The Mini Dog Breeds: Character, Care, and Health
Mini dog breeds and dog breeds that are very small have one thing in common: They measure under 30 centimeters in height and are becoming increasingly popular. Which breeds are very small and what they bring in terms of character, care, and health can be found out here.
Which breed is the smallest?
Among all the →small dog breeds, the question often arises as to which one is the smallest. With a height starting from 15 cm, the Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world.
Chihuahua
The →Chihuahua is known as a colorful dog and is also quite small. With its 15 to 30 centimeters, it is the quintessential small dog and belongs to the mini dog breeds. It is very lively, friendly and lives by the motto: Small but mighty!
Since mini dog breeds often suffer from physical problems due to their small size, the Chihuahua frequently deals with "*Patella Luxation*" (kneecap dislocation), which manifests as limping and pain. When choosing a Chihuahua, it is also important to ensure that it is not a "Teacup Chihuahua" bred to be extra small, which falls under cruel breeding practices. With a weight of under 2 kg in adult dogs, organ damage, early death, and loss of consciousness are not uncommon.
Bichon Frisé
With its snow-white, curly coat, the Bichon Frisé looks like a true little superstar as a mini dog breed. Although this small dog served as a companion dog, it is now often found as a family dog. No wonder: Its nature is friendly and affectionate. Due to its curious and very intelligent nature, it is eager for →extensive training despite its small size.
Bichon Frisés are considered robust small dogs. Rarely is "Patella Luxation" observed here, which can be prevented by obtaining confirmation from the breeder that the parent dogs are free from this disease.
Bolonka Zwetna
The →Bolonka Zwetna is very popular as a mini dog breed due to its cuddly appearance. This small dog breed is very people-oriented, friendly, and gets along excellently with humans and animals. Only being alone is difficult for this social dog.
Despite its size, the Bolonka proves to be very robust. However, with irresponsible breeding, this furry friend is also prone to kneecap dislocation. Additionally, hip dysplasia with limited function in the hip can occur, as well as Progressive Retinal Atrophy, where the dog goes blind over a long period. Therefore, the key when choosing small dog breeds like the Bolonka is a thorough discussion with the breeder and avoiding hobby breeding.
Mini Dachshund
With a character similar to that of the standard dachshund, the very present →Mini Dachshund is always alert, loves long walks in nature, and has certainly mastered the dachshund look. Despite its independence and stubbornness, the Mini Dachshund is a loving companion who is very people-oriented.
Due to its long back, the Mini Dachshund is at risk of developing what is known as dachshund paralysis. This specific herniated disc is hereditary and arises from the short legs combined with a long back.
Preventively, owners can rely on responsible breeding, maintain a healthy weight, and pay attention to →the right diet to protect the back and avoid climbing stairs. It is also advisable to use a dog ladder for getting onto sofas and beds to relieve the back.
Kleine Portion, großer Geschmack - Pets Deli MINI
Toy Poodle & Mini Poodle
The →Mini Poodle (from 28 cm) or Toy Poodle (up to 28 cm) is a mini dog breed with the typical curly coat. The miniature poodle is a true all-rounder: Not only is it particularly smart and trainable, but it also has plenty of energy and is up for extensive play in water and on land. This is not surprising, as its larger counterparts are known for their work as water dogs.
Health-wise, Mini Poodles and Toy Poodles occasionally struggle with Progressive Retinal Atrophy or cataracts. Here too, proper breeding excludes sick parent animals and thus reduces the chance of the disease being passed on.
Mini Dog Breeds and Small Dog Breeds: When Does Being Small Become a Burden (Breeding)?
As you could gather from the health characteristics, mini dog breeds often suffer from specific diseases. Particularly, kneecap dislocation stands out, which is indeed due to the desire for the smallest possible dog breeding. Hip problems are also increasingly common here.
It is therefore important when choosing a small dog that breeding practices that aim to produce ever smaller dog breeds are not supported. Even inherently mini breeds like the Chihuahua are primarily bred in countries like Japan and Brazil.
However, not only physical limitations are noticeable, but also the behavior of very small dog breeds. It is evident that this is increasingly moving towards undesirable traits and is more frequently observed than in (larger) standard breeds. The trend towards extra small dog breeds also brings the following health consequences for the minis:
- Dental diseases due to too small a mouth
- Heart diseases
- Vaccination reactions due to low weight
