Good Small Breed Dogs for First Time Dog Owners: Slideshow
Good Small Breed Dogs for First Time Dog Owners: Slideshow
Are you considering getting a dog for the first time? Thinking a small dog will fit best into your home and lifestyle? We've compiled a list of small breed dogs that tend to have great personalities and relatively easy care requirements. These are in no particular order. Remember, all dogs need basic veterinary and grooming care and require good socialization and kind handling to develop their best personality. It's important to remember that small dogs are more easily injured than large dogs and may not be right for certain homes.
Bichon frise
Bichons are small, generally ending up between 6.5 and 11 pounds. They tend to be friendly, smart, and loving. They will need to be groomed regularly to keep their coats short, clean, and to avoid matting. These dogs don't shed, but they can still be a problem for people who are allergic to dogs.
Havanese
These dogs are energetic, have great attitudes, and love to stick close by their human(s). They will require frequent grooming to keep their coats silky and untangled. Havanese dogs want to please their people, so they learn quickly. They will need routine haircuts and brushing in between.
Boston terrier
This is a small dog with a big dog attitude. Boston terriers tend to be good-natured and accommodating. They can play all day long, but like to snuggle in on their human's lap to watch TV, too. They like to act like clowns, and if they are well-socialized, they're friendly to everyone and good with other dogs and cats, too.
Shih Tzu
These little balls of fur and love are wonderful companions. They want to be with people, whether they're playing, walking, or cuddling. It's important to socialize them well when they're puppies. Avoid carrying them everywhere or letting them get away with nipping or jumping behavior because it's cute in such a tiny dog. Those behaviors will escalate and may result in a yappy, snappy adult dog. However, when diligence in training and socialization is practiced, shih tzus are wonderful pets.
Yorkshire terrier
Yorkies are beautiful, friendly dogs. They do have a tendency to want things their own way, so proper training and socialization are critical. They will need to have frequent brushing and trips to the groomer every couple of months for a trim. Even though they are small, Yorkies have a lot of energy that needs to be channeled into appropriate activities like going for walks and playing.
Pug
These dogs are muscular, robust, and friendly. They need large amounts of attention, preferring to always be with a human or canine companion. Because of their shortened faces, they may have breathing problems, low tolerance for heat, and may not be able to exercise as much as longer-nosed dogs. It will be important to control your pug's diet carefully, so he doesn't get overweight. Still, pugs are fun, loving family dogs that require only the basic grooming that all dogs need.
Miniature or toy poodle
Poodles are smart, learn fast, and love to be physically active. Training and continued activity are important for these dogs because even though they're small, they are physical, and lack of exercise and mental stimulation can result in inappropriate behaviors like chewing and barking. Agility training might be a great activity for a poodle. Your small poodle will need to go to the groomer every 6-8 weeks.
Mixed breed
Rescuing a dog is the best way to add to your family. You can find purebred dogs through rescue groups and shelters. You can also find great mixed breed small dogs. Combining the characteristics of two or more breeds can result in a delightful personality and physical characteristics. Don't rule out a mixed breed when you're thinking about getting a small dog. You may even be able to determine what breeds make up your adorable mutt: "Canine DNA Testing."
Disclaimer: This website is not intended to replace professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian. If you require any veterinary related advice, contact your veterinarian promptly. Information at DogHealth.com is exclusively of a general reference nature. Do not disregard veterinary advice or delay treatment as a result of accessing information at this site. Just Answer is an external service not affiliated with DogHealth.com.
Notice: Ask-a-Vet is an affiliated service for those who wish to speak with a veterinary professional about their pet's specific condition. Initially, a bot will ask questions to determine the general nature of your concern. Then, you will be transferred to a human. There is a charge for the service if you choose to connect to a veterinarian. Ask-a-Vet is not manned by the staff or owners of DogHealth.com, and the advice given should not delay or replace a visit to your veterinarian.
