Toy dogs are not toys. They are breeds of dogs that are particularly classified for their small sizes. They come in various species, such as the Terries, spaniels or the pinchers, among others. And some of them are so small that their size is just like that of a teacup. In fact, the world’s smallest dogs only weigh less than 3.5 kilograms.
Due to their small size and cuddly features, toy dogs tend to attract a number of pet lovers. However, they can be handful animals to raise, and their cutesiness brings challenges to owners. They can easily escape by going through the openings of rails, fences, or gates. Worse cases are getting tightly hugged for their cuteness or accidentally stepped on.
Since they are not the typical pet dogs, toy pooches can be expensive, especially when they are purebred. In addition to that, there are other concerns when it comes to raising small dog breeds. They shouldn’t play rough with children, they hardly keep up with big dogs during walks, and they are popular among thieves.
Toy Dog Breeds’ Purpose
To the owners, a toy dog is a source of feel-good moments and constant smiles. Most small dogs are adorable with their small bodies, expressive faces, and big eyes, making it hard for anyone to ignore. Talk about charm, and you will have it in these little pets. And when you can’t be away from your furry friend, you can easily carry the dog in a bag and take it with you.
Small breeds are ideal pets for people living in quarters with little outdoor space. The dogs are used to their human companions and will not often stray far away from those who show love and affection towards them.
Are there major challenges to toy dog breeds?
Recorded experiences with toy dog owners, as well as proven analysis by veterinary experts and other dog experts, indicate that there are serious costs of having toy dogs as pets. The main issues point to pooches’ health and protection.
Health Issues
The small dogs are prone to a number of illnesses, which are not common in bigger dog breeds. They are also fragile in nature as compared to bigger canines. According to health experts, some of the health problems that toy dogs may acquire include:
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome – The small dog breeds, particularly those with short noses and flat faces, are likely to suffer from a number of upper airway health issues. This particular problem is characterized by a compressed respiratory system, making it difficult for dogs to breathe.
- Patellar Luxation – This happens when the patella or kneecap is dislocated from its normal position, which is in the thigh bone. Although patellar luxation can occur in any type of dog, it usually strikes toy dogs.
- Tracheal collapse – The rings in the trachea, which preserves its shape, weaken, making it flatten. It becomes hard for the dog to breathe and swallow food.
- Hypoglycemia – Stress in young puppies makes the blood sugar drop. The pet becomes lethargic and weak and can even lead to a dangerous coma.
- Intervertebral Disk Disease – The cushions separating the vertebra gets into contact with the pet’s spinal cord. The disks give the spinal cord a push and can cause nerves failure, discomfort or even full paralysis. This is common in beagles, Shih Tzu, basset hounds, and dachshund breeds.
- Pancreatitis – The pancreas gets inflamed, causing the pet to have a fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pains.
- Homeostasis imbalance – The little dogs are not able to adapt to the extreme ends of temperatures. They only have a little insulation because of their small bodies.
In addition to those health problems, most toy dogs also suffer from genetic problems with their teeth and joints. But they can be prevented when you let them walk, run, and play outside the house, in a controlled environment so to speak.
Protection issues
As previously mentioned, small dogs can go through small openings of fences and easily stepped on by bigger animals. With those circumstances and dogs’ vulnerabilities, you have to provide the necessary protection to keep them safe and secure.
The tiny pets need to be guarded when there are children since kids can mishandle them. They can squeeze the same way they do with teddy bears, causing them to suffocate. If you have other bigger pets in the house, it is best to keep the toy dogs away from them to avoid injuries brought by playing.
Training Issues
Toy dogs will definitely use their charm to get a sense of entitlement. They will show their cuteness to get what they want, and that is a very manipulative trick that every owner should get away with. Don’t be fooled by their endearing features and let them do what they want to do. It is always best to train them and make them aware of the house rules.
As the owner, you have to establish that you are still the head of the household by being consistent and firm. You must also store a bucket full of patience since dogs need time to understand you. And most importantly, if they do something wrong, never physically punish and verbally abuse them. Such forms of discipline can cause pain and be traumatic for the dogs.
Conclusion
Having a toy dog brings loads of fun and happiness. However, you have to be responsible for taking care of such pet. You have to provide everything it needs to assure the dog can live longer and healthier. You might also think about an insurance cover to take care of veterinary bills once the need arises.
Proper care should also be taken to ensure that your small companion is well protected from the bigger domestic animals and children. You can think of a good dog kennel to keep the pooch from straying when you are not around.
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