Small dogs are actually not a general category for dog breeds. But they typically enclose dogs that are considered as toy dogs. Small dogs are often considered as the smaller models for the world of dogs. Normally, most of the small dogs can have their origin traced back to ancient times, testifying to how people adored and loved breeds such as the Chihuahua, Pug and Poodle.

The most popular breeds of small dogs include the selection of bull terriers, beagles, dachshunds, border collie and the toy poodle. On the other hand, among the most famous extra small dogs are the Yorkshire terriers, Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Maltese and the Shih-tzu.

This article is an attempt to provide some details on the most common small dog breeds:
Bull Terrier
Beagle
Dachshund
Border Collie
Toy Poodle

Bull Terrier- is a small dog that has its origin in England. They are known for their independence and liveliness (they actually love playing, long walks may seem unnecessary). However, these are not good as second dogs as they have the natural tendency of becoming overly dominant.

The usual coat of this small dog is white but some may also appear in tan, black and fawn. Also, it is important that the ears of the bull terrier are kept clean, this can be done though the use of a rubber brush.

Beagle- is also an English dog. It is highly recommended that this small dog should be trained to become sociable, by this they may become effective social dog whereas they can easily mingle with other dogs, children and other household pets.

Beagles are very independent therefore they should be trained in an early age for obedience and temperance. Due to their independent nature, they need to have regular walks outdoors.

Dachshund- this breed is of German origin. Known for their intelligence, braveness and independence, they may often become reserved for strangers but training may develop them into sociable animals. Also, they have the strong tendency of developing closeness towards their family and may form close bands with their owners.

De to their independence, training may prove to be quite difficult for they most often would not heed commands. However, long hair Dachshunds are more trainable than that of the wire haired or short haired.

In general, this breed is grouped into three: standard, miniature and kaninchen (chategorized depending on their girth size).

Border Collie- is believed to have come form Great Britain. Like with most of the small dogs mentioned here, Border Collie is of the intelligent breed and is recognized for its hardiness. Normally, they are apt for socializing with other pets (so long as they are occupied with their own activities).

They need to be constantly working or else they may become ill behaved. This is significantly true for they originated from a sheepdog breed. Generally speaking, the coat of the Border Collie is either black or white.

Toy Poodle- this small dog is known to be an intelligent breed, along with their sensitivity, playfulness and eagerness to learn. The breed is believed to have come from France, and from a hunting dog breed. They are also very sociable and are apt for getting along with other house pets and humans.

Because they are intelligent, this small dog easily recognizes training and is very capable of learning new things quickly.

The breed is noted for their unusual coat, characterized with wooly and frizzy hair. The most usual colors are brown, white, black, gray and apricot.

With all the variety of breeds to select from, it is quite difficult to choose which is the “hot dog”.

Nothis is not the hotdog that you get to eat in a sandwich with creamy mustard and ketchup. No to mention, tomatoes, spinach and everything in between. The hot dog being discussed here is the most popular breed of dogs, or better yet the most appealing to the majority of dog owners.

Based on the information released by the American Kennel Club in the year 2004, the hottest dog in all dog categories is the Labrador Retriever breed great both for outdoor activities and as fine pets. (And by the way, born dog chasers and do love to chase around with balls.)

The second hot dog in the list is dominated by the Golden Retriever breed, which goes to emphasize the Retrievers held the two hottest dog spot for the year of 2004. Known for their sociability and their efficiency as pets, these hot dogs make good companions for most dog owners.

Third on the list for hot dogs are the ever-popular German Shepherds. This breed is recognized for their capability of holding control and dominance over other animals (like for example, sheep and goats). Originating from Germany, this hot dog breed was first used as working dogs particularly working around sheep to lead them through the mountainous terrain and back to their fences. To this date, many German Shepherds are still employed to guard over other animals.

The beagle breed, known as a small dog clears the way for the fourth hot dog spot. Recognized for their playfulness and capability of getting along with other pets and breeds, beagles require regular outdoor activities and need to spend their energy playing or exercising.

The Yorkshire Terrier breed closed the first half of the top ten hot dogs. Next to it is the Dachshund breed.

This hot dog is betterly known for their independence, thus their being stubborn but this only happen if they don’t will to follow the command given to them. Yet, with proper training, a loyal and loving Dachshund can be produced.

Next in line is the intelligent and playful breed of the Boxers. This hot dog is very well loved by their owners for their tendency for entertainment. In the recent poll vote done, the profession suggested (if it were possible) for this dog is to become a clown. Also, they are capable of tolerating children and always have the knack for performing tricks like the kidney beans and the woo-woo.

The eight hot dog is the breed of Poodles. Poodles are of the intelligent breed and are capable of quickly learning commands. Also, they are loved as toy dogs and are often seen in dog shows.

Resting in the last two places are the Oriental dogs- Shih-tzu and the Chihuahua breed. Characterized for their size, these small dogs are well loved by many dog owners who would rather have a small dog running around in houses than the larger versions of the dog breeds.

Interestingly the majority of the ten hot dogs are dominated with small dogs and toy dogs. this is true due to the reason that most dog owners love lap dogs and those that may be customized to become fanciful. Often these dogs are also popular in dog shows that has given them their fame.

The best playmate for your pet is YOU!

But since you cannot always be available to give your pet some attention and to spend some time with him, you might as well provide him with dog toys.

In most cases, bored dogs can be very dangerous, in a sense that they may seriously damage many of your favorite sneakers, not to mention your furniture and your carpet.

Dog toys can be anything from your rugs to household items like the tissue rods, or to specially designed dog toys, which can be bought from your local pet shops or dogs accessories store.

Generally speaking, the size of your dog toy must never be small enough so as to fit into the mouth of your pet or can it be separated into smaller pieces that they wont stick into his throat. By this, you may not run against the risk of having your pal suffocated to death if he incidentally swallowed his dig toy. In effect, small dog toys and smooth balls are not some of the best choices for your dog to play.

For small dogs, baseball and other larger balls (so long as they are not yet cracked) may be good playthings for your dog. In addition, nylon rapes may be good alternatives but keep watch if your dog chews the ropes, chances are he may eat the rope and in turn, gets suffocated. Many dog breeds are born chasers like the Shepherds, Rottweillers and the likes. You can easily provide him with a tube of tennis balls.

Dog toys manufactured by Kongs may give your little buddy the time of his life with toys. They have the best selection of doggie toys that are safe, not even the big dogs can easily tear their products into smaller pieces. Also, there are certain types of Kongs dog toys that can be stuffed with foods which your pet may find pretty amusing.

Many dog breeds love to have fun in water and to chase their dog toys around it. Have you though of getting your dog a pool? You must assure that your pet can easily clamber out of it though. Ensure that the sides of the pool are low enough so that your dog may not drown.

Does your dog show aggressiveness when he plays? If so, then avoid giving him toys that can be easily ripped, or those that have replaceable parts, ribbons and squekers that can be swallowed.

When choosing for a toy, avoid those that can potentially pose danger to your dog’s health. Most materials used in making dog toys are not designed to be eaten by the dogs and some may even have sharp edges. Both of which may cause digestive problems or may puncture your dogs internally. So the best thing to do is to provide him with non-toxic toys. Some manufacturers have gone to the extreme of producing dog toys, which are normally made of vinyl and latex materials.

If you would not want to spend much for toys, you can be helped with household materials that you would rather throw away. Old socks may prove fun dog toys for your pet along with old belts and sneakers.

Ultimately, the choice for your dog toys will depend largely on your pet’s habits and the innovative solutions you can produce out of the many usual things you can find in your own home.

Dog tags are invariably essential part of your dog supplies along with other things like the dog bed, training collar and leash, dog food, dog crate, dog house and a selection of other canine stuffs. You may also choose to buy him his dog clothes and accessories but this off course is more of the owner than the dog’s interest.

Normally, dog tags are attached on your pet’s collar. Thus, it is equally important that the dog collar you would buy him matches his tag, or vice versa.

Giving you dog his dog tag may be one of the most lasting thing you can give your pal as this may go with him for quite a time, some even for a lifetime. Majority of which usually grows old together with their dog tags so it essential that you get him a hard wearing, comfortable dog tag.

Fortunately, for style conscious dog owners, modern designers and dog tag engravers has innovated many designs that would surely give a touch of fashion for your pet’s tag. You’ll be surprise to know that just like with dog collars and dog clothes, there are now available gem-studded dog tags and those that are designer dog tags. Off course, this would come along with a designer tag price.

The best choice for you will largely depend on the personalization you would like to give your pet and the image you would want to portray.

Dog collars are helpful in training your dog. As with most of the dog stuffs, dog collars come in many forms. Most of which are designed purposely to hold the dog’s identification and your contact number. But there are those that are not made for dog tags. This will be discussed in the following paragraphs.

One possible dog collar, which may not carry the dog tag, would be the anti-barking collar. This is primarily made for dog training which is designed to discourage a dog from excessive barking. Additionally, dog shock collar or electric dog collars may not hold your pet’s identity tag. This works by sending minimum shocks everytime your dog barks. Another collar of the same type is the pinching collar. The primary use of which is to discourage any improper or undesirable behavior of the pets, in this case too much pulling of the leash. All of these collars are not recommended for daily use, this is why they may not necessarily hold your dog’s tag.

Selecting your dog’s collar has an essential bearing in caring your dog, and do does his tag. Dog collars are not made equal, there are those that you cant afford to stay with your dog throughout the day and during his usual activities. But whichever dog collar you give him, see to it that he always wear his tag.

More often than not, it is recommended that the dog tag be never separated from him. Not even while he bathes or sleeps. This is made so that your dog can be easily retrieved in case he gets lost or wanders off alone. Obviously, if you contact number comes along with your dog at all times, people would easily identify your pet and they can quickly return him to your custody. Or if not, the police can easily locate you and they’d be sending your pet home in no time flat.

Normally, most dog owners like you are concerned with their pets’ quality of life. Your dogs may not distinguish the dog supplies you may give him, would it harm him or not, but you can! You do this because you love your pet and you would want to have him grow healthy and happy and with a long life. Therefore, the responsibility of providing your dog with quality dog supplies considerably depends on you.

Dog supplies are generally classified into:

Beds
Collars
Crates
Food & Treats
Health Products
Toys
Training Products

Beds
Your choice of dog supplies like that of dog beds largely depends on the breed of your pet. Typically, larger breeds require bigger dog beds and smaller dog types like the pugs and the Chihuahua may only be needing small-type bed fillings. In choosing a dog bed, assure that the general framework of the bed will suit with the stature of your dog. Remember that dog beds are provided to give your dog his own place, a safe spot to retreat during the day and for sleep.

The practice of having your dog sleep with you at night may sound appealing, however it may not be productive for the both of you. If you are planning for this, then wait until he is matured enough with his temperament. You would not want him in the end to make your bed his territory.

Collars
There are different sets of dog collars and they often come with other dog supplies like the leash and the chains. There are standard dog collars made from a variety of materials, usually nylon. And raining dog collars like the choke collar, electric shock collar and the pinching collar.

Crates

As a preparation for dog beds or in place of a dog bed, crates are used to train dogs and to provide for them their own place. Dog supplies such as the crates come in a variety of forms. From fancy-looking crates to simple structured ones made of plastic, wood, iron and fiberglass, the important thing is your dog learns to use his crate. Provide two crates in your house, one in the busiest room so he wont feel isolated and another in your bed room.

Food & Treats

As with any other dog supplies, dog beds come in a variety of forms. Majority of dog owners feed their dogs and puppies with dry kibbles bought form the local petshops, which often comes in large bags. These are observably the least expensive and cheapest food for dogs and may help in maintaining your pet’s dental health. Depending on the brand of dog supplies like the bed, your dog’s health may be considerably affected. On the other hand, wet foods are more expensive and may contain questionable amounts of dog preservatives.

Health Products

Dog supplies concerned with your dog’s health may come in forms of vitamin supplements, food supplements and medicines.

Toys
To reduce the chance of your sneakers being chewed by your pet, it is best to provide them with dog toys. Dog supplies like this may come in forms like balls large enough for your dog’s mouth, unusually shaped dog toys like the Kongs, small plush animals and squeaky rubber toys. To eliminate the chance that your dog gets choked with such dog supplies, it is essential that the dog toys don’t have small parts which may separate from the main body of the toy.

Dog Training Products

Many dog owners are now considering the use of dog training equipment such as pee pads, anti-barking devices, dog crates and the likes

Why do you love your dogs?

You can only answer for that but definitely, you are not alone in your stand for there are countless dog lovers who are investing much in raising their pals.

Adopting one is not as simple as bringing home an animal and leave him to his own affairs. There are consequences to raising a dog and one must be ready to uphold to the commitments.

Initially, he must be introduced to the family members in the most welcoming way as he may live a lifetime in the boundaries of your home. Dogs are apt to giving unconditional love towards their owners, it is but important they are given the love and attention they deserve.

You may either prepare this prior to your adoption of the pet or after you have transferred him into your care. “These” pertain to the dog supplies. Some of which may seem a bit farfetched ideas and may appeal unnecessary like the dog clothes and accessories but most dog piles are essential components of a dog’s daily living. A good example is the dog food.

Obviously, dogs cannot survive without having anything to eat. There is a wide selection of commercially produced dog foods( may be dry or wet) but you can provide him with home prepared treats or raw foods. However, there are pros and cons to both of these.

Commercially manufactured dog foods are normally designed to meet the nutritional needs of the dog. However, there are those that may produce quite a number of bad effects to the dog’s health, the most common of these is the nutritional deficiency. This can be best attributed to the fact that dog foods are usually created to appeal to human sight. Meaning, they appear in attracting forms but may be lacking in the nutrition that must be incorporated in the products. But it must be noted that there are dog foods that are scientifically prepared.

Feeding your dog with wet dog foods may be even a worse idea. These don’t only contain lots of questionable preservatives but may also create a disaster for your dog’s teeth.

On the other hand, you may provide him with raw treats, though they are costly, you can be assured that your dog gets his main staple of meat and natural ingredients.

Dog piles do not end with foodstuffs. These also concern many other things like dog beds, dog crates or kennels, dog houses. Primarily, these are base on the idea that your dog is provided with his own place for retreat and rest. Principally, these equipment must be placed where your dog is can find rest while being able to interact with the family. With proper training, your dog will get used to the idea of having a place of his own.

Dog collar and leash, dog tag, and dog toys also comprise your dog pile.

More often that not, dog leash and collars are the basic requirements in training your dogs, as well as to keep him in place, thus providing him safety. However, it must be understood that by means o dog collar and leash, you are not depriving him of his freedom. Some dog breeds are naturally outdoor dogs, they need to have frequent time outside. It is not wise to secure him in a stationary place where he is not allowed of playing freely. Many dogs when bored can e really bad dogs, plus by concealing them in an area you may bring create for him some dog behavior problems.

Your dog must never go out without his dog tag. Essentially, this dog pile component bears his identification and your contact number, which are useful in case your dog runs around and gets lost.

It is not known since the love affair between dog and men started. The only thing clear is that this started long before history was written.

One theory is that the love started when a wild hungry dog approached human habitation for food, thus the contact started. Since then dogs were essential in daily affairs of men in order to cope better with his surroundings. You can see paintings depicting prehistoric people where dogs are usually involved in hunting and in the food gathering.

These visual depictions are evidences that love between dog and man is so old. And now he wanted his picture taken.

Presently, there are thousands (and even millions) of copies of dog prints, dog portraits, dog pictures, dog paintings, and keyrings of dog breedsall suggesting only one fact- man has captured dogs through art.

The most common medium for depicting dog images is through the camera lenses and this has invariably created more profound knowledge on dog images. The lenses brought forth countless images of dogs, capturing their cute dog pictures, pictures of dog breeds, funny dog pictures, and anything and everything in between.

Normally, dog pictures are commonly published and printed in magazines and books but through the advent of modern technology and Internet, dog pictures are now easily accessible right in your own home. Now, you have thousands of great ideas of what dog breeds appear to be. Thus, you are not only limited with the appearance of your own dog. Moreover, dog images are as also used in post cards, Christmas cards and many other types of cards.

There are websites that are entirely dedicated to posting dog pictures with some data for each image, depending on the extent of the coverage of the websites. Many may even suggest that you post your own dog pictures on their sites.

Dog pictures may be used in a number of varying purposes. They were first produced to popularize man with dog breed images through prints. Lately, dog pictures are seen utilized for helping people locate their lost pets, posted on public places and police stations. Also, pet shops make use of dog pictures to provide images of the dogs for sale.

In actuality, there are limitless uses for dog pictures.

You may have your actual dog now, but he may not live with you forever, in the end what you will have are only his memories preserved in his pictures. It is best that you take him pictures now or have a photographer do it for you and your dog.

In taking dog pictures, it is good to take not that the composition and the idea for the image are well defined, as with any other pictures. Although technology today is more advanced than what people have some years back, it is still up to the photographer to create a good dog picture.

If you prefer to hire a photographer to do the job, the following guidelines may aid you:

He must be able to have some background in animal behavior to better set up a good image.
He must be able to provide you with a portfolio of samples so that you may have a wder idea as to how the pictures will come out.
In your part, allow him to work on his own but give your suggestions as well.

Ultimately, dog pictures are captured with the primary cause of preserving dogs’ memories.

There are different preferences for dog names, the majority of which largely depend on the owner’s choice. Many thought of at is relatively connected with naming children, no wonder there are dog names that sound like children names. However, this is often not the case. Many dog names are structured after popular dog names while some are after the significant characteristics of the dog, take for example the color, or deformities ( on the least cases). Moreover, many dog names are after popular personalities

The following guidelines are gathered to help you decide what dog name you will give for your pet. (Note: The dog name will be repeated for several times a day, either when the dog is being called, or scolded or praised.

Pick a dog name that can be easily recognized. Usually, dogs respond to short names, normally comprised of one or two syllables.
Choose a dog name for which you are contented to call out and one for which you will not be embarrassed to use.
Avoid dog names that may sound similar with those of the standard commands like sit, stay, no, fetch, heel, down and come. Dogs would likely find it difficult to differentiate the similar sounding words.
If you prefer long names, take note of its shortened version. However, by doing this you may lose the original effect the long name gives.
You may find inspiration from the original names of the dog breeds. Foreign names and human names may also help you. Take for example the following:
German- Dachshunds, Shepherds and Schnauzers
Orientals- Siamese and Burmese
French- Poodle
Irish- Wolfhounds and Setters
Scottish- Terriers
It may also help if you observe your puppy’s behavior for a few weeks, his distinct characteristics may e ale to provide you with dog name ideas.
Pick the name, which will grow with the pet. For example, “puppy” may be less appropriate for matured dogs.
Aside from these tips, you can be far more adventurous but always bear in mind that the dog name will adopt with everyday and long-term conditions.

To broaden your idea of names, please consider the following suggestions:

For male dogs
Bandit- a name suitable for a pet often caught in mischief
Benji- a Walt Disney character
Buddy- meaning a messenger or a herald
Buffy- may also apply for a female pet name which gives the distinct characteristic of a yellow coat
Cassey- has a Irish Galeic root which means “brave”
Charlie- short for Charles which bears the meaning “strong” or “manly”
Lucky- a name which means “good fortune”
Max- from the Latin word Maximillian which has the meaning of the “greatest”
Mickey- from the Hebrew word meaning ” who is like the Lord”
Nicky- a good name from the word Nicholas or “victory of the people”
Pepper- a name which means ” full of zip”
Prince- a preferred name which bears the meaning of ” chief”
Rusty- a perfect dog name for an Irish Setter

For female dogs
Amy- a French word which means “loved one”
Angel- a typical name given to dogs who have the likable attitude
Candy- a pet name for sweet dogs
Ginger- preferred as pet names after a tropical spice bearing the same name
Goldie- a good name for dogs having blonde or golden coat
Heidi- after a German name Adelheid
Jenny- A Welsh name patterned after Jennifer which means “white” or “fair”
Lady- good name for female dogs with ladyish attitude
Mandy- short for the Latin name Amanda
Missy- a pet name patterned after the name Melissa
Misty- an Old English name which means “covered with mist”
Moly- an Irish form for Mary
Princess- name commonly given to pets

Dog kennel is both a dog house and a boarding facility for dogs. Whatever recognition is given to a dog kennel, it remains to be a safe place for your pet and may provide a home away from his home.

A dog kennel which is considered in the context of a dog house is normally located nearest to your house. This is different from crates but may at times be identified as alike. Like dog crates, a dog kennel may be permanently built on the ground. But unlike dog crates, dog kennels are more like homes for the dogs, they are more inviting like that of a dog house. Additionally, dog kennels are much bigger than crates and are often used as canine boarding house.

When using a dog kennel as your dog staying place, it must be situated in the place where he may enjoy the family activities around him yet may have a solitary place for himself where he can lay undisturbed. Also, it is important that the dog kennel is frequently disinfected as to prevent any bacterial diseases that may affect him. And also, to lessen the number of insects such as the fleas and ticks thriving in the dog kennel. It is equally important that if newspaper is used to cover the inner room or as it’s flooring, it is replaced regularly. This pribnciples also apply to regular dog house and dog crates.

In effect, the three have the same basic uses- to provide your pal his own place to stay. But he have to get used or trained in the idea of the dog house, dog kennel or a dog crate. In these, he must be trained in a very early age so he’ll easily be accustomed to staying in his own place. Additionally, through these you get to eliminate the chance of him dominating your bed or your living couch. (note: it is never recommended that you allow your pet sleep win you bed at night or even during the day. )

Dog kennels are typically used in most dog boarding facilities. Dog boarding is defined as place wherein you can leave your pet for several hours or days, depending on the policies of the facility. The basic principle in here is like that of a day care center for children. Therefore, your dog will be taken care of and assisted in a variety of ways like dog grooming.

If in case you are planning to subscribe your pal in a dog boarding facility, it is wise to check on some tidings to ensure yourself that your pet gets the prime assistance and care he deserves. It is always advisable that you first make a visit in the dog kennel facility before you send your dog into one. This is an essential factor because your dog cannot decide for himself and it is your choice that will put him in a place, whether he may love it or not.

Remember that you are sending your pet in a dog boarding facility because you want him to be properly taken care of while you are away on vacation or you simply don’t have time to attend to him. Therefore, the attention you may be giving must be complimented sufficiently by the dog boarding staff and personnel.

In a sense, you need to choose for the ideal facility. Only then will you have the assurance that your dog gets to love his stay.

As your pet deserves a comfortable bed, so does he needs to have a house that he can claim as his own.

Generally speaking, dogs need a solitary place to rest though it appeals to them if they interact with the family. This off course depends on your dog breeds. Some dogs prefer to sleep the whole day away or rest at the foot of your bed, and in some cases your own bed. many though likes to go outdoors or sleep in their own houses. So it is but fitting that you provide your dog with a place where he may retreat when he’s tired or a hideaway when everyone gets too busy with the house affairs.

You may buy your dog house in many pet shops and pet stores which specializes in designing and making dog houses. It is not surprising to see the variety of forms. However, you may also construct a dog house yourself.

Starting with your dog house

The dog must fit into the house and he’ll be comfortable. The rule of thumb in sizing your dog house is to provide enough space for which your full-grown dog may stand inside, stretch fully and turn around comfortably. Many times, it is really quite tempting to build a big dog house, however this will take away the warmth during cold months. During these months, it is necessary for dogs to generate enough heat, now if the dog house is too roomy, your dog might not be able to keep the warmth inside.

Build the dog house off the ground. This prevents your pet from getting damped by the soil and may also lengthen the life of the dog house as the materials wont rot too easily. This would also allow the constant flow of air beneath.

Eliminate the chance of it becoming destroyed by weather elements. This means that all seams must be tightly connected so that rain, snow and wind won’t penetrate it.

It must be properly ventilated. An efficient airflow will keep your pet from overheating during summer while in winter, mold will be prevented from forming when your dog’s breath gets too moist. Vents laced on the peak of the dog house will do the appropriate job for this problem. Additionally, allowing the house to be well ventilated will not make it a conducive lace for fleas and other insects to thrive inside.

Pressure-treated woods are best for constructing the dog house as they are built with heavy metals designed purposely for added strength and extended life. However, this may be poisonous for you pet, so avoid using it as material for the floor, the walls or any part of the dog house which may come in contact with your pets body. Also, when dealing with the pressure-treated woods, use protective masks and gloves. In effect, you must observe the use of animal-friendly construction materials and be wary of anything that will come in contact with your dog’s body which points you to using only untreated materials for the walls, the ceiling and the floor of the house (e.g. untreated plywood or softwood).

Likewise, allow the entryway to be a bit slanted towards the outside of the house, this will keep the water from flooding the floor.

Also, customize the underlying structure in the way that the basic house will be fit for other structures that you would want to attached while all the while keeping the house’s stability and strength.