Pomeranian <3
Posted : 2/25/2008 9:13:54 AM
I've enjoyed reading what all the members have posted during this thread; it really shows obvious influences on why people prejudge small dogs; and typically it comes from never owning a small dog. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion; but hopefully we can all keep an open mind.
For those that have ever owned a small dog (like myself) you understand the dedication, affection, and patience you must provide for these breeds. All though no one wants to "humanize" their dogs; toy dogs should deff be treated like small children/babies at times. Toy dogs need extreme socialization, affection, dicipline, and exercise to become balanced companions; many people can't provide this or think toy dogs don't require any particular lifestyle needs, hense the wild obnoxious barking ankle biters you may see today.
If I am home, my dog is on my lap or right next to me (by her choice). She follows me from room to room and is involved in all of our activities. She goes everywhere in the car with me, to the store, to the bank... she's a total side kick.
She also has a whole entire mini closet with mini hangers with well over 30 mini dog outfits. And guess what? She lo0o0oves it. If you say the word "clothes", "sweater", "jacket", "dress" she gets all excited as if you said "treat" or "bone" or "outside".
She is also no sissy dog either. She's taken on many dogs twice her size during play. So her small size, obsession with fashion, and stalker habbits mask her "big dog" personality at times.
And if she doesn't get her hour of exercise a day she'll drive you nuts. People can abuse these small dogs and keep them inside all day long or carry them everywhere. Ahhh put them on the ground! These dogs need to be walked just like any other dog. And if not, don't be surprised if they destroy your home or bark non-stop.
If you don't like attention 24-7, high-energy, pampering, or playing dress up then yes a small dog is deff not for you. And that's okay! As long as you understand and respect this breed because there are people who do enjoy them.
Are there toy dogs that don't dress up? Yeah of course. But ask my dog what she thinks about clothes? I think it would change all negative opinions on dressing up dogs significantly. Actually I think my dog would change anyone's negative opinions about small dogs period; she has all ready to so many people.