5 popular toy dog breeds, and what to know before you choose one

Toy breeds are small companion dogs, and their size, affectionate nature and modest exercise needs make them popular. But small doesn't mean simple. Toy dogs need training and socialisation like any other dog, and several breeds have health issues you should understand before choosing one.

What is a toy breed?

The Royal Kennel Club groups breeds by type. It describes Toy breeds as small companion or lap dogs. Many were bred as companions, while others are in the group simply because of their size. The Royal Kennel Club says they should have friendly personalities and love attention, and that they don't need a large amount of exercise.

Some small dogs aren't in the Toy group. The Toy Poodle, for example, is in the Utility group with the other Poodles.

Five popular toy breeds

1. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds. Chihuahuas are usually bold and loyal and often bond closely with one person. They can be wary of strangers, so early, gentle socialisation is important. Their small size makes them vulnerable to injury from falls and rough play.

2. Pomeranian

The Royal Kennel Club describes the Pomeranian as the smallest of the spitz breeds, bred down from the larger German Spitz. Pomeranians are lively, extrovert little dogs with a thick double coat that needs regular brushing. The breed was a favourite of Queen Victoria.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavaliers are usually gentle, friendly and adaptable, which makes them popular family dogs. However, the British Veterinary Association notes that Chiari malformation and syringomyelia (CM/SM) has been shown to be inherited in the breed. The condition can cause severe pain. Ask breeders about MRI screening under the BVA/Royal Kennel Club CM/SM scheme and other recommended health tests.

Cavaliers are also prone to mitral valve disease, a heart condition. Ask breeders about heart testing of the parents.

4. Bichon Frise

The Bichon is a cheerful, sociable dog with a soft, curly white coat. The coat sheds little, but it grows continuously and needs regular brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting.

5. Pug

Pugs are affectionate, playful and sociable. But they are a flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed, and the Royal Kennel Club warns that a very flat face and short muzzle increase the risk of breathing problems, eye injuries and skin fold infections. The UK Brachycephalic Working Group asks anyone considering a flat-faced dog to "stop and think" and to speak to a vet first. If you go ahead, look for a breeder who uses the Royal Kennel Club's Respiratory Function Grading Scheme and chooses parents with more moderate features.

A note on the Griffon Bruxellois

The Griffon Bruxellois is a charming, characterful toy breed. It is also flat-faced, and the British Veterinary Association lists it alongside the Cavalier as a breed in which CM/SM is inherited. Ask breeders which health tests the parents have had, and research these carefully before choosing a Griffon.

Raising a confident small dog

Small dogs are sometimes carried everywhere and protected from everything, which can make them fearful. Fearful dogs are more likely to bark, nip or snap. To help your toy dog grow up confident:

• socialise them gently with people, dogs and new places from a young age
• let them walk and explore on their own four feet
• use kind, reward-based training, just as you would with a larger dog
• supervise play with young children and big dogs, as toy breeds are easily injured
• use a harness rather than a collar if your vet recommends it