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.
Just because a dog is small, however, does not mean that they all share the same temperament or activity levels. Some of these dogs come from a background where they were used for hunting, like the miniature dachshund, and others, like the Tibetan spaniel, bark a lot. The latter would thus not be ideal for apartment living, unless you have very accommodating neighbors, or a sound proof apartment.
Small breeds that need a lot of exercise include the dachshund, the Italian greyhound, and the Australian Terrier. Breeds like the maltese, pugs, and chihuahuas will all do well exercising in a small backyard. If you do have a dog in an apartment, it is suggested that he be taken for a walk once or twice a day outside. This basically goes for all miniature dog breeds.
As far as which miniature dog breed to buy, there are many to choose from. As an owner you need to decide which will best suit your needs. Look into things such as temperament, size, and any features that will make your buying decision easier, such as coat length and care, and barking tendencies.
Here are four miniature dog breeds that you may want to check out before you make a purchasing decision.
1. The miniature bull terrier is a very playful dog that loves its’ family. It does like strangers as well though, so is not a good choice for a guard dog. They like plenty of activity, and love toys, although they have pretty strong jaws and teeth so they tend to destroy them quite quickly. Miniature bull terriers tend to want to please their masters more than their larger brothers.
2. Another dog to consider is the Lhasa apso. Lhasa’s have a distinctively beautiful long coat, and although they are lap dog size, they don’t have the need to be cuddled all the time like some other lap dogs. Like cats, they are independent and will come for attention when they want it, though they are very affectionate by nature. Lhasa’s are very loyal dogs, with a capacity for stubbornness which means they are better suited to those more experienced with handling dogs.
3. The miniature poodle is always popular. It is one of the most well behaved miniature dog breeds, and one that every dog lover should look into. Miniature poodles can grow up to 20 pounds, and stand about 15 inches in height. This breed is very intelligent and great with small children.
4. 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 have had quite a surge in popularity the last few years, no doubt influenced by the celebrity trend to carry them around in large handbags everywhere. Like all dogs, these too need their exercise, so a diamante studded collar and leash would no doubt be preferred than the gilded cage of a Louis vitton.

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There seems to be a growing trend toward miniature dog breeds in the UK. Miniature and toy breeds of dogs are a great choice for a person or family who living in a flat, apartment or small home. There are many different breeds to choose from so you can choose the one that best suited for you and your lifestyle.

Small dog breeds are great choices for people who want the loyal companionship of a pet but have limited space. They need daily exercise but don’t need a lot of area to make them happy. Small dog breeds love to be held and pampered. No matter what size dog you prefer there are hundreds of breeds to choose from.

Below you will find the description of some of the popular miniature and toy breeds that can make wonderful additions to any family no matter the lifestyle.

MalteseThe Maltese is a cute small dog with a beautiful white coat. They are one of the oldest dog breeds and are also a very hardy breed. They do need daily brushing and grooming to keep their coats healthy.

They are energetic and very playful. The Maltese makes a good companion for retirees, city dwellers and families. They are good with children and enjoy daily walks.

Lhasa ApsoThe Lhasa Apso pronounced (lha-sah ap-so) is a tiny, lively and friendly companion. These charming and elegant looking dogs originated in Tibet. They are very loyal and even though they are small they believe they are the protectors of the home. They are active and enjoy daily walks and brushing.

 These adorable little mites have a long dense coat that can be in a variety of colours, including; tan, cream, slate, brown and black and white.  Its head is draped with long hair and has a square muzzle with dark eyes and a beard and moustache. It has a feathered tail which curves over its back.

Cavalier King Charles SpanielThe Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great little dog that is a good companion for people who live in cities and are not as lively and energetic as some of the other miniature dog breeds.

They have a very loving nature and easily adapt to any type of household. They do need grooming for their long coat and regular exercise. They are very loyal and a sociable small dog that will fit into most lifestyles.

Miniature SchnauzerThe Miniature Schnauzer is a breed of small dog that originated in Germany in the 19th century. They are highly intelligent and easy to train. They are alert and playful and have high energy. They love attention and like to be right in the middle of all family activities.

They have small square frames with long heads that have a big bushy moustaches, beards and eyebrows. Their coat is usually solid black, salt & pepper, silver and black and sometimes white in colour. They do need to have regular haircuts and need to be brushed often

Welsh CorgiThere are two breeds of Welsh Corgi and they are the Cardigan Corgi and the Pembroke Corgi. Theses are both small dogs with big hearts. They are loyal, alert, and affectionate. They make great family dogs and are good with children. They are active, playful and love to get plenty of exercise.

Both Corgis are powerful and agile and have broad heads and pointed muzzles. They have large pointed ears with slightly rounded tips. The Corgis were first introduced into the dog show ring in 1925. The Welsh Corgi breed is a healthy breed which has few disease problems. They are independent little mites and love attention.

Shih TzuThe Shih Tzu is a lively and energetic little dog. They can be low-keyed if they are getting the attention they crave. They love to be pampered and love to be held and petted. They have an air of nobility about them and can be haughty at times.

The Shih Tzu would make a good family pet. They are good with older children and adapt well into most enviourments. They make good companions for city dwellers and don’t require much exercise. They require more care than other breeds when it comes to grooming. They need daily brushing and regular haircuts to avoid tangles and matting of their hair. They shed very little dandruff and make a great companion for a person with allergies.

No matter what size of dog you have you should consider buying pet insurance. It is like having health insurance on yourself, it is there when you need it for those unexpected large health-related bills. By having this kind of insurance you can ensure that your pet will get the best treatment if they are ever injured or seriously ill. They don’t have to be puppies to be eligible; as long as you keep the premiums up they will be covered for their lifetime.

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