Breeds of small smooth-haired dogs

Smooth dogs of small size are ideal for keeping in an apartment, especially if it is small. Caring for such a pet is minimal, they are not demanding, but become loyal and loyal friends.

Dog's coat is not only the protection of the skin from weather phenomena, but also a characteristic feature of the exterior of the animal. In accordance with the size of the coat and the presence of the undercoat, there is a relative classification that divides the dogs into three groups:

• short-haired - not having a undercoat;
• long-haired - with a well-developed undercoat;
• naked - characterized by a complete lack of wool.

In addition, smooth hair is usually found in dogs with short hair, because they have no or very poorly developed undercoat. It is more practical and convenient to keep such animals in conditions of city apartments. The coat of smooth-haired breeds is short, 2-2.5 cm, closely adjacent to the body, glossy, but it can be somewhat harsh to the touch. Due to the lack of undercoat in the wool does not form mats, it practically does not fade.

Such animals always look neat and well-groomed, although minimal effort is expended on keeping them. Wool, especially in dogs with a dark color, shiny, shimmering in the light. Negative points include the need to wear a pet in warm clothes in cold weather, because without a fur undercoat the dog does not warm up well. Due to the inability of short hair to protect the skin from external influence, this purpose is fulfilled by subcutaneous fat.

Some inconveniences are caused by stiff bristles, which may be embedded in upholstered furniture or clothing. But the main feature of small smooth-haired breeds of dogs is their compactness, they do not need a lot of space. Although the small size does not prevent them from perfectly performing the role of a watchman, and if necessary, protect themselves or the owner. Also, ease of care and touching appearance play in their favor when choosing a pet.

A rather large number of small breeds of dogs belong to the smooth-haired.

• Chihuahua - the smallest dog with smooth hair. The crumb weighs from 0.5 to 3.5 kg, color predominantly reddish or beige. Representatives of the breed are listed in the Guinness book, as the smallest dogs. Despite the tiny size, they are distinguished by courage and curiosity, their character is rather calm. Stress and negative emotions are bad for these pets, so it’s better to protect dogs from such factors.

• French Bulldog has a compact body, flattened face and erect ears. In height, it can reach 35 cm, and weight is 8-15 kg. Jackets are black, brown, beige or fawn. They have a cheerful disposition and activity. Very friendly dogs, but without hesitation will rush to protect the house or the owner in case of danger. Pretty easy to train.

• Boston terrier considered an ideal companion. The breed belongs to one of the most loving and affectionate, they get along great with both adults and children.The special structure of the face often causes breathing problems, and the eyes also need special care. In cold weather, the dog needs warm clothes.

• Basenji A graceful dog with a unique ability - it does not know how to bark. Instead of barking, she makes sounds more like rumbling or snorting. Representatives of the breed is characterized by extreme cleanliness, they wash their paw like cats. In height can grow up to 43 cm. Another feature of Basenji can be called a twisted tail. Dogs are afraid of confined spaces and avoid water.

• Fox terrier with smooth hair may have a different color: white, brown, beige or pale yellow with spots of different colors. Wool is thicker. Dogs of this breed have a rather high intelligence, endurance, friendliness and hunting abilities, but rather capricious.

• Toy Fox Terrier Despite its tiny size, it has a well-toned and harmoniously folded body. The dog weighs from 1 to 4 kg, but the tiny head and thin limbs give the impression that the dog is extremely fragile and delicate, almost weightless. The color is mostly white, there may be spots of other colors. The breed does not tolerate cold, it is very sensitive to high humidity. By nature, these crumbs are born leaders who love to dominate.

• Russian toy terrier belongs to the decorative rocks and is characterized by a lively character and high activity. Coat color can vary from dark (brown, black) to beige with a light blue tint. With growth of 20-28 cm weigh 1.3-3 kg.

• Beagle belongs to the hunting breeds, therefore it is characterized by a strong skeleton and muscles. By nature, they adore workouts and action games. Their weight can reach 12-18 kg. From the representatives of this breed are very loyal and intelligent friends. Beagle treats children with special love and kindness, he can spend hours tirelessly with them.

• Jack Russell Terrier also a hunting breed, which is also well suited for guard and guard duty. Dogs have an independent character, which can manifest itself with a lack of education. They treat children affectionately, they love to play with them, but they show aggression towards other dogs. The color of the breed is white with spots of reddish or black color.

• Miniature Pinscher or miniature pinscher belongs to the German breeds. Initially, the dog was taken out to catch rats and small animals, but today these nimble and intelligent dogs serve as companions for long walks or amateur hunting. In color predominate brownish-red or black and tan shades. An adult pinscher weighs an average of 4.5–5 kg with a growth of 24–30 cm. Dogs are sensitive to high and low temperatures, so they must have access to water in summer and warm clothing in winter.

• Pug characterized by a compact, dense physique of several square shape, wide forehead with folds and firm gait. The tail of the animal is heavily curled. The shiny "coat" can be black in color or beige with a black face. Pugs weigh 6-10 kg, because of their low activity, they are prone to obesity, so the dog's food should be in control. Differs breed undemanding in the care, characteristic laziness and passivity, but at the same time the animals are very loving and good-natured.

• Dachshund refers to the burrowing hunting dogs, thanks to the short paws and long body, it is ideal for such a role. The animal is extremely energetic, independent, possessing a sharp mind and an even temper. In relation to the owner shows incredible loyalty and loyalty, demanding in return communication. The dog's head is elongated, with drooping ears, the body is long, with wide, squat limbs. Wool can be different colors: from all sorts of shades of brown to black with tan.

• Prague rat or ratlik - Czech breed of dogs with dark short hair. On the head of an animal, the coat is somewhat less and shorter than on the rest of the body. The dog is very active, fearless and at the same time very friendly. The breed competes with the Chihuahua for the title of the smallest. Coat color is brown, red and black tones with tan.

• Italian greyhound or small Italian greyhound, has a thick, dense, but extremely soft coat. Differs playful, reckless nature, loves attention to himself and communication. Weight varies within 5 kg. Gray, beige and black colors, as well as their shades, prevail in color.

Smooth-haired dogs of small sizes are ideal pets for city apartments. They do not need much space, special care, and they are characterized by boundless devotion and love for the owner. Animals with short hair are very clean, do not need special care. Many smooth-haired dogs do not like long walks, they may well get used to the tray. .

Especially for families with small children are suitable:

• Jack Russell Terrier;
• the beagle
• boston terrier

Active people should choose the following breeds:

• fox terrier;
• Russian toy terrier;
• the beagle
• miniature pinscher;
• dachshund;
• greyhound

But pugs are more suitable for those who do not like noise and fuss. Despite their miniature parameters, all breeds of small dogs are quite capable without hesitation to protect the house and owner. They are characterized by such traits as courage and courage. Whichever breed you choose, the animal must be healthy. Wool should not have bald patches, the main feature of normal wool is soft texture and silkiness.

Caring for small indoor breeds is somewhat different from the size of a larger dog. This is due to the fact that they have an accelerated metabolism. Because of this feature, they need food that contains a large amount of protein. According to their physiology, crumbs can't wait long for a walk, for this reason it is better to have a tray at home. In cold weather, smooth-haired dogs should be put on for a walk, as they get cold pretty quickly and can easily catch a cold.

For small dogs there are no developed training methods, but still elementary knowledge is better learned. An important feature in keeping mini-dogs is the amount of food. The stomach of such dogs is tiny, so they do not need a lot of food, even if the pet is begging. Overfeeding them is not worth it, most breeds are prone to excess weight. You need to give food twice a day, but clean water must be constantly.

After walks your pet needs to wash its paws. To put in order a smooth-haired small dog is much easier than any other. Ears and teeth should also be regularly inspected and do not forget to clean. Wool should be combed about once a week. A rubber brush or silicone mitt is well suited for this. When a dog sheds, it is better to perform combing every day, in addition, this procedure has massage properties and improves the condition of the coat. After that, you can wipe the animal with a piece of soft fabric in the direction of the growth of the villi - this way the wool is polished and shine appears.

Smooth-haired dogs are very clean, so they do not need to be bathed often, quite enough 3-4 times a year with the use of special shampoos. If you need to clean the wool, it is simply rubbed with a wet towel. Short coat dries very quickly and without the use of a hair dryer. Having chosen a smooth-haired crumbs, you never regret - a more faithful and loving friend can not be found.

On the features of the breed pug in the video below.