Simply put, an “Underfoot” dog is a small breed of dog that can be seriously injured if stepped on.

Some of the most popular small breeds are the Pomeranian, the Chihuahua, the Miniature Poodle, the Maltese, the Shih Tzu, and the ever-popular Yorkshire Terrier, known as the Yorkie.

There is a high demand not only for small breeds, but also for small dogs that are on the lower end of the accepted weight scale. The AKC, the largest and most respected dog club organization in the United States, lists an accepted weight range.

Still, thousands of people want a dog that is at or even below that accepted size.

What these owners or prospective owners don’t realize is that owning a very small dog equates to a huge responsibility. Unfortunately, many owners have obtained a small breed dog only to seriously injure it by accident.

People need to realize that having a dog, especially a small one, is a lot like having a baby. The dog will be an “Underfoot” dog. You must constantly be aware of where the dog is. If you trip or step on one of these dog breeds, you won’t just say “ouch!”, you’ll most likely take your Pom, Chi, Yorkie, or other dog to the animal hospital.

These breeds can get broken limbs, even if you don’t put your full weight down. One element that makes these small dog breeds so prone to getting under your feet is that they are known to be very loyal, very personable, and follow their owner around the house, like a shadow.

People tend to be busy, they may be walking around the house while talking on the phone, cleaning a room, carrying clothes or others. The dog will be right underfoot, and this is when it only takes a split second for the dog to be accidentally stepped on.

Recovery from broken limbs takes a long time. The dog will be quite immobilized. Sometimes the bones do not heal well and the dog may limp for the rest of his life. Unfortunately, some dogs die when stepped on.

In addition to having to be aware of where your dog is at all times, so that they do not step on it, you also have to know that sitting on top of a small breed dog can be fatal for the dog. If you’re not looking and your 4-pound Yorkie is sprawled on the corner of your couch and you sit down, this can be devastating.

These small dogs can be injured by jumping off furniture, pulling on a leash, and more.

Take the time to learn about a breed of dog before you bring one into your home. Miniature breed dogs are wonderful companions. However, to ensure that your new furry friend lives a long, happy, and safe life, take a little time to learn how to care for him and how to keep him out of harm’s way.