Toy Dog Breeds

Toy dog breeds include greyhounds, terriers, pinschers, pugs, chihuahuas, pekingese, spaniels--the official list of the AKC is quite extensive. Regardless of breed, toy dogs are desired for their cuteness and cuddle-ability. Many retain the characteristics of a puppy for their entire lives. This may be one of the big attractions that toy dog breeds hold over larger breed dogs.

Diminutive size, however, does not mean that toy dog breeds are less hardy. Once safely past puppyhood, their energy levels and enthusiasm rival any breed of dog. Some are excellent watch dogs, but they won't be able to follow through preventing entry of an intruder. The hue and cry of toy dog breeds can be enough to make your hair stand on end!

There are several advantages to toy dog breeds. Besides the ease of handling a smaller sized dog, they are more appropriate for apartment dwellers because they do not require as much exercise space as a large dog. Additionally, toy dog breeds usually shed less than their larger counterparts--not because they have different coat characteristics, but because there is less dog! All sides of dog care are smaller: from cleaning to clean-up and food consumed to food expelled.

Historically, toy dog breeds were used as companion dogs. They were friendly and alert, yet willing to be held and petted. They are very comforting and can bring peace to an owner. Nursing homes and adult care facilities have found toy dog breeds to be soothing for their patients. Contrary to common perception, there is no law preventing animals from living in nursing homes. It is up to the eldercare facility to allow--or disallow--pets. The calming influence of any pet, especially one that will transfer affections to everyone equally, is a wonderful aid for patient facilities.

You don't have to reside in an eldercare facility to enjoy toy dog breeds. They do provide companionable joy for many who otherwise would be concerned about space, exercise and care requirements of a larger breed of dog.

About The Author

Stephanie Hetu

Website: http://www.cutepuppydog.com

Description: Stephanie is a dog lover and the editor of the Cute Puppy Dog Newsletter. You can subscribe at http://www.cutepuppydog.com/cutepuppydognewsletter.html (every subscribers get 20 exclusive puppy pics, 2 dog screensavers and 3 dog ebooks).

---

A German Shepherd Puppy May Be Just What Your Family Needs!

A German Shepherd puppy can become a very welcome member... Read More

Dog Training Information for Training Your Puppy

Puppy TrainingPuppy training can be a trying time. The key... Read More

So You Want an American Pit Bull Terrier?

You've made up your mind, it's the American Pit Bull... Read More

Help! Ive Got a Pregnant Cat!

So, you've got yourself a pregnant cat.Was it a stray... Read More

Finding A Reputable Dog Breeder

Anyone can put two dogs together and let them breed,... Read More

Herbs For Your Dog

Herbology, basically, is the use of herbs in the treatment... Read More

Dog doors ? dog and owner reprieve

Buying dog doors onlineIf you need to buy a dog... Read More

Your Dog is a Social Animal - and Needs You!

Your dog is a social being, just like you! He/she... Read More

Are Exotic Cats a Threat to Public Safety? Why Exotic Pets Are Not Dangerous

I would like to address some of the statements I... Read More

Pet Food Label Secrets Revealed! Know What You Are Feeding Your Dog And Cat

Reading a pet food label, how difficult can it be?... Read More

Your Dogs Health Is At Risk!

Dogs should be living to age 20 or more. That's... Read More

A Look at Discount Dog Beds

Many people want to make sure their family pet has... Read More

Quality Dog Food Is Essential For The Health Of Dogs

Dog food is very important for the health of dogs.... Read More

Puppy Crate Training -- Fast Track to a Contented Dog

Puppy crate training is one of the most effective ways... Read More

Did You Know?

German Shepherds were among the first dogs trained for police... Read More

Do You Know Whats Really In Your Pets Food?

The pet food industry, a billion-dollar, unregulated operation, feeds on... Read More

How To Keep Your Cat Happy and Healthy - Playtime for Kitty

While dogs tend to get lots of exercise, cats are... Read More

Larger Dog Food Isles

Grocery Stores could use some larger Dog Food Isles. Not... Read More

Healthy Diet for Your Parrot

Is your bird a seed only eater? Did you know... Read More

Tips on Hamster Breeding

Hamster breeding can sometimes be confusing for a hamster owner.... Read More

Dog Health Conditions and Terms You Should Know...

Some Dogs like Boxers unfortunately, are prone to several potential... Read More

So, You?ve Decided To Kill Your Pet!

The other day I was doing a research online for... Read More

Are Your Fish Sick?

Keeping a fish tank is a wonderful and relaxing hobby,... Read More

Mabeke: Gorilla Teacher

Mabeke is a young gorilla who was born in captivity... Read More

Keeping Your Cat Healthy

Cats need only be provided with decent shelter, food and... Read More

Why Should We Get Kittens as Pets?

Kittens are and have always been adorable creatures. Of course,... Read More

No More Stillborn Kittens ? Know How To Care For A Pregnant Cat

'I named all kittens, although they were all stillborn.' 'My... Read More

The Secret That Keeps Horses Trainable!

As you likely know already, horses have at least 10... Read More

Grieving Our Pets Death

Our pets give us so much. They entertain us, listen... Read More

The Pros and Cons of Vaccinating Your Dog

To vaccinate or not to vaccinate? That's become the burning... Read More

Feeding Your Pet Stingray - The Essentials of Maintaining a Varied Diet

Stingrays will eat a wide variety of foods. Maintaining a... Read More

Different Dog Foods For Different Dog Ages

Dogs come in many assorted breeds, shapes, and sizes. They... Read More

Toby ? My Whirling Twirling Sheltie

Five years ago this August a funny little puppy came... Read More