According to the list of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, there are officially 342 dog breeds but there are others that are still unknown. So the choice is huge. Before adopting a dog, most people carefully check its characteristics and it is completely understandable. If you prefer small dogs, you can choose from the breeds listed below.
The Chihuahua
When we talk about a small breed of dog, everyone immediately thinks of the Chihuahua. Popular with many celebrity owners, the Chihuahua is the smallest pet dog in the world. He is from the eponymous city in Mexico and according to legend, he was the favorite companion of the Aztec princesses. Despite his small size, this happy and dynamic pooch is not afraid of other dogs, regardless of their size. There are long-haired Chihuahuas but they are less numerous than short-haired ones. In general, they measure between 15 and 30 cm and weigh between 1.5 and 3 kg. They also have a lifespan of up to 20 years.
The Japanese Spaniel
The Japanese Spaniel is a small dog of about 30 cm, the weight of which is usually between 3 and 4 kg. It is considered to be the most loving companion dog breed. He loves to have fun and his intelligence is one of his best assets. The Japanese Spaniel is also appreciated for its good humor and dynamism. Independent and showing a very elegant air, it is one of the dog breeds most prized by ancient Japanese royalty. It can live up to 14 years.
The Jack Russell
The Jack Russell takes its name from the English reverend, John Russel, the man who allowed it to exist. He was a terrier, a small hunting dog full of energy. Obviously, this is the ideal dog for very active people who want to go out in nature with their pet. Otherwise, he should be given a lot of exercise so that he can expend his energy and avoid failure. Among the character traits that attract the animal the most, we can mention its loyalty and its intelligence. Regarding size, Jack Russells measure between 15 and 35 cm. For weight, they weigh between 3 and 10 kg. In addition, their life expectancy is between 12 and 14 years.
The Fox Terrier
Originally from England, the Fox terrier is known for its effectiveness in chasing foxes and rats from their dens. Measuring between 33 and 39 cm, it usually weighs between 6 and 9 kg. There are two types of Fox Terrier: smooth haired and wire-haired. In any case, he is a dynamic dog that stands out for his strong character. Brave, intelligent, loving and honest are also adjectives that perfectly describe him. Its head is easily recognized by its slightly flat skull, its downward-sloping muzzle, its well-muscled jaw and its small V-shaped drooping ears. Fox terriers can live up to 15 years.
The Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, also called Shetland or Sheltie, is a small dog that measures 33 to 41 cm and weighs between 6 and 12 kg. It originates from the Shetland Islands in northern Scotland where it was bred to herd sheep. Very sociable and very kind, this breed is the result of crossing dogs from the Shetland Islands and Collies. He is also known for his great dynamism and his intelligence which facilitates his training. Loyal Shetland Sheepdogs have a life expectancy of 12 to 13 years.
The Welsh Corgi Cardigan
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a breed that originated in Wales. It looks like a fox and has a size between 25 and 33 cm when mature. Despite its small size, it is used to feed cattle and sheep. Weighing between 14 and 17 kg, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is shy in nature towards people he does not know, but his loyalty to his master remains unwavering. Intelligent, this cross of Cardigan and Pembroke is very easy to train. In addition, you will appreciate his courage, his gentleness and his good humor. A healthy Cardigan Welsh Corgi can live up to 15 years.
The Prague Ratter
Measuring between 20 and 23 cm, the Prague Ratter is a breed of small dog that originated in the Czech Republic where it is most widespread. He is affectionate, sociable, loyal and attentive, the ideal companion for children and households. On the other hand, it is very sensitive to cold. It only weighs between 1.5 and 3.5 kg and lives up to 14 years.