When it comes to dogs, smaller doesn’t necessarily mean easier. If you have a small dog, you already know they come with big personalities, but did you know they also come with specific care needs? Whether you have a feisty Chihuahua, a loyal Yorkie, or a playful Pomeranian, catering to your dog’s unique needs will help ensure they live their best lives. Here are a few tips for taking care of your tiny canine.
Keep Them at a Comfortable Temp
Did you know that many small dogs were bred to be lapwarmers for royalty? It’s ironic given that smaller dogs tend to lose body heat more quickly. On chilly days, turn the thermostat up a bit to keep them cozy, and put them in a warm sweater when heading out for that walk. Heat waves are no picnic for small dogs either. When the mercury rises, lower the risk of heat stroke by keeping them hydrated with a dog fountain and turning on the AC. If you live somewhere with extreme temperatures and are away from home often, consider investing in an indoor pet camera that lets you keep an eye on them when you aren’t there.
Watch What They Eat
Small dogs need a small number of calories each day, so it can be easy to overfeed them. Even a few extra snacks can lead to excess weight, which increases the risk of health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoarthritis. Some little breeds, like Dachshunds, Scottish Terriers, and Pugs, are also genetically prone to weight gain. So ask your vet how much food your dog should be eating, use an automatic dog feeder to make sure they get the right portions at the right times, and go easy on the treats.
Take Care of Those Tiny Teeth
A small dog means a small mouth crowded with small teeth. This overcrowding makes it harder for you to clean between their teeth and easier for plaque and tartar to build up. Combat this by staying on top of your dog’s dental care. Get your pup used to having their teeth brushed early on with a toothbrush for small dogs and a dog-safe toothpaste. Dental chews and annual vet cleanings can also help keep those tiny chompers clean.
Provide the Structure They Crave
Some small breeds may have begun as lapdogs, but many were always meant to work. So it’s no surprise that many small dogs—corgis, beagles, and terriers for example—thrive on training, structure, and positive reinforcement, just like bigger dogs do. In fact, they tend to be quite intelligent, learning new tricks and rules quickly. Want to see if those lessons are sticking? Try a pet camera to capture and correct behavior problems early on.
Right-Size Their Exercise
While small dogs need a lot of playtime to burn off all that outsized energy, they don’t need nearly as much space to play as larger dogs. Besides their regular walks, keep them mentally and physically fit with indoor games and backyard play. Since little dogs can still build a big thirst, help them stay hydrated around the clock with fresh, filtered water from an automatic dog fountain.
Your small dog needs just as much care and attention as their bigger counterparts, maybe even more so. Keep them happy and thriving with the right small dog strategies and smart pet care. These tiny dynamos bring immense love, joy, and friendship to our lives. These tips will help you do the same for them.
Read More
- How to house your dog while you're away on vacation？
- How to keep peace in a multi-pet household?
- 3 Steps to Ease Your Dog's Separation Anxiety
