Size: Small
Place of origin: Central America
Colours: All colours except the newly introduced ‘merle’ which has not been universally approved.
Type of home: Happy in an apartment or flat, in the town or country.
Owner: Okay for novices, good breed for the elderly, needs someone at home full-time.
Good with children: Average – not for households with very young children.
Attitude to other pets: Okay providing socialised in puppyhood.
Grooming needs: Two types of coat, both easy-care. Long coat requires a weekly brush, the short coat requires an occasional comb.
Exercise needs: Little or lots – enjoys mini agility events.
Quietness: Average – can be yappy.
Ease of training: Average – needs consistent, gentle training.
Good points: Loving, attentive, playful, low maintenance in terms of exercise and food requirements.
Points to be aware of: Hard to house-train, can be yappy and fussy eaters, dislikes the cold.
Possible medical problems: Open Molera (opening in top of skull), slipping kneecaps, heart problems.
Life span: 13-14 years, possibly more
Male height: 15-20cm
Female height: 15-20cm
