Little dogs and children bring an irreplaceable brightness and joy into the homes they’re in. While kids are full of life, a love for fun and games, and laughter, some small dog breeds also always carry a puppy-like energy.
Having both in one home can 2x the happiness and positivity, but this combination also comes with responsibilities for the adults.
Having both kids and dogs means you’re going to have to monitor their interaction to some extent, depending on the kind of pooch you have. Yet, many breeds are great with kids and live happily with the little humans, forming deep bonds with them.
Teacup breeds are the smaller versions of their breed standard size, hence the name. They’re very portable doggos that often come with a playful but easygoing temperament. Here are 9 teacup breeds that live amazingly with kids.
Teacup Dog Breeds That Are Great With Children
1. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a high-spirited little dog that’s too cute to ignore with its lush, long coat and sweet face. They never fail to bring in a puppy-like energy into your home and adore the little humans they live and grow up with.
Yorkies have a really interesting origin, as they started off as ratters in mines and ended up becoming besties of the Victorian ladies, as per the AKC. Nowadays, these affectionate dogs enjoy a family life with their owners (of all ages) and enjoy play sessions indoors, walks outdoors.
As hypoallergenic dogs, teacup Yorkies are not just good companions for kids, but also for their grandparents or other family members who might have allergies.
Their silky coat can be trimmed and styled in many ways, and needs regular brushing to stay dust and tangle-free.
2. Toy Poodle
Poodles are dogs that have claimed the hearts of millions with their curly coats and bouncy, playful nature. Toy Poodles are the smallest variety in this breed and carry all the amazing traits of this most loved breed.
These toy dogs are energetic and full of life despite their small size, and are also one of the smartest dog breeds that learn new skills and tricks fast. Pairing these tiny dogs with kids is going to keep both parties very happy, as this partnership is going to be all fun and laughter.
As small dogs, they should be taken care of as they can be a tripping hazard, but apart from that, they get along well with all family members.
These doggos can enjoy a number of doggo games and sports; from puzzle toys to fun in the park and activities like agility and playing fetch, they won’t let things stay dull.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is one of the most popular toy breeds, originally bred to look like “little lions” (which is obvious from their lion-like mane and appearance). These mini lions have been the companions of Chinese royals and aristocrats and make amazing lap dogs for people living in apartments or dorms.
Teacup Shih Tzus can be amazing playmates for kids (who know how not to mishandle a small dog) due to their sociable and loving nature. These pups are super alert in nature and will stay aware of their surroundings, which makes them great little watchdogs.
According to PetMD, Shih Tzus love and crave attention from their pet owners; keep them happy with treats and engage with them by grooming their silky coat regularly.
4. Maltese
Maltese dogs are unbelievably adorable pooches that come in a luxurious white coat and eyes full of love and sweetness. Teacup Maltese live happily in a house with kids, as well as with people living in small or shared spaces.
These dogs look like fuzzy, cotton candy on four legs and are an older breed than you’d imagine; Ancient Roman and Greek literature points to these dogs. These hypoallergenic dogs are portable and need a moderate amount of physical activity to stay healthy, and they are also very friendly and outgoing.
These pooches do need regular coat care for their gorgeous coat, as well as early socialization training with positive reinforcement (like treats).
5. Pomeranian
Teacup Pomeranians are compact doggos with a big personality and a thick, fluffy coat. While their curious and playful nature makes them a perfect match for children, they will also snuggle up next to their young owners, offering a gentle companionship.
Poms are ideal pets for people living in the city and make great partners for short walks outdoors. They’re also excellent family pets and live well with adults and kids alike, as long as the kids know how to treat a small dog.
While Poms are a healthy breed, they’re prone to some health problems like knee issues and hypothyroidism. A healthy diet and some indoor and outdoor play sessions will keep them healthy.
If you want a tiny dog that’s also very watchful, a teacup Pomeranian is a great option for you, as they make pretty good watchdogs.
6. Pekingese
Pekingese are elegant little pooches with an affectionate and joyful nature and a coat that can be compared with a “lion’s mane”. While their double coat needs some weekly upkeep, they shed only seasonally.
Pekes have lived in royal palaces and carry a dignified aura about them, which makes them look independent and calm. They can coexist with other dogs and children, but need to be treated with care as they won’t appreciate harsh handling.
These alert and smart little dogs will enjoy some daily play sessions indoors or in dog parks and will be overjoyed if they’re given toys to play with.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are one of the most loved dogs, and no surprises there, as these pups are really sociable and adaptable in nature. Favored by British royalty, these dogs have been adored for centuries and still make amazing family pets, as well as great lap dogs for singles.
Friendly with all family members and other pets, Cavs will enjoy playing with or sleeping next to your little humans. From sharing a love for playing with toys to playing fetch and other games together, Cavs make great friends for kids (though some monitoring is always a good idea).
Cavs’ medium coat is quite silky and can be somewhat wavy, which makes them look very Insta-worthy. They do need regular combing or brushing and bathing to keep their coat free of dust and messiness.
According to Britannica, while they are great house dogs, Cavs aren’t the best watchdogs as they’re low barkers and very laid back in nature.
8. Papillon
Papillon is one of the breeds that are sure to catch your attention with their unique appearance. Their name literally means “butterfly” in French, which is something that points to their butterfly-like ears.
As one of the most intelligent dog breeds, Paps are quite trainable and enjoy mental and physical stimulation activities.
Papillons are spunky and fun-loving dogs that are better paired with kids of age group who can match their energy levels. With proper training, they can live pretty well with kids as well as other pets, and crave attention from their pet parents.
Luckily, their silky hair is easy to groom and just needs some quick brushing and occasional bathing to stay clean. While generally healthy, Paps can have some genetic health issues like patella luxation, allergies, and eye diseases.
9. English Toy Spaniel
English Toy Spaniels are toy doggos that were bred to hang out with royalty and still have a regal temperament. They make loving dogs and not only enjoy cozying up on the couch, but also cherish their playful moments with their owners.
As dogs with a royal history, these pups don’t make friends with just anyone, but connect deeply with their family members. Once they’ve bonded with the children in the house, they will enjoy nothing more than spending time with them.
These pups can stay happy indoors and in apartments, but they will enjoy some regular daily exercise or short walks. While training these pooches, avoid harsh methods as they’re dignified dogs who respond well to gentler methods and encouragement.
FAQs
How do teacup breeds like the Teacup Poodle or Maltese show affection to children?
These teacup breeds show affection by snuggling up next to the children, cuddling with them, as well as playing with them.
How can families train children to handle teacup dogs properly?
It’s important to teach by example. AKC recommends teaching kids to understand dogs at an early age. Help children understand how their actions can trigger certain reactions from dogs. With teacup dogs, it’s important that kids know small dogs shouldn’t be handled roughly.
How do teacup dogs adapt to active households with kids?
Teacup dogs don’t need vigorous activity, but they enjoy play sessions. They can adapt well to active households, as well as their energy levels are understood and respected.
Conclusion
These teacup breeds are sure to keep things fun and joyful with their youthful temperaments and their adaptability. When bringing one of these doggos home, make sure to get in touch with a reputable breeder known for ethical practice.
