The number of ‘fashionable’ miniature dogs being given up or abandoned at The Blue Cross has more than tripled in the past five years, H&C is concerned to hear.

Intake trebled

Intake of bichon frise, Chihuahuas, shih tzus, Yorkshire terriers, Lhasa apsos, pugs, Pomeranians, papillons and cavalier King Charles spaniels rose from 53 in 2005/6 to 177 in the past 12 months.

Just a few years ago the Blue Cross had only five Chihuahuas at their centres but in the past year they’ve taken in 23.

Are celebrities to blame?

These types of dogs are made famous by celebrities like Paris Hilton and problems arise when people think that because they’re small they don’t have the same demands as larger dogs.

Ryan Neile, an animal behaviourist at The Blue Cross, says: “People assume that just because dogs are small they require less exercise and mental stimulation but this is often not true.

Boredom in handbag dogs

“All dogs need appropriate outlets for their behaviour, otherwise they may become bored, frustrated or stressed, which could result in behaviour problems, such as being destructive in the home.

“Just because they are small enough to be carried around all day doesn’t mean that they should be. Due to their size, people forget they are still dogs and they need to be treated and respected as such.”

Ryan adds: “People pick them up, kiss and cuddle them and they go along with it because they have no choice. Despite their size, they are still dogs and shouldn’t be denied the opportunity to engage in normal dog behaviour on the ground.”

Prone to health problems

Some are also prone to health problems like heart murmurs in Chihuahuas and dentation in miniature yorkies – problems with the teeth growing properly. This can lead to large vet bills which people may not be able to afford.

Ryan says: “Before anyone takes on a dog of any type, they should fully research the breed and make sure that it is the right dog for their lifestyle to ensure that any pet they take on has a home for life.”