Top 10 Small Dog Breeds For Families
When it comes to finding the ideal furry addition to your family, small dog breeds often steal the show. Not only do they offer companionship and warmth, but they also fit seamlessly into various lifestyles. Whether you’re in the UK or elsewhere, searching for a hypoallergenic, low-shedding, or affable small dog breed, there’s a perfect match waiting for you.
1. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, often referred to as “Yorkies,” are beloved for their vibrant personalities despite their small size. Renowned for their sprightly demeanor and small stature, Yorkshire Terriers make excellent companions for families. Their manageable size and adaptable nature suit various living environments. They’re small, usually weighing between 4 to 7 pounds (1.8 to 3.2 kg).
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a delightful and affectionate breed known for its elegance and friendly disposition. With their gentle disposition and affectionate nature, these pups thrive in family settings. Their compatibility with children and other pets makes them a popular choice. They’re sociable, enjoy being around people, and generally get along well with children and other pets.
3. Shih Tzu
They are affectionate and sociable, making them great family pets, particularly for households with children and other pets. Shih Tzus are known for their friendly temperament and elegant appearance. Their minimal shedding and charming personality make them a beloved addition to any family. They have a calm and adaptable demeanor, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
4. Poodle (Miniature or Toy)
The Poodle, available in both Miniature and Toy sizes, is known for its intelligence, elegance, and hypoallergenic coat. Poodles come in various sizes and are celebrated for their intelligence and hypoallergenic coats. Both the Miniature and Toy versions fit well into family life. They’re affectionate, and lively, and make devoted companions, thriving on human interaction.
5. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a charming and affectionate breed known for its tuxedo-like coat and lively personality. Compact yet robust, Boston Terriers are lively and friendly companions. They’re great for families seeking an energetic small breed. Boston Terriers are friendly, affectionate, and known for their gentle disposition, making them excellent family pets. They’re adaptable to various living situations, thriving in apartments or larger homes.
6. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a delightful and charming breed known for its playful nature and fluffy, hypoallergenic coat. Bichon Frises boasts a cheerful disposition and a coat that’s more hypoallergenic than most. They’re playful and adaptable, perfect for families. Bichon Frises are affectionate, cheerful, and sociable dogs, known for their gentle and playful nature.
7. French Bulldog
Their affectionate and easygoing nature makes French Bulldogs a hit among families. Their small size and charming looks are a bonus. French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate nature and distinctive bat-like ears. They are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 16 to 28 pounds (7.3 to 12.7 kg) and standing about 11 to 12 inches tall (28 to 30 cm).
8. Cavalier Bichon
A mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise, this breed inherits the best of both worlds—gentle, affectionate, and ideal for family life. Known for their friendly, affectionate, and playful nature, Cavalier Bichons are typically cheerful and social dogs. Known for their friendly, affectionate, and playful nature, Cavalier Bichons are typically cheerful and social dogs.
9. Havanese
Havanese dogs are not only charming but also hypoallergenic and relatively low-shedding. Their friendly nature suits families of all kinds. They are small-sized dogs, typically weighing between 7 to 13 pounds (3 to 6 kg) and standing about 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall (22 to 29 cm). They’re adaptable to various living environments and can be suitable for both apartments and larger homes.
10. Maltese
Known for their luxurious long hair and gentle demeanor, Maltese dogs are a great fit for families looking for a small, low-shedding companion. Excellent family pets, Maltese are good with children and usually get along with other pets due to their gentle and sociable temperament. Their long coat requires daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles, and some owners opt for regular professional grooming.
Top 10 Small Friendly Dog Breeds For Families
Small dog breeds bring boundless joy and companionship to families, and finding the friendliest among them can enrich your household in countless ways. From playful personalities to gentle temperaments, here are 10 small dog breeds that epitomize friendliness and are perfect for families:
1. Pomeranian
Playful and outgoing, Pomeranians charm everyone they meet with their vivacious personalities. These dogs are basically five-pound fluff balls. Their adorable faces are hidden in a pouf of fur, and they’re a lively breed. If you’re looking for a quiet, chill dog, a Pomeranian might not be an ideal choice.
2. Havanese
Havanese dogs are not just adorable but also incredibly friendly and sociable, making them perfect for families of all ages. They’re adaptable to various living environments and can be suitable for both apartments and larger homes.
3. French Bulldog
Despite their muscular build, French Bulldogs are amiable and enjoy spending time with their human companions. They stand 11 to 13 inches tall, weigh under 28 pounds, and live 10 to 12 years. Their playful, loving, and adaptable nature makes them perfect for families with children.
4. Boston Terrier
Energetic and friendly, Boston Terriers easily integrate into family life and adore human interaction. Boston terriers are very affectionate, excellent with children, good with other dogs, and open to strangers. They are also highly playful and full of energy.
5. Miniature Schnauzer
Smart, friendly, and playful, Miniature Schnauzers are excellent companions for families seeking an intelligent small breed. They are good watchdogs, although some of them have a tendency to bark excessively. They are small (about 10 to 20 pounds) but not frail at all.
6. Papillon
Their butterfly-like ears match their playful and affectionate personalities, making them a delightful addition to any family. They can live 14 to 16 years and are highly adaptable, playful, energetic, and eager to please. They are also loving with their families, great with kids, and friendly with strangers.
7. Dachshund (Miniature)
The Miniature Dachshund is a small, bold, and distinctive breed known for its elongated body and short legs. Despite their small size, Miniature Dachshunds are spirited, friendly, and love being around their family members. Dachshunds can get along with other pets but might display territorial behavior.
8. Chinese Crested
Their unique appearance is matched by their affectionate and loving nature, perfect for families seeking something a bit different. The Chinese Crested is a unique and affectionate breed known for its distinctive appearance and loving nature. They weigh between 5 to 12 pounds (2.3 to 5.4 kg).
9. Brussels Griffon
These small dogs are affectionate and bond closely with their families, thriving on attention and companionship. The Brussels griffon is loyal and known to forge strong bonds with his humans. They can be quite sensitive, they do best with grown-ups and older kids.
10. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are sleek, graceful, and affectionate dogs known for their slender build and charming personalities. Gentle and loving, Italian Greyhounds form strong connections with their families and love to cuddle. They are a small breed, typically weighing between 7 to 14 pounds
Top 10 Small Dog Breeds For Families UK
1. Jack Russell Terrier
- Energetic and intelligent, they thrive in active households and form strong bonds with their families.
- The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, energetic, and fearless breed known for its boundless energy and intelligence.
- Early socialization is crucial to help manage their strong prey drive and assertive behavior around other pets.
2. Pug
- Playful and charming, Pugs are known for their loving nature and are great with children.
- They also live between 13 and 15 years.
- If you are looking for a super affectionate, friendly, and playful breed that is also good with children and other pets, the pug is one of the best around.
3. Italian Greyhound
- Gentle and loving, Italian Greyhounds enjoy spending time with their families and are easy to care for.
- they have the same sweetness as their taller greyhound cousins.
- Italian greyhounds’ loyal, affectionate nature means they’re perfectly suited as cuddling companions.
4. Cairn Terrier
- Cheerful and lively, Cairn Terriers form strong bonds with their families and enjoy playtime.
- Lots of coarse-haired terriers shed less than other groups, making the wiry-coated breeds a smart choice for allergy sufferers.
- Owners especially love Cairn terriers for their fearless personalities.
5. Miniature Pinscher
- Energetic and affectionate, Min Pins are lively companions and love being around their families.
- They are small-sized dogs, typically weighing between 8 to 11 pounds (3.6 to 5 kg) and standing about 10 to 12.5 inches tall (25 to 32 cm).
- Min Pins can be good family pets but are better suited for households with older children due to their small size and lively nature.
6. Pekingese
- Despite their dignified appearance, Pekingese are affectionate and devoted to their families.
- Originally bred for the ruling classes in ancient China, there’s no doubt that these magnificent dogs have retained their air of nobility, what with their signature lion’s mane and loyal demeanor.
7. Maltese
- Known for their gentle nature and luxurious coats, Maltese dogs form strong bonds with their families.
- They are small dogs, typically weighing between 4 to 7 pounds (1.8 to 3.2 kg) and standing about 8 to 10 inches tall (20 to 25 cm).
8. Cocker Spaniel
- Friendly and affectionate, Cockers are popular family pets due to their gentle temperament.
- Cocker spaniels tend to be gentle, playful, and dependable, making them good all-around furry friends.
- These pooches are eager to please and willing to learn.
9. West Highland White Terrier
- Spirited and loyal, Westies make devoted companions and are well-suited to family life.
- West Highland White Terriers are confident, friendly, and full of spunk. They possess a lively and independent spirit.
- They have moderate exercise needs, enjoying walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to keep them engaged.
10. Border Terrier
- Loyal and affectionate, Borders are known for their friendly disposition and love for outdoor activities.
- The Border Terrier is a hardy, affectionate breed known for its rugged appearance and friendly nature.
- They are intelligent and have a quick learning ability, but their independent nature might make training a bit challenging.
Top 10 Small Clam Dog Breeds For Families
It seems like you might be referring to “calm” dog breeds rather than “calm” breeds! Calm breeds are often preferred for families seeking a more relaxed and easygoing canine companion. Here’s a list of 10 small dog breeds known for their calm and gentle temperament:
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Known for their affectionate and gentle nature, Cavaliers are loving companions that enjoy being around family members. These dogs stand 12 to 13 inches tall and weigh between 13 and 18 pounds. They also live around 15 years, on average.
2. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful and sociable, often displaying a calm demeanor, making them great for family life. Charming, resilient, and curious, the bichon frise is a little dog with a big personality. This fluffy white breed stands between 9 and 11 inches tall and weighs less than 20 pounds.
3. Shih Tzu
Despite their royal roots, Shih Tzus have a calm and friendly disposition, thriving in relaxed family environments. These dogs can live nearly 20 years old and make excellent companions for any sized household. But they do exceptionally well with children and other pets.
4. French Bulldog
Frenchies are adaptable and affectionate, often displaying a calm and easygoing attitude around their family. Playful, alert, and adaptable, the French bulldog is one of the most popular family-friendly small dog breeds. These adorable pups have large bat ears, amusing behavior, and even temperaments.
5. Maltese
The Maltese is a small and elegant breed known for its luxurious, long, white coat and gentle demeanor. These small dogs are gentle and affectionate, usually preferring a calm and peaceful environment. They’re sweet, smart, and fun well into old age.
6. Coton de Tulear
Coton de Tulears are known for their calm and amiable nature, making them great companions for families. They are intelligent and responsive to training, often enjoying learning new tricks and commands. They’re adaptable to various living environments, including apartments or larger homes.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Their sweet temperament and adaptability to different lifestyles make them a calm choice for families. They are playful, good with other dogs, and usually good with other pets in the household. They are small but not too tiny, about 5–8 kilos (14–18 pounds).
8. Basset Hound
Despite their size, Basset Hounds are generally laid-back, loving spending time with their families. Basset hounds are adaptable and affectionate. They are also good with other pets, a plus if you already have a dog or cat in the house. They are not high-energy like some other breeds.
9. Japanese Chin
Chins are calm and affectionate, enjoying quiet moments with their families. We dare you to look into the soulful eyes of these sensitive little creatures and not be instantly smitten. Expert climbers and light on their feet, they’re often considered catlike.
10. Brussels Griffon
These dogs are loyal and typically calm, forming strong bonds with their families. This wiry-haired breed is affectionate, loving, and comforting, but also playful and energetic. This adaptable pup is a good choice for both a house in the suburbs or a small apartment in the city.
Top 10 Small Dog Breeds For Families that Don’t Shed
Individual dogs may have slight variations in shedding, so spending time with a specific breed or dog before bringing them into your family is always a good idea. Families often prefer dogs that don’t shed much due to allergy concerns or simply to keep their homes cleaner. Here are 10 small dog breeds known for their minimal shedding:
1. Bichon Frise
These cheerful dogs have a curly coat that sheds minimally, making them a favorite among families with allergies. This wooly little guy is one of the best for any family looking for an easy-to-care-for and good-natured small dog. They are cheerful and cute.
2. Poodle (Toy/Miniature)
Poodles have hair that doesn’t shed much but requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They’re highly intelligent and great for families. These pups don’t bark much and like to socialize, both with humans and fellow pups they encounter while out on a walk in the neighborhood.
3. Maltese
Maltese dogs have long, silky hair that sheds very little, and they are affectionate and suitable for families. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being around people, making them great companions.
4. Shih Tzu
Despite their long coats, Shih Tzus shed minimally and are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. they do exceptionally well with children and other pets. While they are highly adaptable and easy to train, they are somewhat reserved around people they don’t know.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies have hair that’s more like human hair and sheds very little. They’re lively and make excellent companions. Despite their size, these dogs are protective watchdogs who are extremely playful and loving, making them wonderful for families with children.
6. Havanese
These dogs have a soft, silky coat that doesn’t shed much. They’re social and adaptable to various family situations. They are relatively easy to train and want to spend as much time with humans as possible. That noted, they don’t do well when left alone for extended periods of time.
7. Coton de Tulear
Coton de Tulears have a cotton-like coat that sheds minimally, and they’re affectionate and playful family companions. Cotons are excellent family pets, getting along well with children, other pets, and visitors due to their amiable temperament.
8. Miniature Schnauzer
While not entirely hypoallergenic, Miniature Schnauzers shed very little and are known for their loyalty and intelligence. They do not shed much but will require grooming every few months, and the long hair on the legs tends to pick up a lot of burrs.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Their curly, waterproof coat sheds minimally, making them a good choice for families with allergies. Portuguese water dogs are friendly, social, playful, versatile, and good with kids. Honestly, this breed checks a lot of boxes for families on the hunt for a companion.
10. Brussels Griffon
Griffons have a rough or smooth coat that sheds minimally, and they’re known for their affectionate nature towards families. Known for their distinctive beards, smooshy faces, and human-like eyes, Brussels Griffons are bound to win your heart.
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Best Small Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Families
Before adopting, spend time with the breed to gauge any allergic reactions. Regular grooming and cleaning practices within the household can also help minimize allergens. These breeds are known to produce fewer allergens, potentially making them suitable for families dealing with allergies. When seeking hypoallergenic small dog breeds suitable for families, consider these options known for producing fewer allergens:
1. Poodle (Toy or Miniature)
- Their low-shedding, curly coat makes them a popular choice for allergy sufferers. Poodles are also highly intelligent and adaptable, fitting well into family life.
- Smart poodles are also extremely easy to train.
- Protects the water-loving dogs’ joints and vital organs while swimming, in addition to looking absolutely adorable.
2. Bichon Frise
- These cheerful dogs have hair that’s more hypoallergenic than most breeds, and they’re known for their affectionate and playful nature, making them great for families.
- They only weigh about 10 to 20 pounds, so they are unlikely to be banned by any lease that allows dogs.
3. Maltese
- With their luxurious, low-shedding coat, Maltese dogs are gentle and make devoted family companions, suitable for allergy-prone households.
- They can adapt to different living situations and thrive in apartments or larger homes with proper care and attention.
- Maltese are affectionate, lively, and playful, known for their sweet and loving nature.
4. Shih Tzu
- While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, Shih Tzus has a coat that sheds minimally, reducing allergen exposure. They’re also friendly and adaptable, ideal for families.
- Sweet, outgoing, and a little mischievous, the Shih Tzu is a tiny and charismatic dog breed that stands around 10 inches tall and weighs between nine and 16 pounds.
5. Miniature Schnauzer
- Their double coat often traps dander, resulting in fewer allergy issues. Mini Schnauzers are affectionate and smart and make great family pets.
- The Miniature Schnauzer is a spirited, intelligent, and affectionate breed known for its distinctive beard and eyebrows.
- They are small dogs, typically weighing between 11 to 20 pounds (5 to 9 kg).
6. Coton de Tulear
- These dogs have a soft, hypoallergenic coat that sheds less, making them a good choice for families dealing with allergies. They’re affectionate and sociable.
- The Coton de Tulear is a charming and affectionate breed known for its cotton-like coat and friendly personality.
- They are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 8 to 15 pounds.
7. Yorkshire Terrier
- Known for their loyalty and minimal shedding, Yorkies can be suitable for allergy-sensitive households. They’re also brave and adaptable.
- With a height between seven and eight inches and a weight of around seven pounds, Yorkshire terriers are one of the smallest dogs in the world.
8. Havanese
- Their low-shedding, silky coat minimizes allergens, and their friendly, social nature makes them wonderful family pets.
- This breed is lovey-dovey and good with children and other dogs.
- They are also friendly with strangers, exceptionally playful, highly adaptable, and eager to please.
9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Though they have longer hair, Cavaliers shed less, which might be suitable for some allergy sufferers. Their affectionate and gentle temperament makes them great for families.
- The friendly and affectionate Cavalier King Charles spaniel is an ideal pick as a family dog thanks to its gentle nature and eagerness to please.
10. Chinese Crested
- This breed comes in both hairless and powder-puff varieties. The hairless variety is hypoallergenic, while the powder puff sheds minimally. They are loving and playful.
- The Chinese Crested is an easily recognizable breed that has a feathery tail and feet.
- Chinese Cresteds are affectionate, alert, and friendly dogs, known for their loyalty to their families.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re in the UK or elsewhere, these top 10 small dog breeds cater to various family needs, from allergy concerns to a desire for a friendly, adaptable pup. When considering a new furry friend, it’s crucial to match their temperament, grooming needs, and energy level with your family’s lifestyle.
Remember, while these breeds often fit well into family life, individual temperaments can vary. Consider spending time with different breeds or consulting with breeders to find the perfect small dog that complements your family dynamics and lifestyle.