Small dog breeds are some of the best animals to have in a home.
Where kids are present, dogs can teach them compassion, responsibility, and also cooperation.
Before you choose a dog for adoption, ensure you get the best kind of breed that fits yourlifestyle.
Image: instagram.com, @kennelsandkatsSource: UGC
Different dogs suit different age groups, as some are preferable for adults than they are for children.
Some of them include your budget, daily schedule, activity levels, and living arrangements.
Adopting some small dogs breeds is more costly and time-demanding than keeping others.
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1.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas fall under the category of cute dogs that stay small.
These energetic and adorable dogs aremost suitable forpeople who live at home and elderly persons.
Image: instagram.com, @_leo_lillySource: UGC
If you have toddlers, they may not be the best option for you.
Chihuahuas are very protective of their owners and not friendly to intruders.
They are excellent watchdogs, but not the best for guarding purposes.
Image: instagram.com, @chihua_dreamSource: UGC
They love cuddling and desire to be cared for like babies.
When you get back home, they will endlessly fight for your attention.
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2.
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Miniature Schnauzer
These miniature dogs are highly intelligent and easy to train.
They are excellent family guard dogs as they uphold devotion and loyalty.
They are alsoprone to adding weightwhen they fail to exercise regularly.
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For this, and most other tiny dog breeds, small portions of food are enough to satisfy them.
Yorkshire Terrier
This is a small dog breed that is naturally curious and overprotective.
They crave for endless attention and arenot suitable ina household with children under the age of eight.
Image: instagram.com, @schnauzerworldSource: UGC
It is important to keep them well stimulated as it prevents them from barking too much.
Yorkshire Terriers adapt to new surroundings quite easily, thus are great travel buddies.
However, in South Africa, Yorkshire Terriers are often sold when weighing more than 3.2 kg.
Image: instagram.com, @pure_yorkie_loveSource: UGC
Some have even been found to grow and exceed 8 kg.
Despite the existence of these larger sizes of the breed, some are very tiny.
They are referred to as teacup dog breeds as they can easily fit in a cup of tea.
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This category is believed to weigh less than 1.2 kg.
Maltese Poodle
The Maltese are highly active within a house asthey prefer enclosedspaces to outdoor areas.
They are an effective watchdog as they are quick to hear and alert their keepers of any suspicious noises.
Image: instagram.com, @livtheyorkieSource: UGC
However, they are not the best for guarding a household as they love being around humans.
These lovely animals do not require loads of exercise as they naturally enjoy play and moving around.
However, it is important to take them out for a walk daily to facilitate mental stimulation.
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5.
Morkie
This is a small and adaptable crossbreed of the Maltese Poodle and Yorkshire Terrier.
Despite their small size, they are full of confidence and attitude.
Image: instagram.com, @yorkie.babyleoSource: UGC
They are not the best exercise, running, or hiking partners.
Ensure that you do not strain your pet to avoid injuries associated with over-walking toy breeds.
This condition can lead to jealousy of visitors, over-protectiveness, obsessive barking, and other notorious behaviour.
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Why shouldnt you get yourself one of these cuteness overloads today?
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She graduated from the University of Nairobi with a degree in Mass Communication in December 2014.
In 2023, Ruth finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques.
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She has worked for Briefly.co.za for five years now.
She specializes in topics like lifestyle, entertainment, travel, technology, and sports.
Email: gitongaruth14@gmail.com.
Image: instagram.com, @rosemary_clooney_the_dogSource: UGC
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