We're an affiliate
We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page at no additional cost to you. Thank you if you use our links, we really appreciate it!
Bringing a furry friend into your family is a significant decision. When children are involved, choosing the right breed becomes even more crucial.
While small dogs may seem like an ideal fit due to their manageable size, not all of them are suited for households with young kids.
Some small breeds are affectionate, gentle, and patient, which makes perfect playmates for kids, while others may be too fragile, independent, or high-strung to thrive in a lively family.
Children often interact with dogs in unpredictable ways, from playful hugs to unintentional rough handling.
A well-suited breed should be patient, sociable, and sturdy enough to handle the enthusiastic affection of young ones.
Read on to discover the 15 best small dogs that are known for their suitability for kids and 10 breeds that might not be the ideal match for a household with children.
Key Factors for a Kid-Friendly Small Dog
1. Temperament
A kid-friendly dog should be patient and approachable. Dogs who are naturally affectionate and social will fit in well with a family that has little ones.
Dog breeds who are too nervous, aggressive, or independent might have a hard time in a young family setup.
2. Energy Level
Kids love to play, so it’s important to have a dog that can match their energy. Some breeds are playful and energetic, making them great play buddies, while others are more laid-back and prefer chilling out.
3. Trainability
Having a dog that’s easy to train is important in a home with kids. Breeds that are eager to please and quick to learn will fit in more easily, learning the house rules and how to behave around children.
4. Health & Maintenance
Some dog breeds require extensive grooming, while others have health concerns that families should be aware of before making a decision.
15 Best Small Dog Breeds for Kids
Now that we’ve talked about what to look for in a kid-friendly small dog, let’s take a closer look at the breeds that make the best buddies for children.
These dogs are known for being affectionate, adaptable, and patient, making them great additions to a family with young kids.
Best Small Family Dogs
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the most loving and gentle dog breeds featured in our list, making it a great choice for families with kids.
These dogs are known for being friendly and adaptable, suitable for active and relaxed households.
Cavaliers are known to form strong bonds with their human family members and love being part of daily activities.
Cavaliers have a medium energy level, so they enjoy playing but are also happy to cuddle up on the couch.
They’re easy to train and eager to please, which makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners.
Their soft, silky fur needs regular brushing to keep it looking nice, but their loving personality more than makes up for the grooming.
2. Beagle
Beagles are happy, playful, and full of energy, making them awesome companions for active families with youngsters.
These small hounds are known for their friendly and loving personalities, and they usually get along great with children.
Beagles love to play, so they’re great partners for kids who enjoy outdoor activities. Despite being intelligent, Beagles can be a bit stubborn sometimes, especially if they catch an interesting scent.
Training them takes patience, but they’re very food-motivated, which makes it easier to teach them basic commands and tricks.
They have a short coat that’s easy to take care of, but they do shed quite a bit. Due to their strong hunting instincts, Beagles should always be supervised around open doors or in unfenced areas.
3. Boston Terrier
Friendly and full of energy, Boston Terriers love everyone, including our little ones. This breed was bred in Boston in the late 1800s with one main goal: to be a loyal companion.
Because of their original breeding idea, Boston Terriers can make some of the best family dog breeds and will always want to be with their humans as much as possible.
Lively, loving, and always up for a game, the ‘American Gentleman’ is a fun companion for children. Feel free to take your Boston along to the kids’ baseball games or for a walk in the park.
Boston Terriers’ short coat is easy to take care of, needing just an occasional brushing session to stay in good shape.
While they’re usually healthy, they have flat faces which means you need to keep an eye on them in hot weather to make sure they don’t overheat.
4. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a small but sturdy breed that makes a great household pet for families with young children.
Frenchies are known for being affectionate and patient, and they love to be involved in both indoor and outdoor family activities.
Unlike some delicate small dog breeds, French Bulldogs have a muscular build, so they’re more robust when playing with youngsters.
French Bulldogs are smart but can be a bit stubborn with training, so using positive reinforcement methods works best.
Their short coat is easy to take care of, but like Pugs, they can have trouble breathing due to their flat faces. Even with that, their loving and easygoing personality makes them a favorite for families.
5. Cocker Spaniel
Like many breeds in the AKC Sporting Group, Cocker Spaniels were originally bred to be friendly and sociable, not only with people but also with other dogs and even pets like cats.
Well-socialized Cocker Spaniels can make wonderful companions for your little ones, as long as they are kind and polite.
These playful canines enjoy games and will happily fetch as many balls as the youngsters throw, eagerly participating in any adventure or activity.
Cocker Spaniels are lively dogs but require only moderate exercise, such as daily walks and some off-leash play in the backyard.
However, Cocker Spaniels’ coat demands consistent professional grooming to stay clean and well-maintained.
Most Affectionate Small Dogs
6. Pug
Pugs are easygoing dogs who can blend in well in family environments. As one of the best small dog breeds, their funny pose make them a good fit for kids, and they love being the center of attention.
Pugs have a medium energy level and are just as happy playing as they are relaxing on the couch. They’re easy to train, although they can be a little stubborn sometimes.
Their short snouts make them susceptible to breathing problems, so it’s important to avoid over-exercising them when the weather is too hot.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a happy, affectionate, and playful small dog who can do well in a family setting with young kids.
These dogs are known for their gentle personalities and love being around people. Their friendly nature makes them wonderful with children, as they enjoy being part of the fun without being too hyper.
Bichons are smart and easy to train, especially when you use positive reinforcement. They have a medium energy level and enjoy playing, but they’re also happy to relax with their family.
One of their biggest advantages is that they’re almost hypoallergenic, which makes them a great choice for families with allergies.
Also, keep in mind that Bichon’s fluffy, hypoallergenic coat needs regular haircuts and professional grooming to maintain good looks.
Due to their coloring, coats, and small stature, it can be easy for children to miss subtle signs of anxiety in these dogs.
Their all-white fur makes it hard to see small changes around their eyes, and their fluffy coat can hide slight changes in tail position or movement that might show they’re feeling nervous.
8. Havanese
As you might guess from their name, these dogs were first bred in Havana, Cuba, over three centuries ago!
Havanese is the only dog breed that’s originally from Cuba. Back then, Havanese were lapdogs of rich plantation owners, and almost nobody outside of Cuba knew about them until the mid-1900s.
These little dogs do well in family settings because they love being around people and can adapt to different lifestyles.
Their patient and friendly personalities make them great playmates for young children, and they rarely show aggression.
Havanese dogs are also lively and smart. You can expect your teenage kids to have a blast teaching them all sorts of fun tricks.
Their silky, hypoallergenic coat needs daily brushing. You can get the young ones to help out, or you can get them a cute haircut to reduce the brushing requirements.
9. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are attractive, outgoing, and just too cute for words. They love people of all ages, even kids, as long as they’re well-behaved.
This breed comes from China, where for hundreds of years they were the esteemed and pampered lapdogs of Chinese royalty.
Because Shih Tzu puppies can be so tiny, some breeders might be hesitant to place them in homes with 5-year-old or younger kids.
But full-grown Shih Tzus are sturdy for their size. So, as long as you supervise puppy and kid interactions carefully, a Shih Tzu can be an ideal playmate for gentle children.
That luxurious coat needs daily brushing if you keep it long. Some pet parents prefer to keep their dogs in a shorter, easier-to-manage grooming style.
Easiest Small Dogs to Train
10. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are energetic, intelligent, and sociable dogs, making them one of the best dog breeds for kids.
Known for their affectionate yet protective nature, they develop strong bonds with their owners while remaining playful and interactive with their little ones.
These small dogs have a moderate to high energy level and thrive on interactive play, making them a great fit for active children.
As highly trainable companions, Mini Schnauzers enjoy mental challenges like puzzle toys and obedience training.
Their wiry coat requires consistent grooming, but they are one of the small dogs that don’t shed features on our list.
11. Poodle (Toy & Miniature)
Poodles (standard, miniature, and toy) are intelligent and easy to train, which makes them an easy choice for many families looking for smart companions.
These dogs are loving, playful, and always eager to please. They love being around people and are very social, forming strong bonds with their family members.
Poodles have a medium to high energy level and love to play, making them great playmates for youngsters.
Since they’re so easy to train, Poodles can pick up commands quickly and do great in obedience training with positive reinforcement.
As one of the non shedding dog breeds, Poodles stand out for their hypoallergenic coat, which sheds minimally but requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
12. American Eskimo Dog (Eskie)
Also known as the Eskie, the cute American Eskimo dog comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy.
These white dogs, developed by German immigrants in the US, are playful, energetic, and highly intelligent.
Eskies are active and need a lot of physical and mental stimulation every day because they are bred to work.
Due to their constant need for attention, a busy family or one that travels a lot might not be the best fit for this breed.
Older kids can probably get along great with these white dogs, but keep in mind that they have a lot of energy that might be too much for younger or smaller children.
13. Papillon
The Papillon, a breed from France, was given that cute name from the French word for ‘butterfly’ because of their distinctive, butterfly-like ears.
Papillons can be happy as lap dogs, energetic exercise buddies, or even good companions for homes with other pets.
These butterfly dogs can even be a good fit for first-time dog owners and families who like to travel and want to bring their dogs along.
As one of the best dogs for families, this toy breed is likely to interact well with older kids who know how to handle their canine siblings gently.
Despite their small stature, Papillons are tough. They’re also active and intelligent, and they make wonderful companions for people who reciprocate the care.
The best part? Grooming this breed is moderately easy. Their fur is long, silky, and fine and should be brushed a few times a week.
And because Papillon’s coat doesn’t grow continuously, you won’t need to worry about trimming your dog’s coat every other time.
Best Small Low-Maintenance Dogs
14. Maltese
The Maltese is another tiny toy dog that makes a fantastic family pet. This breed comes from the Mediterranean region.
Because they don’t shed much and are hypoallergenic, they can be a good choice for people with allergies and busy parents who don’t want to be constantly vacuuming up fur.
Maltese is one of the best dogs for kids that you can find today. But due to their delicate nature, they’re better suited for teenagers who know how to handle them gently and won’t accidentally hurt them.
Kids who know how to be careful with pets can play with them, and your little ones can join you when you take your Maltese for their daily walk to get some exercise.
Even though they don’t shed much, you’ll still need to groom your Maltese regularly, including brushing them several times a week.
This will keep their silky coat smooth and clean. To make things easier, many pet parents choose to have their Maltese coats trimmed.
15. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies as they’re often called, are small dogs with big personalities. They’re lovely, playful, and loyal to their human families.
While they have a lot of spirit, they can be great companions for children who know how to handle small dogs gently.
Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent and trainable, but they also have an independent streak that needs consistent guidance.
They have a moderate energy level and enjoy playtime, though they also love snuggling with their owners.
Their long, silky coat needs regular brushing, and periodic grooming styles but the good news is they don’t shed very much.
Due to their fragile body size, Yorkies are best suited for older children who can interact with them respectfully.
10 Worst Small Dog Breeds for Families with Kids
While many small dog breeds make wonderful companions for children, some just aren’t the best fit for a young family life.
These breeds might be too delicate, independent, stubborn, or easily stressed to handle the unpredictable energy of young kids.
This doesn’t mean these dogs are ‘bad’! It just means they might not be the best choice for families with young children who might not understand how to handle or interact with animals.
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal, often bonding very closely with one person. This can sometimes lead to them becoming possessive or jealous.
They’re also tiny and delicate, which means they can be easily injured if handled roughly. This also means they can easily get scared, and they might snap or nip if they feel threatened.
Many Chihuahuas need their personal space. They will give plenty of signals if anyone besides their main caregiver comes into their zone and makes them uncomfortable.
The problem is that kids aren’t always great at reading those signals, and a Chihuahua might become aggressive if they feel overwhelmed.
2. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are highly energetic, smart, and independent, which can make them a bit of a handful for families with small children.
They need tons of mental and physical stimulation, and if they don’t get it, they might start acting out by excessively barking, digging, or chewing things they shouldn’t.
Jack Russell Terriers’ strong hunting instincts mean they might chase after small animals or even nip at fast-moving kids.
While they’re very trainable, they need consistent discipline and a strong leader, so they’re better suited for experienced dog owners rather than young families looking for small dog breeds low maintenance.
3. Pekingese
Like Chihuahuas, Pekingese are small dogs who try to appear big and scary when they feel threatened – this can include biting and yipping.
It might not take much to trigger these behaviors. Pekingese don’t like being prodded, poked, or having their tails pulled.
Pekingese can be possessive over their food, toys, and even their favorite humans. A dog will compete for your attention, and a Pekingese doesn’t want to lose.
You probably want to avoid a situation where your child could get hurt by running over to hug you or trying to play with the dog.
Because of their flat faces (brachycephalic features), Pekingese are prone to breathing problems and overheating, so they’re not great with intense physical activity.
4. Dachshund
Owning a Dachshund as a family with young children can be a double-edged sword. It’s good sometimes but can be bad at times.
Doxies can have a strong independent streak and can be stubborn during training. They’re also known for being protective, which can sometimes lead to territorial behavior or aggression toward strangers.
One of the biggest concerns with Dachshunds is their long backs and short legs, which make them prone to spinal problems (intervertebral disc disease – IVDD).
They shouldn’t be handled roughly or allowed to jump from high places, which can be hard for young children to consider when playing with this breed.
While they can be wonderful pets with the right training and supervision, Doxies need careful handling and might not be the best match for families with energetic, rough-playing youngsters.
5. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are known for their independent, strong-willed personalities, which can make obedience training a challenge.
They were originally bred as guard dogs in Tibetan monasteries, so they have a cautious nature and might not be as outgoing or social as other small breeds.
Apsos can be territorial and aloof, so they might not be as tolerant of children’s unpredictable behavior during playtime.
If they’re not socialized properly, they might become snappy or aggressive if they feel their personal space is being invaded.
Their long, flowing coat needs frequent grooming, which might not be ideal for families looking for a low-maintenance canine companion.
6. Italian Greyhound
Greyhounds are the fastest dogs in the world, but being high-speed doesn’t always mean they’re high-energy.
Because they’re such strong runners, this hunting breed is known for chasing things and might even run down your children, like they would on prey.
Italian Greyhounds are elegant and sensitive, but also fragile, making them a poor choice for homes with young children.
Despite being one of the lazy dog breeds featured in our list, Italian Greyhounds also have thin, delicate bones that can break easily, meaning rough play could lead to serious injuries.
While these dogs can be affectionate and loving with their owners, they can also be nervous and easily startled, especially in noisy or chaotic environments.
Italian Greyhounds are also known for being difficult to house-train, which can be frustrating for families with kids. They’re best suited for quiet homes with teenagers who know how to handle them gently.
7. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a very independent and strong-willed breed that isn’t always the best fit for families with young children.
Unlike many other small breeds that love affection, Shiba Inus prefer their own space and can be unapproachable.
They’re highly intelligent but also stubborn, which can make training a challenge. Shiba Inus are known for being aloof, and they don’t always tolerate the unpredictable behavior of young kids.
If your Shiba Inu gets annoyed or overwhelmed, they might show aggressive or territorial behavior towards your vulnerable kids.
8. Miniature Pinscher
Miniature Pinschers are high-energy, assertive, and independent, which can make them a challenging breed for families with children.
Mini Pins need firm, consistent training because they can become dominant or territorial if they’re not properly socialized.
These little dogs have big, fearless personalities, but their small size makes them delicate, so rough play can easily lead to injuries.
They’re also known for being escape artists, so they need a secure environment to prevent them from running off.
While they’re loyal and smart, they’re best suited for families with older children who can respect their space and needs.
9. Fox Terrier
Fox Terriers are energetic and smart dogs that need tons of exercise and mental stimulation to stay satisfied.
They’ve got a strong prey drive, which means they might feel the urge to chase after anything that moves, including toddlers.
Fox Terriers can also be stubborn during training sessions, which might be a challenge for first-time dog owners.
Their high energy means they need constant activity, and if they don’t get it, they might start acting out by barking excessively or chewing things they shouldn’t.
Fox Terriers can be great pets for active households, but they might not be the best fit for families with very young children.
10. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a small, delicate breed that does best in quiet homes. These dogs are very sensitive and fragile, so they’re not the best choice for families with active young children.
Because they don’t have much hair, they need special skincare, including protection from the sun and cold weather.
A Chinese Crested dog breed can be timid and reserved, thereby preferring a calm and predictable environment.
While they’re affectionate with their owners, they might be too fragile and sensitive to do well in a home with rambunctious kids.
Tips for Introducing a Small Dog to Kids
Young children might not know how to interact with a dog properly, and even the most patient breeds need time to get used to their new family.
To ensure you have a happy home, take your time choosing the right dog, teach your kids how to gently interact with dogs, and put in the time to properly socialize your new puppy.
This will show your kids how to be good pet owners in the long run. The truth is, without proper socialization, even the most ‘kid-friendly’ breeds can become shy and nervous around children.
Kids should be taught to pet the dog gently, without pulling on their ears, tail, or fur. They should also avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could scare the dog.
It’s important to teach your children to respect the dog’s space, not bother them while eating or sleeping, and let the dog approach them instead of chasing or forcing an interaction.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right small dog for your family involves finding a balance between temperament, energy levels, and how well the dog fits into your lifestyle.
Our guide has walked you through the 15 best small dogs that shine as loving companions for children, and the 10 breeds that may require extra caution when living with kids.
Remember, every dog is an individual, so while breed traits offer a helpful starting point, spending time with your potential pet and considering your family’s unique needs is crucial.
Do your research if you’re looking for a family-friendly breed. Make sure your dog of choice is a good fit for your children and other pets before committing.
RELATED:
Top 19 Best Small Dogs for Seniors
Laura is the founder of Furs'n'Paws. She is a also a pet writer and expert with more than 20 years of experience of working with dogs and cats. She developed a very strong love for animals at a young age. Her passion led her to establish a thriving pet sitting and dog walking business in Dubai. As an expert in pet training, behavior, and nutrition, Laura is committed to helping pet owners and pet lovers by offering high-quality information on a wide range of topics.
No responses yet