The most
obvious characteristic of toy dogs is their diminutive size.
This is why toy dogs are also described as “lap dogs”. That
is, a toy dog can spend many hours nestled on the lap of its
owner. The small size also makes it convenient for the owner
bring his toy dog wherever he wants to go.
The main reason why toy dogs are bred is the
companionship that these dogs offer. In the eighteenth and nineteenth
centuries, many members of the nobility, like counts, barons,
and dukes, bred toy dogs that are trained to faithfully stay
by the side of their masters. The ladies in court have also
popularized the ownership of toy dogs. These dogs offer friendship
which is not tinted by political agenda or social motives.
Toy dogs are also known for their intelligence.
This is because these dogs are sensitive to the needs of their
masters. A gesture of the master can signal a toy dog to do
something specific. But the owner of the toy dog must be cautious
in showering too much attention to his toy dog. This is because
toy dogs have a tendency to be possessive. A stranger getting
within an arm’s distance may induce a toy dog to show aggression.
Ideally, a toy dog should be outgoing and extroverted.
Since these dogs are meant to accompany their masters, they
should be tolerant, if not friendly towards the masters’ cronies.
If there are other dogs around, a toy dog should establish cordial
relationships with his fellow pets.
A toy dog is also affectionate. It will enjoy
any display of love given by his master. In fact, it will look
forward to such moments when it can express its love towards
its master. Some owners of toy dogs even claim that a toy dog
has a special bark for welcoming its master. But not all toy
dogs are affectionate. This is because some dogs, even if not
bred for companionship, are considered toy dogs because of the
small size.
Due to its size, a toy dog does not need to
be exercised often. Even for toy dogs with high energy, running
around a relatively small space will be sufficient. Toy dogs
can also be extremely competitive, especially in the areas of
Obedience and Agility. For example, a Papillon can successfully
carry out tracking.
Many toy dogs, however, are choosy when it
comes to their food. This is one problem that the owner has
to resolve immediately, because a good diet is necessary for
the dog’s health. Despite this little problem, many experts
still consider toy dogs as the best choice for first-time dog
owners.
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