There are uncountable reasons to love small breeds of dogs. They are excellent when you want to cuddle them and to love them. Short legged dog breeds are gaining popularity for both normal people and celebrities as well.

They also shed less and are cheaper. Their food requirements are also less. They are much easier to transport from one place to another. Plus, the added advantage they will not try to fight with you when you try to fit them in your travel bag.

In short, they are one of the best puppies with short legs that your family can enjoy. Small dogs generally weight less than 22 pounds and are shorter than 16 inches. So, let us peek some of the interesting dogs that you can welcome in your home.

what are short dogs called?

There is not any particular name assigned to them. They are just known by their looks or simply people just call them to the dog with short legs. In exploring, many of them go through such a stage as a result of evolution.

What Researchers Says :

The researcher has collected DNA samples of 835 dogs, including 95 from their tiny breed. They have also studied their past and the areas where they were first found. Many such researchers say that the changes in their structure arise due the fact to adapt them well in their environment.

Many of the dogs can be categorized under short dogs some of them are –

  • Chihuahuas
  • Boston Terriers
  • Italian Greyhounds
  • Maltese
  • Miniature Pinschers and Spaniels
  • Pomeranian and Poodle

Is there such a thing as a dwarf dog?

Yes, there are breeds of dwarf dogs and have been around since ancient Rome. Their short structure helps them to go after small mammals as they feel comfortable to fit themselves in tight places. Dwarf dogs came repeatedly in the news throughout history.

Dwarf dogs are Result of Genetic Mutation :

Many of the experts also say that they are a result of the same genetic mutation. The particular mutation of such a breed causes a condition known as achondroplastic dwarfism in them. Thus, the long bones of such dogs become shorter.

Some of the dwarf breeds of dogs include –

  • Cairn Terrier
  • Scottish terrier
  • Dandie Dinmont Terrier
  • Glen of Imaal Terrier
  • Norwich Terrier, and many more

Describes Some Rare and Unique Short Legged Dog Breeds 

1. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

They are with longer than average ears but is an adorable looking dog. They were initially from the northern border in Scotland and were primarily used for hunting. But now a day they have become a great choice as a family pet due to its gentle nature.

2. Cardigan Welsh corgi

They are also one of the famous in short legged dog breeds. They are mostly recognized by their bushy appearance and the long tail. Initially, they were breed to guide the cattle and they serve the purpose as a farm dog. They have short legs and a deep chest with a heavy bone structure that make them powerful in spite of their short size. They are usually seen in brindle, sable, and in blue merle.

3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Low set strong and well built are the qualities of Pembroke Welsh corgi. They have a shorter body and people often say them dogs with tiny legs. They are known for their lighter bone composition. Some people also say that this particular breed comes from the family that includes Pomeranian, Keeshond, and Chow Chow.

Pembroke Corgi excels in many of the sporting activities including conformation, obedience, and herding.

4. Basset Hound

They are native from the country of France and were in use as a trailer and hunter in small games. The breed gained its recognition in Europe during the time of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Basset hound is often known by their heavy body, short legs, and long ears. This breed of dog has even maintained its hunting instinct today. They are very gentle in nature and are also good with children and other pets. Howling and barking frequently are their admirable features.

5. Maltese 

They are a toy size breed originative to the Mediterranean, Italy. They are very small dogs and weigh between 3 to 4 kilograms with a height of nearly 25 cm. Due to their small size; they are perfect to survive in small apartments. With a single layer white fur which is long smooth and silky gives them an attractive look.

They usually come in white fur but sometimes a golden coat is also a possibility. They have prominent dark eyes, long years, and a thick tail. Usually, they are happy and fun-loving dog and fits well with families. But they feel nervous and stressed when left alone for too much time.

6. The Papillon

The Papillon is also one of the most popular short legged dog breeds. They measure around 23 cm in height and weight just 1 to 5 kilograms. Their appearance is quite fine and elegant. Their soft head is between the two beautiful long ears, resembling the shape of a butterfly. The nature of the dogs depends on the training they receive. They are known for their intelligence and ability to relate well with other people.

7. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

They are one of the short legged dog breeds who are often recognized by their long and low body. Their tail gives the appearance of a curved sword. They were famous within the wealthy and middle-class Europeans in the 1700s. The breed is intelligent, independent, and very confident despite its short size. Their coat is medium in length and needs proper grooming regularly.

8. Coton de Tulear

They are one of the beautiful short-legged dog breeds. The main characteristic of this dog is its softness and cotton textured coat. The breed can easily adapt to any situation and are sociable enough for the families. They are usually 26-28 centimeters in size and weight of fewer than 5 kilograms.

What is a short dog Russel?

Russel dog is one best energetic and playful dog available. It is one of the brightest and clever dogs. It requires the full participation of the family in his daily playing sessions. They are not just apartment dogs but need quiet space to perform their daily exercise.

Traits of Short Dog Russel

Most of the Russel dogs are happy and friendly with strangers. But only the occurrence of strange dogs makes them a bit aggressive. Thus needs attention to avoid such cases. If we speak in terms of philosophy, they are live and let live type in nature. They are also intelligent and fast learners.

What’s not to do?

Care should also be taken that two Russell dogs should never be alone together. They may be seen that they are going well in the beginning. But suddenly their relationship turns to a brutal fight thus damaging each other for no reason. They can even have combat over a simple chew toy or food. The safest way is to make them separate before you leave the house.

So, if you need a Dog who is…

  • Small in size and sturdy in looks
  • Energetic and determined
  • Alert enough to work as a perfect watchdog
  • Sociable enough to be comfortable with strangers

You can give Russell a try.

What dog breeds have long bodies?

Many of the dog breeds are particularly bred to have longer bodies with huge and bulky looks. For some of the breeds, such looks give them an aggressive look to the enemies ( both human and wild animals ) is used as a watchdog. However, these dogs also witness some kinds of drawbacks.

Problems with Dogs that have long Bodies :

You need to pay high attention to such dogs as they easily suffer from back strain problems. So you should take utter care while picking them up and taking them out. If you do not pick them correctly or in a hurry they tend to damage their backs. If the condition worsens they will find problems in taking even small steps.

Care they Deserve :

Many people do not realize that extra care is required for such dogs. You have to give them a limited diet to maintain their weight. Overweight will somehow put high pressure on their spinal cord resulting decrease in their activeness and mobility. You should also prevent such dogs from vigorous play, for example, jumping from your sofas and chairs. Such activities easily tend to damage their back.

Many of the famous dog breeds that require your specific attention are –

  • Dachshund
  • Basset
  • Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
  • Greyhound
  • Corgi, and many more…

The Final Verdict

So now you are well aware of various short legged dog breeds available. All of them are definitely gorgeous and are unique in their particular way. The above mention lists only describe a few of them. Many other breeds are quite rare and have fallen out of favor over recent years.

Many of the others are still popular and are in demand. They will fill your home and life with happiness. They might have shorter legs but they love and affection they provide is beyond their size.