Ruby D. Gerace 
Looking for the Best Small Dog Breeds For Kids? That depends. Every dog breed has some unique characteristics and challenges.
Dogs of any size can make great companions for kids, but you’re very likely to find the perfect friend in these top 20 best small dog breeds for kids.
Small dogs can make great family pets, especially for families with children. Their small size, friendly personalities, and playful nature make them ideal companions for kids of all ages. However, with so many small dog breeds to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which breed is best suited for your family’s lifestyle and needs.
In this article, we will explore some of the best small dog breeds for kids, taking into account factors such as temperament, energy level, and grooming requirements.
Whether you’re looking for a playful lapdog or a loyal companion, there’s sure to be a small dog breed that’s perfect for your family.
DogsLoversBlog selected the top 20 small dog breeds that are best suited for your family and kids. As well as highlighting each of their characteristics.
20 Best Small Dog Breeds For Kids: Small Dogs, Big Hearts
20# Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are a small-sized breed of dog, with males typically weighing between 14-27 pounds and females weighing between 12-25 pounds.
They are known for their thick, double-coated fur, which comes in a variety of colors including sable, black, and blue merle. Their coats require regular brushing and grooming to keep them looking their best.
In terms of temperament, Shetland Sheepdogs are known for being friendly, gentle, and intelligent. They are easy to train and excel in obedience, agility, and herding trials. They also make great watchdogs, alerting their owners to any potential dangers or strangers. However, they are not known for being aggressive and tend to be more reserved around unfamiliar people.
While they are great with kids, Shelties do require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy going for walks, playing fetch, and engaging in other activities that challenge their minds and bodies. They also thrive on human interaction and need plenty of attention and affection from their owners.
Overall, Shetland Sheepdogs are a wonderful breed for families with kids, as they are loyal, loving, and fun-loving companions. With proper care and attention, they can make a great addition to any household.
19# Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originated in England, where they were bred to hunt vermin and guard homes. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with curly, woolly coats that are typically either blue, liver, or sandy in color.
Bedlington Terriers are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs that make great pets for families. They are energetic and playful and love to be around people. They are also known for their gentle and patient nature, which makes them a great choice for families with children.
Despite their small size, Bedlington Terriers are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and participating in activities such as agility training or flyball.
Bedlington Terriers are also easy to train and eager to please, which makes them great candidates for obedience and other types of training. They are generally good with other dogs and pets, although they may chase small animals due to their hunting instincts.
Overall, the Bedlington Terrier is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, playful, and energetic companion. They do well with children and are easy to train, making them a great addition to any household.
However, their curly coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, so families should be prepared to invest time in their pet’s care.
18# English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originated in England as a hunting dog. They are known for their long, silky coats that come in a variety of colors, including black, liver, and golden. They also have long, pendulous ears that give them a distinctive and charming appearance.
English Cocker Spaniels are friendly, gentle, and affectionate dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their playful and energetic personalities, and they love to be around people. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
Despite their playful nature, English Cocker Spaniels are also intelligent and easy to train. They excel in obedience and agility competitions, and they enjoy learning new tricks and skills. They are also good at adapting to new situations and environments, which makes them great travel companions.
English Cocker Spaniels are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and participating in activities such as flyball and dock diving.
Overall, the English Cocker Spaniel is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, playful, and intelligent companion. They do well with children and are easy to train, making them a great addition to any household.
However, their long coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, so families should be prepared to invest time in their pet’s care.
17# Beagle
The Beagle is a small breed of dog that originated in England as a scent hound. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with short, dense coats that come in a variety of colors, including tri-color, lemon, and red and white. They also have long, droopy ears and big, soulful eyes that give them a charming and endearing look.
Beagles are friendly, curious, and affectionate dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their playful and energetic personalities, and they love to be around people. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
Beagles are also intelligent and independent, which can make them a challenge to train. They have a strong prey drive and can be easily distracted by interesting scents, so it’s important to keep them on a leash or in a secure area when outside.
Beagles are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and participating in activities such as agility training and scent work.
Overall, the Beagle is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, playful, and curious companion. They do well with children and are great at adapting to new situations and environments, making them a great travel companion.
However, their short coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, so families should be prepared to invest time in their pet’s care.
16# Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small breed of dog that originated in France as a companion dog. They are known for their fluffy, white coats that are hypoallergenic and don’t shed much, making them a great choice for families with allergies. They have round, dark eyes and a compact, sturdy build.
Bichon Frises are friendly, affectionate, and playful dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their happy and cheerful personalities, and they love to be around people. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great candidates for obedience and other types of training. They love to learn new tricks and skills, and they enjoy being the center of attention.
Bichon Frises are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and participating in activities such as agility training and obedience competitions.
Overall, the Bichon Frise is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, playful, and affectionate companion. They are great with children and are easy to train, making them a great addition to any household.
However, their fluffy coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, so families should be prepared to invest time in their pet’s care.
15# American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originated in Germany. They are known for their thick, white coats and fluffy tails that give them a striking and elegant appearance. They have dark, almond-shaped eyes and pointed ears that stand erect.
They are friendly, intelligent, and active dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their playful and energetic personalities, and they love to be around people. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
American Eskimo Dogs are also highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions. They love to learn new tricks and skills, and they are eager to please their owners. They have a strong work ethic and enjoy having a job to do.
Despite their small size, American Eskimo Dogs are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and participating in activities such as agility training and obedience competitions.
Overall, the American Eskimo Dog is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, intelligent, and active companion. They are great with children and are easy to train, making them a great addition to any household.
However, their thick coats require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, so families should be prepared to invest time in their pet’s care.
14# Whippet
The Whippet is a medium-sized breed of dog that originated in England. They are known for their sleek, muscular build and athletic abilities, which make them popular in dog racing competitions. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, brindle, and black.
They are friendly, gentle, and affectionate dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their calm and quiet personalities, and they enjoy relaxing with their owners. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great candidates for obedience and other types of training. They are quick learners and are eager to please their owners. They have a strong prey drive and enjoy chasing small animals, so they should be supervised when outside.
Whippets are generally low-energy dogs that require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks and playing in the yard, but they are content to curl up on the couch with their owners.
Overall, the Whippet is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, gentle, and affectionate companion. They are great with children and are easy to train, making them a great addition to any household.
However, their short coats require minimal grooming, so families can enjoy their company without having to spend too much time on their pet’s care.
13# Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is a small breed of dog that originated in France. They are known for their distinctive curly, hypoallergenic coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, silver, and apricot. They have dark, almond-shaped eyes and long, floppy ears.
Toy Poodles are intelligent, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their energetic and lively personalities, and they enjoy spending time with their owners. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
Toy Poodles are also highly trainable and excel in obedience and other types of training. They love to learn new tricks and skills, and they are eager to please their owners. They have a strong desire to be with their owners at all times and are sometimes called “velcro dogs.”
Toy Poodles are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and participating in activities such as agility training and obedience competitions.
Finally, the Toy Poodle is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, intelligent, and playful companion. They are great with children and are easy to train, making them a great addition to any household.
However, their curly coats require regular grooming to prevent matting, so families should be prepared to invest time and effort in their pet’s care.
12# Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small breed of dog that originated in China. They are known for their long, silky coats that come in a variety of colors, including black, white, and gold. They have round, friendly faces with large, dark eyes and floppy ears.
Shih Tzus are affectionate, playful, and loyal dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their gentle and friendly personalities, and they enjoy being around people. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
Shih Tzus are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to large homes with yards. They are low-energy dogs that require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for short walks and playing in the yard, but they are also content to curl up on the couch with their owners.
Shih Tzus are relatively easy to care for. Their coats require regular grooming to prevent matting, but they do not shed much and are often recommended for people with allergies.
Shih Tzu dogs are friendly, affectionate, and low-energy companions for families who want a loyal pet that doesn’t shed much hair.
They’re easy to care for and make great additions to any household. However, grooming is required every few weeks to keep your Shih Tzu coat looking its best.
11# Pug
The Pug is a small breed of dog that originated in China. They are known for their wrinkled faces, curled tails, and short, stocky builds. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, black, and silver.
Pugs are friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their happy and outgoing personalities, and they enjoy spending time with their owners. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
Pugs are also adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to large homes with yards. They are low-energy dogs that require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for short walks and playing in the yard, but they are also content to curl up on the couch with their owners.
Pugs are also known for their intelligence and can be easily trained with positive reinforcement techniques. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to praise and treats.
However, Pugs are prone to some health issues, including obesity, respiratory problems, and eye problems. They require regular veterinary checkups and a healthy diet to maintain their overall health.
The Pug is a wonderful family dog that is loyal, friendly, and adaptable. They are great with children and easy to care for, making them a great addition to any household. However, families should be aware of their potential health issues and be prepared to invest in their pet’s care.
10# Papillon
The Papillon is a small dog breed originating in France. The long fur falls in waves and hangs to the ground, giving the dog its distinctive butterfly-like ears. They have alert face with dark expressive eyes, and their coat comes in a variety of colors including white, black, and brown.
Papillons are intelligent, energetic, and playful dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their outgoing and social personalities, and they enjoy being around people. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
Papillons are also highly trainable, and they respond well to obedience training. They learn quickly, and their eagerness to please their owners makes them excellent candidates for training. These dogs are sometimes called “velcro dogs” because they will always want to be near their owners.
Although Papillons are small dogs, they require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and participating in activities such as agility training and obedience competitions.
Overall, the Papillon is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, intelligent, and playful companion. They are great with children and are easy to train, making them a great addition to any household.
However, their long coats require regular grooming to prevent matting, so families should be prepared to invest time and effort in their pet’s care.
9# Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small breed of dog that originated in Germany. They are known for their distinctive bearded snouts, bushy eyebrows, and cropped ears. They have a wiry coat that comes in a variety of colors, including salt and pepper, black, and white.
Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent, loyal, and energetic dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their friendly and playful personalities, and they enjoy being around people. They are great with children and are patient and gentle with them.
Miniature Schnauzers are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to large homes with yards. They are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and participating in activities such as agility training and obedience competitions.
Miniature Schnauzers are also highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. They are eager to please their owners and have a strong desire to learn and be with their owners at all times.
Despite their wiry coat, Miniature Schnauzers are relatively easy to care for. Their coats require regular grooming to prevent matting, but they do not shed much and are often recommended for people with allergies.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a wonderful pet for families who want a loyal, intelligent, and energetic companion. They are great with children and are easy to train, making them a great addition to any household.
However, it takes time and effort to care for this breed; owners should be prepared to invest time and money in their pets’ care.
8# Maltese
The Maltese are a small breed of dog that originated in the Mediterranean, possibly on the island of Malta. They are known for their long, silky white coat and dark, expressive eyes. They have a gentle and affectionate nature, and they love to be around people.
Maltese are friendly and playful dogs that make great pets for families. They are known for their outgoing and social personalities, and they enjoy being around children. They are patient and gentle with kids, and they make great companions for families with young children.
Maltese are also adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to large homes with yards. They are low-energy dogs that require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for short walks and playing in the yard, but they are also content to curl up on the couch with their owners.
Maltese are also known for their intelligence and can be easily trained with positive reinforcement techniques. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to praise and treats.
Despite their long coat, Maltese are relatively easy to care for. They require regular grooming to prevent matting, but they do not shed much and are often recommended for people with allergies.
Overall, the Maltese is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, friendly, and adaptable companion. They are great with children and are easy to care for, making them a great addition to any household.
However, families should be prepared to invest time and effort in their pet’s care, including regular grooming and moderate exercise.
7# Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small breed of dog that originated in Tibet. They are known for their long, flowing coat and distinctive lion-like appearance. They have a friendly and loyal nature and make great companions for families.
Lhasa Apsos are intelligent and independent dogs that are known for their courage and devotion to their owners. They are affectionate and playful and love to be around people. They are also good with children, although they can be reserved with strangers.
Lhasa Apsos are adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to large homes with yards. They are low-energy dogs that require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for short walks and playing in the yard, but they are also content to relax indoors with their owners.
Lhasa Apsos can be stubborn and difficult to train, but they respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. They have a strong desire to please their owners and can be trained with patience and consistency.
Despite their long coat, Lhasa Apsos are relatively easy to care for. They require regular grooming to prevent matting, but they do not shed much and are often recommended for people with allergies.
Overall, the Lhasa Apso is a wonderful breed for families who want a loyal, independent, and adaptable companion. They are good with children and are easy to care for, making them a great addition to any household.
However, families should be prepared to invest time and effort in their pet’s care, including regular grooming and moderate exercise.
6# Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a small and elegant breed of dog that is beloved for its unique appearance and affectionate nature. Known for their slender and graceful build, these dogs are often called the “miniature greyhound” because of their resemblance to their larger counterparts.
Originating in Italy, the Italian Greyhound has been a popular breed for centuries. They were favored by royalty and were often depicted in artwork and tapestries. Today, they are still beloved for their beauty and personality.
One of the most striking features of the Italian Greyhound is its sleek and shiny coat. They come in a range of colors, including black, white, fawn, blue, and red. Their coat is short and easy to care for, requiring only occasional brushing to keep it looking its best.
Italian Greyhounds are also known for their loving and loyal nature. They are affectionate with their owners and enjoy spending time with their families. They are often described as “velcro dogs” because they like to stay close to their owners at all times.
Despite their small size, Italian Greyhounds have a lot of energy and require daily exercise. They enjoy going for walks and playing in the yard, but they also do well in apartments or small living spaces as long as they have regular opportunities to exercise.
Italian Greyhounds are also intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. However, they can be sensitive and require gentle handling and consistent training to thrive.
Like many small breeds, Italian Greyhounds can be prone to certain health issues, such as dental problems and joint issues. It is important to keep up with regular vet visits and maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to keep them in good health.
In conclusion, the Italian Greyhound is a beautiful and affectionate breed that makes a great companion for those looking for a loyal and energetic pet.
They are easy to care for and train but do require daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy. With proper care and attention, an Italian Greyhound can bring years of joy and companionship to their owners.
5# Havanese
The Havanese is a small breed of dog that is known for its playful and affectionate nature. Originally from Cuba, they were bred as companion dogs and are often called the “velcro dog” because of their strong attachment to their owners.
One of the most striking features of the Havanese is their silky and soft coat, which can come in a variety of colors including white, black, cream, and gold. Their coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best, but they do not shed much and are often recommended for people with allergies.
Havanese dogs are intelligent and trainable, making them well-suited for obedience training and learning tricks. They enjoy being around people and are eager to please their owners, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.
Despite their small size, Havanese dogs have a lot of energy and require daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They enjoy going for walks and playing in the yard, but they are also content to curl up with their owners and relax indoors.
Havanese dogs are also known for their friendly and social nature. They get along well with children and other pets and are generally well-behaved around strangers. They are also adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to large homes with yards.
Like all breeds, Havanese dogs can be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems and joint issues. It is important to keep up with regular vet visits and maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to keep them in good health.
Overall, the Havanese is a wonderful breed for those looking for a loyal and affectionate companion. They are easy to care for, trainable, and get along well with people and other pets. With proper care and attention, a Havanese can bring years of joy and companionship to their owners.
4# Dachshund
The Dachshund, also known as the “wiener dog” or “sausage dog”, is a small breed of dog that is known for its long and low body. Originally bred in Germany for hunting badgers, the Dachshund has since become a beloved companion dog that is adored for its unique appearance and loyal nature.
The Dachshund’s elongated body is easily recognizable, and it can take on a variety of colors including black, brown, red, and dapple. Its short legs and long back make it well-suited for digging and burrowing. This dog was originally used as a hunting dog.
Despite their small size, Dachshunds have an energy level comparable to that of a larger breed. Because of this, they require regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. They enjoy going for walks and playing in the yard but also enjoy curling up on the couch with their owners.
Despite their small size, Dachshunds have a lot of energy and require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks and playing in the yard, but they are also content to curl up on the couch with their owners and relax.
Dachshunds can be prone to certain health issues, such as back problems and obesity. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine, as well as to be careful not to allow them to jump on and off of furniture or other high surfaces that could put stress on their backs.
In conclusion, the Dachshund is a unique and lovable breed that makes a great companion for those looking for a loyal and playful pet.
They are easy to care for and train but do require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. With proper care and attention, a Dachshund can bring years of joy and companionship to their owners.
3# Chihuahua
Chihuahua is a small breed of dog that is known for its big personality. Originating from Mexico, they are one of the oldest dog breeds in the Americas and have become a popular pet around the world.
Chihuahuas come in a variety of colors and coat types, including short-haired and long-haired varieties. They are a small breed, typically weighing between 2 and 6 pounds, making them easy to care for and ideal for apartment living.
Chihuahuas are known for their feisty and loyal personalities. Despite their small size, they have a lot of energy and love to play and explore. They are intelligent dogs that can be easily trained and enjoy learning new tricks and commands.
While Chihuahuas make great pets for adults and older children, they may not be the best choice for families with young children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured if mishandled or accidentally stepped on. They may also be prone to fear-based aggression if not socialized properly.
Chihuahuas can be prone to certain health issues, such as dental problems and luxating patella (a condition where the kneecap slips out of place). Regular vet visits and proper care can help keep them healthy and happy.
Overall, the Chihuahua is a unique and loyal breed that can make a great companion for those looking for a small and feisty pet. They are easy to care for and train but do require proper socialization and exercise to thrive. With the right care and attention, a Chihuahua can bring years of joy and companionship to their owners.
2# Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, often simply called the Cavalier, is a small breed of dog that originated in England. They are beloved family pets and are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities.
Cavaliers are a relatively low-maintenance breed that can adapt well to both city and country living. They typically weigh between 13-18 pounds and come in four distinct color patterns, including Blenheim (chestnut and white), black and tan, ruby (solid red), and tricolor (black, white, and tan).
One of the most endearing qualities of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels is their love of affection and cuddles. They are often referred to as “love sponges” due to their eagerness to be near their owners and shower them with affection. They also have a playful side and enjoy games and toys.
Cavaliers are an intelligent breed that can be easily trained, but they also have a stubborn streak and may require some patience and consistency. They are also prone to separation anxiety and may not do well if left alone for long periods.
Due to their small size, Cavaliers are well-suited for apartment living, but they do require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks and playing in the yard but are also content to relax and snuggle with their owners.
Overall, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a wonderful companion dog that makes a great family pet. They are affectionate, playful, and easy to care for, but do require proper socialization and exercise to thrive. With the right care and attention, a Cavalier can bring years of joy and companionship to their owners.
1# Pomeranian
The Pomeranian, also known as the Pom, is a small breed of dog that is a beloved companion to many. Originally bred in Germany as a larger sled dog, the Pomeranian was eventually bred down to its current size and became a popular companion dog in Europe and America.
Pomeranians typically weigh between 3-7 pounds and have a fluffy, double coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, cream, orange, and sable. They are known for their cute, fox-like appearance, with small, pointed ears and a curled tail.
Despite their small size, Pomeranians are energetic and playful dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are intelligent and easy to train, but can also be stubborn at times. They are known for their alert and curious personalities, and can sometimes be vocal.
One of the most endearing qualities of the Pomeranian is their affectionate and loyal nature. They bond closely with their owners and enjoy being held and cuddled. They are also good with children and make great family pets.
Pomeranians do have some health concerns, including dental issues and a tendency towards certain genetic disorders. They also require regular grooming to maintain their fluffy coat.
Overall, the Pomeranian is a delightful companion dog that brings a lot of joy and love to its owners. They are small in size but big in personality and make great pets for those who are willing to give them the attention and care they need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, small dogs can make great family pets for children. Their compact size, affectionate personalities, and low maintenance requirements make them a popular choice for families with busy schedules or limited living space.
From the playful Chihuahua to the cuddly Shih Tzu, each breed has its own unique qualities that make them a great choice for kids.
However, it is important to remember that each dog is an individual with their own personality and needs, so it is important to research and choose a breed that best fits your family’s lifestyle and preferences. With proper care and attention, a small dog can bring years of joy and companionship to a family.
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