April 27th is Little Pampered Dog Day! While we love seeing any pups getting pampered, smaller pooches often really hit the jackpot when it comes to living a charmed life. Many toy breeds were developed specifically to be companion dogs. These little guys are often super affectionate and cuddly, and just want to be cuddled 24/7. A Seminole, FL veterinarian discusses little pampered pups below.

Choosing Fido

Are you interested in adopting a small dog? Do some research before picking your new canine buddy. These guys are all cute, but they can have very distinct personalities. Breed definitely plays a role here. Chihuahuas, for instance, can actually be quite aggressive, despite their small size. 

Training

Fido may be tiny, but that doesn’t mean he’s exempt from training. It’s important for him to obey commands such as Sit, Stay, and Come. You need to be able to stop him from running off or charging larger dogs.

Food

Obesity is a common issue with small dogs. Even giving Fido ten calories too much a day can cause him to gain a pound a year. That’s a lot for a pint-sized pooch! Stick with food and treats that were specifically made for small dogs. Pay close attention to portion control, too!

Exercise

Fido needs exercise, just like any other dog. However, a vigorous hike will probably be too much for him. Many little dogs get a pretty good workout just running around the house on their little legs.

Safety

There are a few health and safety concerns for small dog owners to be aware of. For instance, these guys are prone to eye injuries. Because they’re so close to the ground, they can get dust and debris in their eyes very easily. They are also at risk from predators. Don’t leave Fido alone in the yard, and avoid walking him near lakes or ponds that could be housing gators. 

Environment

Small dogs are very vulnerable to broken bones and similar injuries. Most Golden Retrievers can easily jump off a bed without hurting themselves, but that’s a long fall for a Pomeranian. We recommend using pet ramps and stairs. You may also want to crate train him, so you can keep him out of the way when needed.

As your Seminole, FL pet hospital, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your canine pal happy and healthy. Call us anytime!