Confessions of a Small Dog Lover
When you see me jauntily walking down the street with my freshly-coiffed and fluffed little white toy poodle prancing beside me, you may think Oh. She’s that kind of girl—a small dog girl.
But maybe when you hear that he was a stray that I found running the mean streets of Baltimore one night with rotten teeth and a swollen prostate (him, not me), you may like me more.
I can only tell you that I never thought I would like a small dog, and all of the small dog things that come with them: yapping, nibbling, sweaters.
Admittedly, it took some retraining and rebranding (I named him Ike, not Precious), but after three years, I have grown to embrace the charms of the small dog.
If you’re looking to add a dog to your life, don’t immediately dismiss the possibility of pint-sized pup. Despite whatever preconceived notions you may have, there are some very good things about the under-sized dog.
Look Who’s Walking. Although most little dogs don’t require a lot of exercise, when they do, you get to lead and they follow. It’s nice to feel like you’re not the one being walked.
Send in the Clowns. The little guys are born people-pleasers. Many smaller breed dogs were originally bred as companion animals and they’ve kept that up. Most little dogs want nothing more than to sit with you and do what you want to do.
Incidental Tourist. Small dogs travel well. I’ve been known to put Ike in my purse to run into a Starbucks or two without a problem. Also, most airlines will allow a little dog to ride in the cabin with you, provided that they fit under the seat in front of you (not for free, but what is?)
Small Poops. Enough said.
Minding Their Own Pees and…. A little gross, yes, but on a very cold New Year’s Day, after a very long New Year’s Eve, little Francois’ piddling on the pad can be a very beautiful thing.
Wash and Wear. Little dogs can fit in the kitchen sink and be washed fairly quickly after a run in with noxious substances, and then swaddled dry with just one bath towel. Try that with your Rottweiler.
Love is All Around. You don’t need to go an expensive breeder or comb the streets of Baltimore for a stray if you find yourself swayed. Breed specific rescue groups and shelters are a great place to meet a new diminutive dog.
Some great smaller breeds with big heart that you may consider: French Bulldog, Chihuahua, or Yorkshire Terrier.
