You love small dogs, but you have kids at home. Is it safe to adopt cute pooches? Definitely! Remember that not all small dogs cannot get along with kids.
But finding the right breed is trickier than you have thought. Say bye to any hassle and discomfort! Below, we have gathered the best small dogs good with children:
1. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu puppies are extremely small, so some aspiring pet owners may be skeptical about adopting this breed, especially when they have kids.
Good news! Shih Tzu becomes sturdy when full-grown. But always supervise your puppy and kid every time they interact and play with each other for safety.
Shih Tzus are irresistibly cute, charming, friendly, outgoing, and perfect for people of all ages. They can also be good therapy dogs for seniors in the family.
However, Shih Tzus require more maintenance to keep their long coat shiny and healthy. Daily brushing is important, too. You can keep them in a shorter pet clip to avoid any trouble ahead.
2. Beagle
Who would have thought that Beagles could be kid-friendly? Well, with their history, you might not believe it.
Originally, Beagles were developed to hunt rabbits and work with horses and large dogs. Despite that, the Beagles are friendly. They are ideal for naughty and playful kids. They can handle the chaos and loud noise in the family well.
Although they are small, do not underestimate Beagles. They have a high level of athleticism and energy.
Beagles, however, are excessive barking and howling dogs. When left alone, they may become destructive. Give them something to play. Or you can take them wherever you go.
3. Pug
Another best small dog for children is probably the Pug. Like the Beagle, Pugs are outgoing, silly, friendly, and fun to be with. When your kid loves a dog, Pugs will be a great present.
Although they are small, Pugs have a big and loving personality that can change your world. They are also solidly built and cobby as well.
Because of their size, Pugs only require daily walks. But be careful during the summer season as they cannot tolerate the heat.
Pugs have short coats that are easy to groom and maintain. Unfortunately, they shed, so brush them daily.
4. Bichon Frise
Originally came from France, Bichon Frise lived a life of luxury. But after the revolution, Bichons turned into street dogs.
What sets Bichons apart from others is that they are super lively, charm, and intelligent, increasing their popularity as circus dogs.
Bichons are playful and affectionate, just like other small dogs. With their intelligence, Bichons are easy to train, and they love new tricks to learn every day.
Despite being a small breed, Bichons are not as fragile as you imagine. But teach your kids how to handle this breed well to avoid any problem in the future.
5. Havanese
As the name implies, this dog was first bred in Havana 300 years ago. Originally treasured lapdogs of rich plantation owners, Havanese became popular in the mid-1900s.
Havanese dogs are social, and they love to make friends with everyone in the family. They also have a charm you cannot resist.
Who says toy breeds are not ideal for families with kids? Well, Havanese makes the impossible possible. Even if they are small, they are good with gentle children.
Havanese can also compete with other breeds in terms of intelligence. They are whip-smart, and they enjoy new tricks. The retention or mastery is long-term.
6. Boston Terrier
As the name suggests, Terrier was bred in Boston in the late 1800s. They are animated and friendly, making them wonderful family dogs.
Boston Terriers are a top choice for those who live in apartments and other small spaces with their compact size. They are not difficult to keep fit and healthy as a daily walk is more than enough.
Lively, loving, and curious, Boston Terriers are a fun pal for you and your children. Therefore, take them wherever you go.
Boston Terriers are compactly built, well-balanced, and short-tailed with a smooth coat, usually in brindle, seal, or black.
7. French Bulldog
Commonly called Frenchie, the French Bulldogs love every trick you give them. They are a playful and adaptable breed that can be a complete addition to your existing dogs at home.
Unlike the standard Bulldogs, Frenchies have bat ears. With their looks and curious personality, they can catch people’s attention and interest of all ages.
Frenchies can be a great companion for children as long as they are gentle and responsible. When you adopt a French Bulldog, be sure to teach your kids to play nice with this breed. Also, supervise them during playtime if possible.
8. Cairn Terrier
Generally, terriers are not good with children. But Cairn Terrier is different. They love kids and will always play with them every day.
Developed in the Scottish Highlands 200 years ago, Cairn Terriers originally hunted different vermin types, including rats and foxes. They are athletic, tough, and sturdy.
Like other small or even large dogs, teach your kids to be gentle with a Cairn Terrier. But this breed will not be aggressive when children bump into them accidentally. However, prevention is always better.
Historically used for hunting purposes, Cairn Terriers have a high prey drive. They chase or hunt any moving creature. That is why they do not go well with a family cat.
9. Cocker Spaniel
If you are looking for a small dog for kids and cats, Cocker Spaniels are the breed you would love.
Like other puppies, Cocker Spaniels are calm and relaxed with children, cats, and even other dogs.
What makes them the top favorites among pet owners is their cheerful disposition. They are always happy and can change your level of positivity. No matter how stressful your life is, they have a big personality that will always brighten your day.
Like the other small dogs, Cocker Spaniels love to play. Just vary your gaming adventures to incite their excitement.
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Who would not love to have a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel? Everyone would enjoy having a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
More than their curly, thick, and shiny fur, this breed is sought-after because of its even-tempered and happy disposition. It is recommended for seniors and even naughty children.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is super sweet, faithful, and loving. They always seek your cuddle, attention, and caress on their belly.
Unfortunately, this breed cannot resist roughhousing. It might show aggression or even bite your kids. So, instruct your kids appropriately.
11. Maltese
Are you into royalty? If yes, Maltese is expert-recommended. It is believed they have lounged alongside aristocrats over the past 28 centuries.
It is no surprise as Maltese has gentle dispositions, irresistible cheerfulness, and stunning silken locks.
Although it is bred as a lap dog, Maltese is extremely enthusiastic and always excited to learn unique tricks. It is also highly trainable because it is smart by nature.
However, Maltese needs to be brushed every day to maintain its coat shiny and healthy. If you do not have much time, do not adopt Maltese or any other dogs as they deserve better.
12. Yorkshire Terrier
Aside from a Cairn Terrier, Yorkies are also kid-friendly. But they may also be aggressive, so proper training and early socialization are advisable.
Yorkies are known to be energetic and lively. They are indeed a wonderful choice for enthusiastic families. You can play with them indoors or outdoors. Then, take them out for a short daily walk.
Originally bred to herd animals, Yorkies are athletic and social. But like other dogs, they tend to be quite nippy, and consistent training is the key.
Contact an experienced and capable dog trainer to correct this behavior.
13. Miniature Schnauzers
Have you been searching for a smart and cheerful dog? There is no need to look further than Miniature Schnauzers.
Bred in Germany, Schnauzers are among the most intelligent of all small dogs. That is why they are easily trainable. Still, they require pet owners to be committed and patient, as Schnauzers may be lazy.
Schnauzers tend to be protective in front of strangers. When you go out for a walk, keep them on a leash. Plus, give them many opportunities to socialize.
Another thing that pet owners love about Miniature Schnauzers is that they are outgoing. They love adventures. You can take them with you wherever you go.
14. Brussels Griffon
Lovable? Sensitive? These are a few common characteristics of Brussels Griffon terriers. They are faithful to pet owners.
They love the time you cuddle them and rub their belly. They always seek attention, so do not be surprised when they follow you around wherever you go.
Brussels Griffon Terriers are more likely to be protective. They may be aggressive when a stranger is around. But you can correct this misdemeanor thru training.
Brussels Griffon is also an excellent watchdog because of its high level of intelligence and athleticism.
So, do you want to turn your home into something lively and fun? It is time to adopt any of these small breeds.
Pet ownership is indeed a fulfilling experience!
