Have you decided on adding a new four-legged family member to your home?
You have definitely come to the right place. This guide is the best thing for you, helping you make the right choice when it comes to adopting a small dog breed that makes an excellent family companion.
We have gathered 7 of the best companion breeds with a calm demeanor, sweet temperament, and playful nature, which makes them so lovable and ideal for first-time dog owners as well. These dogs may be small in size, but they have a lot of love to give and offer the perfect companionship.
Read on to learn more about these wonderful small dog breeds, what makes them the ideal pets for you, and ways you can cater to their needs and keep them well-behaved.
Wonderful Tiny Dog Breeds for Gentle Households
1. Shih Tzu
Originating from Tibet, Shih Tzus are hard-to-ignore small canines with big dark eyes and sweet expressions that make them oh-so attractive. According to the American Kennel Club, these canines are bred from Pekingese and Lhasa Apso.
Called lion dogs in the past, these alert little dogs were excellent watchdogs and barked to inform their owners if someone was approaching their home. Shih Tzus not only get along well with adults but are ideal for children of all ages and other pets as well, if socialized from an early age.
These small dogs are happy, sociable, and highly energetic. They require at least 30 minutes of walking along with indoor play time with kids or pet parents to stay happy and healthy. When not playing, they prefer being lap dogs and getting all the cuddles in while watching TV on the couch.
2. Pomeranian
As a Spitz-type dog breed from North-West Poland and North-East Germany, the Pomeranian is classed as a toy dog breed because of its small size. This small dog breed has a tiny body, a smiling, fox-like face, and a vivacious personality, which makes it a popular family pet around the world.
They are intelligent, easy to train, and alert in nature, which makes them excellent watchdogs as well. Poms have an affectionate nature and get along well with everyone, making wonderful companions for first-time owners.
They are, however, recommended for a house with older children who know how to be around small dogs.
Poms may be tiny small animals but are very energetic and prefer an active family. They have moderate exercise needs which can be fulfilled with short walks and indoor play time with their pet parents. They are adaptable and do not require a lot of space, making them ideal for apartment living.
3. Papillon
Quick and curious, Papillons are among the most beautiful dogs from the toy category. They are named so because of their butterfly-like ears. These canines are the most popular family dogs and human companions.
Despite their long, silky coats, Papillons can do well in both cold weather and hot weather. They are happy and friendly canines that get along well with everyone and love spending time with their owners, proving to be good family dogs. If trained properly, these canines can also become excellent therapy and service dogs.
Papillons have moderate exercise requirements, but their long coat sure does require regular grooming to keep them in good shape. Frequent brushing is recommended to prevent matting and tangles. Once they have fulfilled their energy needs, these cuddly companions like to sit with you or on your lap and spend the rest of the evening relaxing.
4. Pug
Easily recognizable by their physically distinctive features, Pugs were originally bred for being companion dogs and are reported to be a true pleasure for their owners. Pugs are friendly, and their playful nature makes them great family pets.
They are highly devoted to their family members and expect the same in return.
Their gentle nature makes them get along well with everyone. However, their large eyes are prone to injury, which is why they must not be left alone with smaller children but are ideal for older kids. Pugs are active and energetic but do not require a lot of outdoor time.
They are also not intimidated by large dogs and like having other dogs around to play with, says Orvis.
They are brachycephalic, which is the main cause of many of their health issues, which is why optimal care and gentle handling are recommended. Do not overexert these canines, or they may have breathing issues.
5. Bichon Frise
A Franco-Belgian dog, Bichon Frises are sturdy and resilient and fall among the list of the world’s most great personality canines. They are curious little dogs and like making new friends. They get along well and are ideal for both young kids and older children.
Bichon Frises have high barking tendencies and keen watchdog instincts. They are highly trainable and eager to please, which can help to reduce this tendency. With proper training and socialization as puppies, these canines get used to seeing new faces and other pets without thinking of them as a threat.
These lively little dogs have a curly coat that does not shed a lot. They may have a double coat but are hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. Bichon Frises are prone to ear infections because of their excessive hair, which is why professional grooming is recommended for occasional trimming.
6. Havanese
A loving, intelligent pup from Cuba, Havanese dogs are bright small dog breeds with outgoing personalities. Their gentle disposition, affectionate nature, and eager-to-please attitude make them excellent family dogs. They are also keen watchdogs and may bark to alert their owners if someone is approaching.
This toy breed has moderate exercise needs that can be fulfilled with a short walk around the block and fun and interactive indoor play. Exercise and mental stimulation are important for this small breed to stay well-balanced and well-behaved.
They may have a long, furry double coat, but they are hypoallergenic, ideal for people with allergies. Regular grooming and weekly brushing are recommended to prevent mats and tangles. They are prone to getting fat; thus, provide them with a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight on the scale.
This furry friend is generally healthy but is prone to vision and hearing diseases. Regular vet checkups are recommended.
7. Yorkshire Terrier
A compact, toy-sized terrier breed, Yorkshire Terriers are spunky and entertaining small dogs that are known for their feisty personalities. They may have a small stature, but their personalities are way bigger than those of larger dogs.
These canines were originally bred for chasing and catching rodents from textile mills but now make great lap dogs and family pets.
Yorkies are affectionate, playful, and spirited terriers. They get along well with everyone as long as they get regular exercise, mental stimulation, and proper attention from their owners. Whether you live in an apartment, a small house, or a big home, these canines are adaptable and can live anywhere as long as you are by their side.
According to PetMD, Yorkies might not be the best option for a home with younger kids to prevent injuries. Yorkies have long flowing hair that keeps on growing, which is why they have regular grooming requirements to maintain their charming looks.
Conclusion
This article is proof that you do not require large dogs to have all the fun of owning a four-legged paw-friend. Their calm temperaments, moderate mental and physical stimulation needs, minimal grooming needs, playful and eager-to-please nature make them wonderful family pets.
When choosing the right dog for your home, you must consider your own lifestyle. These canines aren’t ideal for busy families and require owners who can give them proper time and attention. Leaving them alone is not ideal, or they may tend to show unwanted behaviors.
Consistent training using positive reinforcement methods is recommended to keep them focused and learn new commands and tricks quickly and easily. Choose which small breed you wanna bring home and enjoy the perks of owning a furry pet.
