| Toy dog breeds include greyhounds, terriers, | | | | because they have different coat |
| pinschers, pugs, chihuahuas, pekingese, | | | | characteristics, but because there is less |
| spaniels--the official list of the AKC is | | | | dog! All sides of dog care are smaller: from |
| quite extensive. Regardless of breed, toy | | | | cleaning to clean-up and food consumed to |
| dogs are desired for their cuteness and | | | | food expelled.Historically, toy dog breeds |
| cuddle-ability. Many retain the | | | | were used as companion dogs. They were |
| characteristics of a puppy for their entire | | | | friendly and alert, yet willing to be held |
| lives. This may be one of the big attractions | | | | and petted. They are very comforting and can |
| that toy dog breeds hold over larger breed | | | | bring peace to an owner. Nursing homes and |
| dogs.Diminutive size, however, does not mean | | | | adult care facilities have found toy dog |
| that toy dog breeds are less hardy. Once | | | | breeds to be soothing for their patients. |
| safely past puppyhood, their energy levels | | | | Contrary to common perception, there is no |
| and enthusiasm rival any breed of dog. Some | | | | law preventing animals from living in nursing |
| are excellent watch dogs, but they won't be | | | | homes. It is up to the eldercare facility to |
| able to follow through preventing entry of an | | | | allow--or disallow--pets. The calming |
| intruder. The hue and cry of toy dog breeds | | | | influence of any pet, especially one that |
| can be enough to make your hair stand on | | | | will transfer affections to everyone equally, |
| end!There are several advantages to toy dog | | | | is a wonderful aid for patient facilities.You |
| breeds. Besides the ease of handling a | | | | don't have to reside in an eldercare facility |
| smaller sized dog, they are more appropriate | | | | to enjoy toy dog breeds. They do provide |
| for apartment dwellers because they do not | | | | companionable joy for many who otherwise |
| require as much exercise space as a large | | | | would be concerned about space, exercise and |
| dog. Additionally, toy dog breeds usually | | | | care requirements of a larger breed of dog. |
| shed less than their larger counterparts--not | | | | |