Page 30 - PET worldwide issue 2/2021

Small dogs

Photo: Pixabay, Cparks

Small dog breeds are very Small dogs: a cure for
popular, but not all owners
are aware of the special
the Covid blues
requirements of such
breeds.

In many countries, the number of dogs has increased sharply
since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Small dog
breeds in particular have become more widespread.

During the Covid-19 pandemic that 3.2 mio households had ac- that even poodles, dachshunds
with restrictions on contact and quired a new pet since the pan- and chihuahuas have their own
going out and the resulting loneli- demic began, many of them special needs, however. For ex-
ness and working from home, far opting for a dog. In short, the de- ample, many of them require ex-
more dogs have been purchased sire for a four-legged friend, to pro- tensive physical exercise in the
than before the coronavirus ap- vide company on long walks and form of long walks and running
peared. Germany’s Kennel Club to lend support when the fear of around. This appeals to many
VDH estimates a 20 per cent in- an uncertain future gets too much, dog owners, especially since
crease in the number of dogs in has increased significantly from the onset of the pandemic, dur-
Germany last year as compared Canada through to India in the last ing which walking has become
with the previous year. Between few months. virtually a national sport in many
March and September 2020, It has been proven that hav- countries. And a walk is even
the number of foster pets in US ing pets as companions reduces more fun when there is some-
homes increased by 8 per cent, the feeling of loneliness and can one to share it with.
according to Pet Point, which col- improve mood. Since many
lects industry data on pet adop- people lack the space to keep High energy requirement
tion. The Pet Food Manufacturers’ a large dog, they opt above all Increased muscle activity con-
Association in the UK discovered for smaller breeds. They forget sumes more energy, which has to

30 PET worldwide 2|2021

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