Small Dogs Rule!
By Gillian Ridgeway
The magic of dogs is in the diversity. St. Bernard’s, Italian Greyhounds, Old English Sheepdogs and Pugs are all dogs. The hair texture and length differ, as do their size and temperaments, but there truly is a dog for everyone. While some people see only larger dogs as “real” dogs, there seems to be an equal number of us that view the little guys as great family companions.
There are many advantages in being the caregiver to a small dog when taking the demands of our daily lives into account. Medications, hospitalization and anesthetics are much more economical when your dog weighs 12 kg vs. 112 kg. It goes without saying that smaller dogs are much cheaper to feed. Even nifty dog coats and collars are usually less expensive for these small-statured pups.
Lets take a closer look at the yeas and nays of small dogs. While veterinary costs may be cheaper for routine work, you should research your breed to ensure that you are aware of possible problem areas. Smaller dogs come in many different packages and you may find unexpected medical issues and costs. For example; breeds with protruding eyes and shorter muzzles, such as the Pug, may be prone to eye injuries or breathing problems. Fine boned dogs such as Italian Greyhounds have to be watched. Something as simple as jumping off the bed might cause injuries, and the active Toy Poodles might develop luxating patellas as they get older. Breed specific issues are not only for the small dog, but it is important to take note and be aware.
Of course, one nice thing about our smaller companions is that there is a lot less to clean up after. Many small breeds are taught to use an indoor toilet set up that is easy to keep clean. If you are elderly or housebound, this alone could mean the difference between having a dog or not. Remember that all dogs need to go out for a daily walk and hiring a dog walker in this case would be a requirement.
It goes without saying that small dogs are much easier to transport. They tuck nicely into bags and knapsacks for commuting on the subways and there is no need for a mini van for longer trips. Even air travel is easier as many airlines will allow small dogs to share the passenger area of the plane. They have to be in airline approved carriers and must stay in them for the duration of the flight, but that is a much less stressful way to travel than in the baggage compartment. Please note that new laws are being passed and some airlines will not allow even small dogs to travel with their people. It is best to check with your travel agent before booking your flight.
Anything you can do, I can do better. That is the mantra of the small dog to his larger buddies. Yes, as long as they are physically able, small dogs can participate in many dog activities and sports. In fact, there is nothing more spectacular than well-trained small dogs. Why? It seems that people simply don’t expect it. To see a Boston Terrier competing in obedience with all the Golden Retrieves can be quite a sight, but they are unstoppable. You will find many clever, quick little dogs that excel at the sports. In fact the sport of flyball has their fair share of lightning speed terrier crosses that propel their teams into first place on many occasions.
While many smaller breeds have jobs that they do well in, there are many small breeds that were developed specifically as family pets. The act of sitting on laps, giving affection and keeping their people company should not be underplayed. This does not mean that these little dogs should be kept only as lapdogs. They also enjoy fetching a stick, romping in the park and learning new things. It is quite a comment on our society when these smaller breeds are constantly carried or wheeled in a stroller (useful only for elderly dogs or those that have difficulty walking). Little dogs can stroll the boardwalk just as well as the larger dogs, and enjoy it equally.
As society ages, there will be more and more attention paid to breed choice when it comes to companion pets. These family members play an important role of keeping seniors active and engaged in society. Near to my home in Ajax there is an off lead park and I had the fortunate experience of happening upon the nicest group of little dogs and their people. They meet on a daily basis and the group consists of a lively little Boston Terrier, a poodle mix, and an assortment of fabulous Shih Tzu crosses….all under 8 kg each. With the addition of my larger Cocker Spaniel and Pyrenean Shepherd, we make up a very interesting pack. This group of dogs sits under the picnic table while their people chit chat about their day. They have fancy coats, special water containers and are well loved. This group of dogs is the sole reason their people are interacting and that alone is special.
Of course, for all the positives you might find a couple of negatives. Small dogs can be a concern when visiting the dog park, even if all the others are friendly. You must be careful to keep a watchful eye. Your little dog might get bowled over in all the action. You might also find that your dog could be become a target for other dogs. Pups like the Papillion, with their flowing fur and bigger ears, can be mistaken for rabbits and care must be taken to keep them safe. Some larger dogs owners tend to think of small dogs as “yappy” and while that is sometimes the case, it is more often a case of training. Start off early in puppy classes and learn how to curb this habit. The flip side of that is the alarm bark of the small dog might be enough to alert a neighbor to an intruder.
As the caregiver to my four dogs, I find myself drawn to the character and humor of some of these little dogs. My house is home to a 5kg terrier, a 10kg English Cocker, a 13kg Pyrenean Shepherd and my biggest dog, a 19-kg Duck Tolling Retriever. As a lover of all dogs, I prefer the smaller dogs for my family situation and have never found their size to be a deterrent for any sports or activities. The motto in my house is “Small Dogs Rule”.
Gillian Ridgeway, AHT, has worked with dogs for over 35 years. She is director of Who’s Walking Who in Toronto and Ajax. A consultant for Dogs, Dogs, Dogs!, Gillian also writes for Dogs in Canada. She has appeared on Dogs in Canada TV, Global television, Q107 radio and in Toronto Life, and is co-author of the book, “Citizen Canine.” She travels with the Iams SuperDogs Performance team and teaches learning theory at University of Toronto. Gillian can be contacted at 416-465-3626; www.whoswalkingwho.net
