Miniature dog breeds have become quite popular because their small size is more appropriate for dog owners that don't have the luxury of a large living space or backyard. City dwellers and those who rent apartments or small houses are more apt to pick a miniature because these dogs are best suited for smaller spaces. Hollywood celebrities have even popularized these dogs as a handbag fashion accessory.
Spirited, spunky, and sweet, miniature dog breeds also known as toy dogs, have in the past been called "sleeve dogs". This name came about around the time of the Renaissance when balloon sleeves were fashionable with the nobility. It was an affectionate practice to carry miniature breed dogs within these roomy sleeves, where they were also enjoyed as arm warmers! Remember this was before central heating!
The miniature poodle is going to be about eleven to fifteen inches in height and fifteen to seventeen pounds in weight. They are recognized by their curly haired appearance, long muzzle, and floppy ears. With them you will find that their coat must be groomed properly and that for show dogs there are several ways for the coat to be groomed for them to pass the beauty tests. Most poodles require a lot of grooming because of the coat. This means that at least once a month you should have the poodle taken to the groomer to avoid an unpleasant matting and curl of the hair, and you should also brush the poodle at least once a day.
Dogs of this breed are usually very devoted to their owners and suffer from separation anxiety greatly. They need special care and rehabilitation. Some dogs miss their previous families so much that they refuse to eat. If new owners are kind and gentle with a new pet, it will recover and make a reliable companion. In most rescues, dogs are rehabilitated in foster families. Being surrendered one more time is a great shock for a dog, so prior to adoption think twice about the responsibility you assume.
Miniature dog breeds are very popular because their small size means they are better suited to apartments or houses with small backyards. Additionally, they are easier to control than very large dogs, and are generally cheaper to keep. They need less food and medication, though vet consultations are a standard price. Even with longer haired miniature dogs, it is easier to keep them brushed and groomed compared to their larger cousins.
The various miniature dog breeds that make popular house pets include some whose names are miniatures. They are the Miniature Pinscher or Minpin, Miniature Bull Terrier, Miniature Dachshund and Miniature Schnauzer. The Minpin is not related to the Doberman Pinscher, but many miniatures are a result of inbreeding and cross breeding. Schnauzers, Terriers, and Dachshunds are seen in larger varieties too. These are all high energy dogs who are constantly yapping around strangers. Hair shedding is not a problem with these four.
The miniature schnauzer weighs in at around 15 pounds. This miniature dog breed is affectionate, and is always up for a bit of fun. In addition, they are great for both country and city environments.
Miniature dog breeds are smaller versions of large dog breeds. The Miniature Poodle, Miniature Dachshund (or Doxie) and the Miniature Pinscher are small versions of their larger canine cousins. These dogs are sometime known as Teacup Dog Breeds because they are tiny dogs, though not all so tiny they could fit into a teacup!
