9 Reasons to Own a Small Dog

Large or small, we love all dogs at Pet Problems Solved. But there are many good reasons to choose a small dog as a pet. We’ve asked Janice Jones from Small Dog Place to give us their 9 best reasons to own a small dog…

Nine Reasons to Own a Small Dog

Most small dog owners think their dog owns them, but if you’re just starting your search for a new pet, you’ll quickly learn that there are so many choices and what is perfect for some may end up being a nightmare for others.

If a dog is on your radar, why not consider a small breed dog. There are so many benefits to owning a tiny dog and so many different breeds from which to choose, you may find just the perfect one for your situation.

Benefits of Owning a Small Dog

Not only are there health benefits to owning a pet, but small dog ownership comes with many other benefits.

Small Dogs are Portable

It goes without saying that small is easier to manage than a giant dog. They make great little travelers both on road trips as well as airline travel. Little dogs can travel comfortably in the cabin of a plane and remain with you throughout your trip. Large dogs are confined to the cargo hold. Portability also means being able to transport them easily to the vets, groomers, or training facilities. You don’t even need a big car.

Readily Accepted

Many pet-friendly hotels and apartment complexes may impose a size restriction by weight or height, and these types of regulations will rule out the possibility of a large or even medium size pooch. Since they are small, many little dogs fit comfortably in a small carrier and can accompany their owners on shopping trips or other errands. Some shops that have a strict no dog allowed policy may look the other way if a tiny dog is being carried in a purse.

Easy on the Budget

If you are on a tight budget, getting a small dog will mean you will be spending less on food and treats. Small bowls, leashes, collars, toys, and the other various supplies needed by dog owners will always be more reasonable compared to the same items purchased for larger breeds. Boarding and grooming costs are also going to be less. There is a significant cost saving when you shop for small as opposed to a giant dog.

Easy Cleanup

It goes without saying that what goes into a dog’s mouth will need to come out eventually. Clean up is much easier and faster when the dog is small. So, if cleaning up after your dog is not your idea of fun on a Saturday night, consider a smaller breed.

As a side note, dog excrement cannot be used for fertilizer and must be cleaned to protect the environment, removal and disposal is always easier when you are dealing with less.

Easy to Manage

Small dogs are generally easier to manage overall. Compared to large, powerful breeds, small dogs can be trained and cared for by even the weakest among us. That is why seniors are most likely to choose a little dog over a large or giant breed dog. Training is necessary for all dogs regardless of size, but a four-pound dog pulling on a leash is not the same as a 100-pound dog resisting leash training.

For the Diva in All of Us

For those into canine couture, a frilly dress or a faux tuxedo on a small dog is always going to look chic and more natural than dressing up an Irish Wolfhound. Many small dog owners love purchasing sweaters, coats, or dresses for their pups and it is much easier to find the latest doggie fashions in the smaller sizes.

7. Developed to be a Companion

All dogs make excellent companions if properly trained and socialized, but many of the larger breed dogs have been designed for centuries to do a specific job such as guard, pull a cart, or herd a flock of sheep. Many of the small breed dogs were developed purely as a companion. They were bred to keep the nobility’s laps warm or to snuggle close in cold, drafty castles or temples. Not all small breed dogs were developed for these purposes, but a sizable number fulfill these duties well.

8. Child Substitute

It is no surprise that small breed dogs are popular with many people, singles, couples, families, and seniors. Their appeal is widespread. What is surprising is the number of singles and couples who are opting for a dog over starting a family. Small dogs serve as surrogate children and make excellent choices for those who want a little child care training and practice before they make the decision to have a human baby. Dogs are not a perfect substitute for human children, but they can help us establish a predictable schedule, improve our ability to communicate effectively and set boundaries – all skills that are important for effective parenting.

9. Dogs are Good for our Health

As with any pet, small dogs can improve our health. Studies have shown that dogs can improve our mood, reduce allergies in children, decrease our blood pressure and stress levels, even detect cancer and impending seizures. They force us to be more active and get more exercise and increase our chances of becoming more social with other people. As we search for excellent dog food diets for our canine buddies, we become more aware of our needs to improve our nutrition as well.

Conclusion

While the Labrador Retriever has remained the number one most popular dog breed worldwide for more than 20 years, small breed dogs are gaining in popularity due to their size, adaptability, and ease of management. As the world population increases, people are finding ways to live smaller, both regarding possessions and accommodations. Small dogs fit nicely into this plan and provide many added benefits at the same time.

About the author:
Janice Jones is a dog lover of more than 50 years, dog owner, and avid blogger. Trained as a psychologist, she enjoys writing about dogs and how they impact peoples’ lives. She is the voice behind Small Dog Place and in her spare time, she loves spending time with her 15 dogs.

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Nine Reasons to Own a Small Dog

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