It’s nice to grow up with a dog. For many children, their family dog is the first real four-legged friend, a playmate and sometimes the comforter of the family.
When you have children, you don’t just look for the cutest, smallest dog; you have to think some more. Toy dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and often have very different personalities.
Some will be active and fun; others will prefer to sit next to you on the sofa. Some are very tolerant, and others require children to know when it’s okay to give them some space.
The positive side is that there are many small dogs that will fit in nicely with family members. A small dog can be a great companion to a kid’s childhood when properly cared for, properly socialised, educated, and handled well.
With this in mind, what breeds of toy dogs should you consider? Let’s take a closer look at the seven most popular dog breeds with an affectionate nature for active families and kids.
Wonderful Toy Dog Breeds for Families With Children
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
When you’ve met a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, you will likely have been struck by its big soulful eyes. It seems to know exactly what you are thinking about most of the time.
These cute dogs were bred mainly as companion animals, and this is certainly still evident in their personality. They are usually sociable and have close relationships with their families.
They are loving but do not typically require a lot of work from their owners. Their playful energy level can be a good match with children who know how to be gentle with small dogs.
Cavaliers are also versatile according to the American Kennel Club. They can go for a stroll in the neighbourhood, play games in the yard, or simply lie down next to the rest of the family once they’ve all gone to bed. If provided with enough mental stimulation, these dogs can be much better to keep as compared to other dogs.
However, due to their small size, younger children should be supervised at all times around these dogs. Rough handling can be harmful for these outgoing pooches.
2. Havanese
The Havanese is one of the most fun-loving dogs on this list. Give it a few minutes, and you’ll see that there’s lots of personality in this little dog. It is a fantastic choice for apartment dwellers and great for families.
These dogs were originally bred in Havana and have been popular as a companion dog for ages. They generally don’t want to spend the entire day sitting alone. They prefer to follow their family around the house, which is perfect if you want a fun little companion.
This social aspect can be really beneficial in families with children. These tiny dogs are generally happy, playful, and loving. They can get into anything, whether it’s a family game night or a quiet night at home.
Havanese are also smart dogs and are capable of advanced training with positive reinforcement. Owners should not underestimate grooming their coat. Their beautiful coat can get matted and tangled if they are not brushed regularly, according to Purina. A shorter coat can be easier to maintain.
3. Toy Poodle
Toy poodles are one of the unique small breeds on this list. These little dogs are smart, inquisitive, and sometimes surprisingly active.
They have a lot to offer, including their intelligence. They are able to be taught commands and routines rapidly when training is regular and reward-based. Even simple tricks can be a fun activity for teaching these dogs.
These dogs can be versatile in their routines. Once their physical and mental demands are met, these dogs can be a calming influence on their family members. They do require some small spaces to explore, play, and exercise their mind.
However, there is one nuance to consider when you have very young children. Be aware that Toy Poodles are really small dogs and are quite fragile as compared to other pets. It can be easy to underestimate how easily a small dog can be hurt, especially when playing with young children.
4. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus, with their flowing coat, a short face, and an obviously proud look, look like they have stepped out of a royal portrait.
The breed was bred as a companion dog for human interaction, and Shih Tzus do seem to savour their time with their owners the most. They can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
These dogs are loving, sociable and playful. Compared to other high-energy dog breeds, they don’t need as much exercise as most other breeds, making them a great fit for busy families and people who don’t own a yard or a big apartment.
They love playing and spending time with children. However, parents should look out for their dog during play sessions with children. Their small size means that they cannot handle rough handling, and they might become severely injured if handled roughly.
Their coat is another distinctive factor. Because of their length, long coats need frequent brushing to keep them from matting and tangling up, according to Orvis, and many owners prefer to cut their dog’s coat shorter to make it easier to maintain.
5. Pugs
It is rare to find a dog that makes people smile just by walking in the door. The Pug is one of them.
Its big eyes, wrinkled face, small stature, and curled tail are unmistakable features, but it’s the personality that truly delights families.
Pugs are considered to be affectionate and people-oriented. They enjoy attention and are typically most content when they are part of the family’s lifestyle at home.
They can be playful without wanting attention constantly. They are perfect for families who are a bit lazy and live in small spaces. Care should be taken not to overwork these dogs in the summer. They have a short snout, which can cause them to overheat in hot and humid conditions.
Children also need to be taught not to trespass on the dogs’ space. While a Pug can be tolerant and loving, it is essential that it is treated with care; otherwise, small dogs can be injured during routine play sessions.
Their short coat is relatively easy to maintain, but be mindful that it sheds a lot. It is ideal for families that take grooming as a hobby.
6. Papillon
From afar, Papillons can look large due to their big butterfly-shaped ears, but in reality they are much smaller. They are suitable for both young and older kids. They are generally happy around other animals too if you have any in your house.
Though they look fragile, Papillons are energetic little dogs and not without a big measure of confidence, nor a lack of athletic spirit. Their ears are the most visually distinct characteristic of their appearance.
They don’t simply want to sit in your lap all day, as they are not mere couch potatoes. Many like games, walks, learning new tricks, and discovering their surroundings. Their size can make them appropriate for smaller homes and apartment living. Their personality makes them perfect family companions, especially if you have kids who are always looking for a playmate.
Their coat is not as difficult to care for as it looks. Brushing it regularly will help to maintain a neat appearance and avoid tangles. Overall, they are fiercely loyal animals that make excellent pets for anyone looking for highly intelligent dogs with endless energy levels.
7. Maltese
This little white dog of Mediterranean origin is a pet that has been charming for a long time and is the perfect little dog for families.
These dogs are petite, loving pets that tend to bond with their owners. They are playful and active, but they need extensive time with their families as well. A family’s loving nature can be a big draw for them. Maltese enjoy playing with children, relaxing with the family, and spending time outdoors.
But there’s no doubt that their small size deserves special mention. A Maltese can be easily hurt if carelessly dropped, stepped on, or played with too roughly by a child. Young children should be watched while playing with this dog at all times. It is advised to use puzzle toys to bond closely with them instead of hopping around the yard.
They also need to be groomed regularly for their beautiful white coat. If not brushed frequently, it can tangle, and families need to expect that grooming will have to become a part of their normal routine.
Conclusion
It is important to teach children that their dog might be very small but is not a toy. They require rest, solitude, tender handling, and time out from the excitement of family life.
Parents’ roles are also significant. Even the friendliest, most trustworthy dogs should not be left unsupervised with young children.
A small dog can add lots of personality, affection and fun to a family home. A good match can provide children with a loyal friend, in addition to developing patience, responsibility, kindness and respect for animals.
