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Small dogs - 9+1 tips for their care!

Small dogs such as Maltese, Chihuahuas and Poodles are very popular for those who live in cities, as they easily adapt to the environment of an apartment. However, just because they are small doesn't mean they need less care. In fact, small dogs require more care, as their needs are often overlooked due to their size.

Below we have collected the ten most important care tips for small dogs, so that you can offer your beloved four-legged friend the best.

yorkshire dog sitting lying down

Nutrition and obesity prevention

Understandably, small dogs need much less food than large dogs, but we don't always pay attention to this. Especially if someone is used to the amounts that large dogs eat, it is possible to put a lot more food in their small dog's bowl than is needed.

It is essential to give your dog a quality food specifically for small dogs , which is rich in protein and offers the dog all the necessary nutrients for good health. After all, don't forget that a small dog needs a lot more energy to do the smallest thing than a big dog.

However, you should be careful with the dosage to avoid obesity.

Choosing the right food bowl

A small dog should eat and drink water from small bowls that fit its size. These bowls are also suitable for your dear friend's croquettes, since they are smaller in size.

See here a wide variety of food bowls, to choose the right one.

Proper education

Training is something that is often overlooked by owners of small dogs, as aggression or disobedience may not seem as much of a problem as with a large dog. However, small dogs usually have a special character with high energy.

Thus, positive training can benefit them, make them feel calmer and ultimately turn them into excellent companions for the whole family.

long-haired chihuahua sitting in an armchair in the sun

Food supplements

Small dogs often show arthritic problems, as they put extra effort into every movement. Imagine how hard it is for a five-pound dog to jump on the sofa that looks like a theoretic!

Thus, a joint nutritional supplement will prevent such problems and keep your pooch's joints healthy into old age.

Safety on the ride

It is good to use a dog leash and not a collar during the walk. And that's because the pressure exerted by a small dog on the pull may seem negligible to you, but for him it is intense.

Thus, he can injure his neck with the sudden movements, which can be avoided by using a muzzle that harmoniously hugs the dog's sternum and back.

dog with toothbrush in mouth

Dog bed

As we mentioned above, it is very difficult for a small dog to climb on the sofa or other furniture, and of course it is also dangerous and can lead to injuries. So it is good for your dog to have a comfortable bed or pillow where he can feel safe and sleep undisturbed and comfortable.

Lots of games and activities

Small dogs are highly energetic and playful, but we often neglect this side of them as we think of them as apartment dogs.

It is extremely important for their mental and physical health that you provide them with plenty of dog toys , both stuffed and rubber, as well as long-lasting ones that offer opportunities for the dog to be active even when you are away from home.

Everyday hairstyle

The coat of small dogs needs special care, especially in breeds that are long-haired. Therefore, it is good to comb your dog daily with a soft brush during the summer months.

Bath and haircut

However, combing is not enough to prevent knots and dead hair build-up on your pooch. Bathing him with a special dog shampoo and conditioner will keep his coat and skin soft, which is especially important since small dogs have sensitive coats.

Of course, regular grooming is a habit that will help the dog feel cool and comfortable in the hot weather.

Dog clothes

It is very difficult for small dogs to maintain the correct body temperature when it is cold or very humid. Dog clothes , therefore, will become the favorite accessory for the walk, keeping your pooch warm and safe but also... stylish.

Raincoats are ideal for autumn and spring showers, but for winter we recommend woolen clothes , sweatshirts and jackets for extra protection from the cold.


Find at Petastero everything you will need to care for your small dog at very low prices and discounts all year round!
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Written by: Antonia Garifalos

Antonia Garifalos is a specialist pet care, nutrition and behavior consultant , born in Athens. He grew up in a house that was (and is more or less) a small Ark. Thus, he specialized in the care of pets as well as in their behavior, being the holder of the corresponding Pet Care & Pet Behavior diplomas of the ACS of Australia.

At the same time, her thirst for knowledge led her to deal with the nutritional part as well, receiving the corresponding Advanced Canine & Feline Nutrition diploma from the Animal Care College . He writes articles in many popular online magazines such as HuffingtonPost.gr , jenny.gr , i-efimerida.gr , fe-mail.gr , shape.gr and others, where he shares tips for your favorite pets!

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