Small Dog Breeds pictures and names

Table of Small Dog Breeds:

Affenpinscher Dog
Basenji Dog
Bichon Frise Dog
Boston Terrier Dog
Brussels Griffon Dog
Chihuahua Dog
Chinese Crested Dog
French Bulldog Dog
Havanese Dog
Italian Greyhound Dog
Jack Russell Terrier Dog
Japanese Chin Dog
Lhasa Apsos Dog
Maltese Dog
Miniature Dachshund Dog
Miniature Pinscher Dog
Papillon Dog
Pekingese Dog
Pomeranian Dog
Pug Dog
Miniature Schnauzer Dog
Shih Tzu Dog
Silky Toy Terrier Dog
Tibetan Spaniel Dog
Toy Fox Terrier Dog
Toy Poodle Dog
Yorkshire Terrier Dog

Affenpinscher Dog

Male:
Average Height: 22.5-24.5″
Weight: 65-80 lb

Female:
Average Height: 21.5-23.5″
Weight: 55-70 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Affenpinscher breed is one of the oldest toy breeds. This canine’s original function was to hunt small vermin and be the mistress’s lap dog. The breed was most popular in Germany, which can lay claim as its homeland.

Temperament
The Affenpinscher is a terrier at heart with a temperament that is bold, stubborn, and inquisitive. It tends to bark and even climb like a monkey. Unlike its terrier counterparts, it is fairly good with other animals including other dogs.

Upkeep and Health
This breed may be energetic and playful and its exercise requirements can be fulfilled with small romping games or some type of vigorous games. Its harsh coat should be combed 2-3 times a week.

There are no major health concerns. Minor health issues include patellar luxation, corneal ulcers.

Basenji Dog

Male:
Average Height: 17″
Weight:24 lb

Female:
Average Height: 16″
Weight: 22 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Basenji was discovered in the African Congo with Pygmy hunters. They were used as Basenji Dog Breed Picturepack hunters driving game into nets. Once introduced to America, the breed’s popularity as a pet and show dog rose steadily. It retains several of its primitive characteristics such as a lack of barking ability and its yearly rather than twice yearly, estrus cycle.

Temperament

The Basenji dog needs regular mental and physical stimulation. or it may display frustrated and destructive behavior. It is clever, independent, and inquisitive. It loves to trail and chase. Although they cannot bark, they do make other sounds. They yodel, howl, and shriek and you may hear an occasional bark. It usually will mix well with other dogs but often will not get along with other Basenji breed dogs.

Upkeep and Health
The Basenji usually does best as an indoor dog with access to a yard. Care of its coat is minimal with only occasional brushing being necessary.

Major health concerns include Fanconi syndrome, PRA, and Basenji enteropathy.

Bichon Frise Dog

Male:
Average Height: 9.5-11.5″
Weight: 11-16 lb

Female:
Average Height: 9.5-11.5"
Weight: 10-15 lb

Life span is 12-15 years

Bichon Frise Dog Breed

The origins of the Bichon Frise started with a breed of dogs known as barbicans. Its popularity fluctuated through the years barely surviving through history right up until World War II. It was not until it came to America in the 1950′s that the breed became more secure and popular. Even at that time it really did not become popular until its grooming was updated and it received more publicity in the 1960′s.

Temperament
The Bichon Frise has a happy and perky attitude the endears them to all. It is sweet and affectionate and gets along well with children, other pets, and other dogs. It does not like to be left alone and prefers to be with people all the time. It likes to cuddle as much as it likes to play.

Upkeep and Health
Although small in size, the Bichon Frise needs lots of exercise and daily activity. A vigorous romp or a short walk on a leash will suffice. The powder pull coat should be brushed every other day. It does not shed but the coat can get entangled and mat. This is not an outside dog.

Major health concerns include patellar luxation, Cushing’s, and allergies.

Boston Terrier Dog

Male:
Average height: 15-17″
Weight: 10-25 lb

Female:
Average Height: 15-17"
Weight: 10-25 lb

Life span is 10-14 years

The origin of the Boston Terrier goes back to around 1865 when the coachmen of wealthy people began to breed some of their employer’s dogs with various other breeds. One of these crosses – between a Bulldog and an English Terrier, was the beginning of what would one day develop into the Boston Terrier. By 1889, the breed had become popular in Boston and the American Bull Terrier Club was formed. Shortly after this, the name was changed to the Boston Terrier. It ranked as one of the most popular breeds in the early to middle 1900s and still is a hugely popular breed.

Temperament

The Boston Terrier is a little stubborn but very devoted and sensitive to its owner’s wishes. Although it is well mannered when indoors and gets very saucy and playful whenever the opportunity comes up. It is a barker and is usually reserved with people it does not know and may show aggression towards strange dogs.

Upkeep and Health

This is a dog with a lively personality that requires daily exercise and a lot of interaction with humans. It loves to play games and romping in the yard would meet its exercise requirements. It cannot live outdoors. Some Boston Terriers will wheeze and snore and they do not do well in the extreme heat. Their coat requires minimal care with only an occasional brushing being necessary.

There are no major health concerns. Minor concerns include patellar luxation, stenotic nares, allergies, and elongated soft palate.

Brussels Griffon Dog

Male:
Average Height: 9-11″
Weight: 8-10 lb

Female:
Average Height: 9-11"
Weight: 8-10 lb

Life span is 12-15 years

The Brussels Griffon’s origins are the country of Belgium. They were used to guard cabs in Brussels, although it was thought they probably were more likely to attract fares than discouraging criminals. It was eventually crossed with the Pug as well as other breeds through the years. By the 1900′s it was a popular dog breed in Belgium and was in great demand by the nobility.

Temperament

The Brussels Griffon is a playful, confident, and playful breed. It usually does well with other dogs and pets. It is a poor choice for families with young children. It can be difficult to house train and can suffer from separation anxiety. They are known for their ability to climb and can be escape artists. They also tend to bark.

Upkeep and Health

The Brussels Griffon is an active breed but due to its size, a playful romp will suffice for daily exercise. It also enjoys short walks. Although it likes to play outside it is not an outside dog. Its rough coat requires brushing 2-3 times a week.

There are no major or minor health concerns.

Chihuahua Dog

Male:
Average Height: 6-9″
Weight: under 6 lb

Female:
Average Height: 6-9"
Weight: under 6 lb

Life span is 14-18 years

The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog with varying theories of its origin and history. Ranging from China to Spain and South America. In 1850, three were found in Chihuahua, Mexico. A few were then imported to the United States but did not become popular at the very beginning. They started gaining popularity when Xavier Cugat – a rhumba king celebrity – appeared in public with his constant canine companion – a Chihuahua. It was at that time its popularity took off and it has been popular ever since.

Temperament

The Chihuahua has a deep devotion to a single person in the household. It is usually reserved with strangers but gets along well with other dogs and household pets. They are oven temperamental and some tend to bark.

Upkeep and Health

The Chihuahua is a lively and energetic dog that gets its fill of exercise just from running from room to room. It is not an outdoor dog and would love to be with its owner 24/7. The smooth coat requires minimal upkeep and it hates the cold and loves the warmth.

There are no major health concerns. Minor concerns include pulmonic stenosis, hydrocephalus, patellar luxation, KCS, and hypoglycemia.

Chinese Crested Dog

Male:
Average height: 11-13″
Weight: 5-12 lb

Female:
Average Height: 11-13"
Weight: 5-12 lb

Life span is 13-15 years

The Chinese Crested breed originated in Africa and was brought to China in the thirteenth century. They were kept on ships to control rats and were sometimes traded and hence distributed to various countries. They eventually gained popularity in both American and Europe by 1991 and were eventually recognized by the AKC. They quickly become popular with dog show enthusiasts.

Temperament

This small dog breed is a sensitive companion and gentle lap dog that is a devoted family dog that is always willing to please. It is good with strangers, other canines, and other household pets.

Upkeep and Health

Although it is a playful dog, it can get its required exercise by playing games and romping indoors. As you can surmise, this breed hates the cold and requires a sweater if taken out in the cold weather. It is known for its jumping and climbing. This hairless breed needs regular skincare like moisturizer and sunblock. The powder puff tail needs brushing every couple of days.

Major health concerns include PRA, glaucoma, and lens luxation.

French Bulldog Dog

Male:
Average height: 11-13″
Weight: not to exceed 28 lb

Female:
Average Height: 11-13"
Weight: not to exceed 28 lb

Life span is 10-12 years

The French Bulldog was a fairly popular breed in England back in the 19th century migrating to France with people searching for work in the mid 1800′s. They soon gained popularity in Paris. By the late 1800′s, they become popular with the upper class and also with American’s visiting the country. They gained in popularity and by 1913 the French Bulldog was one of the most popular show dogs in America.

Temperament

The French Bulldog enjoys playful romping but can also be a calm and cuddly lap dog. It is an amiable and sweet companion and is always willing to please.

Upkeep and Health

The Frenchie needs minimal exercise and this can be fulfilled with an outdoor romp. It does not do well in hot and humid weather and most cannot swim. It drools and makes wheezing noises and snores. Its coat requires minimum upkeep but the wrinkles on its face require regular cleaning.

Major health concerns are brachycephalic syndrome (stenotic nares, elongated soft palate), intervertebral disk disease, CHD, and allergies.

Havanese Dog

Male:
Average Height: 8.5-11.5″
Weight: 7-13 lb

Female:
Average Height: 8.5-11.5"
Weight: 7-13 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Havanese originated in the Mediterranean in ancient times. Spanish traders eventually brought them to Cuba where they were adored by the wealthy and lived a pampered life. They made their way to Europe where they were nicknamed the White Cuban. They soon became popular in Europe as a pet for the elite as well as becoming popular performance dogs often performing in circuses as trick dogs. They are fairly new to the AKC circuit, its first showing being in 1996. It is also known as the Havana Silk Dog.

Temperament

The Havanese is a busy and curious dog. It loves being the center of attention and clown for attention and affection from its family as well as strangers. It tends to be vocal. It is always eager to please and is easily trained. It is affectionate to children, its family, other pets, and other dogs.

Upkeep and Health

Its exercise needs are met with a good session of play or short walks. It is not cut out for living outside. Care of its long hair entails 2-4 brushings a week. It does not shed and any loose hairs will get caught in the outer hairs and will tangle without regular brushing.

There are no major health concerns. Minor health concern is a patellar luxation.

Italian Greyhound Dog

Male:
Average height: 13-15″
Weight: 7-14 lb

Female:
Average Height: 13-15"
Weight: 7-14 lb

Life span is 12-15 years

The Italian Greyhound breed goes back many centuries. They came to Europe in the 17th century and quickly became popular with the nobility. It reached its peak of popularity during the reign of Queen Victoria. It fell out of favor after that peak and almost became extinct during World War II. Over the years, they established themselves as a popular breed once again and are enjoying the second resurgence of popularity amongst dog lovers.

Temperament

The Italian Greyhound loves to run and chase and has an extremely gentle and sensitive nature. It can be timid and shy with strangers. It is good with children, other family pets, other dogs, and completely devoted to the family unit. Although consideration should be given to its light build and be aware that it can easily be injured by boisterous kids and larger animals.

Upkeep and Health

The Italian Greyhound hates the cold but does like a daily romp in the outdoors. Their exercise requirements can be achieved with a short walk or yard play. It loves to sprint in a fenced area. They cannot survive outdoors. Caring for their coat is a minimal effort with only occasional brushing required to remove dead hair. It is recommended that their teeth be brushed on a regular basis.

Major health concern is a periodontal disease.

Jack Russell Terrier Dog

Male:
Average height: 12-14″
Weight: 13-17 lb

Female:
Average height: 12-14″
Weight: 13-17 lb

Life span is 13-15 years

This breed was developed by a man by the name of John Russell who was looking for a dog breed that could keep pace with horses and could bolt and dispatch fox for the purpose of fox hunting. Jack Russells are popular with horse owners and you will frequently find them on farms and in stables. In 2003 their name was officially changed from Jack Russell Terrier to Parson Russell Terrier. Their popularity has grown over the years, partly due to their visibility in the media – such as Frazier with his father’s companion “Eddie”.

Temperament

The Jack Russell Terrier is a highly intelligent dog that loves adventure and wants constant action. It is an active and playful breed. It gets along well with strangers and young children. It has a tendency to bark and dig. If you are looking for a mischievous and funny companion this dog is a good choice.

Upkeep and Health

The Jack Russell Terrier needs a high amount of physical outlet and much mental stimulation. It loves to explore and investigate. it is known for charging headfirst into underground burrows or holes and requiring being dug out and rescued. It is not cut out for apartment life and does best when it has access to a fenced-in area. The terrier with the smooth type of fur requires weekly brushing and the broken coat only needs occasional hand stripping.

There are no major health concerns and minor health concerns include patellar luxation and lens luxation.

Japanese Chin

Male:
Average Height: 8-11″
Weight: 4-7 lb

Female:
Average Height: 8-11"
Weight: 4-7 lb

Life span is 10-12 years

The Japanese Chin is actually of Chinese origin ironically. It is not sure how it got to Japan but once it arrived it was a big hit with the Japanese Imperial family. Traders introduced this dog breed to Europe and America. It enjoys modest popularity in the United States but is still greatly popular in Japan.

Temperament

The Japanese Chin is a devoted dog and companion. It is friendly towards strangers, other canines, and other household pets. It has a gentle nature and would make a good dog for a child of gentle nature. They’ve been described it as having cat-like qualities and some can climb quite well.

Upkeep and Health

The Japanese Chin is lively and requires some exercise but due to its small stature, a romp in the yard or house will achieve the same degree of exercise as a short walk for these dogs. This breed does not do well outside and does not do well in hot humid weather. Some Japanese Chin has a tendency to wheeze. Their long fur should be brushed a couple times a week.

No major health concerns and minor health concerns include patellar luxation, KCS, entropion, cataract, and heart murmur.

Lhasa Apsos

Male:
Average height: 10-11″
Weight: 13-15 lb

Female:
Average height: 10-11″
Weight: 13-15 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Lhasa Apso has a history entwined with Buddhist beliefs. They believed that the souls of lamas entered the sacred dog’s bodies when they died. The first Lhasa Apsos were seen in the United States around 1930. They were admitted into the AKC Terrier Group in 1935 but in 1959 it was reassigned to the Non-Sporting Group. It is now a very popular pet and shows dogs.

Temperament

The Lhasa Apsos can be independent and stubborn with a mind of its own. It is somewhat reserved with strange people. It likes to play and daily exercise and games make this breed happy. It also is happy to cuddle with his owner and loves to be part of the family.

Upkeep and Health

The Lhasa Apsos is a good choice for a small household or an apartment dog. It is not cut out for outdoor living. Its exercise requirements can be met with romping and playing in the home or outside in the yard. Their long hair should be combed out every other day.

Major health concerns include patellar luxation.

Maltese Dog

Male:
Average Height: 9-10″
Weight: 4-6 lb

Female:
Average Height: 9-10"
Weight: 4-6 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Maltese dog breed is among the oldest of the toy breeds and was specifically mentioned in writings as early as 300 B.C. Early Maltese came in colors other than white. By the early 14th century, they were highly popular in Europe where they were brought for the upper-class ladies. The Maltese breed was recognized by the AKC as of 1888. It now ranks as one of the more popular toy families.

Temperament

The Maltese is a barker and is reserved with people he does not know. It loves to run and play but can easily calm down and enjoy being a lap dog. It has a bold courageous streak and is likely to challenge dogs much bigger than itself.

Upkeep and Health

The Maltese breed requires daily exercise but this can be met with playing games in the home or a romp in the yard. The beautiful coat should be brushed daily and is difficult to keep clean. Some owners prefer to keep their pets clipped for easier maintenance. The Maltese are inside the dog.

There are no major health concerns and the minor health concerns include dental problems, patellar luxation, open fontanel, hypoglycemia, hydrocephalus, distichiasis, entropion, and hypothyroidism.

Miniature Dachshund Dog

Male:
Average Height: 5-6″
Weight: Under 11 lb

Female:
Average Height: 5-6"
Weight: Under 11 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Dachshund was once used for hunting. After following their prey, they would enter their burrow, pull them out, and then kill their quarry. They were strong hunters and were capable of hunting foxes, badgers, and other small animals. It has found recent popularity in the United States and is one of the most popular of the hound family as family pets.

Temperament

The Dachshund has an independent and bold nature but prefers to be with its family over any type of adventure. Although they are good with children in their own family, dachshunds are known to snap at other children and many are reserved with strangers.

Upkeep and Health

The smooth coat on the Miniature Dachshund requires minimal grooming and brushing. Although an active dog by nature, their exercise needs can be met with moderate walks or yard games and activities.

The major health concern is intervertebral disk disease and minor health concern includes KCS.

Miniature Pinscher Dog

Male:
Average height: 11-11.5″
Weight: 8-10 lb

Female:
Average Height: 10-12.5"
Weight: 8-10 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Miniature Pinscher – also referred to as a Min Pin – is, some are shocked to learn, not a miniature version of the larger Doberman Pinscher. Dog experts surmise they are a result of crossing a small short-haired terrier and a Dachshund and Italian Greyhound. They possess the coloring of the German Pinscher, the elegance and grace of the Italian Greyhound, and the fearlessness commonly found in the Dachshund. It was acknowledged by the AKC in 1929 and is presently one of the more popular toy breeds in America.

Temperament

The Min Pin is one of the more energetic toy breeds and seems to always be in motion. It has a stubborn streak and is very independent. They are close and affectionate with family members but are reserved and leery of strangers. They are known to initially distrust other dogs and may chase small animals.

Upkeep and Health

The Miniature Pinscher needs lots of activity every day. Because it is small in stature this can be accomplished by playing indoors or outdoors. It should receive multiple play sessions to meet the high energy needs of this breed. It does not do well in cold weather and gets cold easily. Its coat needs almost no upkeep except for an occasional brushing just to remove the dead hair.

There are no major health concerns and the minor health concerns include MPS VI, Legg-Perthes, patellar luxation, hypothyroidism, cervical (dry) disk, and heart defects.

Papillon Dog

Male:
Average Height: 8-11″
Weight: 4-9 lb

Female:
Average Height: 8-11"
Weight: 4-9 lb

Life span is 12-15 years

Papillon means butterfly in French and the erect and perky ears and small face on this breed resembles the shape of a butterfly. This tiny breed was popular with nobility back in the 16th century and its popularity quickly spread to Spain and Italy. Asymmetrically marked face with white blaze adds to the resemblance of a butterfly. The Papillon is one of the most popular of the toy dog breed family, as far as its appeal as a show dog as well as being a popular choice for a loving pet.

Temperament

The Papillon is gentle and playful and unlike many toy breeds, very obedient and responsive. It is very good with kids but care must be taken with the rough play as they are easily injured. Sometimes this breed can be timid.

Upkeep and Health

The Papillon needs mental stimulation and challenging games. A daily walk is recommended although not necessary. Its long flowing coat should be brushed out at least twice a week. It is somewhat delicate and is best living indoors with its family.

There are no major health concerns and the minor health concerns include dental problems, seizures, and patellar luxation.

Pekingese Dog

Male:
Average Height: 6-9″
Weight: less than 14 lb

Female:
Average Height: 6-9"
Weight: less than 14 lb

Life span is 13-15 years

The Pekingese breed was once referred to as the lion dogs. At the height of their popularity, many of these dogs were treated like royalty and even were assigned their own personal servants. In the year 1860, the British looted the royal summer palace and five of these dogs were part of the loot. One was presented to Queen Victoria and soon there was a great demand for them. Today its main purpose is as a human companion and a show dog.

Temperament

The Pekingese breed is not considered the prissy type of lap dog. It has a lot of courage and although it is not likely to start a fight, it will not back down from one either. Some are aloof with strangers and others are friendly to everyone that crosses their path. It is well known for its stubborn streak. Although it possesses a playful side, it may not be playful enough for active children. It can not tolerate rough handling and is easily injured when mishandled by children.

Upkeep and Health

The Pekingese is happy to exercise with a romp inside as well as an easy-going walk. It should be housed in an air-conditioned home as they are likely to succumb to heat prostration. It should be an inside dog and only allowed to exert itself in mild temperatures. The Pekingese breed makes a perfect choice for apartment dwellers. The coat should be combed daily and the long hair around the anus inspected for soiling. They tend to snore and the overdose wrinkle should be cleaned every day to help avoid infection.

There are no major health concerns and the minor health concerns include KCS, skin fold dermatitis, patellar luxation, stenotic nares, trichiasis, and distichiasis.

Pomeranian Dog

Male:
Average Height: 8-11″
Weight: 4-6 lb

Female:
Average Height: 8-11"
Weight: 4-6 lb

Life span is 12-16 years

The Pomeranian ancestors were a much larger version we see today, weighing as much as thirty pounds and often were white in color. Although recognized as a breed in 1870 by the English Kennel Club, it was only after Queen Victoria brought one from Italy that the breed became more popular. By 1900, the Pomeranian was recognized by the AKC and they were shown in an array of colors. It is now a very popular pet and shows a dog and its size has been bred down to its current weight span of 4 to 6 pounds most commonly seen with tannish or brownish coat color.

Temperament

The Pomeranian is bold and confident and attacks the day with a vengeance. It is always ready for a game or an adventure. It is usually reserved towards strangers, bark a lot, and can be aggressive towards other dogs.

Upkeep and Health

The Pomeranian needs daily exercise but this need can be met with indoor games as well as short walks. Although it has a furry and warm thick coat, it is not meant to live outside. This breed prefers being inside with the family. It is very family-oriented. Its thick double coat should be brushed twice a week and even more often during shedding season.

A major health concern is patellar luxation. Minor concerns include shoulder luxation, PRA, and hypoglycemias.

Pug Dog

Male:
Average height: 10-11″
Weight: 14-18 lb

Female:
Average Height: 10-11"
Weight: 14-18 lb

Life span is 12-15 years

The Pug gets his name from the Latin word fungus which means fist – and is descended from the mastiff. It was a favorite of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. It is surmised that the Pug breed came to Holland by way of the Dutch East India Trading Co. Pugs were introduced to England during Victorian times. They quickly became a favorite of the wealthy and were considered the favored royal breed. It is popular as a show dog and as a choice for a family dog.

Temperament

The Pug makes a good family dog with an appealing blend of fun and dignity. They are playful and devoted and make a great companion. They love to be the center of attention and show off to their family.

Upkeep and Health

The Pug should get daily exercise but this can be accomplished with a romp in the yard, a lively game of catch, or a moderate daily walk. it does not like heat and humidity and is best when living indoors. The facial wrinkles should be cleaned daily. Its smooth hair requires occasional upkeep by brushing off the dead hairs. The pug wheezes and snores. The wrinkled skin should be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent the Pug from acquiring a skin infection.

Major health concerns are CHD and Pug dog encephalitis.

Miniature Schnauzer Dog

Male:
Average height: 12-14″
Weight: 13-15 lb

Female:
Average Height: 12-14"
Weight: 13-15 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the Schnauzers. Its origins are in Germany where it was prized as a small farm dog and rat hunter. It became especially popular after World War II and eventually became the third most popular breed in America at one time. It’s a competitive show dog and a favorite pick for a family pet.

Temperament

The Miniature Schnauzer is one of the most popular terrier dogs. It is less domineering than the larger Schnauzers and less aggressive towards dogs than most terriers. Some may bark a lot. It likes children. Although playful, alert, and spunky the Schnauzer can be stubborn at times.

Upkeep and Health

The Miniature Schnauzer breed needs daily exercise in the form of a moderate walk or a romp in the yard. It is an inside dog that needs to be with its family. Physically this breed can survive outside but its disposition requires closeness to its loved ones. Its wiry coat needs brushing or combing twice a week or so. Clipping the coat softens the texture

Major health concerns include PRA and urolithiasis. Minor concerns include vWD, myotonia congenita, allergies, and Schnauzer comedo syndrome.

Shih Tzu Dog

Male:
Average Height: 8-11″
Weight: 9-16 lb

Female:
Average Height: 8-11"
Weight: 9-16 lb

Life span is 11-14 years

The Shih Tzu is associated with China and is most esteemed due to its association with Buddhism. The Shih Tzu was highly prized by the royal family during the Ming Dynasty. When the Imperial Palace was invaded and looted by the British, most of the dogs of this breed were lost. The breed gained popularity in the US during the 1960′s and was recognized by the AKC in 1969. It soon became popular and it is still one of the most popular choices of toy dog breeds.

Temperament

The Shih Tzu has a positive and upbeat type of personality and makes a wonderful lap dog with its sweet disposition. It loves to play and romp and is good with children. It also possesses a tough and stubborn streak. It is completely devoted to its family unit.

Upkeep and Health

The Shih Tzu requires daily exercise but these requirements are easy to meet with short walks, frolicking in the yard, or playing games indoors. It does not fair well in hot humid weather and it is not an outside dog. To maintain beautiful long hair, a Shih Tzu should be taught to tolerate brushing and combing at a young age to make maintenance easier when they are adult dogs. Brush the hair at least every other day.

The major health concern is CHD and minor health concerns include PRA, KCS, patellar luxation, renal dysplasia, entropion, otitis externa, inguinal hernia, and trichiasis.

Silky Toy Terrier Dog

Male:
Average Height: 9-10″
Weight: 8-11 lb

Female:
Average Height: 9-10"
Weight: 8-11 lb

The Silky Terrier came to be by way of Australia. This breed was also known as Sydney Silky Terrier in Australia. In 1955 it was renamed the Australian Silky Terrier. Once established in the US in 1955 it was yet changed again to Silky Terrier. As far as dog breeds, the Silky Terrier has only moderate popularity.

Temperament

This Terrier is not really a lap dog due to its bold and playful nature. It has the personality of a terrier always ready for action. It is intelligent and clever but has a stubborn streak. It has a tendency to bark and can be aggressive towards other canines and other household pets.

Life span is 11-14 years

Upkeep and Health

The Silky Terrier needs more than the average amount of exercise than most of the other toy breeds. A good walk or long play session in a fenced yard will meet the requirements. It is a hardy dog but is not an outside dog and should live inside with its family. The silky coat should be brushed every other day.

There are no major health concerns and minor health concerns include Legg-Perthes and patellar luxation.

Tibetan Spaniel Dog

Male:
Average height: 10-11″
Weight: 9-15 lb

Female:
Average Height: 10-11"
Weight: 9-15 lb

Life span is 12-15 years

The Tibetan Spaniel’s origins are based on Tibetan Buddhist beliefs. These small dogs were bred by monks in monasteries which usually breed only the smallest dogs. They were used by the monks as an alarm to warn of strangers coming. They would perch upon the monastery walls and bark when strangers or wolves approached. The breed did not make it to the US until the 1960′s.

Temperament
The Tibetan Spaniel is bold and has a stubborn streak but also has a happy attitude, family-oriented, and sensitive nature. It is friendly with other dogs and animals but is wary of strangers.

Upkeep and Health

The Tibetan Spaniel requires minimal daily exercise. It is well suited for apartment residence and should ever live outside. Its coat needs a good brushing about twice a week.

No major health concerns and minor health concerns include patellar luxation and cataract.

Toy Fox Terrier Dog

Male:
Average Height: 8.5-11″
Weight: 3.5-7 lb

Female:
Average Height: 8.5-11"
Weight: 3.5-7 lb

Life span is 13-14 years

The Toy Fox Terrier was very popular with farmers that were useful and handy in keeping the rodent population in check. They were also popular with pet owners who found the Toy Fox Terrier easier to live with as the temperament was bred to a calmer level in this toy breed.

Temperament

The Toy Fox Terrier is a feisty and fun-loving toy breed and still shows the tendency to hunt, spending hours investigating every inch of your property. They love to play and mix well with older children. They do not tolerate rough handling. This is a one-family dog and does not warm to strangers easily. It is eager to please and easy to teach.

Upkeep and Health

The Toy Fox Terrier should be exercised regularly and supplied with toys to occupy his energetic and feisty disposition. Only a small area is necessary for its exercise area. Without sufficient attention and release of energy, it may turn to digging and barking. This toy breed also relishes in a warm, soft bed or it’s owners comforting lap. You should dress the dog in a sweater or jacket in colder temperatures. It is not an outdoor dog.

There are no major health concerns and the minor health concerns include congenital hypothyroidism with goiter, patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes, and demodicosis.

Toy Poodle Dog

Male:
Average Height: Not to exceed 10″
Weight: 4-8 lb

Female:
Average Height: Not to exceed 10"
Weight: 4-8 lb

Life span is 12-14 years

The Poodle is associated with France although their origins are more likely to be in central Asia. Once used for herding, the Poodle was also talented in water abilities and duck hunting abilities. The poodle breed soon became popular with the French aristocracy and eventually was made the national dog of France. Around the time of the 1920′s the Poodle’s popularity had dried up and the breed had almost died out in the United States. Then in the 1930′s it came back with a fury and is placed as one of the all-time most popular dogs.

Temperament

The Toy Poodle is alert, peppy and one of the easiest breeds to train. It is intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please. Some may be barkers and are usually leery of strangers. It is a devoted family dog.

Upkeep and Health

The Toy Poodle requires physical and mental exercise. They love to interact with humans. Their exercise requirements can be met with a short walk or indoor games. It should never be forced to live outside but does enjoy access to a fenced yard. The poodle’s hair should be brushed every other day. As a poodle sheds, the hair gets caught in the surrounding hair which can lead to matting. Although this breed is normally groomed by professionals, owners can easily learn to groom their own poodle.

Major health concerns include epilepsy, patellar luxation, PRA, and Legg-Perthes.

Yorkshire Terrier Dog

Male:
Average Height: 8-9″
Weight: less than 7 lb

Female:
Average Height: 8-9"
Weight: less than 7 lb

Life span is 14-16 years

The Yorkshire Terrier has its origin in the working class as a ratter. It was initially looked down upon by the aristocrats. But is was the breed’s obvious grace and beauty that eventually caused the Yorkshire Terrier Toy Breed DogYorkies to become popular with the wealthy and was gracing dog shows. It was once a larger breed but by 1900 breeders made an effort to breed a smaller version with longer hair. Its beautiful coat has placed it as a favorite with dog show fanciers.

Temperament

The Yorkshire Terrier is inquisitive and bold and has no sense of its small size. They are always ready for an adventure and ready to get into trouble. It usually shows aggression towards dogs that are new to them as well as other small animals. Although it tends to be a barker, it can also be trained not to bark.

Upkeep and Health

The Yorkies should be played with daily but can probably acquire its daily exercise around the home. They love to explore but must be watched or in a confined area to keep them safe and out of trouble. It is unable to live outdoors. Their coat should be brushed every other day.

There are no major health concerns and the minor health concern is patellar luxation.