Every small dog has individual needs. Since your little "baby" can't tell you what it's feeling, as a parent, it's important to understand its unique characteristics. We've made it easy for you to recognize your small dog's needs by listing ten "little nuggets about small dogs" in the reference guide below. To learn more about each topic, simply click on the links for detailed articles that outline how to give your small dog special attention at each life-stage throughout your years together.

Puppy Growth
Small breed puppies grow rapidly in a short period of time. In fact, they become fully grown in approximately 9 months. In the early stages of puppyhood, it's important to provide your small dog puppy with a diet that is concentrated in the right nutrients.

This will help your precious pooch build and maintain a strong and healthy body, and a solid immune system.

Energy Requirements Despite their size, small breed dogs require lots of energy. However, if you've noticed that your small dog is the toughest food critic around, you're not alone. Small dogs tend to be fussy. That's why it's not often that they fully complete their meals. This may be due to the diversity that they may be offered for meals and snacks. Small dogs know what they love - and want more of it. But, always remember to keep their metabolism in mind and ensure that you do not exceed daily caloric requirements. Otherwise, you could wind up with a very pudgy pooch, which can be detrimental to its long-term health and wellbeing. See if your small dog is under - or overweight.

Oral Health
Since teeth are more compacted into a small dog's small mouth, it may be prone to oral health problems and related bad breath. That's why your small dog needs proper oral care. Although brushing your small dog's teeth may be challenging, it is necessary to remove plaque to help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis from occurring. Get tips on how to polish its pearly whites.

Digestive Tract
Since small dogs have lower digestibility and digest their food quickly, it's critical that your little companion has an energy-rich and nutrient-dense diet. Specifically, your small dog's food should be rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to maximize their nutrient absorption.

Urinary Conditions Calcium oxalate (bladder stones) is more common in small breed dogs. A diet with added moisture can benefit your precious pooch. Adding wet food to its diet on a daily basis, can contribute to its water intake. Ensure that fresh water is also available for your small dog at all times. For healthy and tasty options, try Cesar® entrées for small dogs! Get the healthy scoop on wet food.

Aging Because small dogs tend to have a long lifespan (on average 15 years), it puts them at a greater risk of experiencing health conditions that are associated with advanced aging. In fact, small dogs spend a relatively long percentage of their lifespan as an adult and senior dog. Common health issues that aging small dogs may experience include: tooth and gum disease, heart conditions, skin problems, ear infections and eye disorders. Feeding them the right food to meet their specific needs at each life-stage can help promote health and longevity.

Bones and Joints
Small dogs generally encounter joint and mobility issues with aging. It's important that they get the proper nutrients they need to help keep their muscles strong and their joints mobile. The use of products that include Glucosamine and Chondroitin can help enable joint health and mobility.

Another way you can help your small dog not stress its little body is to prevent it from jumping off of furniture or high surfaces. The impact of landing may be hurtful to its joints. Get to know each breed, up close and personal.

Skin and Coat
Many small dogs suffer from a wide range of skin and coat ailments. By grooming your small dog frequently, brushing it daily, and having a professional groomer help maintain your grooming routine, you can help your small friend's coat and skin stay healthy and shiny. Also, by feeding your small dog a diet rich in Omega fatty acids and vitamins, you can help promote skin and coat health.

Vision
Small dogs are also prone to eye problems, such as cataracts, blindness, protruding eyes and leakage. There are many ways you can help prevent infection! Learn about proper eye care.

Personalities and Temperament
Small dogs certainly have a lot of character! They tend to be curious, loving and playful. And, with their high-pitched barks, they're definitely determined to get their point across! By learning what brings out the best in your small dog, you can meet its specific needs even better. Understand your small dog's behaviour.

Your little companion is certainly one-of-a-kind! And, by taking the time to understand its unique characteristics, you'll not only learn how to give your special friend the exclusive care and training it needs, but you will exceed its expectations and foster the beautiful bond you share!


The information above is of a general nature, and may be used as a handy guide to help you monitor your pet's well being and development. It should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. All decisions regarding your pet are your responsibility.