What are the healthiest small dog breeds? It’s important to know what to look for when deciding on a puppy. Here are the four healthiest small dog breeds: Chihuahua, Basenji, Silky terrier, and Coton de Tulear. Each of these breeds is known for its health, temperament, and beauty. Read on to learn more.
Chihuahua
A Chihuahua‘s physiology is quite similar to the health of a normal dog, but the smaller size makes it prone to various ailments. This breed often has large heads, which makes it susceptible to various neurological problems, like hydrocephalus. Another common health condition is hypoglycemia, which causes drowsiness, disorientation, and seizures.
The Chihuahua is very friendly and social, but it can be dangerous for small children. It might leap out of your child’s hand and attack him or her. Because of this, Chihuahuas need to be socialized. Despite their small size, they can hold their own against larger, aggressive breeds. A well-cared for Chihuahua will be a wonderful companion.
Another issue that may affect your Chihuahua is patellar luxation, or dislocation of the kneecap. This problem typically begins four months after puppy birth. If your dog has patellar luxation, it will often limp or avoid using its leg. It will also occasionally hold its hind legs up in the air for several minutes, helping it to bring the kneecap back into place. Although this condition is not painful, it can lead to serious problems.
The Chihuahua’s coat has two main types: smooth and long. The smooth coat is short and glossy and resembles that of a Doberman Pinscher. Smooth coat is not the “correct” coat of a Chihuahua, but it is one of the healthiest small dog breeds available. They do not shed excessively, and their coat is not overly thick.
Basenji
The Basenji dog breed originated in the Congo. It was bred for sight and scent to hunt small game, and was once used in hunting and controlling rodent populations. These dogs are good family pets, but they do need early socialization. The Basenji can live between 10 and 12 years. They have a short coat and are not known for barking, although they do growl and whine.
The Basenji is generally healthy, but there are some health issues that are more common in other breeds of small dogs. While they are relatively healthy dogs, they are susceptible to certain health problems, including Fanconi syndrome and autoimmune thyroiditis. Likewise, they are prone to certain eye problems, including luxating patellas and corneal dystrophy. Listed below are some common health conditions in the Basenji.
The Basenji is a unique breed. They are not known for barking, although they do chort and yodel when excited. The basenji also doesn’t shed much, and they have one season each year. They are very clean dogs and can sit in your window for hours at a time. These dogs also have high energy levels, making them great for busy households. If you are looking for a small, independent dog, consider a Basenji.
A Basenji has low biting tendencies. However, it is important to socialize this dog with children as early socialization is essential. Basenjis are quite fussy about their hygiene, so early socialization is important. They should not be left unattended outside unless it is an area with adequate fencing. If you don’t provide enough exercise and mental stimulation, they will become destructive. They are also not good with other pets, except cats. Besides cats, they don’t get along well with other dogs.
Silky terrier
The silky terrier is a small, Australian breed with a human-like coat. The feisty breed is nine inches tall and weighs about 10 pounds. They are small, but require plenty of attention and need a lot of exercise. These dogs can be loud and need constant attention, so they need a lot of attention. The following health issues are commonly associated with these dogs.
Active: The Silky Terrier has a lot of energy and is best for active families that spend a lot of time together. This energetic dog breed will gladly accompany you on walks and other family activities. The extra activity will give you plenty of opportunities to spend quality time with your new pet. Be prepared to devote some time to grooming your new pet. Silky Terriers do shed, so be prepared to spend some time cleaning their fur.
Obesity is a major health concern for the Silky terrier. Overeating can worsen joint and digestive disorders and may result in a potbelly. This can also lead to back pain and heart disease. The best way to prevent this problem is to make sure your new companion doesn’t spend all of his time in a crate. Instead, give your pup a warm ‘hug’ when he/she needs it. In addition to hugs, doggie treats will make him feel loved.
Grooming is another issue with the Silky Terrier. Because of their fine hair, the Silky Terrier requires daily brushing. It is best to take your dog to a groomer at least once a month for regular grooming. Grooming requires 15 minutes of daily work, but this is an easy task that is well worth it for any new owner. If you’re not able to do it yourself, you can always bring your dog to a professional groomer for a bath. It can be costly, but it can also save you a lot of time.
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small but extremely intelligent breed. This breed was never bred to be anything but a companion. They are easily trained and will follow you around your home. This breed loves children and will play tug of war and fetch with them for hours. Cotons are excellent with children, as they are extremely intelligent and adaptable to different environments.
The Coton de Tulear’s soft, shaggy coat is prone to matting. You should bathe your Coton every three to four weeks, depending on how often you brush it. Avoid brushing it dry with a towel as this will cause knotting. Moreover, you should check their ears at least twice a week to make sure there are no wax buildups or debris in them. Similarly, they should have their nails trimmed regularly and brushed regularly.
You can find a Coton in a rescue organization or online. Cotons are generally friendly and get along well with most people and other dogs. Cotons hate being alone, so they are great pets for households with multiple pets. They also make great companions for empty nesters, stay-at-home workers, seniors, and empty nesters. They also make good traveling companions.
Among the healthiest small dog breeds, the Coton de Tulear has several advantages over other breeds. The Coton de Tulear is very sociable and gets along well with children and other dogs. They can be a good companion for kids, but should be socialized with children at an early age. Although they can be a bit stubborn, they are the perfect apartment dog.
Old English sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is considered one of the healthiest small dog breed in the United States. However, this breed is susceptible to some health problems. Old English sheepdogs are prone to certain eye diseases, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to blindness. Other health problems in this breed include bloat, which is a condition in which the stomach twists, and hip dysplasia. While these health conditions are usually curable, the Old English Sheepdog is susceptible to many health conditions, including heart disease and kidney problems.
Although this breed does require regular exercise, they don’t shed as much as some people believe. However, they are still best for owners with experience with dogs. An Old English Sheepdog is an excellent companion for families with older children, as they are friendly and enjoy playing with children. Even though this breed is friendly toward other animals, they can be nervous around younger children and should not be left unsupervised by a young child.
The Old English Sheepdog is a friendly and loyal dog with plenty of energy. This breed is equally suited to city and country living, but requires daily exercise and special care for its long, silky coat. The Old English Sheepdog is a loyal companion and good watchdog. If you do not exercise your dog enough, it may develop chewing and digging habits.
The Old English Sheepdog is a medium to high-maintenance pet. However, if you put the effort into training it, you will enjoy its company for years to come. The best training for an Old English Sheepdog is through socialization. This will not only form a strong bond between the dog and its owner, but will also help instill in it an innate desire to obey.
