Although all dogs require certain care to have a good quality of life, in the case of small dogs there is specific care that you should take into account. In general, small dogs tend to have a faster body rate than large breeds. This means that their metabolism works faster than that of a large breed dog. Let’s see how to take care of your dog if it is small.
- Food. Dogs need quality food at all times, but in the case of small dogs, they should consume energy foods that can help counteract the accelerated body rhythm they have. Also take into account that since it is a small animal, it will not be able to eat very large pieces of food. In the market you can find food options designed especially for small breeds. This type of food is usually more energetic than that of large breeds, since it is designed according to each dog.
- Take care of your heart. Specialists say that small breeds have more heart problems than large dogs. In fact, one statistic states that heart disease affects six out of ten small dogs. To avoid problems, it is best to have regular check-ups with your veterinarian. It is also advisable to be aware of the dog’s panting, as excessive panting could be a symptom of a problem.
- Cold is not your friend. Small breed dogs often have problems controlling outdoor temperatures. In general, dogs only need their fur to protect themselves from the cold outside. But, some small breeds with less dense coats can suffer from the cold and even have hypothermia. This is frequent in dogs of less than two kilos, such as the yorkshire. You can provide your dog with warm clothing to protect it from the cold winter temperatures.
- Sport is health. The recommendation to practice sports is common to any breed of dog. It is always important that your pet, whatever its size, gets regular exercise. Simply by taking a walk every day you can greatly improve your physical condition. It is also important to remember that a walk can strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner and both will be happier. You can also take your dog to special dog parks and let him enjoy the company of other dogs as well as the doggy treats available.
- Hygiene. This advice applies equally to any dog, large or small. But with small dogs there is some additional care such as dental care. In fact, small breeds such as Pekingese tend to have more delicate teeth that are more susceptible to damage and deterioration. To avoid this, you should brush their teeth on a regular basis and perform routine medical check-ups. You should also bathe your dog with a shampoo suitable for its coat type. It is important to pay attention to the nails, which should preferably be trimmed by a professional to avoid problems.
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