Not all dogs are right for a family environment.
That’s even true of small dog breeds.
Of course, what is best for your family, depends on what you want from a dog.
But, here are 7 Small Family Dogs that you might want to consider.
Mutt
I’m going to cheat.
Technically there are 8 dogs on this list, and well, this one is not actually a breed.
That said, I think no matter what reason you’d like to have a dog, you should always start
at your local dog shelters.
Mutts or mix-breed dogs often bring a lot to the table.
They are versatile in that they aren’t specialized like many purebred dogs.
While not all dogs found in shelters will be mutts, there’s always the chance that
your next buddy might be waiting for you there.
Give it a shot.
Shih Tzu
Now that I’m done “cheating” let’s get on with the list, starting with the Shih
Tzu.
These little Chinese Lion Dogs are most likely originally from Tibet.
They only weigh about 10 pounds, do not shed much, and are not that hard to take care of
if kept in a puppy cut.
Since they do not shed much and have little dander they are close to being hypoallergenic,
great if one of your family members is sensitive to dogs.
Bred solely to be companions, Shih Tzus are affectionate, happy, outgoing house dogs who
love nothing more than to follow their people from room to room.
And, they make great family pets who get along with other animals and even children.
French Bulldog
It’s hard not to love the French Bulldog with its short snout and big bat ears.
Jut kinda makes you wanna do the da na na na na na na batdog…
Overall, the Frenchie is a cute, affectionate dog that makes a wonderful family companion
for all kinds of families.
Their small size means they can do well in smaller homes, but they are more sturdy than
the average small dog, making them fine with kids.
This is a loyal and intelligent breed that typically gets along well with children and
other animals.
Plus, they don’t need a ton of exercise, so you won’t be spending all day going for
walks.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is certainly not the smallest dog on this list.
In fact, there will be those among you that will scream that it’s NOT a small dog.
You’ll do it in all caps.
I’ve seen it happen.
However, topping out at less than 30 pounds it’s certainly not a BIG dog.
Where you will agree is that they are excellent family dogs.
The typical Cocker Spaniel is gentle, a loving and trustworthy family companion who is good
with children, other pets, and the elderly.
It is known for a merry, sound temperament.
Its flowing coat is extremely handsome, it's loving and gentle, and it wants nothing more
than to make its family happy.
You should be aware that the Cocker has a "soft" personality.
Harsh training methods will make it fearful, so be sure to use gentle, consistent training
to get the best results.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The smallest of the Spaniel breeds, the Cavalier King Charles is a Companion dog rather than
a gun dog like its other spaniel king, including the Cocker.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great option for young families looking for a small
dog.
They are docile animals with an affectionate, loving temperament appropriate to any companion
dog.
However, young children will need to be educated about how to handle this fragile toy breed.
A huge plus is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel doesn’t make a lot of noise.
They rarely bark.
While this is a good thing for those who live in an apartment complex or with neighbors
effectively living on top of them, they’re not suited as watchdogs.
Furthermore, their amiable nature means they’re more likely to be friendly to strangers rather
than scare off unwanted visitors.
West Highland White Terrier
Ahh, the wee white westie is happy in any type of living situation and will do well
in the country or in the city.
It makes an excellent apartment resident if properly exercised and trained not to bark.
The Westie is happy to stay at home while you're at work, and — with proper stimulation
and safety precautions — the West Highland White Terrier is fine on its own during your
workday.
To top it all off, the Westie is also an easy traveler, whether on long vacations or short
errands.
It’s intelligent and a quick learner and training will amuse your Westie as long as
it remains positive and consistent.
In fact, using positive reinforcement laced with consistency is the only way to train
a Westie.
As a true Terrier, vermin chasing is hardwired, and no amount of training will alter that.
This might be a plus if you have the occasional rat or house mouse visit.
Boston Terrier
Speaking of terriers, the Boston Terrier is not one.
Just thought you might wanna know that.
File that away with the rest of the random animal facts in your head.
It is, however, a loving, family companion.
Always amenable, the Boston Terrier's small size and lively, affectionate nature make
it a great family pet.
They love children and amuse people of all ages with their antics and unique, appealing
expression.
They are sturdy but portable, people-oriented, and always up for a brisk walk to the park
or outdoor cafe, making them a great companion for those that like to get out and socialize.
You know, after we get to socialize again.
Until then, the Boston will remain happy chillin’ at home with you.
Beagle Beagles aren’t small dogs, I hear you say
again.
And to that, I will reply that 24 pounds does not a large dog make and of course, there
is the pocket beagle that typically weighs around 15 pounds.
By most standards, Beagles fit right into the small dog space.
But, do they make great family dogs?
Yes.
They do.
The National Beagle Club of America says that Beagles are excellent family companions.
Of course, they might be biased, but we’ll trust their expertise.
Their low maintenance cost and their affectionate, yet independent, temperament makes them an
ideal pet for many families, including and especially families with kids.
Beagles are friendly dogs and enjoy making new friends.
This goes for humans, canines, and maybe even a cat.
Beagles tend to be healthy and they don’t have long coats that require complicated or
expensive trips to the groomer.
It is overall an easy dog to take care of.
You will need to secure your Beagle at all times, however.
Their nose has a tendency to lead them to trouble.
If not in a fenced yard, your Beagle must remain on a leash.
Although that’s probably a good policy for any dog.
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