Toy Dogs

Toy Dogs are generally the result of a very advanced culture. On the whole, the more advanced a culture, the more diverse and unusual its dogs are and the further they are from the natural state. In the most primitive cultures the only dogs that are often found are primitive dog breeds, breeds that have been affected least by selective breeding by man, and more by natural selection. A more advanced culture will develop sighthounds or huskies. Still more advanced cultures have had mastiffs, scenthounds, and other dogs that hardly resemble the wolf ancestor at all. As a culture advances, more people in the society have more leisure, and dogs and other animals are more likely to be kept as companions rather than as working dogs.

The most advanced cultures in the world developed the toy breeds. Practically all the toy breeds, with the sole exception being the Chihuahua, were developed in the highly advanced civilizations of Europe or East Asia. Even the Chihuahua was developed by Mexican Indian civilizations, which were highly advanced, even if less so than Europe and East Asia.

Toy dogs are not necessarily directly related to each other, though with the crossbreeding that has taken place in the last two centuries, for the purpose of developing new kinds of toy dogs, the toy dog group has become one big family tree. Even so, however, toy dogs come from almost every single dog family. The French Bulldog is a toy mastiff; the Italian Greyhound, a toy sighthound; the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a toy gundog; and the Lhasa Apso, a toy herding dog. Basically these are miniaturized members of their own respective dog families. In fact, toy dogs are derivative of every major dog family except for the scenthounds (Some consider the Miniature Dachshund to be a toy dog because of its small size. I, however, have covered it in the discussion on scenthounds, because it was created as a working dog and is still used as such. Toy dogs are strictly companion dogs. However, many of the endearing qualities of the toy breeds can also be found in the Miniature Dachshund.).

In Europe, toy dogs originally had a functional purpose. Life in the late Middle Ages was considerably less sanitary than it is today. Humans often had flees. Little dogs would sit on the laps of humans in the hope that the flees would leave the humans and go onto the dogs instead. This is where the term "lap dog" came from. However, as time went by, the purpose of the lap dogs became pure companionship. These little dogs may have originally had some functional purpose but as they were bred more for companionship, the preferences were for cuter looks and more puppy-like personalities. Some breeds, like the Italian Volpino, also became useful as sentinels. Gradually, the little lap dogs became the pampered little pets we know today, with their elegant appearances. At first, the toy dogs were only kept by the aristocracy, but later, as the general population of Europe and America became wealthier and developed higher standards of living, toy dogs became common in middle class households as well.

In other parts of the world, toy dogs developed as sacred animals. Most of the toy dogs of the east were originally features of Buddhist and Taoist shrines and temples. The Chihuahua was originally a sacred dog of the Mexican Indian civilizations. The Pekingese was the royal dog of Imperial China and could only be found in the Forbidden City of Peking. Eventually these toy dogs became popular among Europeans and European-origin societies as well and joined the miniaturized dogs that the Europeans already had.

Toy dogs have been bred for looks as well as for personalities. Consequently, many of these breeds exhibit extremes of type. All are of small size and some of them are tiny, the smallest dogs that ever existed. Some have thick, rich coats and others have very slender limbs. Some toy breeds have such short muzzles that they actually look flat-faced. This is a trait unique to the toy dog groups; no other group of dogs has such flat muzzles (Some of the mastiffs have short muzzles but always distinct from the head, deep and broad, and never so short as to appear flat. A flat-faced dog simply has no functional working ability.).

Toy dogs are indeed very cute and they can be kept in smaller quarters than any other dogs. Some breeds can be taught to go to the bathroom in the cat litter (Many of these dogs are smaller than cats.). These dogs are mostly long lived as well. However, toy dogs have some drawbacks. They can easily get underfoot and owners need to be cognizant of them so they do not get trod upon (This can also be true for some smaller terriers and for the Miniature Dachshund.). It can take a long time to housebreak a toy dog. Also some breeds tend to compensate for their small size by being very assertive in personality and this can be made worse by the fact that their owners often spoil them. Toy dogs must not be allowed to run the house or they can become little tyrants. They need kind and patient training but need to know that they are not the alpha members of the pack. Finally, many toy breeds are entirely unsuitable for families with small children, as they can not be expected to handle rough treatment.

Toy dogs are practically all increasing in popularity, not only because of their beauty, delightful and lively natures, and cute little antics, but also because they make the perfect dogs for urban dwellers. Some breeds can get all the exercise they need by staying in the apartment and running around in it, though outings and socialization is always a good diversion. Some breeds must be kept as indoor dogs, because they actually are small enough to be subject to predation by birds of prey. They can make wonderful companions for people and cats as well as other little dogs and even, sometimes, big dogs. As the global economy expands, so will the appeal for toy dogs.

1) The Chihuahua. The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed on earth and is probably the smallest dog breed in history. This dog comes from Mexico and, together with its cousin, the significantly larger Xoloitzcuintli, and, like the Xolo, was created by the Indian civilizations of that region. As mentioned before, toy dog breeds appear in advanced civilizations. The Indian civilizations of Mexico were indeed highly advanced. Evidence of very small dogs that look like today's Chihuahuas are found in the archeological remains of Toltec Indian cities. The Toltecs referred to this particular kind of dog as "Techichi". When the Aztec civilization arose, the dogs became important to them as well. Techichis were even found as far north as the Southwestern United States, where Pueblo peoples kept them. They were kept as sacred dogs and were thought by the Indian civilizations to lead the dead to the next world. Sometimes they were also sacrificed. The Chihuahua may be the same dog as the Techichi, but if not, is at least a direct descendant of it and would have been adopted by Western civilization from the Indians. It is difficult to determine exactly what the nature of the Chihuahua's relationship to the Xoloitzcuintli is. I think it is very likely that the Chihuahua and Xolo have the same ancestor but that the Indian civilizations did not desire hairlessness in the little Techichis. Today, the Chihuahua is an extremely popular pet in many different countries.

This smallest of all dog breeds stands 6-9 inches tall and weighs 2-6 pounds. There are Chihuahuas that weigh as much as 11 pounds, but these do not fit the breed standard and no Chihuahua weighing more than 6 pounds can compete in the show ring. The Chihuahua has a straight back, and slender legs, along with a rounded chest. The tail is of moderate length and a rather short neck. The head is a very distinctive characteristic of this breed. The skull is a perfect dome shape, much like that of an apple, and in fact, the Chihuahua is said to have an "apple-dome" head. The eyes are very large and the ears are large, erect, pointed, and bat-like. The stop is very well defined and the muzzle is short, moderately pointed, and somewhat rectangular in shape. Chihuahuas come in two coat types - long and short. Colors include brown, black, blonde, blue, brindle, fawn, black with white spots, and black and tan.

The Chihuahua is the right dog for anyone who is willing and able to spend a lot of time with his or her dog and will give in lots of attention and human contact. Chihuahuas like to be petted and held. They are extremely loving dogs towards their people and love nothing more than to be by the side of anyone in the family. They are demanding of attention and will find ways to get their humans' attention and to manipulate them. Chihuahuas are very good dogs for city dwellers and live very well in an apartment and can even be trained to use the cat litter. Chihuahuas are not outside dogs; they are small enough to be subject to predation from birds of prey and mammalian predators like foxes, so while it is fine to exercise them by taking them on walks in the park (They must be kept on a leash.), they need to be indoor dogs. Within the apartment, they need to be allowed to explore and must have toys to play with.

The Chihuahua is an excellent and amusing companion, not to mention a beautiful one. Keep in mind, however, that this breed is quite delicate and can be easily injured. Care must be taken to walk this breed gently and it must not be kept with toddlers and small children that play exuberantly. This dog likes little balls and toys to play with but it can not be expected to handle rough treatment and any small child that does treat it rough may injure the dog or find himself or herself injured as the dog snaps to defend itself. In addition, the Chihuahua must not be taken out in very cold weather.

Chihuahuas make excellent watchdogs because they are suspicious of strangers. They may be yappy, but when they are with the people they love, they are very happy, calm, and affectionate. The Chihuahua is actually a protective little dog and while some of them need to be kept away from strangers, others can learn to be polite. These dogs can be aggressive towards other dogs and may actually try to fight them, but they can learn to get along well with other dogs in the home. They are best kept with other Chihuahuas or with other little dogs or even large dogs with very calm natures, such as Great Danes or Dogues de Bordeaux. They tend to get along with cats and will play with them, though most cats are larger than most Chihuahuas. They are challenging to train but if done so, can even be trained to do adorable tricks.

Do not believe people who say that the Chihuahua is nasty and vicious. It is not, but is merely territorial. It is a wonderful home companion and an excellent cure for loneliness. It is also a very long-lived dog, whose life span extends well into the teens, with some dogs even living as long as 21. Because the Chihuahua is a very popular dog, it is important to make sure any breeder is a reputable one and screens for inherited genetic problems that tiny breeds suffer from. In addition, avoid any breeder who breeds extra small puppies, including those that advertise "teacup Chihuahuas." These dogs are extremely popular in their home country of Mexico, the United States, Europe, and many many other places. They have delighted countless numbers of people all over the world and will continue to do so.

Here is a Chihuahua website: http://chi-land.com/

2) The Chinese Crested Dog. The Chinese Crested Dog is another miniaturized primitive dog and one of four hairless breeds in the world. It is by far the most popular of the hairless breeds. This dog has been in China at least since the 1500s. It is difficult to say just where it came from. I think it is likely, however, that the gene for hairlessness recurs in primitive dogs but, being a lethal gene, is only likely to survive in cultures that favor the hairless trait. Such cultures include Mexican, Peruvian, Chinese, and African cultures. It is most likely that the Chinese Crested is descended from hairless primitive dogs brought to China from Africa by Chinese merchants. In China it was kept by the aristocracy and in temples.

The Chinese Crested Dog stands 9-13 inches tall and weighs 5-12 pounds. It has a slightly sloping back, a chest of moderate depth, slender legs, and a neck of moderate length. The head is flat-topped and triangular in shape, with a pointed, narrow muzzle that is moderately long. The ears are large, triangular, and erect. As is the case with the Xoloitzcuintli and the Peruvian Inca Orchid, there is a hairless variety of the Chinese Crested breed and a fully coated variety, known as the powder puff. In all three of these breeds, the powder puff is an absolute necessity for the perpetuation of the breed. This is because in all these hairless breeds, the gene for hairlessness is dominant and semi-lethal. The powder puff does not have this gene and so allows the breed to continue. In addition, the hairless dogs in each breed lack front teeth. Powder puffs have them. Any Chinese Crested litter will have hairless puppies and powder puff puppies in it.

The powder puff variety of the Chinese Crested has long and wavy hair, including a cascade of hair hanging off the ears. The hairless variety has the same coat on the legs below the knees, the tip of the tail, the top of the head, and the ears. The upper legs, torso, neck, and muzzle, however, are hairless. Any color or colors are permissible on the coat of this breed. The skin is soft and is brown with pink spots.

The Chinese Crested Dog is a jolly animal to live with. It is clean and can be kept by most people with allergies. They are kept as indoor dogs, and while a yard is not essential for owning this breed, it is nice to have a small yard that they can romp around in for a while. Chinese Crested puppies and very small ones may be subject to predation, but most members of this breed are too large for a bird of prey to effect them. However, the hairless Chinese Cresteds can get sunburned and care must be taken to make sure that their skin is in good shape. In addition, the hairless dogs are very sensitive to the cold weather and if they are taken outside in weather that is even moderately chilly, they will need to wear a doggy sweater. Powder puffs, of course, are in much better shape to handle the cold. However, all Chinese Crested Dogs need to be kept as indoor dogs. This breed is used to pampering and because it looks much like a dainty pony or a tiny deer, it is a wonderful pet for a family with girl children. However, it is not recommended for families with small children, because it can not handle rough treatment. Chinese Cresteds get along well with other dogs and with cats, though other dogs must either be other toy dogs or large dogs with very calm dispositions. Chinese Cresteds like to play with cats but care must be taken to ensure that the cats to not scratch their skin.

Chinese Cresteds specialize in making their people happy. They are sweet and affectionate and like to snuggle and keep warm in their owners' laps. They are fairly quiet dogs and non-destructive. It is polite in public, though some Chinese Cresteds may be shy. Chinese Cresteds have competed well in obedience and agility competitions, though, being a primitive dog, training is challenging and housebreaking can be quite difficult. This is a long-lived breed, living well into the teens and it will provide many hours of affection and devotion throughout its life. Because it enjoys a moderate popularity it is important to be sure that any breeder is a responsible one and knows about the needs of hairless breeds.

Find out more about the Chinese Crested Dog here: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Plains/9985/

3) The Italian Greyhound. The exquisite Italian Greyhound is one of the oldest of toy breeds and is a miniaturized sighthound. It is descended from miniature sighthounds from Greece and Turkey that were probably themselves miniaturized descendants of the Saluki, the Galgo Espanol, or both. Italian Greyhounds were kept in the homes of Italian noblemen and aristocrats in the Middle Ages and became very popular in the 1500s or 1600s. They were probably kept as bed warmers and slept with their owners in their beds at a time when there was no heating in the homes. The Italian Greyhound was later kept by many famous kings and nobles and today has become quite popular in middle and upper class homes in Italy and other European countries, the United States and Canada, Australia, and elsewhere.

The Italian Greyhound stands 13-18 inches tall and weighs 8-13 pounds. It has a typical sighthound body, though one that is much smaller than that of any other sighthound. It has a body of medium length with sloping hindquarters and a deep chest that is not broad. The legs are slender and long and the neck is long as well. The head is flat-topped, slender, and long with a very slight stop and a long, slender muzzle tapering to a point. The tail is skinny and rat like and often held between the legs much like that of any larger sighthound. The coat is short, soft, and glossy and colors include anything, except that brindle dogs and black and tan dogs are disqualified from the show ring.

The Italian Greyhound is perfect for anyone who wants a sweet and sensitive little dog with a refined appearance that is calm. It is a very loving companion that needs to be treated with great sensitivity and adoration, because its feelings are easily hurt. They are also long-lived little dogs and can last as long as 18 years. Many people who own an Italian Greyhound buy another one or more. These are extremely loyal and pack oriented dogs, though sometimes a weak or old Italian Greyhound should be separated from the other ones because it may be injured by the healthier dogs. This, however, depends on each individual Italian Greyhound. They get on very well with other dogs and cats but they should not be kept with larger dogs that are rambunctious. In other words, having Italian Greyhounds with a Bullmastiff or a Fila Brasiliero may work out just fine. Keeping Italian Greyhounds with a more energetic breed like a Dalmatian or an Irish Terrier may not be as good an idea.

Italian Greyhounds are good with older children that are gentle. They are not recommended for families with toddlers or with children that like to roughhouse because they are easily injured. They do best in a home with a small yard, though, as long as they are exercised they can be kept in city apartments. They are indoor dogs and very sensitive to the cold weather and, when taken out for a walk in chilly weather, will need a sweater. Italian Greyhounds have been pampered for generations, but being sighthounds, many of them retain very high prey drives and will chase small animals. Therefore a secure yard is important and walking should be done on a leash. Having a doggy door is the best thing for this breed, because Italian Greyhounds, like many other toy breeds, can be hard to housebreak.

The Italian Greyhound is quite a good watchdog, but they do not bark much and so are quiet dogs. This makes them very appealing to families who like quiet dogs. Care should be taken to make sure that an Italian Greyhound does not get too rambunctious or be played with too rough, because some of these dogs can break their legs easily. A responsible breeder will breed dogs that are less likely to suffer from fractures than those of irresponsible breeders will. Because this breed has gained popularity it is important to ensure that a breeder is a good one or to go to a rescue society.

The Italian Greyhound needs lots of attention and company. This is not a dog to be left alone for long periods of time. As the numbers of people who work from home increases, the Italian Greyhound's popularity may well increase too.

Here are some Italian Greyhound websites:
http://www.italiangreyhound.org/
http://home.earthlink.net/~iglover/

4) The Toy German Spitz and the Pomeranian. The Toy German Spitz is a miniaturized nordic dog, descended from the German Spitz, a breed covered in the section on nordic dogs that has long been used by German farmers as a sentinel and a vermin destroyer. The German aristocracy miniaturized the German Spitz to create this breed, which, in German, is referred to as the Zwergspitz.

The Toy German Spitz stands 7-8.5 inches tall and weighs 4-8 pounds. This tiny dog has a moderate body with a deep chest and straight legs. The head is quite broad and the stop is well defined. The muzzle is short and triangular in shape. The coat is very thick and profuse with a densely feathered tail with a tail curled up over the back of the dog. The ears are erect and triangular but with round, rather than sharp edges. The outer coat is dense and the inner coat is soft. This breed has a thick ruff on the neck. The Toy German Spitz can be black, white, orange, brown, gray, or particolors of the above colors.

The Toy German Spitz is a furry and cute home companion that could be a living teddy bear. It is an excellent pet for people who live in cold climates because it handles the cold weather just fine. However, it is an indoor dog and should only be kept as such, especially as this is another tiny dog that is potentially subject to predation by foxes or hawks. This little dog is an excellent watchdog and is full of spunk and personality, loving to dash around the apartment and play with toys. It gets on well with other little dogs and with cats, though it may try to be dominant. It also travels well, though it may try to chase and catch rodents, so it should be kept on a leash.

The Toy German Spitz is a very beautiful little dog, and is quite popular as a pet, especially for city dwellers, in Germany and some other European countries. It is practically impossible to find it in the United States or the United Kingdom, because its descendant, the Pomeranian, has taken over the limelight in those countries. There is also a toy variety within the American Eskimo breed (Covered in the discussion on nordic dogs) that helps to keep the Toy German Spitz from gaining popularity.

The Pomeranian is the far more popular descendant of the Toy German Spitz and is very well known, especially in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. This tiny spitz was developed in Victorian England from imported Toy German Spitzen. The two breeds still look very much alike, though the Toy German Spitz has a much more rustic appearance and is less exaggerated in physical type and is just a tad larger than the Pomeranian. This breed was favored by Queen Victoria and her interest in it caused great public interest in it.

The Pomeranian is the tiniest of all spitz breeds, standing 7-11 inches tall and weighing 3-8 pounds. It is compact with short little legs and a fairly broad head with a well-pronounced stop and a short muzzle of triangular shape. The eyes are almond shaped and the ears are erect and round. The Pomeranian's tail curls over its back and has very thick plumage. The coat is very plush and double with a harsh outer coat and a soft inner coat. The Pomeranian has a thick collar that gives it a cocky look. Colors include cream, sable, red, orange, brown, black, blue, and any variation of these. Cream and orange are by far the most popular colors.

The Pomeranian is very much an indoor dog and suited very well for apartment dwellers in the city. They always enjoy taking little walks in the park and this can give them all the exercise they need. They get along well with other pets that live in the same home, and they enjoy the company of cats, though some will chase cats they don't know. In addition, they are protective of their home and this makes them very good watchdogs. Pomeranians can be challenging to housebreak, but are generally considered easier than most other toy dogs are. This breed also is less likely to be hyper than many other toy breeds are, though some Pomeranians can become problem barkers.

The Pomeranian is a good dog for people who can spend plenty of time with them. They tend to be cocky and self-assured and they really seem to believe that they are much larger dogs than they really are. The combination of cute appearance and personality attracts people who are not normally attracted to toy dogs, to the Pomeranian. They also are easy care dogs and their fluffy coats really do not require much more than the regular grooming. They require a secure property because they are inquisitive by nature and although their thick coat protects them from the cold weather, they still must be kept indoors, because they are suited to pampering. They are intelligent little dogs, though they can be quite challenging to train and care must be taken not to spoil them or to give them food that is not good for them. Their balanced temperament makes them an excellent choice for an elderly couple who desire an adorable little companion.

Because of the Pomeranian's great popularity, care must be taken to ensure that one is getting a dog from sound breeding stock. Avoid breeders who advertise "teacup Pomeranians" or who breed dogs that are extra small (Below 3 pounds.).

Here is a Pomeranian website: http://www.personal.u-net.com/~galley/

5) The Italian Volpino. The Italian Volpino is a little Italian spitz that was popular among aristocratic families during the Renaissance. One famous owner of the Volpino was Michaelangelo. This little dog is descended from the German Spitzen, nordic dogs that originate in ancient Celtic societies and still exist today. It probably was brought to Italy by German traders who immigrated to the thriving towns of northern Italy. The 20th century was not kind to this breed and interest in it declined. Extinction was averted by the fact that the Volpino was still bred and kept by rural Italian farmers, both as companions and as sentinels. They are very alert little dogs and the slightest little disturbance in the environment would make them yap and would alert the powerful guardian mastiffs, such as the Maremma Sheepdog, Neapolitan Mastiff, and Cane Corso, which were also kept by the farmers. Today the Volpino, whose name means "fox" is once again attaining the popularity it deserves, though at the time of this writing it still has not yet gained any significant popularity outside of Italy.

The Volpino stands 10-12 inches tall and weighs 7-10 pounds. It has a moderately built little body, a short neck, a curled tail that is heavily plumed, and a rather broad head. It has small prick ears, a well-defined stop, and a short, pointed muzzle. The coat is double and very thick and profuse. The Volpino can be white, red, or champagne. This little nordic dog resembles the toy variety of the American Eskimo very closely but differs in having eyes set closer together, a shallower muzzle, and more sharply pointed ears. In addition, the toy variety of the American Eskimo is the same breed as the larger varieties, while the Volpino has no larger varieties.

The Italian Volpino, is, as mentioned before, an excellent watchdog. It also is a mischievous and humorous little companion. It is a clever little dog and can discover ways to manipulate its owners. Care must be taken to ensure that this dog does not take its guardian duties too seriously and not allow any guests into the house. This dog makes a very good playmate and though it is generally an indoor dog, it is a good idea to have a small fenced yard for it to run around in. This breed gets on well with other pets that are family members but may be aggressive to strange animals.

6) The Japanese Spitz. The Japanese Spitz is also descended from the German Spitz and is derivative of German Spitzen brought to Japan in the 1920s. It is thought that these spitzen were crossed with miniaturized Samoyeds. It became popular among wealthy Japanese citizens. This little spitz is Japan's equivalent of the American Eskimo and looks almost identical to an American Eskimo of the miniature variety. It differs from the American Eskimo in being more square-shaped and compact in build and in having a deeper stop. In addition, the American Eskimo is one breed that comes in three varieties, with the toy variety being significantly smaller than the Japanese Spitz and the standard variety being much larger.

The Japanese Spitz stands 13-15 inches tall and weighs 11-13 pounds. It has a compact body with a moderately short neck and straight legs. It has a heavily plumed tail carried over its back. Its head is rather broad with large, slightly slanted eyes, and small, erect, pointed ears. The coat is very plush, thick and double and the muzzle is moderately short and pointed.

The Japanese Spitz is a happy-go-lucky little nordic dog that enjoys a romp in the snow, a brisk walk in the park, or curling up with its favorite people in the home. It is less likely to be a problem barker than the other small spitz breeds, though it does make an excellent watchdog and will protect its property. It has a very dignified appearance and temperament and does well as an indoor dog, though it is a good idea to have a small fenced yard for it to play in. The Japanese Spitz will get along well with children who know how to treat it and other pets. It is also a fairly easy dog to train. They compete well in obedience and agility trials. Today the Japanese Spitz is more popular in Scandinavia than anywhere else, though it has a strong fancy in Japan and Australia as well. The American Eskimo's great popularity in the United States may preclude the Japanese Spitz from becoming popular there.

This website has some information and good pictures of the Japanese Spitz: http://home1.swipnet.se/%7Ew-103380/kennel/english/rkeng.htm

7) The Lhasa Apso. Originating in Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is one of the larger and more beautiful members of the toy dog group. It is a miniaturized herding dog, one of several from the East Asia. It is most likely a direct descendant of the Tibetan Terrier. It was employed in the temples and monasteries of Tibet as a watchdog. Its excellent hearing enabled it to detect the approach of a stranger and to alert the monks and priests to their presence. If the stranger posed a threat, the Tibetan Mastiff would handle it (The nomadic people of Tibet keep a large herding dog that is used as a guard, called the Kyi Apso.). From Tibet, the Lhasa Apso has come to Western society where it is a popular pet and a show dog of great beauty.

The Lhasa Apso stands 10-11 inches tall and weighs 13-18 pounds. It has a slightly sloping back and short but strong legs. The head is of moderate length with a muzzle of moderate length, a black nose, drop ears, and expressive eyes of moderate length. The tail is carried high over the back. The Lhasa Apso is covered entirely in a very long, straight, and hard coat. This coat obscures the dog's physical features, including the ears, eyes, legs, and tail, and makes it look like a mop. The Lhasa Apso can be any color. When groomed properly, the Lhasa Apso is a magnificent little dog to behold, because the coat cascades over the body and flows downward towards the floor. When the Lhasa Apso is lying on the floor, the hair is splayed all around them.

Lhasa Apsos are well aware of the fact that they are regal-looking dogs and so, they act the part. Though it is a toy breed, the Lhasa Apso seems to have the personality of a large dog. This breed is calm and self-assured, but also has a sense of its own importance. This means that the Lhasa is an easy dog to live with and easy to train as well. Lhasas often compete in obedience and agility competitions. However, it can be independent minded and needs to be taught the house rules. This is an indoor dog, though it appreciates having a yard to play in. Its coat requires regular brushing and grooming or it can mat. In addition, a Lhasa that plays outdoors may pick up all kinds of things, including burs and seeds.

The Lhasa is generally an affectionate and friendly little dog with a playful personality. However, it is also regal and tends to be aloof around dogs and people it does not know. It gets along well with children that know how to treat it and is perfectly reliable with other pets, but some Lhasas may ignore them. This breed is an excellent companion for city dwellers as it lives just fine in an apartment and needs only a moderate amount of exercise. It also is a good choice for elderly people. It is generally a healthy and long-lived breed. It enjoys a moderate but strong popularity in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan, Latin America, and elsewhere so it is always a good idea to check out any breeder's stock. It is also a long lived dog, lasting well into its teens.

Here is a Lhasa Apso website: http://www.lhasaapso.org/

8) The Tibetan Spaniel. Despite its name, the Tibetan Spaniel is not a spaniel at all, nor a gun dog of any type. Like its close relative, the Lhasa Apso, the Tibetan Spaniel is actually a miniaturized herding dog. It is essentially a descendant of the Tibetan Terrier, Tibet's main herding dog. This breed is thought to have been the ancestor of the Lhasa Apso and also, is the likely ancestor of the toy dogs of China - the Shih Tzu, Pekingese, and Pug, and also the Japanese Chin. The Lhasa Apso probably developed from large, longhaired Tibetan Spaniels, because the Lhasa type would have been favored in the region of the city of Lhasa, while the older Tibetan Spaniel type was favored in the Himalayan regions. In Tibet, the Tibetan Spaniels were kept as sentries and as sacred dogs. It is said that they were used for turning the prayer wheels in the Buddhist monasteries, an action which, according to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, enables prayers to always be sent into the universe. As sentries they would patrol the walls of the monasteries and could see people approaching from far away. If these people posed any threat, Tibetan Mastiffs were there to combat them.

The Tibetan Spaniel stands about 10 inches tall and weighs 9-15 pounds. It has short legs, a deep chest, a straight back and a tail that curls over the back. The head is domed but with a flat top and little triangular ears that hang down and are covered by the thick ruff of hair. The eyes are set low in the head but well apart. The muzzle is moderately short with a blunt edge. The coat is double and thick with a silky texture. There is a mane about the neck and the tail is plumed. The hair is short on the lower legs. All colors are acceptable in this breed, though it is most common for the muzzle to be dark.

The Tibetan Spaniel is an excellent and healthy family dog. It enjoys the company of its humans and thrives on attention and devotion, which it will give back. It gets on well with gentle children and with other pets and it makes a very good apartment dog, and is thus suitable for city life. Being miniaturized herding dogs, Tibetan Spaniels are easy little dogs to train, especially because they have a very strong desire to please their owners, though this can mean that they also can be manipulative. They are easier to housebreak than most toy dogs are.

The Tibetan Spaniel tends to see its home as its domain and they like to be the rulers of it. This means that they are quite protective, and this makes them very good watchdogs. They have excellent vision and hearing and will bark at the arrival of any newcomer. However, they are not aggressive dogs and are not likely to run around nipping strangers. They do well with moderate exercise and enjoy a walk in the park. A well-trained and obedient Tibetan Spaniel can be trusted off leash in the park because it is very loyal to its family and is unlikely to wander. Even so, as with any dog, if one has a yard for the dog to play in, that yard should be fenced.

The Tibetan Spaniel enjoys moderate popularity in most Western countries and they are still to be found in Tibet. It is always good to check on the health of any stock, but the Tibetan Spaniel tends to be a healthy breed with a balanced disposition and a long life span. Here is a very good Tibetan Spaniel site: http://www.tibbies.net/index.html

9) The Shih Tzu. The Shih Tzu is probably the most popular of all the toy dogs from the East. Although it originates in China, it is actually descended from miniaturized Tibetan herding dogs. It is descended either from the Lhasa Apso or the Tibetan Spaniel, or possibly both. I think it is most likely that Lhasas and Tibetan Spaniels arrived in China as gifts from the Tibetan monks to the Manchu emperors. In China they became popular as sacred dogs in the Buddhist and Taoist temples. Their coats are more like the coats of the Lhasa, though in size, they are closer to the Tibetan Spaniel. The breed exists today because before the Cultural Revolution in China it became very fashionable in England, France, and the United States. Today it is an immensely popular companion with strong fancies in many countries.

The Shih Tzu stands 10-11 inches tall and weighs 10-16 pounds. It has a straight back, short and thick legs, and a fairly large head for its size. The tail is held high and curled over the back. The stop is well defined and muzzle is very short with a nose that is slightly upturned, a condition known as braccycephalic. The ears are drop but are obscured by a thick shock of hair. The coat is double and the outer coat is straight and wavy and naturally falls to the ground. This coat covers the tail, head, legs, and ears and includes a beard and moustache on the muzzle. All of this gives the Shih Tzu is regal and noble appearance. Colors include jet-black, black and white, gray and white, red and white, and gold.

The Shih Tzu is very much a companion dog and was always bred with this in mind. They are extremely people-oriented and love nothing more than being in the presence of humans and being petted and stroked. They are much friendlier than their more aloof relative is, the Lhasa Apso is. They are even welcoming to strangers and enjoy being petted by them. They are very calm little dogs and can be content lying for hours at their owners' feet or on their laps. They have very expressive eyes and will stare up at their peoples' eyes and, with their expressions, will essentially ask to be picked up and petted. They enjoy playing also.

Shih Tzus tend to love life and make the most of whatever situation they are in and whatever activity they are a part of. However, a great deal of companionship is a must and they are perfect for people who work at home. They do well in almost any environment and can thrive in a city apartment. They get on well with other pets and with children who know how to play with them gently. Little girls especially tend to love Shih Tzus because they like to be pampered. They enjoy walks in the park, obedience classes, and sunning on the windowsill. Many people who own a Shih Tzu get another one, because they are such easygoing little dogs that are very easy to please. They also love cats and enjoy curling up with them. They make good watchdogs but will accept strangers to the home. It is not recommended that Shih Tzus are kept with rambunctious larger dogs, however.

The Shih Tzu's coat is not as much of a terror as it appears to be. It needs to be brushed every week to keep it from tangling. In addition, a Shih Tzu that plays outside may pick things up in its coat. It is not generally recommended to trim the coat, because this will alter the texture.

The Shih Tzu is quite easy to train and seems to be a dog with almost unlimited appeal. Because of its tremendous popularity it is important to ensure that any breeder produces good healthy stock. Nice Shih Tzus can also be obtained from rescue societies.

Here is a nice Shih Tzu website: http://clubs.akc.org/astc/

10) The Pekingese. The Pekingese is the blue blood of the toy dogs. It comes from the Chinese royalty and was kept in the Forbidden City of Peking, where it was the companion of the emperors and their courts. However, like its cousin, the Shih Tzu, the Pekingese is descended from Tibetan dogs, probably from the Tibetan Spaniel, though they have been around for at least 2,000 years. This regal little dog was considered to be sacred and stealing one meant death, often accompanied by torture. Visitors to the royal palace had to bow to these dogs. The little Pekes would accompany the emperor from room to room in the palace and were bred to look like lions. In 1860, European troops occupied Peking and took over the Imperial Palace. They found the little Pekingese dogs beside the dead bodies of their servants, who had committed suicide. These little dogs were taken back to England where they became prized companions in the homes of English aristocracy and were pampered just as they had been in China. One of them was even given to Queen Victoria and won her heart. Later, other Pekingeses were spirited out of China and became a part of European culture. It was fortunate that this happened, because when the Imperial Palace fell, most of the Pekes were killed so they would not fall into the hands of the common people. Those who survived joined their cousins in Europe.

The Pekingese stands 6-9 inches tall and weighs 7-14 pounds. It is a compact little dog with very short, thick legs and a broad chest with well sprung ribs. The tail is set high and carried tightly over the back. The ears are long and hang down, covered by dense feathering. The head is broad and flat with a deep stop and a strong wrinkle above the nose. The cheekbones are wide and the muzzle is very short, and on some dogs the appearance is flat-faced. The nose is compressed and turned up, and displays braccycephalic to extreme braccycephalic type (The Chinese nobility specifically bred for shortness of muzzle.). The coat is double with a soft undercoat and a long, thick, and coarse outer coat. This coat covered the tail, head, and ears, and, if allowed to grow, will obscure the legs and hang to the ground. The Peke can come in any color, though many have dark muzzles.

The Pekingese can have a strong sense of its own importance and can be quite haughty. They tend to be very devoted to their families but may be rather aloof towards strange humans and other dogs. They are not shy or fearful, though, and they make very good watchdogs, because they have a strong appreciation for their territories. They can have a fierce look, but are not ferocious or snappy dogs. They will, however, protect their humans as much as they can, and in fact, six of the Pekes found by the Europeans in the war in 1860 were fearlessly guarding their mistress' body. The Pekingese is not as introverted as the Lhasa Apso, nor as overtly friendly as the Shih Tzu. It is a dog with a great deal of self-confidence and will not let another dog boss it around.

True to its royal ancestry, the Pekingese is a dog that thrives on pampering. However, this is not the same as spoiling. These little dogs can become tyrants if allowed to rule the house. Patient and positive obedience training is a must, especially if a lot of rewards are provided. House rules must be set and adhered to consistently, throughout the Peke's life, which can be quite long (They can live 15 years.). A well-socialized and well-trained Peke is an extremely rewarding and noble companion. It is not an extremely active dog, though it enjoys some play. It likes to be a clown and loves to be fussed over. It is a dog that will delight its owners with its humor and good looks.

The Pekingese is quite a popular breed in many countries and it is important to make sure that any breeder is a reputable one. Pekes suffer from some genetic problems and may have breathing difficulties, which causes them to snore (This is caused by its very short muzzle.). It is important to find a breeder that screens for such genetic problems and has dogs that breath easily.

Here is a Pekingese website: http://www.biske.com/peke/

11) The Japanese Chin. Although it is sometimes referred to as the "Japanese Spaniel", the Japanese Chin is no more a spaniel than the Tibetan Spaniel, its probable ancestor, is. It is, instead, another of the Far East's prized toy herding dogs. This breed's origins are difficult to pinpoint, but it is certain that it shares the same ancestry as the Shih Tzu and Pekingese. It is descended from short-faced sacred dogs brought over to Japan from China, which are themselves descended from the Tibetan Spaniel. This breed was kept by the Japanese imperial family and the Japanese nobility. When Commodore Perry came to Japan from the United States and pressured them to open up to foreign trade, some Chins were given to him as a gift. More Chins were given to the upper classes of Europe as gifts and before long, this little dog became a pampered pet of the European aristocracy alongside its cousin, the Pekingese. Today the Chin is more popular in Europe and North America than anywhere else, but it is returning to Japan, as the Japanese people regain interest in it. Japanese Chin stock is being imported to Japan from Europe.

The Japanese Chin stands 9-10 inches tall and weighs anywhere from 4-18 pounds. It has straight, short legs, a level back, and a feather-duster tail that curls over the back. The neck is short and the head is quite large with a dome shaped skull. The stop is deep and indented into the face. The muzzle is extremely short and broad, giving the dog a flat-faced appearance. The ears are long and hanging and are covered with dense feathering. The coat is silky and very long and covers the entire body except the face. There is extensive feathering on the ears, tail, and legs. Coloring is predominantly white with black or red markings and symmetry is highly desirable.

The Japanese Chin is an indoor dog, used to pampering. It is a good pet for any gentle person and is a particularly excellent choice for families with young girls that like to groom and fawn on their little dogs. It is the wrong dog for anyone who likes to play rough (Such people should get an American Bulldog or a German Shepherd instead.) or who is very disciplinary by nature. They are extremely sensitive little dogs by nature and may sulk if shouted at. They respond well to positive reinforcement and patience and will give back their affection. They are very much lap dogs and they need a lot of contact with their humans. They need an owner who is very sensitive to their emotional needs. Anyone who provides his or her Chin with such an environment will discover a happy little dog with an easygoing and affectionate personality. They enjoy being played with and they get along with children that know how to treat them gently. They get along with cats and other dogs, though they are well aware that they are little dogs and may try to avoid larger dogs. Many people who get one Chin end up getting another and this is highly advisable, because Chins actually seem to prefer their own kind over any other dog. This is not a breed to be left alone for long periods of time. Instead, it is a dog for people who are at home for most of the day and love nothing more than the company of their dogs. It is a good dog for city living if these prerequisites are met, and also must be an indoor dog.

Today the Japanese Chin enjoys moderate popularity in the United States, Europe, Japan, Australia, and elsewhere. It is generally a healthy breed, though, having so short a muzzle, may suffer from breathing difficulties. It is important for any breeder to ensure that his or her stock is healthy and breaths well.

Here is a Japanese Chin website: http://www.japchin.com/jcca/

12) The Pug. The Pug is often said to be a miniaturized mastiff. This really is not entirely true. In fact, the Pug is more of a miniature herding dog, being closely related to the Tibetan Spaniel and the Pekingese. The Pug originated in China, though it was quite a different dog there from the Pug we know today. Descended, most likely, from the Tibetan Spaniel (It may have a certain amount of Shar Pei blood in it too.), it was a dog of the Chinese royalty and was kept alongside the Pekingese. The difference between the two breeds is that the Pug was always a short-coated dog and the wrinkles were easier to see. The Pug came to Europe in the 1600s as a result of trade between China and the Dutch East India Company. It was not long before the Pug became the fashionable pet of the Dutch aristocracy and upper classes. In years to come, the English continuously tried to miniaturize their prized Bulldogges, unsuccessfully (The French succeeded in doing so, later.). However, the miniature bulldogges were probably crossed with the Pugs to make them more muscular and to give them a tougher constitution. However, the Pug is still much more closely related to the Pekingese than to any other breed and I still maintain that it is a miniature herding dog, not a miniature mastiff.

The Pug stands 10-11 inches tall and weighs 14-18 pounds. It has a thickset body and a little curled tail that twists. The chest is broad and the straight legs are thick. The neck is thick and muscular and the head is short and domed with little ears that hang down just like those of a Tibetan Spaniel (Though without the feathering.). The face is deeply wrinkled and the eyes are round and set well apart, and level with the nose. The stop is deep and indented and the muzzle is extremely short with a small, upturned nose. The coat is short and dense and can be various shades of fawn or black. The muzzle, ears, and region around the eyes are always dark and the eyes are always of a dark color too.

The Pug is one of the hardiest and most adaptable of the toy breeds. People are attracted for it because of its appearance and personality. Some people see them as extremely cute, others see them as extremely ugly, and still others regard them much as they regard the English Bulldog, "so ugly they are cute." Whatever the case, the Pug has a distinctive appearance and a lot of personality. They are real little clowns and they are also extremely intelligent, so much so that they will run the house if given half the chance. Therefore, obedience training is a necessity and it must be patient and positive. The Pug is quite an easy dog to train because it learns fast and is easy to train. It tends to be very sociable and gets on well with children and other pets. Pugs can play with other dogs much larger than they are, because their tough constitution allows them to take more rough tumbles than most toy dogs can take. They are never happier than when they are curled next to their owners in a little pig-tailed ball, though they are known for snoring when they sleep.

The Pug is a very adaptable little dog and can live well in the city or the countryside. The ideal situation for a Pug is a home with a small yard for them to play in, though they should be allowed to be inside the home with the family. It is good for a Pug to be kept with another dog and it should be given plenty of attention or it may pine. Since the Pug is a smart little critter it tends to be curious and will need a secure property so it does not get into trouble. It makes a good watchdog but is generally friendly to newcomers. This breed needs to be protected from hot weather because its stocky body and short muzzle can cause it to overheat. In addition, while it thrives on moderate exercise, it should not be over-exercised for the same reason. It requires a moderate amount of care, though its wrinkles need cleaning.

The Pug is a long-lived dog, though it may suffer from breathing difficulties because of its very short muzzle. In addition, it is a very popular dog in many countries, so that while it is generally a very healthy breed, it is advisable to check out a breeder's credentials or else to rescue.

Here is a Pug website: http://www.pugs.com/newindex.htm

13) The French Bulldog. Largest of all the toy dog breeds, the French Bulldog, often called the "Frenchie", is, unlike the Pug, truly a miniaturized mastiff. It is a direct descendent of the English Bulldog, which the English aristocracy tried unsuccessfully, for many years, to miniaturize. These attempts did not succeed, however, in the mid-1800s, English lace workers settled in France and took little bulldogs with them. These little bulldogs were the runts of the English Bulldog litters and under normal circumstances would have been culled. The breeders did not want them and were willing to give them to these workers, who used them to keep down rat populations and later, just kept them for companionship. Later, they became notorious as the companions of French prostitutes. Since they developed a reputation for being the dog of the forbidden class, they gained admiration from the French aristocracy, who were always looking for the unusual. In the hands of the aristocracy, the little bulldogs developed into the mini-mastiff we know today with its adorable little bat-ears.

The French Bulldog stands 12 inches tall and weighs 19-28 pounds. It has very thick and muscular legs that are short and straight. The chest is very deep, broad and powerful and the hindquarters slope somewhat. It has a natural bobtail and a thick muscular neck. The head is dome-shaped and the ears are erect and shaped like the ears of a bat. The cheeks are wide and the stop very distinct. The muzzle is very short but less so than on the Pug and does not give a flat-faced appearance. The nose is upturned and the jaws include an underbite, which is a less pronounced underbite than that of the English Bulldog. The coat is always short and thick with a glossy sheen and colors include white, fawn, brindle, and pied. Darker colored dogs may or may not have white markings and white dogs may or may not have darker markings.

The French Bulldog is an extremely friendly breed that can adapt to city life or country life and can live in a home with a large backyard or an apartment. They are very happy when they are close to their owners and enjoy accompanying their owners to work. Being miniature mastiffs, they are very calm dogs. They get on wonderfully with children and other pets and can take rougher handling than other toy breeds can, though it is not fair to the dog to allow children to be very rough with it. It is an independent minded breed and can be stubborn, and while Frenchies learn their commands quickly they may not be so quick to obey them when there is something else in the environment that interests them. They need to be protected both from very hot and very cold weather and should be kept as indoor dogs. Children must not pick up their French Bulldogs because their heads are heavy so they can be dropped easily. They are not highly active, though they are indeed amusing, and they are not dogs that can be jogged with for miles. They are not droolers and they do not bark much. Some Frenchies hardly ever bark. They are the perfect companions for anyone who desires a calm but cute toy dog with a tough appearance and a charming and polite nature.

The French Bulldog enjoys a moderate, though strong popularity in many countries. It is important to ensure the soundness of any breeder's stock. This breed has a gentle disposition and can live quite a long time.

Here is a French Bulldog website: http://www.frenchbulldog.org/index1.html

14) The Boston Terrier. Like its cousin, the French Bulldog, the Boston Terrier is a miniature mastiff, not a terrier as its name implies. The Boston Terrier is an American dog, originating in the Boston area, where it was created in the late 1800s by crossing French Bulldogs with miniaturized Bull Terriers. They were originally larger and more Pit Bull-like than they are today and they had a brief stint as small fighting dogs. Since then, they became pets for the gentleman and they were reduced in size and also developed shorter muzzles and a rounder head. In the early part of this century and also in the 1930s, the Boston Terrier was the most popular breed in the United States, and although this is no longer true, this breed has a wide appeal and strong popularity, both in the United States and abroad.

The Boston Terrier stands 15-17 inches tall and weighs 10-25 pounds. It has straight and moderately long legs and a chest of moderate depth. The thighs are muscular and the neck is moderately long and muscular. The head is short and round with a dome shape. The ears are erect and bat-shaped and the eyes are set well apart and bulging, though they have a gentle look. The stop is well defined and the muzzle is very short and square without giving the dog a flat-faced impression. The cheeks are wide and flat, the nose turned up, and the jaw is undershot though not to any extreme. The coat is short and smooth with a fine and even glossy appearance. Colors include black with white markings and brindle with white markings.

The Boston Terrier is a clever little dog. They are independent minded and like to solve problems. They also like to climb and may find their way up the shelves to the very top. They also like to burrow under the covers of the bed. They know just how to manipulate their owners to get what they want, so it is important to anticipate their activities. They are extremely human oriented dogs and love to take part in any activities where people are involved. They enjoy walks in the park, obedience classes, playing with balls in the backyard, and curling up next to their owners. They enjoy the companionship of children as long as those children know how to treat the dog. Above all, this is a dog that requires a lot of human attention and needs to live indoors with their humans. Most Bostons get along well with other pets, though they may end up being the dominant dog in the pack. They even get along with dogs much larger than themselves and play nicely with them. Because the Boston is a mini-mastiff, it is solidly built and can handle more rough-and-tumble play with another dog than many other toy breeds can. They are more active by nature than their relative, the French Bulldog, but are less regal-acting and are not as calm. This breed's short muzzle means that it snores and must not be taken on extremely long walks or jogs. In addition, the Boston needs to be protected both from the cold and the hot weather.

The Boston Terrier is quite territorial by nature. It also may be aggressive towards strange dogs and will need early socialization. This is because of its ancestry as a fighting dog. Towards people, however, it is polite and friendly. Today it is a very popular breed, even if it does not top the registration as it once did. In addition it has become a very popular breed in Europe, Australia, and elsewhere. It is important to ensure that one purchases one's Boston from sound breeding stock or else go to a rescue society.

Here are two Boston Terrier websites: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Woods/6899/
http://www.bostonterrier.org/

15) The Bichon Frise. The Bichon Frise is a toy gun dog from France, descended from very earliest gun dogs. It is very difficult to determine whether the Bichon is descended from the Spanish Water Dog or the Barbet, but it is definitely one of the two. This breed was created around the 1400s for the purpose of being a lap dog for aristocratic families. It is a pretty and dainty-looking dog, though it is much tougher than it looks. It is a highly intelligent little dog, which has been discovered to still be able to herd sheep (After all these centuries!). It is the oldest member of the bichon family, a family of small, mostly white toy dogs with luxuriant coats.

The Bichon Frise stands 9-12 inches tall and weighs 10-18 pounds. It is a superbly built little dog with great efficiency of movement. It is moderately stocky with a moderately deep and broad chest, an arched neck, and a plumed tail. The legs are moderate and straight and the head is somewhat round with a slight stop and a muzzle of moderate length with a fairly well defined lower jaw. The nose is black and the eyes are round and dark and set to look forward. The ears are drop and difficult to discern because they are covered with hair. The coat is double, which includes a soft undercoat and a coarse and curly over coat. The Bichon does not shed with a slight beard and moderate eyebrows. The color is white, sometimes with apricot or cream markings on the ears and body but never large ones. Any Bichon with markings that are over 10% of the dog's body disqualify it from being shown. Basically, the dog looks like a puff of powder and is also an excellent dog for people with allergies because it is non-shedding.

The Bichon Frise is a highly intelligent little dog that is full of surprises that delight its owners. It is also a dog of calm temperament that is friendly and polite in public and extremely affectionate towards family members. It is an easy dog to train and is easy to housebreak as well. It is not a nervous or high-strung dog, but instead is well behaved and likes to clown around, though within reason. It gets on well with children and other pets. It is strongly recommended that the Bichon be kept with other dogs or cats or both, because it will savor their companionship. It also requires a lot of human companionship even though it is less clingy than many other toy breeds are. Bichons travel well and are good for taking walks in the park with or riding in boats with. They like to be pampered but do not need this as much as other toy breeds do. They are indoor dogs and are very clean, though they do well in a home with a small backyard and a doggy door.

The Bichon is quite easy to take care of. It requires brushing to keep its coat from tangling. It is not recommended to be trimmed because this will change the coat texture. The coat keeps them warm in the winter and even cool in the summer, though this dog is predominantly an indoor dog by nature and should be kept as such.

The Bichon Frise is generally a healthy breed, but keep in mind that it has increased greatly in popularity in recent years, in America, Europe, and elsewhere. Therefore, make sure that any breeder produces quality stock or else contact a rescue society.

Here is a Bichon Frise website: http://www.bichon.org/bfca.htm

16) The Maltese. The Maltese is the smallest member of the bichon family and the smallest of the toy gun dogs. There is significant disagreement of opinion as to the origin of the Maltese. Some scholars claim that it is a breed originating in antiquity, as far back as ancient Greece. Small white dogs were kept by those societies. However, the Maltese is also related to the Bichon Frise and other members of the bichon family. There is also disagreement as to which country this little dog originates in, Malta or Italy. My own opinion is that the little white dogs kept by the ancient societies were either miniaturized spitzen or miniature herding dogs. These little dogs, I believe, contributed to the development of the Maltese breed we know today, but were crossed with the bichons in southern Italy. I also believe that the Maltese is predominantly of bichon origin and can thus be considered a toy gun dog. It also, most likely, has the blood of toy spaniels and Toy Poodles in it. I believe that it is an Italian breed, kept by the royal families and wealthy bourgeoisie of the towns of southern and central Italy. In addition, I think it is very likely that in centuries previous, it was a larger dog than it is today.

The Maltese is one of the smallest dogs in the world (Though not the smallest. That distinction goes to the Chihuahua.). It stands 8-10 inches tall and weighs 4-7 pounds. It is moderately compact with a straight back and well-sprung ribs. The legs are quite strong with black toepads and a neck of moderate length. The tail is held high and includes dense feathering. The head is slightly domed with a moderate stop and a moderately short muzzle that is pointed. The ears are drop but obscured by the coat. The eyes are set well apart, round, and dark. It has a single coat that is very dense, silky, long, and flat. This coat includes a topknot and a moustache, as well as much feathering off the tail. Color is always white, though there are occasionally dogs with lemon or light tan marks in the ears.

The Maltese has a very friendly and trusting nature. It is a highly affectionate dog and is perfect for apartment dwellers and people who live in the city. This breed is extremely affectionate and loves to be with its owners. It needs a lot of companionship with its humans and must not be left alone for long periods of the day. A Maltese that is taken care of in such a way will be a cheerful and jolly little character and just a joy to be around. Anyone who desires a dog that will be a puppy for its whole life will enjoy the companionship of a Maltese or more than one Maltese. This breed gets on well with other dogs and with cats but should only be kept with other small dogs or with large dogs, such as members of the mastiff family, that are very calm. It actually is a very good idea to keep the Maltese with another Maltese or with cats, which it can play with (Cats are often larger than Malteses are.). Malteses are not recommended for families with small children, though they are excellent for a family with girls who like to pamper and groom their pets. It makes a good watchdog but is generally friendly towards people who enter the home.

The Maltese is an indoor dog. It has to be, because smaller Malteses may be subject to predation by hawks and other birds of prey. It can get all the exercise it needs by playing indoors, though it enjoys a short walk in the park on a leash just to expand its horizons. It should have plenty of little toys to play with and a supply of treats (Though don't overdo it.) This is a long-lived breed that can last into its late teens. It should be protected from cold and hot weather and needs brushing to keep its coat free from tangling. Its coat should not be trimmed. This breed is non-shedding and most people with allergies can keep a Maltese.

The Maltese is an extremely popular dog, the most popular of all the bichon breeds. Its popularity extends to many countries. Therefore anyone who wants to own a Maltese should check out any breeder's stock to make sure it is sound.

Though the Maltese is a tiny dog, it has a huge, very informative website. Here it is: http://www.malteseonly.com/

17) The Bolognese. The Bolognese is a very close relative of the Maltese, being a little larger and having a curly coat. This dog is probably descended from the Maltese, Bichon Frise, or both. It also could be the ancestor of one or the other of these breeds. It is for sure a toy gun dog, descended from either the Spanish Water Dog or the Barbet. It originates in Bologna, Italy and was kept by the famous banking families of the Renaissance period. It also was kept by Tsarina Catherine the Great of Russia and Queen Maria Theresa of Austria. It declined in popularity in the 1800s but was preserved by some devoted breeders and has made a comeback today.

The Bolognese stands 9-12 inches tall and usually weighs 8-14 pounds, though dogs as large as 16 pounds sometimes occur. It has legs of a moderate length and a square appearance. The tail is carried over the back and the neck is of moderate length. The head is of moderate length and the stop is moderate. The muzzle is of moderate length with a black nose and the ears are drop and high on the head. The Bolognese is covered in a double coat, with a cotton-like undercoat and a long, soft, and curly outer coat. The coat is always white, though some puppies are champagne.

The Bolognese is a clean and odorless bichon that does not shed and is perfect for most people with allergies. It has a lively and happy temperament, generally less shy than the Maltese and more active than the Bichon Frise. Bologneses do not need a great deal of exercise (Though some exercise is, of course necessary) but they have much more stamina than one would expect of so small a dog. They are wonderful companions for children, specifically children that know how to treat the dog. In addition, they are known for finding ways to amuse themselves and devising little games of their own. This is an excellent little dog for anyone who wants a pet that is both cute and intelligent at the same time. It loves and thrives on human interaction, but in addition to affection it will also intrigue its family with its smarts and wits. This dog can make a very good city companion and does well in an apartment, but the ideal situation for one would be a home with a little yard and a doggy door.

Bologneses get on well with other dogs and with cats. It is a good idea for the Bolognese to be kept with other pets and, if kept with other Bologneses, will get involved in all sorts of witty little games as each dog tries to outsmart the other. They also seem to be able to plan little strategies to get what they want. They are easy dogs to train and can compete well in agility and obedience competitions. This breed is most popular in Belgium and Italy but it has moderate but devoted popularity in most European countries, the United States, Canada, and elsewhere. It is overshadowed by its more popular relatives, the Maltese and the Bichon Frise. However, it is a long-lived dog of very good quality.

Here is a Bolognese website: http://members.aol.com/bolognese2/the.htm

18) The Havanese. The Havanese is Cuba's own bichon breed and the only breed of dog to originate in that country. It is descended from both the Bichon Frise and the Maltese, both of which were brought over the Cuba by the local aristocracy. It was kept first as a pampered pet of the rich and later, was kept by the common people who valued it as a sentinel and a companion. Castro's revolution threatened this breed, and life in a Communist country was not suited to the ownership of pets purely as companions. Fortunately, Havaneses were exported to Costa Rica and the United States and became bred there. Today, it is most popular in the United States, where 4,000 live and there are a further 7,000 in Europe, Canada, Costa Rica, and elsewhere. It is a healthy breed, because it is not overly popular, though it has a strong and devoted fancy.

The Havanese stands 8.5-11.5 inches tall and weighs 7-13 pounds, with 8-11 pounds being ideal. It has short and sturdy legs and a plumed tail. The build is moderate with rounded ribs. The neck is of moderate length and the head is medium-sized with large, dark, and almond-shaped eyes. The muzzle is of moderate length and the skull is broad. The nose and lips are black. The coat is double and soft in both layers and its coat can be curly or wavy, and if curly, can cord. Colors can include white, cream, champagne, gold, blue, black, chocolate, or silver with particolors and tricolors of all these colors also found.

The Havanese is a happy and affectionate little dog and is very tolerant of children, though it is not fair to the dog to allow it to be treated roughly. It is an extremely sociable dog and while it makes an excellent watchdog, it will accept anyone into the home that is accepted by the family members and will be friendly towards them. It is a very easy little dog to train and it learns its commands very quickly. This is a very obedient dog because the Havanese has a strong desire to please its owner. Thus it makes an excellent dog for obedience and agility training. It enjoys living indoors where it is playful and enjoys having little toys to play with. It also likes to spend some time outdoors and thrives in a home with a small yard, though it can live very well in an apartment. It also gets on very well with other pets and will play with them. They still retain an ability to herd and in older times were used to herd domestic fowl.

This is a very adaptable little dog. It is a better choice for a family with small children than most toy breeds. It is an indoor dog and needs to live with the family. It also requires a lot of human interaction. It is also nice to have a bichon breed that can come in so many different colors.

Here is a Havanese website: http://www.cadvision.com/eagleltd/havanese/rishome.htm

19) The Lowchen. The Lowchen is a beautiful and most distinctive member of the bichon family that originates in France and is referred to as the "Little Lion Dog", because of its appearance. It was popular among the noble women of Florence and was also kept in Germany, Spain, and Holland, as well as France. It probably was developed from miniaturized Barbets or Spanish Water Dogs. It decreased in popularity in the 1800s and 1900s, but was saved through the efforts of a Madame Bennert of Belgium and a German doctor. Today it is still a very rare breed but is gaining popularity. It is an extremely healthy and good-looking breed.

The Lowchen stands 8-14 inches tall and weighs 4-9 pounds. It has straight and moderately long legs. It is a moderately built dog and a chest of moderate depth. The tail is curled over the back and the head is short with a wide skull. The eyes are dark and round and its muzzle is square and moderate in length. The ears are long and hanging and covered with thick hair. The coat is always long, thick, silky, and wavy and covers the face and muzzle and includes a mane. The lion clip popular among poodles is often applied to the Lowchen and most kennel clubs require this clip for the breed to be shown. They can come in a wide variety of colors and combinations of colors, though it is impossible with this breed to determine what color the dog will end up being until it is full-grown.

The Lowchen is a wonderful companion and is always in a good mood. It is an easy dog to train and is very obedient, because it has a strong desire to please its owners. It is a brave little dog, and makes an excellent watchdog, though it is very friendly in public and also to anyone accepted in the home by the family. It needs regular grooming to prevent its coat from matting. It is an extremely energetic dog and loves to go on long walks, though it is not a hyper dog. It is adaptable to apartment living or country life. Its charming and affectionate family and its good looks delight everyone it meets.

The Lowchen was classified as the rarest dog breed in the world in the early 1960s. Today its population is sparse but widespread and it is being bred in America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and elsewhere. The breeding quality is excellent and this is a healthy and long-lived breed that is one of the dog world's best-hidden secrets.

Lowchen websites are difficult to find. The best site I found (very good pictures) was the following: http://chinaroadlowchens.com/

20) The Coton de Tulear. The largest member of the bichon family and, except for the two miniature mastiff breeds, the largest of the toy dog breeds, the Coton hails from, of all places, Madagascar. According to legend, a European ship in the 1400s was wrecked off the coat of Madagascar in a violent storm. The sailors all drowned but the little white dogs that were on the ship swam ashore and mixed with native dogs. The native people fell in love with them. It is also very probable, however, that the Coton is the result of the importation of bichon-type dogs to Madagascar by the Francophone aristocracy of Madagascar. It was particularly popular in the port city of Tulear, hence its name. "Coton" comes from the cotton-like texture of its coat. This breed was restricted to the very wealthy members of society and still is to this day. However, the Coton de Tulear has gained a strong fancy in the United States, Canada, and various European countries, particularly France.

The Coton de Tulear stands 10-12 inches tall and weighs 12-18 pounds. It has short but powerful legs. The back is straight and the tail is straight and carried at moderate height. The head is moderately rounded and the stop is slight. The muzzle is moderately short and the feet have black footpads. The eyes are large and dark brown with eye rings. The ears are drop but difficult to discern. The coat is thick, long, wavy, and always has a cotton texture and it may obscure the eyes, ears, and legs. Colors include all white, white with champagne markings, black and white, and white, cream, and beige.