Several small dog breed myths lead to misconceptions that discourage people from wanting to adopt or buy them. A lot of these myths are far from the truth and we are here to straighten out these false ideas about small dog breeds.
Myth #1: Small dogs breeds are yappy dog breeds.
Although there may be specific small dog breeds that tend to bark more than most, it doesn’t mean all little pooches are barkers. Some generally quiet small dog breeds include Shiba Inus, Chinese Cresteds, Japanese Chins, Chinese Crested, Boston Terriers and Italian Greyhounds.
Any dog breeds can be noisy if they are not given the right training. Sometimes, it also hints that your dog wants to go out for a walk and exercise or just bored. Therefore, it’s the responsibility of the owners to train their pooches to lessen their barking. Teaching your dog the command “quiet” from an early stage will stop this behaviour.
Myth #2: Small dogs only require minimal exercise.
Small dog breeds may be little furry companions but can be a bundle of buzzing energy just like their larger counterparts. Terrier breeds like Jack Russell, Border terrier, and Cairn terrier together with the Toy Poodle, Affenpinscher, and Dachshund are small athletic dogs that have high energy levels. They are likely to excel at dog sports such as rally, agility, obedience and flyball.
There may be other small dog breeds that are known to be couch potatoes like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Pekingese. However, they still need the right amount of exercise and walks to keep their muscles and joints strong.
Exercise does not only maintain your small dog physically healthy but mentally fit as well. Just like any other dogs, they might resort to behaviour problems when they are bored and have so much pent-up energy.
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Myth #3: Small dogs are more susceptible to the cold.
You would usually see little dogs dressed up in dog clothes. Does it make you wonder if it’s just for fashion or it’s to protect them from the chilly weather? The answer is both. Most small dog breed owners love to dress up their pooch just for the fun of it.
However, clothes for small dogs are important to shield them from the cold weather. Since they are evidently shorter in height, small dogs are more exposed to the frosty air.
It is also important to note that the ancestors of little pooches came from hotter areas. Therefore, they only have a single-layered fur which is not designed to protect them from the cold.
Read: Pooch Gets a Fashion Makeover to Protect Her Tail
Myth #4: Small dogs are easier to care for compared to bigger dogs.
This is one of the biggest misconceptions about small dog breeds. It is true that they are easy to carry around because of their small stature and they also have less appetite compared to larger dog breeds. Never let their size fool you.
Small dogs also present lots of challenges to pet owners when it comes to grooming and training. For instance, some small dog breeds such as Bichon Frises are difficult to housetrain because they tend to pee indoors.
Other little dogs such as Shih Tzu and Yorkies require high-maintenance grooming because their coats require lots of attention. Small dog breeds are also more likely to contract dental diseases which pet owners must be wary of.
Myth # 5: Every small dog is a “purse puppy” or a lap dog.
Some small dogs love to sit on your lap or snuggle with you on the couch all day long. But there are small energetic dogs that will have none of that like Pomeranians and Jack Russell Terriers.
Every canine has a different personality and temperament. Just because your pooch can fit in your purse does not mean he loves being carried around every time.
Myth #6: Small dog breeds are not good watchdogs.
People tend to forget that although these dog breeds are smaller in size, they are still loyal canine companions. They have a keen sense of hearing, swift reflexes, and a whole lot of devotion for their pet owners.
Small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Jack Russell Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers, and Dachshunds may not be able to tackle an intruder as a Doberman can but they are relentless canines. These dogs will not hesitate to let their human companion know if any animal or human tried to invade their territory.
Myth #7: Small dogs are only for women.
Small dog breeds are often portrayed as fashion accessories, especially by female celebrities. However, it doesn’t mean they cannot be good furry companions for men. Several small dog breeds have amazing personalities that make them a great pet for everyone regardless of gender. For example, terriers make for an excellent pet for both men and women since they are confident, bold, and devoted canines.
Don’t judge dogs by their size
Most myths and misconceptions centre on the dog breeds size. We must learn to take into account other factors such as every small dog’s personality and temperament to understand their behaviours. Look past their sizes and you will see small dogs for who they are.
