The Norfolk Terrier is a small, adorable terrier and considered to be one of the softest tempered in the group. Size. As the spaniel grows extremely attached to their families, these shiny beauties are great dogs for homes with children. So, this breed of dog, although even at 40 pounds would be considered more toward the “medium-size” classification, I think we can safely say that it’s near enough to the “small” end to qualify as one of the best small guard dogs for apartments. They are one of the best small breeds for kids, their temperaments making them well-suited for family life. Drawing from a broader, more diverse gene pool, the mix breed’s intensity is softer than its pedigreed counterparts. And your kids won’t care, they just want a loyal friend, not a Certificate certifying that their dog is registered with a Kennel Club. "The best small breed dog is the one you fall in love with," Dr. Harris tells Woman's Day. Described as sometimes stubborn but always charming, this hound with little legs was originally bred in France and Belgium and revered for their accuracy sniffing out prey during a hunt. Size. But with all that attachment, these dogs can have separation anxiety and can be noisy when left alone for too long. They do require a significant amount to playtime, which can be a plus at keeping both kids and dog occupied. In the end, it’s the love that you get from your dog, and the love that you give it that matter and what makes a dog a great family pet. The Keeshond is a medium sized Spitz breed that is very intelligent and eager to please. Fluff is the name of the game when it comes to this family-friendly dog breed. Here are the 50 best small dog ... the internet’s favorite Japanese hunting dog, can be small to medium-sized in stature. The Bolognese is a patient breed, and it makes them wonderful with the family, kids, and other well-mannered dogs. Either way, small or large, once your new pooch comes home, let the magic of growing up with a dog begin! That’s not so much the case with the Whippet. You’ll get along well with your dog because you love dogs, not because a piece of paper says it comes from a long line of dogs originating on the coast of France. With their peaked intelligence, they are attentive and quick to … Pizazz, cutesy looks, brains, and a heart that outweighs their small, but muscular bodies. Boston Terrier is one of the favorites of small dog breeds as well as the best short hair dogs that are easy to groom. There are many factors that play a part in choosing what breed of dog will best suit your family. These dogs have incredible personalities and stable temperaments that allow for safe, easy handling inside and outside of the house. If you want a small house pet that is sweet, gentle, yet playful, this could be one of the best calm dog breeds for you. But it’s more than happy to spend most of the day lounging on the sofa, enjoying the role of a loving and loved companion. They are intelligent dogs who just love to lavish affection on their families. Bostons get along well with kids, other pets and pretty much everyone they meet. Photo By: petwave.com More Information About Papillon. But don’t worry! Here are our favourite dog breeds that weigh in at under 10 kilos. Do you want a small or big dog in your family? Although this active and muscular bully breed may look intimidating to some, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are actually very social and loving dogs. "Labs are considered a medium-sized dog, and they're the most popular dog breed in the U.S., according to the American Kennel Club," she says. The breed does need regular brushing to keep its coat free of tangles and mats. One of the greatest joys of childhood is growing up with a dog and if you’re ready to give that dream to your kids, you might be asking yourself what breeds are the best small dogs for kids? Their feelings are easily hurt! Size Smallest Small Medium Large Giant Characteristics Hypoallergenic Fluffy Best family Smartest Best guard Kid friendly Check out more mixed-breed, medium-sized and large dog breeds. The Boston terrier is a well-mannered dog that will love every member of the family. There are many factors that play a part in choosing what breed of dog will best suit your family. 1. Some dog breeds do not do well with children, especially very young ones. Originally bred to be companion dogs, these gentlemen and gentlewomen dogs still excel at this job today. The Beagle is a small to medium-sized scent hound originally bred for hunting and is still a prized rabbiting dog today. Its exercise needs are low and the Basset is happy just lying around most ot the day, which makes the Basset a good choice for not so active families. They are active and intelligent dogs requiring lots of play! As a result, they can have a decent prey drive when they are out walking, but they are also very easy to train. As the spaniel grows extremely attached to their families, these shiny beauties are great dogs for homes with children. But maybe you’re thinking a BIG dog would be ideal for your family. It is affectionate and cuddly and loves to participate in family activities. Goldens are smart and adaptable dogs that can thrive in most households. Many a family has overlooked the intelligent, funny Poodle, thinking it’s prissy. And on and on it goes… As you can see, adopting a puppy isn’t something to be taken lightly, but that’s where we’ll provide a little extra guidance. Gentle giants. The smallest of the Spaniel breeds, the sweet, gentle, melting expression emanating from large, round eyes is a breed hallmark as is being gentle, affectionate and graceful. These little floofs may be a toy breed, but they are even-tempered and a well-suited small dog breed ideal for kids. The breed does need regular brushing to keep its coat free of tangles and mats. Here are the best 15 family dogs that can help you in your decision: French Bulldog - This breed originally was bred as a miniature Bulldog. These charming hounds make excellent companions for children. Photo By: petwave.com More Information About Papillon. This medium-large dog is happy, loyal, affectionate, and active. They equally enjoy walks or sharing space on your couch. Their short, flat coat is easy to care for, and the breed does best with easy access to a yard for play. Focus on size, temperament, energy levels, and specific care needs when you begin your search. The Shih Tzu is one example of these breeds. The truth is, heritage matters very little when choosing a dog. This gentle breed is an excellent choice of small dog who will happily play with children. They are also very playful and friendly, making them excellent companion dogs for families with children. Medium sized dogs are the perfect size! These adorable small dogs are full of love and don’t mind getting goofy with the youngsters. They prefer company and thrive in a pack—whether that’s made up of humans or other canines. It is friendly, portable and enthusiastic in everything it does. To determine which dog is best for your particular family, ... Keep in mind that your Bull Terrier may often have mischief on their mind, especially when it comes to other small animals and dogs. Goldens also need a good amount of exercise to keep them in good physical condition and prevent boredom. Today they are the best small family dogs for kids of any social standing. The dapper Boston Terrier wears a tuxedo coat and a stylin’ attitude. The Shih Tzu is one example of these breeds. There are also a number of small breeds to choose from, each with a mix of potential pros and cons. 14 Best Short-Haired Dogs for Your Family Lisa Marie Conklin Updated: May. Knowing which small dog is right for your family depends on many factors, such your lifestyle, the size of your family, the age of your children, and your willingness to train and groom the dog. Best Small Family Dogs #1 Beagle Beagles can be classed as a small to medium size dog, which is why they are on this list. Cocker Spaniels are dogs belonging to two different breeds of the spaniel dog type: the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel, both of which are commonly called simply, Cocker Spaniel. The Shih Tzu is a dog that likes to play and run a lot. Loving, loyal, and very attached to their owners, Maltese are great for anyone suffering from allergies. Similar to a Finnish Spitz, these pups have pointy ears and smiling faces. He is the true “take anywhere” type of adventure dog. Let’s not forget the humble mutt. The Cocker Spaniel has a sweet temperament. American Water Spaniel Labradors love to please their humans, being playful, protective, loving, and reliable. The Havanese is a small but hardy dog who makes an ideal family companion. These dogs are large enough to do well with children but not too big to overwhelm very young kids. Some small to medium dog breeds originally bred to be pet companions of nobles and rulers. Eager to please, this red retriever performs well in a variety of dog sports. Just watch out for food around the house; most Beagles are food-obsessed vacuum cleaners. "The best small breed dog is the one you fall in love with," Dr. Harris ... their big brown or hazel eyes and long, hound-like ears make them one of the most adorable family dogs. #7 – Irish Setter. As very social dogs, they do not do well when left alone for extended periods. Some caveats with the former breeds is that they require a lot of grooming and brushing. Small dog breeds suit smaller environments, tend to live longer than larger ones, and make great little companions, although they may not be the most suitable of jogging partners due to their small size.Small dogs can often gain most of their exercise requirements indoors from play, especially around kids, but they will still benefit greatly from spending time outdoors. Medium-sized usually falls somewhere between 30 to 60 pounds. No matter the reason, this friendly, curious and merry little dog fills the hearts of millions. As well as highlighting each of their challenges. Gentle giants. Maltese terrier is one of the most popular small to medium dog breeds which are known to be quite friendly on not shedding its fur all over the house. The Cocker is a playful, high energy dog and needs a good amount of exercise, but its willingness to play makes getting that exercise in rather easy and at 24-28 pounds it doesn’t require a lot of space to do it. They are not too small and are not too big, sort of like Goldie Locks’ porridge, they are just right. We’ve compiled 10 of the best dog breeds for families and kids. If you don't have much time to take your dog for longer walks, the basset hound is one of the best small to medium sized dogs for you, as they are considered one of the laziest breeds. How big are we talking? Beagles are active companions for kids and adults alike. Also, space requirement and compatibility with kids are issues. And, despite the Whippet’s elegant looks, the breed is a robust, low-maintenance dog perfect for a home of almost any size. They are scent hounds that were originally bred for hunting. Sometimes it can be calm, gentle, and relatively in their demeanor. We’ve selected 20 small breeds that are best suited for family life. Read on for an AKC-approved list of medium-sized dogs that are great for families. A mixed-breed dog rescued from the local animal shelter may be the best choice of all. The Whippet, a Greyhound in miniature, is a playful and affectionate and calm family companion. The Boston Terrier, nicknamed the American Gentleman, is a true joy to have around for those who love a silly, sociable breed. They can handle their own but often get scared during certain situations. They equally enjoy walks or sharing space on your couch. As a parent, safety is one of your greatest concerns and this must be taken into account when choosing what breed of dog fits with your family. Small to medium sized dogs can make ideal companions as they are easy to handle, house and feed, while being larger than small dogs and therefore robust enough for more physical activities, such as jogging.. American Eskimo Dog. Beagles are a small to medium in size, energetic, and very friendly. Named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, these loyal and energetic dogs prove that good things do come in small packages — about five pound packages, to be exact. Like all the best designer dogs they combine the best temperament and personality traits of both parent breeds. The common definition of mutt is a dog of unknown ancestry. Havanese are smart and trainable extroverts with the comic instincts of a born clown, and are natural trick dogs, making them fun for the whole family. Whippets rarely bark. Mid-sized, with all the charms of a dog of any size, this category of dogs can be from a medium small breed range like a Dachshund, Corgi and French Bulldog; a medium dog group such as a Beagle, Border Collie or Bull Terrier; or medium to large dog breed category like … Among these family-friendly dogs, you’ll surely find the best small dog for your kids. Also, space requirement and compatibility with kids are issues. Charming, patient, and lowkey, the Basset doesn’t have the in your face presence of many other breeds, but they love everyone from strangers to children. They make great family pets for all of those reasons and more. The Cocker Spaniel is a people pleaser and is never happier than when it is with it is with its favorite people. Although strong-willed and exuberant, they are typically very lazy dogs and require relatively minimal exercise. Beagle. Is it the cute pleading expressions or its happy-go-lucky personality. All in all, they are fantastic little companion dogs and willing to grace your living room with their love. Small dogs are a popular choice for people living in small spaces and also young families but with so many different breeds available it is hard to work out the right doggo for your household. Small to medium sized dogs can make ideal companions as they are easy to handle, house and feed, while being larger than small dogs and therefore robust enough for more physical activities, such as jogging.. American Eskimo Dog. Medium-sized dogs are great for people who do not want a smaller frail dog and also do not want to go through the hassles of caring for a large dog breed. Don’t be fooled although small some of these breeds still need a lot of care, exercise and attention. With boundless energy and a sunny disposition, the Poodle makes an excellent family dog,. Labrador. Pugs live to love and to be loved in return. These dogs make great companions, and there are several breeds to choose from. Now you know about the characteristics that make a good family pet, it’s time to look at dog breeds that generally have these traits. That said, they make wonderful companions for children and are extremely affectionate. You can fit a Poodle into any household. They are relatively quiet, good with other dogs, pets, and strangers. They are smart and hard-working but love to play and make everyone laugh." But despite the royal roots, Cavaliers gladly descend from their royal throne for a backyard frolic. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized Irish dog with a single-layered coat that rarely sheds, making them suitable for those with allergies. As the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s name implies, this dog spawns from royalty. Good to Know: Beagles have strong instincts to follow their noses, and need a lot of exercise. Energetic and gentle, the bichon frise is well-suited for children of all ages. Canine pets take the minimum time to become a valued and an important member of your family. The Shih Tzu is a dog that likes to play and run a lot. The last of the best dog breeds for cats on our list is the Boston terrier, a dog with a whole lot of heart. On the smaller side of the medium-sized dog category sits the cute, curious Icelandic sheepdog. Avoid problems by keeping your pet mentally and physically active every day. As very social dogs, they do not do well when left alone for extended periods. Available also in other sizes, this American bred dog was never actually used by the Eskimos! These dogs are large enough to do well with children but not too big to overwhelm very young kids. And packs of Pugs well, there are not adequate words to describe the cuteness. The Boston Terrier is a born companion dog. But don’t the let kids tease the Frenchie. Since small dogs take up less space, many apartment dwellers prefer the smaller dog breeds. Blessed with white coats, they are also playful and faithful to their owner. And when playtime is done, the mini Schnauzer will love some cuddles while you stroke his beard. Let’s take a look at some options for good family dogs in the medium range. In fact, we’re giving the mutt the number one spot. Its large round head, its big, sparkling eyes, and its wrinkled brow give the Pug a range of human-like expressions—surprise, happiness, curiosity—that have delighted owners for centuries. American Water Spaniel Medium sized family dogs offer the best of both worlds. #9 – Havanese Available also in other sizes, this American bred dog was never actually used by the Eskimos! Before I get to number one, what are your favorite family pets? The happy-go-lucky Beagle is a favorite among those who want a small to medium dog that is moderately active and sweet. Top 10 Small Dogs that Don’t Shed (1-20 lbs) Here is our list of the top 10 small dogs that don’t shed. Fluffy, fun, and family friendly, the Maltese may look regal, but the “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta” won’t mind getting their majestic fur tousled while playing with the kids. If you want a small house pet that is sweet, gentle, yet playful, this could be one of the best calm dog breeds for you. With an Einstein brain mixed with a Three Stooges sense of humor, the Poodle keeps its family entertained. Will this dog bark non-stop and annoy the entire neighborhood? "The gentle giants – the Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, the Golden and Labrador Retriever and Irish Wolfhound are friendly and loyal and make wonderful family pets, but in small spaces or around toddlers their large size could pose a problem." It is very important to keep a dog that fits your family. Take your pick, Poodles come in all sizes from 5 to 55 pounds. Nothing too big, nothing too small — so, you’ve decided that a medium-sized pooch may be the perfect fit for your family. Are you wondering what the best small dog breeds for an apartment are? 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Labradors are regularly referred to as one of the best dog breeds for families, known for a fondness for being around children and getting along well with other pets in the home too. Choose the right dog for your lifestyle, living quarters and children's ages. Bostons are sturdy but portable, people-oriented, and always up for a brisk walk to the park or to the outdoor cafe. These great dogs were originally bird hunters, and are still used for this purpose today. Their 20- to 30-pound weight range makes them compact yet durable dogs that can go from couch potato to outdoor playmate in minutes. Dog Breeds List. Once the companion of Chinese emperors, and later the mascot of Holland’s royal elite, the small but solid Pug is today adored by millions of adoring fans around the world. But with all that attachment, these dogs can have separation anxiety and can be noisy when left alone for too long. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. This small toy spaniel is gentle, playful and very affectionate towards their family and strangers alike. This breed won’t let you become a couch potato, so he is the perfect family dog for a family with a backyard. With their peaked intelligence, they are attentive and quick to … Don’t forget, all dog and child interactions should be supervised. It is very important to keep a dog that fits your family. Very gentle and even-tempered, Beagles are noted for making very poor guard dogs because they’re open to meeting anybody. "Labs are goofy but adaptable, all-around great dogs. 18. Cat Breeds List. Those seeking a small dog with a big, loving personality will be pleased to welcome the bichon frise to their family. Although they may not be wildly giving with their affections, they are a steadfastly, loyal breed. You say you want him to be hypoallergenic too? They are kid friendly, dog friendly, stranger friendly, apartment friendly… they’re just friendly, although they can be a bit territorial. The Cocker Spaniel, both the American and English varieties, are medium-sized bird hunting dogs that make excellent family companions. Today, the Cocker Spaniel is primarily a loving companion dog breed, though it remains a capable bird dog at heart. Please SHARE to pass on this story to a friend or family member. Look for rescue dogs that are not overly frightened at your approach but are also not overly anxious for your attention. Always up for playtime, these dogs enjoy meeting new friends—both canine and human—so growing families take note. Sometimes it can be calm, gentle, and relatively in their demeanor. They are relatively quiet, good with other dogs, pets, and strangers. Because of their small size and low activity level, they are a great choice as apartment pooches. Once the companion of Chinese emperors, and later the mascot of Holland’s royal elite, the small but solid Pug is today adored by millions of adoring fans around the world. Here is a list of just some to get you started. Let us know in the comments.