Types of Small Dogs

The dog is a man's best friend. It is essential for a person to have a pet if he or she is wishes selfless companionship. Small dogs, though not as tough as strong as the bigger dogs, do offer companionship and are more interesting to have. It's not for nothing that these dogs are sometimes called companion dogs, as these dogs are mainly used for companionship as a pet, and not the other attributes of a dog such as safety and security. Apart from companion dogs, there are other smaller dogs, termed as toy dogs that are used strictly for companionship. Here is some information on the different types of small dogs

Small dogs make wonderful pets. There are many different types of small dogs and they come in lots of different shapes, colors and sizes. Small dogs are generally classified as dogs weighing less than 22 pounds

Australian Terrier Information

This breed has been known to go to extremes with its behaviour - some can be overly shy and others overly aggressive. However, the Australian Terrier by and large tends to have an agreeable temperament, displays plenty of courage for his size, and makes a good companion. This breed can be aggressive with other animals and the adult male does not tend to get on with other adult male dogs.
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Physical features
A medium boned working terrier, the Australian Terrier is a small but sturdy animal, with slightly disproportionate length when compared to its height. Its colourings come in solid red, solid sandy, or blue and tan. The outer coat of this dog has a harsh texture, and these dogs also have a soft, silky topknot. The intelligent and alert expression of the Australian Terrier adds to its keen and enthusiastic appearance. The weight of these dogs averages around 10-11 inches and the weight around 12-14lb. The Australian Terrier may suffer from allergies and itchy skin in warmer weather. Other health problems that can affect this breed include luxating patella, and Legg-Calve Perthes Disease. These are both inherited conditions and can be exacerbated by excessive weight.
The Australian terrier is a natural born digger, and loves to chase, run, and jump. This breed has bags of energy and is largely very active and outgoing. Owners will have to be prepared to put some work in so that the dog can fulfil his need for exercise, so this breed may not be right for everyone. Those with other pets may also need to exercise caution, as this breed does not always get on well with other animals. The Australian Terrier is also a natural watchdog, and therefore can be noisy when trying to sound the alarm ? this may make them unsuitable for those living in apartments where noise nuisance may prove a problem. This dog breed can be good with children, but usually if raised with them from puppy-hood. It does not like to be teased by children, and therefore may be more suited to households with older children.
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If your dog is showing any of the symptoms that we have described for the various diseases and physical abnormalities listed below, it’s very important that you take your dog to see its vet at the earliest possible time. Early treatment will not only greatly improve your dog’s chances for a quick and complete recovery, but it could very well save your dog’s life.
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Diseases in dogs may occur because of trauma, infection, immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, cancer, or degenerative conditions, to name a few. Learn about how the normal body systems work, dog disease symptoms, and how to care for a sick dog.

Disorders of the eye can be congenital, infectious, neoplastic, traumatic, immunologic, or idiopathic (of unknown cause). Some have no health implications, others can cause blindness.


Dogs who are sick are generally obvious. One easy way to spot if your dog is sick at all is to watch him or her eat and exercise. A sick dog will be listless or show very reluctant enthusiasm. If your dog eats without any lustre, it is possible that he or she has become ill. Other symptoms of sickness include pale gums and a whiter than usual tongue, duller than standard eyes, and a dry coat. Sick dogs also often suffer from a fever.

Rabies (hydrophobia) is a fatal viral disease that can affect any mammal, although the close relationship of dogs with humans makes canine rabies a zoonotic concern. Vaccination of dogs for rabies is commonly required by law. Please see the article dog health for information on this disease in dogs.  
Canine parvovirus is a sometimes fatal gastrointestinal infection that mainly affects puppies. It occurs worldwide.
Canine coronavirus is a gastrointestinal disease that is usually asymptomatic or with mild clinical signs. The signs are worse in puppies.
Canine distemper is an often fatal infectious disease that mainly has respiratory and neurologic signs.
Kennel cough is an infectious respiratory disease which can be caused by one of several viruses or by Bordetella bronchiseptica. It most commonly occurs in dogs in close confinement such as kennels.
Canine influenza is a newly emerging infectious respiratory disease. Up to 80 percent of dogs infected will have symptoms, but the mortality rate is only 5 to 8 percent.
Infectious canine hepatitis is a sometimes fatal infectious disease of the liver.
Canine herpesvirus is an infectious disease that is a common cause of death in puppies less than three weeks old.
Pseudorabies is an infectious disease that primarily affects swine, but can also cause a fatal disease in dogs with signs similar to rabies.
Canine minute virus is an infectious disease that can cause respiratory and gastrointestinal signs in young puppies.