Do you want to know what the best small dogs for kids are? Kids and dogs can make a lovely pair but they have to fit perfectly. Check out my list of the best child-friendly dogs!
Best Small Dogs for Kids | Family Dogs You’ll Love
When you have young kids at home, searching for dog breeds that are good with children is a must! You wouldn’t want to have an aggressive dog at home that does not have patience for kids. What you want is a gentle, patient, and playful dog which your child can play with and grow up with. But hey, take note that not all small dog breeds are great with kids. To help you narrow down the choices, here is a list of the 10 best small dogs for kids:
1. Pug | Best Small Dogs for Kids
Pugs always land a spot on the top 10 best family dogs lists and you can easily see why. Not only is that face super adorable, but kids will love the goofy personality of pugs. On some days, Pugs can be very social little creatures and when they get excited, can be very entraining for the kids. But on most days, they are lazy dogs, and loves chilling out even when the kids play around the house.
2. Yorkshire Terrier | Best Small Dogs for Kids
Yorkshire Terriers are dogs you and the kid would want to have. Their small size is perfect for families with small kids. Yorkies have an adventurous personality and are an intelligent breed. There’s no doubt that this entertaining dog will be well-loved by the kids and adults too!
3. Beagle | Best Small Dogs for Kids
Beagles are one of the best dogs for kids you can have at home. Why? They’re so friendly that they would even be happy to meet new faces (humans and animals alike)! That said, Beagles aren’t exactly good guard dogs at home. But since they are gentle dogs and has a good temper, they make ideal furry companions for the kids!
4. Boston Terrier | Best Small Dogs for Kids
When you see a Boston Terrier sit silently, you know that they’re not the usual small dog you see. Boston Terriers are often described as “dapper,” which could be because of its nickname “American Gentleman.” Boston Terriers can be silly at times but are highly sociable. The best thing about them is that they like to stay close to their families.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Best Small Dogs for Kids
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small naturally friendly dogs. They’re very gentle and affectionate towards their families…and even strangers, too! The kids will love their playfulness and you’ll love them for being easy to train. What else to love about this dog breed? This dog finds satisfaction in playing and being a lap dog! Chill out session anyone?
6. Miniature Schnauzer | Best Small Dogs for Kids
Among the three Schnauzer breeds, the Mini Schnauzer is the best one for little kids. Just like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, this dog is intelligent and playful. Mini Schnauzers are always in a happy mood, too. But do not underestimate the size, these little fellows are hardy and can romp around outdoors whether in the park or the backyard!
7. Havanese | Best Small Dogs for Kids
Are you worried about the Havaneses’ long coat? Fear not. Havaneses have a hypoallergenic non-shedding coat! But more than the lovely and silky coat, families love them for their mild temperament and affection. In fact, Havaneses get easily attached to their family and will always love to sit on laps or run around with the kids!
8. Cocker Spaniel | Best Small Dogs for Kids
Cocker Spaniels are adorable dogs to own. While primarily bred as bird hunting dogs, they actually make for an awesome family companion, especially for the children. They are described to be easily trainable, intelligent, quiet, friendly, faithful, and affectionate. Does the Cocker Spaniel have everything you’re looking for in a pet? Looks like it!
9. Bichon Frise | Best Small Dogs for Kids
Apart from the Yorkie, the Bichon Frise is another dream dog you’d wish to own. For one, they’re super cute and adorable. I mean, seriously, can you resist that face? But more than the adorability factor, the Bichon Frise plays well with the kids. They’re energetic and affectionate towards their family. Plus, they make great watchdogs too!
10. Miniature Poodle| Best Small Dogs for Kids
To cap off our list of the 10 most kid friendly dogs is the Miniature Poodle. This dog breed is known to be a very loving pet and easily gets attached to one person in the family (I’m hoping that would be your kid). But in general, the Miniature Poodle is playful, lively, eager to please, smart, and obedient. Not to mention, they’re irresistibly cute too!
Want to dress up your pooch? Here’s how to make DIY no-sew dog clothes by Joselyn Hughes of HGTV Homemade:
It’s a good thing to introduce dogs to kids at an early age. Kids can learn about being responsible and how to care for another living thing. They can also learn to be more affectionate to animals. However, it is also important that you pick the right dog for the family as you wouldn’t want trouble in the household. I hope you can find “the” perfect small dog for the kids. I’m sure it will be tough, given that the best small dogs for kids are all so adorable!
What small dog breed is your favorite? Let us know in the comments section below!
Do you want to try your hand at making your own homemade dog food? Check out these 7 Yummy Homemade Dog Food Recipes!
