Pug dogs are very friendly, confident and love to play a lot. But, these dogs can be somewhat headstrong and stubborn. It may take some time to properly train these dogs. Generally Pug dogs are quite pleasant. They love to please their owners especially when they have the opportunity to show off.

Care and Attention for the Pug Dogs

The Pug Dog, like any other toy dog, needs to get plenty exercise every day. It would be nice if they could get a brisk walk for about twenty to thirty minutes. These dogs would enjoy an active fun dog game.

Pug dogs do not do well in hot, humid weather, so you should not leave your Pug dog outdoors for very long periods of time. This type of dog can stay outside in the yard for a couple hours a day if it has a nice shaded area to go to whenever he feels like it.

Because of all its wrinkles, it is important that you clean your Pug dog regularly. Special care should be given to its face and neck areas. This breed of dogs are prone to skin infection, so if your Pug gets wet you will need to dry him off right away to prevent any such infection. You need to note that Pugs tend to wheeze and snore a lot.

Health Concerns for the Pug Dogs

Owners of Pug dogs have only two major health concerns to worry about. These concerns are CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia) and Pug dog encephalitis. Other minor health issues include patellar luxation, KCS (Kerato Conjunctivitis Sicca), hemivertebra, elongated palate, Legg-Perthes, stenotic nares and of course skin infection. Pug Dogs can live a healthy life up to fifteen years with some dogs living even longer.

The weight of the original Pomeranians was about thirty pounds and they were usually white dogs. They did not have the brownish color of the Pomeranian dogs we know today. The closest resemblance to these early Pomeranian dogs is the Japanese Spitz.

The English Kennel Club officially recognized the Pomeranian dog breed in 1870. The American Kennel Club recognized them as a standard breed after their popularity increased.  Breeders continued to minimize the size of these dogs. They also bred these dogs to develop a darker color which resulted in the light brown shade of the Pomeranian dogs that we know today.

The Care of the Pomeranian Dogs

The Pomeranian dog belongs to the toy group of dogs. These dogs are bold and very self-confident, and always looking for adventure. Even though these dogs do need daily exercise, because they are so small they can get their exercise indoors .It is always good to take the Pomeranian for a nice stroll or to allow it to run around and play games in a grassy area.

The Pomeranian dogs love to play and are very energetic. They need human companionship so they make very good house pets. These dogs do not do well in hot nor cold temperatures, so that is why they are best suited for living indoors.  Even though these dogs are so small they make excellent watchdogs and should be kept inside with the family.

Health Concerns of the Pomeranian Dogs

If you own one of these dogs, the only major health problem that you need to worry about is patellar luxation. Other minor problems that may occur with your pet include shoulder luxation, open fontanel, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), hypoglycemia and entropion.

It is important that you have a veterinarian test your Pomeranian dog for any eye problem, knee dysplasia and possible cardiac issue. A healthy Pomeranian dog can live up to about 16 years.

The Pekingese is a very friendly  dog  with  family and other pets in its household, but around strangers it can also be very reserved. These dogs are known to have an independent personality but they can be very stubborn when they are being trained.

Some background of the Pekingese Dog Breed

The Pekingese dog breed originated in China and dates back a very long time to Ancient Times. A long time ago the Lamaist form of Buddhism regarded the lion as the symbol of Buddha. At that time, Foo dogs were well respected because they looked a lot like miniature lions. To have these dogs maintain this appearance, they were carefully bred, and eventually they became known as “Lion Dogs”.

Under strict guidelines this breeding continued during the height of the T’ang dynasty and these dogs became even more revered as symbols of respect. A lot of these dogs were even treated as royalty and had their own servants to care for them twenty four hours a day. These small-sized Pekingese dogs could actually be carried around tucked into their Chinese masters’ sleeves and so they also became known as “Sleeve Dogs”.

During the 1860’s, the British looted and captured the Imperial Summer Palace. They discovered these dogs and took many of them back to England. One of these dogs was given to Queen Victoria who became very impressed by its look. Because of this, the Pekingese dog was talked about a great deal so many people became enthusiasts of that type of breed which helped to make the dogs become more popular.

Even so, because these dogs were mostly owned by the rich, this breed increased very slowly. Eventually, more people began to know more about the Pekingese and they became a loving companion to families and can now be seen more and more in the show ring.

Taking care of your Pekingese Dog

The Pekingese dogs are not known to be very energetic, so you can exercise them by giving them a few short walks on a leash or just let them play around the house every day.  Even though the Pekingese, like all members of the Toy Group, loves to play outdoors, they should live inside. They also do very well living in an apartment.

The Pekingese dog s do not adapt very well to hot temperatures but do quite well when the weather is cooler. These dogs can become ill or may even die if they are exposed to too much heat, so it is important to keep them where it is relatively cool. Because these dogs have long hair their coats can mat easily. You will need to brush their coats at least two times a week.

Health Concerns of the Pekingese Dog Breed

With these dogs there is no major health problem you need worry about. Some minor health problems may include trichiasis, KCS, elongated soft palate, skin fold dermatitis, patellar luxation and stenotic nares.  It is important that you have a veterinarian test your dog for knee and eye problems. The Pekingese dog can live for about thirteen to fifteen years.

The Dwarf Spaniels became so popular with the nobility that with time both Italy and Spain were well known for breeding the Dwarf Spaniels and trading them. History has recorded that the court of Louis XIV of France loved these small dogs so much that they imported hundreds of them.

Because these dogs look a lot like squirrels and they carry their tails over their backs when they walk, just like the squirrel does, they were also known as the Squirrel Spaniel. In these early times the Papillon Dogs had droopy ears but then eventually their ears started to stand straight up.

Presently you can find Papillon dogs that have droopy ears and those that have stiff, upright ears. Even in the same litter you can have both types of these dogs. The erect ear type of these dogs  are more a favorite with Papillon dog owners. In the United States, the Droopy-eared Papillon dogs are known as a “Phalene”, which is a French word that means moth. The Papillon Dog is known as the Continental Toy Spaniel or the Epagneul Nain, throughout Europe.

In the early 1900s, the Papillon Dogs were only shown by the French at French dog shows. After a time they were presented at dog shows in England and then in the United States. At first these dogs were a bit larger than they are today and they were mainly of a solid color. Due to careful breeding these dogs became smaller and are noted for their striking colors which include patches of white.

Personality of the Papillon

The Papillon Dogs, out of all the toy dog breeds, is believed to be the most obedient and are very easy to train. These dogs are very playful and gentle and are very friendly with people and other pets. Actually, they are friendly with anybody and any animal they come in contact with. They are very good with children, but care has to be taken when playing with them because they are so small.

Care and Attention of the Papillon Breed

Games and mental stimulation are very important for the well-being of the Papillon Dog. Exercise for these dogs may include daily walks on the leash and fun training which can be done either indoors or outdoors. It is important that you allow your dog to always sleep indoors. You can take care of its coat by brushing it every three to four days.

Health Information of the Papillon Dog

These dogs are very healthy dogs and do not suffer from any major health problem. Minor health problems that may occasionally occur are dental problems, seizures, and patellar luxation. On an average, a healthy Papillon Dog can have a lifespan of between 13 and 14 years, with some dogs living for up to about 17 years.

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 10- 12 inches (25 – 30 cm) ; bitches: 10 – 11 inches (25 – 28 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 8 – 10 pounds (4 – 5 kg)  ; bitches: 8 - 9 pounds (4 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1925
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Miniature Pinscher Dog Breed

The Miniature Pinscher has been claimed to be one of the most energetic dog breeds.  Of course opinions vary, but if you have ever been the proud owner of one of these adorable little dogs then you would have to agree that the statement can certainly apply.

The Miniature Pinscher is one of the most popular toy dog breeds in the United States.

This tiny little dog is a nonstop bundle of energy, staying busy and active at all times during the day.  Great descriptions of this dog’s personality would be playful, inquisitive, bold, and a bit stubborn, as it likes its independence.

Although the Miniature Pinscher can be a little aggressive with other animals, especially other dogs, it is extremely affectionate and playful with its family.

History of the Miniature Pinscher Dog Breed

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1925 as a member of the AKC Toy Group.

The Miniature Pinscher Breed Care and Grooming

If you do not enjoy being outdoors and dislike being silly and playful, you may want to reconsider getting a Miniature Pinscher.  This dog needs an extraordinary amount of daily activity with long walks and short, but intense sprints. However, because of its tiny size, he can be easily exercised indoors so long as there is enough room to run around.

Although running outdoors is a favorite pastime of the Miniature Pinscher, this dog is best suited to living inside the house with its family. Like other toy dog breeds, he needs to be away from the cold and cannot stand chilly weather. In fact, you’ll find that the Miniature Pinscher loves to snuggle up underneath pillows and blankets when he is resting.

Grooming the Miniature Pinscher is very easy.  Because of its short coat, he only needs to be brushed occasionally.  As far as bathing is concerned, once a week or every two weeks is ideal.

Health Problems of the Miniature Pinscher Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Miniature Pinscher dog breed is about ten to twelve years, however many have been known to live up to fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• heart defects
• cervical disk
• MPS VI (Mucopolysaccharidosis VI)
• patellar luxation
• Legg-Perthes
• hypothyroidism

Veterinarians recommend having the Miniature Pinscher tested specifically for hip dysplasia, eye problems, knee issues, and DNA for MPS.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): Toy: 10 – 12 inches (25 – 30 cm) ; Standard: 15 – 16 inches (39 – 40 cm)
• Weight: Toy: 6 – 8 pounds (2.5 – 3.5 kg)  ; Standard: 18 pounds (8 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 15 or more years
• AKC Group: Terrier and Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1886 (Toy) and 1887 (Standard)
• Shedding: average shedder; the Toy sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Manchester Terrier Dog

The Manchester Terrier has a striking appearance and is one of the more sensitive members of the Terrier Group. Enthusiasts of the breed often describe them as “cat-like” because of its overly-cautious demeanor and independent personality. These dogs take great pride in keeping themselves clean, much like a cat does.

When it comes to personality, the Manchester Terrier is friendly towards other dogs and highly-affectionate with it owners. However, when strangers approach they becomes alert and reserved. For this reason they make excellent watchdogs in any household.

They are also very playful and need to expend lots of energy each day.

History of the Manchester Terrier Dog Breed

The origination of the Manchester Terrier is the result of a cross of two amazing breeds – the Black and Tan Terrier and the Whippet. It all started around the early 16th century, in England, as the people there enjoyed the hunting abilities of the Black and Tan when it came to getting rid of rats and other small rodents.

At the turn of industrialization the working class of England also enjoyed dog racing with the Whippet being the main contender. With the Black and Tan Terriers the most popular rodent-killing dogs, and the Whippet the favorite among racing dogs, it was only a matter of time before both breeds would be crossed.

A man named John Hulme, who lived in Manchester, was the first breeder to do so. His goal was to create a dog that could be refined in both areas; rat killing and racing. The resulting breed was a beautiful canine that looked like a Black and Tan Terrier but with a refined back.

It was officially known as the Manchester Terrier in 1860, then renamed the Black and Tan Terrier, but changed back to the Manchester in 1923.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886.

The Manchester Terrier Care and Grooming

This breed needs daily action but can get its exercise requirements from a few brisk walks on the leash or a romp around the yard. Natural explorers, the Manchester Terrier is most happy when able to roam outside off-leash in a safe area. Ideally, the dog should have access to a fenced-in yard while sleeping indoors with the family at night.

The Manchester has very little tolerance for cold temperatures but can handle hot climates.

Their coat is smooth which means minimal grooming needs. A light brushing every couple of weeks just to remove dead hairs is plenty.

These dogs also need soft bedding to sleep on.

Health Problems of the Manchester Terrier Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Manchester Terrier is about fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease)
• cardiomyopathy
• hypothyroidism

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• deafness
• patellar luxation
• Legg-Perthes

Veterinarians recommend having the Manchester Terrier breed tested specifically for vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease), eye, hip, and thyroid problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 8 – 10 inches (21 – 25 cm) ; bitches: 8 – 9 inches (20 – 23 cm)
• Weight: 6.5 – 9 pounds (3 – 4 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 15 years or more
• AKC Group: Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1888
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair; good for allergy sufferers
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Maltese Dog Breed

If you are looking for a beautiful lapdog, then the Maltese is a wonderful choice. The Maltese makes a perfect pet for somebody that enjoys holding and petting their dog often. And do not let its innocent look fool you, these dogs can also be very feisty and bold.  Oftentimes they will challenge dogs that are much larger in size, which makes them great watchdogs.

History of the Maltese Dog Breed

The Maltese dog has been around for thousands of years.  In fact, these dogs were specifically mentioned in writings that date back to as early as 300 B.C. The Greeks also have artwork that depict Maltese dogs from as early as the 5th century. This information tells us that this breed is the most ancient of all European Toy dog breeds.

Maltese dogs were exported and distributed throughout many parts of Europe and the Asian countries.  However, even though they reached so many different areas of the globe, the majority of the original Malta remained in a relatively isolated area, away from other dogs.  Because of this, pure breeding over centuries kept the distinctive and noble look of this small dog.

Today’s Maltese is white colored but throughout history they came in various other colors besides white. Regardless of the color changes, these dogs always kept their beautiful, long silky coat that dazzles the eye.

Maltese dogs were brought to England by the early 14th century. Here they became practically worshiped by the upper-class.  Adored and pampered, wealthy families had Maltese dogs as pets to show off their nobility. Although popular at that time, it is suggested that this breed was close to extinction sometime during the early 1800s.

Soon after this time period, two Maltese dogs were brought to England from the lands of Manila to be given to Queen Victoria as a gift.  However, the animals did not make it to their destination and were passed on to other people.  The offspring of these two dogs became the first of their kind to be exhibited in England. They were referred to as “Maltese Terriers” even though they were not related to Terriers.

The Maltese dog breed finally made its way to the United States sometime during the late 1800s, probably around 1875 or so.  At this time they were referred to as “Maltese Lion Dogs”.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a member of the AKC Toy Group.

The Maltese Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Like all pets, the Maltese must get a bit of daily exercise. These requirements can easily be met with a quick run through the yard or a short walk on the leash. They are not outdoor dogs and are best to be kept indoors when not exercising outside.

They love to be held and pampered.

Grooming requirements consist of constant brushing to keep the coat clear and clean. Monthly clipping may also be needed depending upon how long you want the hair to grow.

Health Problems of the Maltese

The average life expectancy of the Maltese dog breed is fifteen years or more.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• portacaval shunt
• entropion
• patellar luxation
• hypoglycemia
• open fontanel
• distichiasis
• hydrocephalus
• dental problems

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Quick Stats for the Japanese Chin Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 7 – 11 inches (18 – 28 cm)
• Weight: 4 – 15 pounds (2 – 7 kg)
• Life Expectancy: less than 10 years
• AKC Group: Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1888
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; moderately active indoors; okay without a yard; somewhat sensitive to extreme temperatures

Personality of the Japanese Chin Dog Breed

The Japanese Chin is absolutely one of the most adorable members of the Toy Group. Always on the lookout for fun and games, this dog is equally sensitive and thrives on affection. They are devoted to their family and ready to make friends with anyone and any animal, strangers or not.

Japanese Chin dogs are also perfect pets for children who understand how to play gentle.

History of the Japanese Chin Dog Breed

The origins of the Japanese Chin date as far back as the Ancient times, however, the exact history of the breed is unknown. Researchers do know that it shared a very similar history with the Pekingese.

Interestingly enough, history tells us that the Japanese Chin actually has it roots in China, not Japan, as its name might suggest.

Like the Pekingese, the breed was largely owned by Chinese aristocracy and were given as gifts to other nobility. Exactly how the dog arrived in Japan is still up for debate. Several stories are floating around. Some say that they were brought by a Korean prince after 730 A.D. Another theory is that Buddhist teachers brought them to Japan shortly after 500 A.D.

Whatever the true path that the breed took to get to Japan, the dog had an enormously positive impact on the Japanese Imperial family. The were kept as adored lapdogs and shown off to visiting nobility. During the 16th century it is said that the Japanese Chin was traded with visiting Portuguese sailors and taken back with them to Europe.

Official documentation tells us that the breed was in Europe in 1853. Over the next several decades more and more Japanese Chins were sold or traded to the Europeans and then to the Americans. In the late 1800s, the breed got official recognition by the AKC, listed as the “Japanese Spaniel”. To reduce the breed’s size over the last century it was crossed with English Toy Spaniels.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a member of the Toy Group.

The Japanese Chin Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Care for these adorable little toy dogs is about as easy as it comes when owning one as calm and easy-going as the Japanese Chin. They are small enough so that the only exercise they need is to walk around the house and a few short walks on the leash each day. They also enjoy playing games so a few laps around the yard is enough to show them a good time while giving them plenty of exercise.

Like all toy breeds, the Japanese Chin cannot live outdoors. They are lapdogs to the core and although should have time to play outside in a fenced-in yard, are meant be pampered in the confines of your home.

Grooming requirements call for a weekly brushing, twice for the longhairs.

Health Problems of the Japanese Chin Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Japanese Chin Dog Breed is less than ten years on average.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• cataracts
• entropion
• patellar luxation
• heart murmurs
• KCS (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• epilepsy
• achondroplasia
• portacaval shunt

Veterinarians recommend having the Japanese Chin Dog Breed tested specifically for potential knee and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Quick Stats for the Italian Greyhound Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 12 – 15 inches (30 – 38 cm)
• Weight: 6 – 10 pounds (3 – 5 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1886
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; fairly active indoors; okay without a yard; sensitive to cold weather

Personality of the Italian Greyhound Dog Breed

The Italian Greyhound is a relatively small dog that loves to run at fast speeds. They will chase anything that will run from it.

These dogs are extremely gentle and a bit on the sensitive side. Italian Greyhounds are reserved, timid, and makes a lovable family pet, especially around children.

History of the Italian Greyhound Dog Breed

Although the Italian Greyhound has been in existence for centuries, the exact origin of this beautiful dog breed is completely unknown. There is evidence of artwork that dates back more than 2000 years ago that depicts these dogs in areas such as the Mediterranean, Greece, and Turkey.

Italian Greyhounds were known as “Miniature Greyhounds” and were found in abundance throughout areas of southern Europe. They were especially adored by Italian courtiers.

Sometime during the 17th century, this dog breed arrived in England and became quite popular with the nobility.They became just as popular in England as they had been in their homeland of Italy.

In 1820 there were only two specific dog breeds that were mentioned in a book about dogs. The Italian Greyhound was one of them. This breed continued to attract more and more popularity, mostly with the wealthy, but reached its peak sometime during the reign of Queen Victoria.

After this time, the numbers of Italian Greyhounds started to decline rapidly. In fact, after the end of World War II, these dogs had all but disappeared. The reason for this is unknown but it is theorized that the decline was the result of poor breeding quality over many generations. Even though their numbers had declined on the verge of extinction, quite a few Italian Greyhounds made their way to America sometime during the late 1800s and the breed was revived.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886 as a member of the Toy Group.

The Italian Greyhound Dog Breed Care and Grooming

This is one breed of dog that is best suited to live with an active family.  In other words, if sitting on your couch all day is your idea of spending time with your dog, the Italian Greyhound would not be the ideal choice. They need an active lifestyle with plenty of running outside.

Italian Greyhounds absolutely hate cold weather but can stand higher-than-normal temperatures due to its shorthaired coat.

Grooming is minimal with only the occasional brushing needed in order to remove dead hair. The breed sheds little to no hair.

Health Problems of the Italian Greyhound Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Italian Greyhound Dog Breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• periodontal disease

Minor health issues include:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• leg fractures (from running)
• patellar luxation
• epilepsy

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Quick Stats for the Havanese Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 8 – 11 inches (20 – 28 cm)
• Weight: 7 – 13 pounds (3 – 6 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 14 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1996
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Havanese Dog Breed

The Havanese dog absolutely loves being in the spotlight and is extremely playful. In fact, the Havanese scores on the highest level in terms of affection, friendliness, and playfulness. Considered to be somewhat of a clown, this breed is known for getting along with just about everybody and every animal.

History of the Havanese Dog Breed

Originating from the Mediterranean during ancient times, the Havanese dog comes from a family of small dogs known as the Barbichon (now called Bichon) family. They showed up in large quantities throughout Cuba when Spanish traders brought them as gifts to give to the Cuban women. This allowed open trade between the two peoples.

The Cubans absolutely adored this little dog and pampered them as if they were Kings and Queens. Havanese dogs were popular with the wealthy.  In time, these dogs made their way back to Europe where the people refer to them as the “White Cuban”. Their popularity continued to grow. Many people owned them as pets but also enjoyed Havanese dogs as performers.

In time, the Havanese became less and less popular except for performing at circus shows. They were seen in many circuses throughout Europe as trick dogs. Eventually, their breed started to dramatically decline in numbers to the point where they were almost extinct. This was happening in both Europe and Cuba.

Good fortune brought this dog breed back up in numbers when three families from Cuba left for the United States and brought their Havanese dogs with them. It is estimated that they arrived in America sometime during the late 1950s, or early 1960s. In fact, just about all Havanese dogs of today come from these bloodlines. Dog enthusiasts took notice of the Havanese and in 1996 it was entered into its first AKC dog show.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1996 as a member of the Toy Group.

The Havanese Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Due to its small size and stature, very little extra attention is needed for upkeep and maintenance.  A short walk on the leash will take care of its exercise requirements and it must stay indoors with the family.

Grooming does take a little work, however. Its long coat requires a good brushing almost daily. The good news is that Havanese dogs do not shed, but the hairs can become tangled up and matted, hence the reason for daily brushing.

Health Problems of the Havanese Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Havanese Dog Breed is about fourteen to fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• patellar luxation

Image courtesy of Wikipedia