Your Next Pet – 3 Small Dogs Compared
April 3, 2009 by admin
Filed under Uncategorized
Unless you have a particular type of dog in mind, it isn’t easy deciding which breed to purchase. The first step is to look at what size dog you’d like. Do you have the space for a large dog? Or is your house small? Small dogs can provide great friendship. And there is a lot of variety in the temperament and look of a small dog. Whilst toy dogs are amongst the most well known of the small dogs, there are others that bear more resemblance to their larger canine siblings.
I’ll run through 3 different breeds in this article – whippets, brussels griffons, and welsh terriers.
Brussels Griffon Dog Breed
The human-like eyes of the brussels griffon are believed to have been part of what led George Lucas, of Star Wars fame, to create the Ewoks. Looking at these cute dogs, you can see the kinship.
Brussels griffons are particularly sensitive and devoted dogs who will bond with one person in particular. They should be socialized when they are young pups. Their sensitivity and one-person nature make them a better choice for childless couples, singles, and the elderly than those looking for a family pet.
Brussels griffon get along well with other animals, particularly cats. You will need to keep an eye out on how they interact with bigger dogs, however. Unaware of their size, they may challenge for dominance, with fights ensuing.
Welsh Terrier Information
Welsh terriers have been described as calm for a terrier, but perhaps not as calm as other dogs. They are sturdy looking dogs with quite a big personality, particularly the boys. They are affectionate, curious, outgoing, joyous, and without fear.
Historically, Welsh terriers were used to control rats and other vermin, and as a result welsh terriers love to chase things – including cats. Consequently, if you already have a cat, or are planning on getting one, this may not be the ideal dog for your family.
Great with children, welsh terriers need a backyard where they can’t escape as they have a predilection for digging, and may thus escape. When taking your welshie for a walk, be sure he stays on the leash, because his road sense when distracted by fun is not good at all.
Welsh terriers need quite a commitment from their owners. They have to have regular grooming, and get bored if left by themselves for the normal workday. They probably suit someone with a part time job rather than a full time job. When they’re bored, they can cause destruction around the house.
Whippet Dog Breed
Whippets belong to the family of dogs known as sighthounds, which are named because they hunt using sight and speed instead of smell. These elegant looking dogs are petite, with heights that span 17.5 to 20 inches. And the whippet dog breed look just like miniature greyhounds!
Whippets have been described as being like toy dogs in nature, liking nothing better than curling up on your lap. They are very loyal to their owner, though still friendly to strangers and children. Whippets are gentle dogs, and as such they have been used in aged care homes.
Whippets need to be kept indoors. With such thin coats, they will be too cold outside, and they have a strong bond to their owners. If you’re prepared to exercise them regularly, they are great for apartment living.
