden to have these pets, and its theft was considered a serious crime .
Today, anyone can become the owner of a cheerful and good-natured Chin. They love to be the center of attention and participate in all family activities, but long walks tire them . The Japanese Chin usually leads a measured lifestyle and adapts to the life of its owner, but in moments of anger it shows willfulness, courage and recklessness.
Chihuahua is the smallest breed in the world
Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs in the world. For them, the owner is the center of the Universe, so any separation from him is perceived as a tragedy. These are pets that prefer the company of humans to playing with their fellow tribesmen, so there will be no problems with calling them. At the first command, they joyfully rush to their owner, counting on hugs and praise.
These dogs are good companions for older people. But families with children are not recommended to have them until each child understands the fragility of these little creatures.
Rabbit dachshund
The smallest variety of dachshunds . Its height reaches 10-15 cm, and its weight is maximum 3 kg. The rabbit dachshund differs from its counterparts in having a softer character . This is an indoor decorative dog with hunting qualities. Loyal companions and excellent watchdogs, they have a balanced character and a curious disposition , they are cheerful and perky. Sometimes they can be stubborn, but with proper upbringing they will not cause trouble. They are not fussy about care.
Other breeds of small dogs with photos and approximate prices
There are other small breeds in the world that compete with the Chihuahua.
American toy
The Toy Fox Terrier appeared thanks to the popularity of traveling circuses touring the United States. Little artistic dogs entertained the audience by performing complex tricks and playing in skits with clowns. During breaks between performances, these passionate hunters exterminated rats that encroached on the troupe's provisions.
The weight of the Amertoy is from 1.5 to 3 kg, the height at the withers is no more than 20 cm. A distinctive feature of the Toy Fox Terrier is its large ears, making it look like a bat. Easy-to-maintain dogs are highly trainable and perform in competitions and performances. The cost of a puppy is from 20 to 45 thousand rubles.
English Toy (Manchester Terrier)
The Manchester Toy Terrier was bred in England to fight rats. This is an active, energetic dog, whose care is simple and easy. However, she needs a lot of physical activity and training. Otherwise, she may become wayward and disobedient.
With a height of up to 40 cm, the weight of the English Toy does not exceed 10 kg. The approximate cost of a puppy is from 20 to 24 thousand rubles.
Affenpinscher
Externally, the wire-haired Affenpinscher resembles a small monkey, as the name indicates. A strong, muscular build, short legs, dark bulging eyes and a flattened muzzle with a goatee are the hallmarks of this breed.
The Affenpinscher's character is temperamental and lively. With a lack of training and discipline, it becomes aggressive and can even bite its owner. It is recommended that such dogs be owned only by experienced people without small children. The height of an adult pet is up to 30 cm, weight is up to 6 kg. Sexual dimorphism is smoothed out. The cost of a puppy varies from 10 to 30 thousand rubles.
Belgian Griffon
The Belgian Griffon is a decorative dog with “human” eyes and a good-natured character. She gets along well with children and other pets, and quickly understands the routine in the house. In the loving hands of their owners, griffons reveal themselves as polite, intelligent companions, ready to share both grief and joy with a person.
Representatives of the breed love long, active walks, fun games and travel. The hard coat does not shed. Twice a year these dogs are trimmed to remove dead hair.
Griffon height is up to 20 cm, weight is up to 5 kg. Cost - from 20 to 40 thousand rubles.
"Toy Poodle"
The Toy Poodle is the smallest member of the Poodle family. This is a popular circus dog that is easy to train and evokes affection and admiration among the public. The pride of the breed is its fluffy, wavy coat, which gives the pet a doll-like appearance.
A prerequisite for quality care for your toy poodle is regular visits to the groomer's salon. There the dog is washed, combed and cut, giving the body a bizarre shape.
The height of a toy poodle is up to 28 cm, weight is up to 5 kg. The cost of a puppy is from 10 to 60 thousand rubles.
Italian and Maltese dogs
The Italian and Maltese dogs have common roots dating back to the Renaissance. These are small decorative dogs with a cheerful disposition and inexhaustible energy, which become strongly attached to their owners and have a hard time withstanding separation. They are calmer than other lap dogs, restrained in communicating with strangers and are not ready to put up with unceremonious treatment. Sometimes they have difficulties with socialization, so raising a lapdog needs to be done from puppyhood.
The thick, long coat of lapdogs does not shed and is odorless. To keep your dog in good shape, it is enough to brush it 3 times a week and, if necessary, bathe it using whitening shampoos. Exhibition animals require more complex, professional care.
The lapdog's height is up to 30 cm, weight is up to 4 kg. Price - from 15 to 40 thousand rubles.
Imperial Pekingese
The Pekingese is an ancient Chinese dog breed that, according to legend, originated from the union of a lion and a monkey. Pekingese are brachycephalic, that is, dogs with a short, flattened muzzle. As a result, they often experience breathing problems, have difficulty withstanding heat, and snore in their sleep.
Being a proud, independent animal, the Pekingese does not tolerate excessive tenderness and intrusive hugs. Therefore, it should not be purchased by families with children under 5 years of age.
The height of a representative of the breed is up to 25 cm, weight is up to 5.5 kg. Cost - from 10 to 25 thousand rubles.
Yorkshire Terrier
Like all terriers, Yorkies are tireless hunters. Previously they were used to catch rats, but now they are used as cheerful and energetic companions. Representatives of this breed are well suited for keeping in an apartment, but need long and interesting walks. A lack of impressions and training will turn a charming puppy into an indoor tyrant, attacking owners, passers-by and unfamiliar dogs.
Small terriers are overly talkative. They release emotional tension and stress through barking. Without timely correction, the habit becomes entrenched and becomes a problem for all family members. Another drawback is the tendency to dig holes, which is why the dog returns from a walk dirty, and the walking area looks like it was after a bombing.
Grooming is complex and painstaking. The dog needs to be washed, combed, and cut regularly, but the result exceeds all expectations. The height of the Yorkshire Terrier is up to 22 cm, weight is up to 3 kg. Price - from 25 to 80 thousand rubles.
Three varieties of bitter orange
Pomeranians belong to the indigenous group of breeds. Among them there are 3 types:
- Fox - with an elongated wedge-shaped muzzle, fluffy cheeks, a narrow chin, round eyes and a “button” nose.
- Bear - similar in appearance to chow chow puppies. Distinctive features: thick hair on the cheekbones, flattened muzzle, upturned nose, small ears.
- Toy type - obtained by Japanese breeders. It is an intermediate link between fox and bear Spitz, has a flat muzzle and high-set eyes.
The height of an adult orange is up to 20 cm, weight is up to 3.5 kg. Cost - from 30 to 90 thousand rubles.
Dwarf pug
The dwarf pug is similar to the standard one, but has smaller height and weight (up to 21 cm and 5 kg). The costs of breeding work have left a negative imprint on the health of these pets. Many mini-pugs suffer from diseases of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, and they develop hip dysplasia.
These are cheerful and active dogs, but due to their anatomy it is difficult for them to withstand long walks. In addition, mini pugs do not tolerate heat well. Owners value them for their rich facial expressions, good-natured disposition and the tender affection that pets feel for all family members.
The cost of a dwarf pug varies from 35 to 50 thousand rubles.
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a miniature dog breed that was developed in Madagascar. These smart and friendly animals always want to be close to their owner, following him to the park and to the bathroom. The love of travel is written into the genetic code of these dogs, since their ancestors accompanied aristocratic ladies on long sea cruises. The long, cottony white coat makes the dog look like a toy. Thanks to its high intelligence, sociability and learning ability, the Coton becomes an excellent companion for adults and children.
With a height of up to 30 cm, weight is up to 5 kg. The purchase will cost from 40 to 50 thousand rubles.
Rabbit dachshund
The rabbit dachshund is the smallest hunting dog. A long body with short legs, a neat head and floppy ears are combined with a proud posture and high intelligence. Due to their small size and unpretentious maintenance, these brave and strong dogs were given the status of decorative dogs.
But without proper training and discipline, an energetic animal becomes uncontrollable and can show aggression towards people and other pets.
You can buy a dachshund for 15-30 thousand rubles.
German Keeshond
The Keeshond, or Wolfspitz, is the largest representative of the Spitz group. He inherited as much of the traits of his ancestors as barge dogs, which were used by sailors from Northern Europe to guard property and catch rats on barges. This is a native breed with wolf coloring, long fluffy hair, small triangular ears and a short pointed muzzle. The well-furred tail is curled into a ring and lies on the back.
This is a cheerful, loyal dog that can be both a companion and a watchman. They are also used in canistherapy: in hospices and clinics they relieve psychological stress and give patients positive emotions. The cost of a puppy is from 15 to 40 thousand rubles.
Toy Terrier bred in Russia
The Russian Toy is the smallest dog bred in Russia. Includes short-haired and long-haired types. Distinctive features of these animals: a round head with a convex forehead, a pronounced stop, a pointed muzzle, expressive eyes and large triangular ears with rounded tips.
These miniature, harmoniously built dogs are infinitely loyal to their owner, flexible and friendly. However, in case of danger, they rush to protect their family.
Cost - from 15 to 30 thousand rubles.
Ratlik (Prague rat)
Ratlik is a breed developed in the Czech Republic. Previously used to fight rats, but now it is a miniature fashionable companion dog. Ratlik loves to be the center of attention, is easy to train and demonstrates success in freestyle and agility competitions.
These graceful hustlers have an inexhaustible supply of energy and positivity. He turns even a walk in the park into an adventure, so the owner must pay attention to raising his pet.
It is difficult to buy a ratlik in Russia. For a purebred puppy you will have to pay from 25 to 40 thousand rubles.
Silky Terrier and Wirehaired Terrier
The ancestors of the Silky Terrier are the Wirehaired Terriers, from which the Yorkies and Australian Terriers were first bred, and then a new breed with a long, silky coat. Silks are sociable dogs that quickly become attached to their owners, get along well with children and get along with other animals. Since they have a well-developed hunting instinct, snares can attack mice, rats and other rodents. Intelligence and quick wit make these dogs good partners for training and sports.
Caring for snares involves weekly washing, frequent combing and periodic trimming by a groomer.
The price tag for snare puppies varies from 60 to 90 thousand rubles.
Papillon - eared
The Papillon is a small pocket dog with large ears that make it look like a butterfly. Hence the name of the breed. These are smart, quick-witted and active dogs that are easy to train. In 2015, a representative of this breed participated in the Russian OKD Championship. Papillons are patient with children and unobtrusive. But long hair requires careful care: washing, combing, and cutting should be done regularly.
Price - from 15 to 40 thousand rubles.
Fluffy Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is an ancient breed of dog that is mentioned in historical sources of the 3rd century. n. e. The first chinas were presented to the Japanese emperor, and this fact endowed them with privileges. There were many rumors surrounding the amazing appearance of the Chins, according to which the dogs originated from crossing with mythical creatures.
The long, luxurious coat of the Chin is devoid of dense undercoat, and the curled tail laid over the back creates the impression of a woolen fountain flowing to the ground.
Price - from 15 to 40 thousand rubles.
Havanese (Havanese Bichon)
Havanez is a national treasure of the Cuban people. A positive and always cheerful dog with a springy gait attracts the attention of passers-by. He is easy to learn, has rich facial expressions and is endowed with the makings of a circus performer. With a little training effort, the owner will receive a pet that will always cheer, comfort and keep company on walks and travels.
Price - from 25 to 45 thousand rubles.
Eskimo Spitz
The Eskimo Spitz, or American Eskimo dog, is a breed developed in the United States from German Spitz dogs. There are 3 types of these pets: toy (up to 28 cm tall), mini (up to 38 cm) and standard (up to 48 cm). Their decoration is fluffy wool of white, cream or light brown shade.
This is an intelligent, active dog, ready to protect the owner from danger, friendly to children, but does not tolerate familiarity and intrusiveness on their part.
Price - from 22 to 35 thousand rubles.
Maltese
One of the oldest breeds on the planet, its history dates back to the 8th century BC. The snow-white dogs with thick fur got their name after the island of Malta . In ancient times, Maltese puppies were considered an expensive gift along with precious metals and stones and were an indicator of status and wealth.
Currently, the Maltese is a favorite of many due to its ideal character . They are affectionate and friendly towards children and animals, are easy to train , love games and walks, and will be excellent companions for anyone. Height at the withers is 20-25 cm, weight is within three kilograms. Difficulty in grooming due to the presence of long hair, which must be combed regularly.
Less popular breeds
There are other small breeds of dogs for apartments.
Andalusian Pied Piper
The Andalusian Pied Piper is an energetic dog with strong hunting instincts. The agile pet cannot sit still, he needs active physical activity, classes with a dog handler and games with the owner.
If such a dog becomes bored, it may develop destructive behavior: it will chew furniture, wires, hunt other pets, or start fights with its fellow tribesmen. Price - from 200 to 500 euros.
Basenji (for experienced breeders)
The Basenji is an African non-barking dog. Features of the breed are a purr instead of a bark, folds on the forehead, a tightly curled tail and a lack of odor. Many Basenjis can, like cats, wash themselves with their paws.
These are dogs with strong immunity and fearless character. They are confident, assertive and smart. Without proper training and discipline in the hands of an inexperienced owner, they can become aggressive and disobedient. For the happiness of being the owner of a Basenji, breeders ask from 20 to 50 thousand rubles.
Bichon Frize
The Bichon Frize is a hypoallergenic breed of French origin. This is a good companion and family dog with a sharp mind, energy, a positive attitude towards children and good health. Representatives of this breed often become long-lived, delighting owners for 18-20 years.
White curly hair makes Bichons look like toys, but only with quality care. The owners of these plush pets are regulars at grooming salons. Price - from 20 to 75 thousand rubles.
Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is a small, wire-haired dog that was formerly used for hunting foxes. Distinctive features of the breed: sociability, activity, intelligence. Border Terriers require close human contact. If the owner does not have enough time for walks and games, the energy of these dogs results in destructive behavior.
Overly active dogs can injure a child when playing. To avoid this, the pet must be taught discipline and provided with long-term exercise.
Height - up to 41 cm, weight - up to 7 kg. Cost - from 30 to 37 thousand rubles.
Valencian rater
The Valencian rater is a breed close to the Andalusian ratcatchers. The graceful, muscular dog is still used to catch rabbits. Because of this, she has a well-expressed hunting instinct, which not every owner can cope with. If you neglect education and training, the rat catcher catches and kills all animals smaller than himself: cats, chickens, guinea pigs, hamsters. Conflicts with other dogs on the street will be frequent.
In addition, this breed is characterized by distrust, aggressiveness, and independence. It is not easy to make a companion out of it, but the breed is well suited for hunting and outdoor activities.
Height up to 40 cm, weight up to 7 cm. Price - from 50 to 75 thousand rubles.
West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a lively and sociable dog that requires a firm hand when training. Representatives of the breed are smart, stubborn, and independent. As they grow older, they become more self-confident, so they need to be trained from puppyhood.
The stocky West Highland White Terrier is covered with short, coarse hair that helps it get through bushes and protects it from dirt, cold and rain. His height is up to 28 cm, weight is up to 9 kg. Cost - from 25 to 45 thousand rubles.
Griffon Brussels
The Brussels Griffon is a relative of the Belgian. This small decorative dog feels good in an apartment and does not need daily brushing. She is sweet and good-natured, but with the connivance of her owner she can become cocky and arrogant. Brussels residents need close human contact, so you can take them with you on trips.
They perceive children as playmates, so they can have fun running around the lawn with them, but they will not tolerate rude or cruel treatment.
Height - up to 20 cm, weight - up to 6 kg. Price - from 30,000 to 70,000 rubles.
Jack Russell
The Jack Russell Terrier is a compact, active dog with boundless energy. He needs long walks with fun games and running around. High learning ability, sociability and desire to work make the Jack Russell a good partner for training and canine sports.
Tireless adventure seekers, these dogs love to travel with their owners. They can handle car trips and air flights without any problems, and they behave calmly on the train.
Height - up to 30 cm, weight - up to 6 kg. Price - from 15,000 to 40,000 rubles.
Small spaniels
There are two types of decorative spaniels: the King Charles Spaniel and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Both breeds make good companions and family dogs. But they can be touchy and jealous. They do not tolerate heat well.
Like all long-haired dogs, they need frequent brushing and washing with an anti-tangle balm.
Prices for small spaniels range from 40,000 to 60,000 rubles.
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Miniature boule
The Mini Bull is a miniature version of the standard Bull Terrier. Stubborn and independent, needs training and a firm hand. With an inexperienced owner, it quickly turns into a tyrant.
The minibull is distinguished by a harmonious physique, well-developed muscles, and an ovoid head shape. The coat is short, lying close to the body. The cost of a miniature bull terrier is from 35,000 to 50,000 rubles.
Golden York
The Goldust Yorkie is a rare and expensive breed of dog. These are cheerful, cheerful and active pets who never tire of delighting their owners with endless games, pranks and pranks. If the owner does not neglect the communication, upbringing and training of the puppy, he will grow into a dog with whom you can go for exercise, to an exhibition, and on a trip.
The Goldust Yorkie does not tolerate loneliness well. If your work schedule does not allow you to spend a lot of time with your dog, you can get a couple of pets. In such a company they will definitely not be bored. Golden Yorkies from breeders cost from 50,000 to 80,000 rubles.
Chinese Crested Dog
Chinese Crested dogs can be downy or hairless with veil-like hair on the head and tip of the tail. These are small, graceful and cheerful pets who are devoted to their family. They have strong immunity and rarely suffer from infectious diseases. However, from an early age they can suffer from dental problems and are easily injured when jumping.
Corydalis lend themselves well to trick training. Cost - from 12,000 to 25,000 rubles.
Corgi
The Corgi is a brave shepherd dog trapped in a small body. A representative of this breed is easily recognized by its strong body, short legs and tail, and large, high-set ears with rounded tips. These fidgets love long walks and are ready to play with their owner for hours. There are 2 types of these dogs: Pembroke and Cardigan.
A corgi puppy costs from 35,000 to 80,000 rubles.
Lhasa apso
The Lhasa Apso is one of the oldest dog breeds on Earth, with roots in the monasteries of Tibet. These are cheerful, assertive dogs, distrustful of strangers. Their decoration is long flowing hair that covers the eyes and forms a beard and mustache.
Despite its toy appearance, in case of danger the apso will rush to the defense of its owner without hesitation. The cost of a Lhasa Apso is from 25,000 to 35,000 rubles.
Florentine Spitz
The Florentine Spitz (Volpino Italiano) is a fluffy lap dog whose playfulness, good nature and optimism have gained popularity among families with children, the elderly and those who travel a lot around the world. Being an excellent companion, she can also perform the functions of a watchman, announcing the approach of strangers with a ringing bark.
Like all Spitz, Volpino Italiano are well trained and quickly understand the routine in the house. The cost of a dog is from 15,000 to 25,000 rubles.
miniature pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a smaller version of the Doberman Pinscher, just as bold and courageous as its larger counterpart. Looking at photos of these animals, some do not suspect that in their compact body lies the spirit of a service dog, which, if necessary, will give its life for its owner. An aristocratic appearance, developed muscles, a chiseled wedge-shaped head and free, dynamic movements with beautiful gaits are the distinctive features of the miniature dog.
A dwarf Doberman costs from 20,000 to 35,000 rubles.
Schipperke herding dog
The Schipperke is a small herding dog with a light, cheerful character and elegant appearance. Can be kept both in an apartment and in a house with its own local area. Such a pet will become an “alarm bell” that rings every time a stranger approaches the door. While protecting the owner and his property, she can bite the attacker.
Grooming is simple and consists of regular brushing and washing no more than once a month. Schipperkes need a long and active walk with games, activities and a lot of impressions.
Future owners will pay from 25,000 to 50,000 rubles for a Schipperke.
Yorkshire Terrier
The most popular long-haired dog among small breeds in Russia. It was bred in the 19th century in England, Yorkshire, which is how it got its name. Yorkies reach 18-20 cm in height and weigh up to 3.2 kg. They need grooming and regular haircuts. The structure of the hair is similar to that of humans, which explains the lack of shedding and makes them even more attractive to breeders.
The beautiful exterior and character inherent in terriers will not leave anyone indifferent . They are curious, brave, active, enjoy spending time with their owner and hunt for sunbeams, insects and small rodents.
Acquisition methods
When choosing a pet, it is better to seek help from experienced breeders or breeding nurseries. You will have to pay more for a puppy with a pedigree, but in return the buyer will receive a purebred, properly raised animal with a stable psyche and genetically healthy parents.
You can protect yourself from scammers by visiting the chosen nursery and making sure the quality of the conditions for keeping the animals. You definitely need to look at the parents, check their documents and the litter. A responsible breeder will not refuse a request to walk with the parents of the puppies and the buyer on the street. This way you can be sure of the stability of the nervous system and the education of producers. Cowardice and aggression are heritable traits.
Continental Toy Spaniel
Nothing is known about the country of origin and its history . Perhaps the ancestors were the Royal Toy Spaniels, whose ancestors lived in the palaces and rich estates of Europe in the 15th century. Continental Toy Spaniels grow up to 25 cm and weigh between 1.5 and 5 kg. There are two varieties depending on the shape of the ears : Papillon with erect ears and Phalene with hanging ears.
Representatives of the breed are good companions , they do not tolerate loneliness, love active games, and need attention and affection. These babies are harmoniously built and have well-developed muscles.
Havanese Bichon
The Havanese Bichon is the national dog of Cuba . To breed them, the now extinct ancestors of the Bichon were crossed with other varieties of lapdogs. The weight of such a dog is 3-5.5 kg, height 21-29 cm. Havanese are very socialized , they cannot be left alone at home, they are sociable and friendly. They perceive training as a game and enjoy learning new skills . They get along with other pets, and it doesn’t matter whether they grew up together or are seeing them for the first time.
Shih Tzu
These small dogs are native to Tibet. At first, miniature Shih Tzus lived exclusively in imperial families. The crumbs arrived in Europe only in the 20th century.
Long-haired beauties quickly gained popularity and regularly make it to the top of the smallest breeds. They have a predominantly combined coat color.
A small Shih Tzu grows up to 20–28 cm and weighs about 4–7 kg. The tiny dog was loved not only for his beautiful appearance, but also for his intelligent, friendly, affectionate character.
Shih Tzus are very people-oriented and easy to train.
You can buy a small puppy of this breed for 20,000–50,000 rubles.
Chinese Crested
Little is known about the breeding of the Chinese crested cat; it is believed to have originated in Africa or Mexico . In 1966, there were only a few specimens of the breed brought to the UK; thanks to the breeders, the breed was preserved and is now widespread. Representatives of the Chinese Crested come in two types : hairless (naked) and downy, but they are all united by character and size. The dogs reach 23-33 cm in height and weigh 2-5.5 kg.
This is an exclusively decorative dog , intended to become a devoted companion and a favorite of the public, thanks to its exotic appearance . He gets very bored alone and needs constant accompaniment from his owner. The Chinese Crested is friendly and curious, does not show aggression and is trainable.
miniature pinscher
One can only guess about the history of the origin of the breed; there is no reliable information. It is known that the first mentions of dogs similar to the Pinscher date back to the 15th century, and the breed standard was approved in 1880 .
It is mistakenly believed that the Miniature Pinscher is a small copy of the Doberman Pinscher , but in reality the opposite is true. The Doberman breeder wanted to breed a large pinscher like a dwarf one. Height varies from 25 to 30 cm, weight from 4 to 6 kg. Miniature pinschers are easy to train, have watchdog and hunting qualities , at the same time they love children, are very affectionate and devoted, ready to stand up for their owner and his family at any moment.
Pekingese
The history of the breed goes back more than 4 thousand years; it originated in China . At that time, only members of the imperial family were allowed to own Pekingese; according to legend, the animals protected their owner from otherworldly evil forces. During the war, in the 1860s, the British took several individuals of the breed from Beijing, and, preserving their traditions, the Chinese began to destroy their pets; the Pekingese were on the verge of extinction . But thanks to the rapid spread in Europe, these babies were saved.
Having royal origins, the Pekingese requires proper treatment and respect . He is very jealous and does not intend to share his owner with other animals. He has a calm character, does not like noise and fuss , preferring a measured life and short walks. The maximum dimensions of the animal reach 5.5 kg and 25 cm at the withers.
Italian Greyhound
Small greyhounds , the ancestors of Italian greyhounds, lived back in the days of the pharaohs in Ancient Egypt ; at the beginning of the 5th century they became venerable favorites in Ancient Rome. But the peak of the breed’s popularity occurred during the Renaissance, Italian greyhounds were depicted on famous paintings, and later the dogs became inhabitants of imperial courts, but the classic type was created only at the beginning of the 20th century.
This is the shortest greyhound , whose height is 32-38 cm, and its weight does not exceed 5 kg. The Italian Greyhound is very active and needs daily long walks and running . The little greyhound has well-developed vision, thanks to which it is perfectly oriented in space and pursues prey. She has a slightly eccentric nature and is prone to injury to her limbs due to their fragility.
Bichon Frize
A French lapdog with curly, thick snow-white hair, whose roots go back to the 12th-14th centuries. on the Mediterranean coast, the ancestors of this breed were intended for catching rats on ships . The weight of a small white dog does not exceed 5 kg, and its height is 30 cm. They have a kind and cheerful disposition , they are characterized by courage, but not aggressiveness. Very active, playful and easy to train , they need frequent regular walks and grooming. Bichon Frize can only be white ; beige and peach shades are not acceptable for the breed.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon originated in Belgium more than 200 years ago, although similar-looking dogs are depicted in 15th-century paintings. In Europe, dogs were used to hunt rodents , which they did well due to their compact size. Individuals with an unusual exterior , similar to imps or goblins, weigh 3-6 kg and height 18-20 cm.
Affectionate and sociable, they chase their owner around the clock , trying to participate in all household activities. Moderately active people will be satisfied with a short walk, but will be happy to stay outside longer. They strive to gain a dominant position , so you need to start training from an early age.
Which one is better to get?
Before adopting a pet into your family, you need to pay attention to:
- Age of the animal . The older the individual, the more firmly formed the character and habits. If you take home an adult service dog, it will be disobedient and may not get along well with children. At an early age, you can teach your four-legged friend to obey and protect family members.
- Social behavior . If a dog likes to communicate with its fellow tribesmen, you will have to walk it in places where there are dogs of the same breed. Otherwise, the pet will feel lonely and its mood will be depressed every day. For this reason, in shelters, some rare breeds live in the same cage or in neighboring ones and cannot find their owners for a long time.
- Activity level .
There are calm and playful breeds. The first can lie on the bed all day, while others are unable to sit still for several minutes. If you are a busy person who works late, be prepared to clean up the mess left by your dog when you get home. So before you decide what kind of dog to get in a small apartment, think about whether there will be enough space and space for activity. - Contact with children . If a dog perceives an adult as the leader of the pack, then small children - as their brothers or rivals. There are dog breeds that, due to their ancestral history, are accustomed to fighting for first place in the hierarchical scheme (pit bulls, Staffordshire terriers, hounds).
- Training . There is a myth that command training is a property only of purebred dogs, but this is far from the case. With proper persistence, any individual can be taught various tricks, the main thing in this matter is perseverance. This applies to both pet and owner.
IMPORTANT! Dogs growing up surrounded by people perceive them as a pack. The owner is the leader, all the others are members of the pack.
In order not to cause disruption of reflexes and social behavior, one person should train, give commands, scold and praise. If there are many owners, it is quite possible that the dog will not recognize any of them.
It is also worth remembering that a dog also has character and a sense of pride, it will treat you the way you treat it , so don’t be surprised if even friendly breeds respond to your rude word or gesture with aggression.
