There are
dogs
of all sizes: from giants, like the Patou, to smaller ones, like the Chihuahua.
The
miniature dogs, also known toy
(
toy
in English), are dogs from crosses between dwarf breeds and small.
Despite their fragile appearance,
miniature dogs
generally enjoy a long life expectancy and more robust health than other dogs.
To discover
Fence and neighborhood: what does the law say?
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua stock.adobe.com
The
Chihuahua
is considered the smallest dog in the world.
Particularly intelligent, this miniature dog is very easy to train despite his fiery temperament.
Protective and possessive by nature, he makes an excellent alarm dog, ready to bark at the slightest danger.
Lifespan
: A Chihuahua's life expectancy is between 14 and 18 years old, but it can live up to 20 years.
Size and weight
: it weighs on average 1 kg to 3 kg and measures 16 cm to 20 cm at the withers.
However the smallest of them can weigh 500 gr.
Physical peculiarities
: this dog has a rounded apple-shaped head, with large bat-like ears
Coat
: this breed of dog comes in 2 varieties of coat: long and short.
All the colors and shades of Chihuahua are admitted with the LOF.
Character
: this little dog is known for his strong temperament.
Intrepid, temperamental and courageous, the Chihuahua is a lively and intelligent dog.
Living conditions:
the Chihuahua is a compact dog, it adapts very well to living in an apartment.
However, he often feels the need to spend time outdoors.
Health:
despite its fragile appearance, the Chihuahua is robust.
It can be prone to eye irritation and farrowing is sometimes difficult, due to their small size.
The dwarf Spitz or Pomeranian loulou
The Dwarf Spitz or Pomeranian Loulou stock.adobe.com
The
Dwarf Spitz,
also called the Pomeranian loulou, is a miniaturized version of the German Spitz.
This cheerful and affectionate little dog is very attached to his master.
Curious and fast, it should be watched, especially if it is necessary to walk without a leash.
Lifespan
: The life expectancy of a Dwarf Spitz is, on average, between 13 years and 15 years.
Size and weight
: it weighs on average 2 kg to 3 kg and measures 18 cm to 22 cm at the withers.
Physical peculiarities
: the head of the Dwarf Spitz can resemble that of a fox, with its pointed ears and pointed muzzle.
Coat
: its long, thick coat allows it to withstand the cold and bad weather quite well.
Character
: very sensitive, this little dog cannot stand loneliness.
He needs to feel surrounded to be happy.
Living conditions:
his small size and calm temperament make him the perfect dog to live in an apartment.
Health:
The Miniature Spitz is a generally robust dog.
Be careful, however, to watch your weight carefully.
Being of small constitution, this dog has a fast metabolism.
The Russkiy toy or small Russian dog
The Russkiy toy or the little Russian dog stock.adobe.com
The
Russkiy toy
or the Russian little dog was one of the most popular companion dogs in Russia at the beginning of the 20th century.
This miniature dog is sparkling with life.
Particularly intelligent, it is one of the easiest breeds of dogs to train.
Lifespan
: The lifespan of a Russkiy toy is, on average, between 12 years and 15 years.
Size and weight
: Usually weighs less than 3 kg and measures 20 cm to 28 cm at the withers.
Physical peculiarities
: this dog is very similar to the Chihuahua with its well marked muzzle and prominent round eyes.
Coat
: this breed of dog has 2 varieties of coat: short and long.
Usually black and tan, brown and tan, or blue and tan.
Character
: affectionate and playful, he gets along very well with children.
However, he is very sensitive and cannot stand cries and admonitions.
Living Conditions:
This adorable dog needs a lot of exercise.
Living in an apartment may suit him as long as he goes out regularly.
Health:
Despite its fragile appearance, the Russkiy toy is a healthy dog.
The Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher stock.adobe.com
The
Miniature Pinscher
is a small hunting dog used to hunt pest rodents.
Lively and attentive, he is a very good alarm dog.
The Miniature Pinscher is also a pleasant companion dog for the whole family.
He loves to play with children and spend time with his owners.
Lifespan
: The life expectancy of a Miniature Pinscher is, on average, between 12 years and 16 years.
Size and weight
: it weighs on average 4 kg to 6 kg and measures 25 cm to 30 cm at the withers.
Physical characteristics
: this dog has rather large ears compared to its body.
They are V-shaped and point forward.
Coat
: this dog has a short coat of blue and tan, brown and tan or even deer red unicolour.
Temperament
: Cheerful and sensitive, the Miniature Pinsher cannot stand shouts or reprimands.
He will need a gentle and firm master.
Living conditions: an
excellent companion dog, it easily adapts to living in an apartment provided it gets enough exercise.
Health:
this miniature dog enjoys a good life expectancy.
It is nevertheless sensitive to cold and humidity.
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniel stock.adobe.com
The Tibetan Spaniel
is, as the name suggests, originally from Tibet and has long lived with Buddhist monks in temples.
Even though this breed of dog is called a spaniel (hunting dog breeds), this little dog is not a hunter.
On the other hand, he is a very good companion and alarm dog.
Lifespan
: The life expectancy of a Tibetan Spaniel is, on average, between 12 years and 15 years.
Size and weight
: it weighs on average 4 kg to 7 kg and measures 22 cm to 26 cm at the withers.
Physical characteristics
: this dog has the appearance of a teddy bear.
Coat
: its silky coat requires regular maintenance.
It is recommended to brush this dog at least once a week.
Character
: affectionate and loyal, this dog loves the company of humans.
Very sure of himself, he does not hesitate to bark to defend his territory.
Living conditions:
very playful and curious, the Tibetan Spaniel needs a garden to be happy.
Health:
This breed of dog possesses solid health.
However, this small dog can be prone to generalized retinal atrophy.
Adopting an animal commits you, it's a decision that you will have to think carefully. Do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian or the shelter closest to you before starting. They can give you advice on which breed of dog is right for you.
