Whether you live in an apartment or a house with a yard, many people prefer to have a small dog. There are some small dog breeds which make excellent companions for children. The crucial factors in choosing a small breed for children are finding a breed that is not so small that it will be harmed when playing with children; and finding a breed that has a good temperament and which really enjoys playing with kids. Some small breeds are so small that they could easily be injured by playing with children. And other small breeds don’t seem to have the right temperament to be around children. Here are some small dogs that could be just right for your kids.
Beagles. Beagles are not the smallest dogs around, but they are the smallest dogs in the Hound group. They stand up to 13 or 15 inches tall at the shoulder and they can weigh about 25 pounds. Beagles are quite sturdy and active. They can keep up with any children and they love to play. They are loving and devoted dogs who can tire your children out. They make a great small dog for children.
Shetland Sheepdogs. Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are usually very good with kids, especially if they are raised with them from a young age. Shelties are very smart and easy to train. They are playful and they want to please. They are loving and devoted dogs and they make great family dogs. Shelties usually stand about 16 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh about 20 pounds.
Pugs. Pugs are small dogs, or large Toy dogs, but they are generally quite sturdy and they make wonderful companions for children. They are happy, outgoing, and friendly. They love to play and they have a nice, even temperament. Pugs can weigh up to 18-20 pounds so they are usually able to survive some play with small children, but you should teach your children how to play gently with small dogs.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are another breed that do very well with children. They are very intelligent little dogs and very loyal. They are quite active and enjoy playing. They are good, sturdy dogs and will be protective of children. They like children and make a good playmate. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi can be about 12 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs about 30 pounds.
Brittany. The Brittany (formerly called the Brittany Spaniel) is one of the smallest of the sporting breeds. They are gentle, sensitive, sweet dogs, but they are very playful and active. They make an excellent pet for children who love to play outdoors and lead a very active life. They are devoted and want to be with their people all the time, but they do need plenty of exercise. The Brittany can stand about 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh about 40-45 pounds.
Havanese. The Havanese is an absolutely adorable little dog from the Bichon family. They were developed in Cuba between the 16th and 19th centuries. They are small but sturdy and they are quite spirited. They are friendly, loving, and very social. They are also very intelligent little dogs and easily trained. They love to be with people and they are excellent with children. They make wonderful family dogs. They are small, standing only about 10-11 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighting up to about 13 pounds, so they are not recommended for children that will be rough with them. But for children who are gentler or for older children, the Havanese is a wonderful pet.
Basset Hounds. Basset Hounds are known to be a great dog for children. They are friendly and gentle and very patient. Although they may look slow they can be quite active and playful and your kids can have a lot of fun playing with a Basset Hound. These dogs also have lots of personality and like to “talk” to you, making noises at you when you talk to them. They are lots of fun. Bassets stand around 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 50 pounds.
These are some of the best small (to medium) dogs for kids. There are always more breeds if you don’t find one here that you like. Every breed has particular characteristics that make it special. You may have some special requirements that another breed can meet. If you don’t see what you like here, keep looking and you will find the right dog for your family.
