About Toy Dog Breeds  

Debbie J Gretsch

The small size and expressions of toy dogs illustrates the main function of the toy dog group. Their tiny stature may fool you into thinking that they are just a small dog with little to fear. However, most toy dogs are as tough as a nail and if you've ever experienced their barking and watchdog qualities you will quickly come to see that this is true. This group of dog is most popular among city dwellers and individuals and families that live in small spaces. Most make terrific lap dogs and are ideal for apartments and condominiums. Toy dog groups are great pets as most are tidy and won't shed and take less money to take care of than larger canine dogs.

Some toy dog groups in the AKC

· Affenpinscher: Their general appearance is balanced, wiry-haired, terrier like dog with a good demeanor. It originated in Germany and was developed to rid kitchens and stables of rodents. He has a neat but shaggy appearance. They are a sturdy, compact dog standing about 9-11 ½ inches tall. Their coat is generally dense, rough, and harsh about 1 inch in length on the shoulders and body. Their coat can be black, gray, silver, red, black, and tan. Color is a major consideration in the AKC. Their general demeanor is alert and inquisitive. They are also loyal and affectionate toward their owners and friends. They are generally quiet but can become excited when they feel threatened or are being attacked.

· Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is active, graceful, and well balanced. They are fearless and have a sporting character but can be very gentle and affectionate. Their elegance and royal appearance are important with this breed. Their coat should be moderate length, silky and free of curl. Although a slight wave is permissible. If the coat is trimmed, clipped, or altered there is a penalty and possible eliminated from a competition. They are a friendly, non-aggressive breed with no tendency towards shyness or nervousness.

· Silky Terrier. The Silky Terrier is a true "toy terrier." They are moderately low set and slightly longer than they are tall. They have an inquisitive nature and make an ideal companion. Their coat is straight, singly, glossy and silky in texture. The coat should never approach floor length. It is parted on the head and down over the back to the tail. The legs will have short hair from the pastern and hock joints to the feet. They are a blue and tan in color. The blue may appear silver, pigeon blue, or slate blue. While the tan should be deep and rich. They are keenly alert, quick, friendly, and responsive.

Other AKC toy dog groups

· Brussells Griffon

· Chihuahua

· English Toy Spaniel

· Havanese

· Italian Greyhounds

· Japanese Chin

· Maltese

· Pug

· Poodle

· Manchester Terrier

· Miniature Pinscher

· Papillon

· Pomeranian

· Pekingese

· Shih Tzu

· Toy Fox Terrier

· Yorkshire Terrier

AKC breeds, toy dog groups all have specific qualifications that have to be met in order to have them compete in shows. If standards are not be specifically the dog can be disqualified immediately.
About the Author

Debbie Gretsch is a work-at-home writer and mom. Her interests are parenting, education, pets and relationships. Although her two dogs not toy breeds, she enjoys all kinds of dogs. Get more information regarding dog breeds.