How to Care for Toy Breed Dogs

Toy breed dogs are very popular as pets because of their adorable appearance and easy-to-house size. They need to have proper care to ensure that they maintain good health. An owner must remember that this little creature is a dog that may live to be 15 years old. They have training and exercise needs just like their larger counterparts. Being an informed pet owner is the best thing you can do to care for your toy breed dog.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Toy breed dogs need proper socialization to prevent behavioral issues caused by fear and aggression. Socialize your small dog slowly and with consideration to his small size, but do not coddle him. He has legs; allow him to walk. Walking about on his own is how he builds confidence and good health.

2. Educate yourself of common health issues encountered by toy breed dogs. Some of these issues include subluxating patella or floating kneecaps, hypoglycemia, heart murmur and collapsing trachea. By knowing about these health problems and their symptoms, you can address them accordingly.

3. Part of caring for a toy breed dog is training her. She needs to know how to be polite, and knowing how to listen to you and understand you may even save her life. Get involved with positive motivation training. Little dogs are usually really great at tricks and enjoy doing them.

4. Small dogs need to eat small amounts more times per day than larger dogs do. They have little stomachs and often a high metabolism. Limit treat intake, and look for kibble that is the right size for small dogs.

5. When leash walking, use a harness instead of a collar. This will be safer for your toy breed dog's windpipe and throat.

6. Being small and closer to the ground can increase the instance of injury and irritation to the eyes. Check your small dog often for eye issues, and wash his face daily.

7. Another problem for some small dogs is hypothermia. Those dog sweaters are not just cute, in colder temperatures they are also necessary to help a little dog maintain body temperature.

8. Toy breed dogs often get injured from doing things such as jumping off the bed, leaping out of your arms, wrestling with children or larger dogs and getting stepped on. Be vigilant about your small dog's safety. Do not overprotect her, but use common sense when assessing whether or not there is a high risk of injury associated with a particular situation.

[starlet67]

on 3/2/2009 I love little toy dogs but they do need special care!Cute title photo too!5*

[Desula]

on 5/1/2008 Thanks for the article.