On Feb 13, 12:42*pm, "Judy" wrote:
"Jane" wrote in message

...

I realize that small dogs have many health issues. *I was thinking of
a toy poodle, a papillon or a teacup yorkie. * I'd like to know the
pros and cons of each.

If the upfront price is manageable for you, I suggest that you find a
responsible breeder of one of the toy breeds and buy a dog or puppy there..
They may even have an older dog that would fit your needs. *Any of them
could be trained to use the pee pads.

I would suggest that you avoid anybody calling their dogs "teacup". *There
is no real "teacup" version of any breed. *It just indicates that the
breeder is trying to make an extra buck by selling a designer version. *In
any breeding, there are many issues for a good breeder to consider. *One
that is making an extreme size a priority has to not place as much weight on
something else. *With most toy breeds having some types of health issues,
you want to find someone who is making health the primary consideration.

I suggest going to a breeder because I think that in your situation you want
to be sure that the dog doesn't have any unnecessary problems that you could
avoid with some upfront care in selection - both of the dog and the breeder.

Pros and cons of the individual toy breeds are pretty much similar between
the breeds. *Most of these breeds were created to be exactly the type of dog
that you are looking for. *The question is - which of the toy breeds tugs at
your heart? *For me, I love papillons. *And I have seen some absolutely
adorable yorkies. *Poodles just don't do it for me - but that's just me.. *I
have never met a chihuahua that I could stand. *But obviously they have
their fans.

Is it possible for you to get to a dog show in your area? *A day spent
there - and I know it may be difficult for you to orchestrate it - would be
invaluable to you to help you decide which breed most appeals to you. *You
can also - but just not as they are going into the ring - talk with the
owners and handlers there and find out more about the breed. *What about
contacting a kennel club in your area? *They may have breeders in their
clubs who would be able to talk with you and help.

Good luck.

Judy

Thank you. This has been very helpful.