We love dogs of all shapes and sizes. Before you welcome a new pooch into your family, we know you’ll have put a lot of thought into the type of dog that’s right for you. If you love smaller dogs but aren’t sure what breed to choose, or if you already have a small dog and want to learn more about them, read on. Here’s our guide to five adorable small dog breeds.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are gorgeous little dogs, and their popularity has grown thanks to their starring role in a health insurance advert! Their short legs and long bodies make them instantly recognisable. Like many small dog breeds, they were originally bred as hunters and trained to dig, a habit that persists in the breed today. Their bark is also surprisingly loud!
Dachshunds are very playful and need at least an hour of exercise each day, making them great family pets if they’re well-trained. They especially love playing fetch.
Miniature Schnauzer
Schnauzers come in miniature, standard, and giant sizes, so you can choose this lovely breed in a size to suit your family. They can be easily spotted, as their distinctive beard makes them stand out in a crowd.
Schnauzers are affectionate and extremely loyal, so they’re ideal if you spend a lot of time at home and can keep them company. If you do go out, they’ll welcome you home with a waggy tail and lots of bouncing. They have a tendency to bark a lot, so good training is essential.
Border Terrier
Border Terriers are very clever and extremely cheeky! They’re great for families as they’re sociable dogs who like to be kept entertained. At the same time, they cope well with being left, as they’re self-reliant. They also like to get their own way!
They were bred to chase small animals and have a high prey drive, which can make it tricky to introduce them to other animals. If you already have a cat or other small animals in the house, they may not be the best choice.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are very loving and easy-going. They need around half an hour of exercise each day and are happy snuggled up on the sofa giving you and your family lots of cuddles.
They’re great with children and can even get along with the family cat if you introduce them slowly and train them well. Cavaliers can be shy but getting them out and about to socialise with other dogs helps their adorable personality and confidence shine through.
Maltese
If you’re looking for a beautiful lap dog who’ll give you lots of cuddles and affection, a Maltese could be the perfect choice. They’re one of the world’s oldest breeds, with records of their existence going back to 6000 BC!
They love being spoilt and pampered and need daily brushing to keep their beautiful coat in good condition. A Maltese is happy staying at home and loves playing in the garden. They’re great if you live in a flat but still need a daily walk to keep them healthy.
We hope our guide has helped you learn more about these wonderful small dog breeds. Remember, before you introduce a new doggo to your home, do plenty of research to ensure it’s the right choice for your family and lifestyle.
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