I have had all kinds of dogs in my life – big dogs like St. Bernards and little dogs like Boston Terriers, with a wide range in between.  I go back and forth about the type I like best, but when it comes to portability, the cuddle factor and of course, the food bill, small dog breeds are where it’s at.  As more people see the benefits of a smaller dog, the number of them available continues to increase, making it easier than ever to get the perfect small breed.

According to the AKC, there are 21 recognized toy breeds:

• Affenpinscher
• Brussels Griffon
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Chihuahua
• Chinese Crested
• English Toy Spaniel
• Havanese
• Italian Greyhound
• Japanese Chin
• Maltese
• Manchester Terrier
• Miniature Pinscher
• Papillon
• Pekingese
• Pomeranian
• Poodle
• Pug
• Shih Tzu
• Silky Terrier
• Toy Fox Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier

Most of these you have probably heard of, but there are some on the list I didn’t know existed, such as the Affenpinscher.  One thing is for sure – all of these breeds are increasing in popularity as people look for pets that will go well in smaller spaces.

The most popular of the group include Chihuahua, Pug, Poodle and Pomeranian (something about the letter “P” perhaps?).  Personally, I have never understood the attraction to Chihuahuas, but in our area, they are simply impractical.  Anything that can’t keep itself warm in the winter without a coat is not a great idea when you spend six months of the year in cold temperatures.

I have been looking for a small breed puppy to get for my daughter, and I am leaning toward a Pomapoo, which is a cross between Pomeranians and Poodles.  If I could afford it, I would absolutely get a Yorkie, because they are the most adorable dogs ever to grace this planet, and they have excellent temperaments too.

What about you?  Do you like small breeds?  Which one is your favorite?