If you're considering a dog for a pet, one issue you'll want to consider is whether to get a small dog or a large one. Small dogs have become very popular with the public recently, possibly due to so many celebrity appearances with small dogs such as Paris Hilton and Tinkerbell. There are definite advantages and disadvantages to have a dog of Tinkerbell's size or smaller. Here are some things to consider. The advantages of having a small dog include:
- The fact that you can take them almost anywhere. They are so small, they can comfortably fit inside a large tote bag or a special bag specially designed so you can take your peg along. Plus, more and more retail stores and restaurants are allowing dogs to come inside, particularly if they're small in size. The small dog definitely has the advantage here.
- If you live in an apartment, a small dog may be the only dog that's allowed. Many apartment complexes have regulations specifying the size dog you can have. If your dog is Tinkerbell size, he may be allowed to take up residence with you in your apartment.
- Small dogs require less food which can be a cost savings to you. Plus, if you need to take them to a kennel or have them groomed, it generally will cost less than it would for a larger dog.
- Small dogs tend to be less threatening to other pets you may have in your house. If you happen to already have a cat, a small dog isn't going to strike as much fear in your cat's heart as a German Shepherd would. Don't underestimate them though. Small dogs can sometimes be quite aggressive.
- Small dogs tend to form close bonds with their people, possibly because their small size allows them to follow their owner almost everywhere.
- People tend to find smaller dogs less intimidating and are often eager to pamper and coddle them. If you're a social person and like people coming up to you to pet your dog, a small dog may be for you.
- Small dogs tend to shed less. This means less clean up for you. Of course there are disadvantages to owning a small dog too.
They include:
- Being so small, a tiny dog can be easily stepped on and injured. Imagine the guilt you're going to feel when you inadvertently step backwards and crush your dog.
- Small dogs are less intimidating to intruders. Although they may bark a good bark, when an intruder sees a Tinkerbell size dog is making all the noise, they're less likely to turn in the other direction and run.
- Small dogs are known for not being aware of their small stature. As such, they are known for being quite willing to challenge a larger dog. If the larger dog happens to be aggressive, this could be disastrous for your pint sized dog.
All in all, the advantages of owning a small dog tend to outweigh the disadvantages. If you choose a small dog, you have a variety of interesting breeds to choose from including dachshund, toy poodle, chihuahua, miniature schnauzer, maltese, and many more. Don't forget about the small mixed breed dogs that are so common at animal shelters everywhere. Sometimes they're the best pet of all.
