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