What You Should Know About Owning A Small Dog

You might be surprised to hear it, but there are many differences between owning a small dog, regardless of the breed, and owning a large dog--again, regardless of the breed. Of course there are the obvious differences; large dogs eat more, and take up more room in the house. But large dogs also need more room than they take up. You shouldn't own a large dog unless you have a large yard he or she can go out and play in.  Small dogs in general need less space, although their needs will vary from breed to breed. But there are other, equally important differences between owning a large dog and owning a small dog.

Many small breeds of dogs tend to be hyperactive. Of course you have breeds of large dogs who can also be bouncy, and individual dogs within breeds who break the rules, but in general, your larger dogs are going to tend to be more laid back, more relaxed. Owning a small dog may not be for you if you have a house full of low breakables, or if you get easily irritated or annoyed with your pets. But, again, check specific breeds; there are some small dogs who are fairly laid back, at least compared to other small dogs, and owning a small dog may not be out of the question if you do your homework and research carefully.

Owning a small dog can also be problematic because smaller dogs are more prone to diseases and skin irritations than larger dogs. But a small dog can also have advantages that a larger dog doesn't. For example, smaller dogs tend to be very alert, eager to know what's going on around them. They're often friendly and personable, and make great traveling companions, with a good leash.

Of course, there's no way to blanket-describe every breed just because they're a small dog. But keeping these general guidelines in mind should give you a better idea of what you're getting into with most small dogs in general.