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Dog Breeds: Understanding The Toy Group

The toy breed was bred to be your lapdog and companion. Many of these dogs are just smaller versions of hunting and working dogs. If you compare them to other breeds they are much smaller.  If weighed a few of them can be between 2-4 pounds and if measured from the shoulder the can be 4 inches in height.  Since they are too small to do any type of work, they have successfully achieved the art of being very cuddly and adorable.

The toy group can have a life expectancy of 13-15 years on average.  Some lucky dog owners get to enjoy these types of dogs as long as 20 years. They tend to be healthy and long-lived despite being so delicate.

These dogs are usually high-strung, but are also tons of fun and always lovable. They are happy, lively, and can entertain you for hours with their seemingly unlimited amount of energy and enthusiasm. They are very affectionate of their owners and initially suspicious of strangers. They get along well with children, although kids should be taught not to roughhouse with them and to be careful in handling their fragile body. Keep in mind these dogs demand constant attention from their families.

These dogs are great for apartment dwellers. Keep in mind, however, that they can be very noisy and tend to bark excessively. They also make great pets for busy people because these breeds do not need to be exercised regularly. They get enough exercise just running around the house.

These little friends are frequently more spoiled than larger dogs due to their very small size. A toy dog has a big dog behavior wrapped in a little package. The Brussels Griffon, for example, has a high-prey drive toward small animals and can be dog-aggressive. They can be tough, stubborn, and hard to housebreak. Training and socialization are needed for this breed.

Below are examples of toy breeds:

Chihuahua, Brussels Griffon, Papillon, Pug, Toy Poodle, Maltese, Havenese, Affenpinscher, Chinese Crested, Italian Greyhound , Pekingese, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Miniature Pinscher, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel, Japanese Chin, Pomeranian, Toy Manchester Terrier, and the Silky Terrier.