The best small dog breeds for families with kids have gentle dispositions, patience, and can adapt to the energy level of your household. They’re tolerant of noise and occasional rough handling (by well-intentioned kids!), and they’re sturdy enough to play without injury. 

 

The 27 small breeds in this guide are all great choices for families with kids! 

Key Takeaways

  1. Beagles, Pugs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels rank among the top family-friendly small breeds.
  2. As you decide on a small dog for your family, look for patience, a gentle temperament, and tolerance for handling.
  3. Choose a breed whose activity level fits your family's lifestyle.
  4. Small but sturdy breeds handle playtime with children better than fragile toy breeds.
  5. Consider grooming as you make your decision. Some breeds require frequent brushing and professional care.

Best Small Dog Breeds for Families With Kids

Beagle

Beagles live for following scents (a good reason to make sure you keep them inside a secure fence), and they thrive in busy families. 

 

Curious, friendly, and playful, Beagles can tolerate lots of noise and chaos. Just be prepared for them to contribute their voice to the mix. 

 

Weight: 20 to 30 lbs 

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Pug

Pugs love to be as close as possible to their family. They’re compact, easy-going, affectionate, and social, and they don’t need a lot of space. 

 

Consider a Pug if you live in a calm household. You may need to urge them to get some exercise, as Pugs are prone to weight gain. 

 

Weight: 14 to 18 lbs 

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

West Highland White Terrier (Westie)

Westies are well-suited to live in families because of their cheerful and confident nature and sturdy build. They have moderate exercise needs, so they’re happy in a busy household. They’re also highly tolerant of other pets. 

 

Weight: 15 to 20 lbs 

Lifespan: 13 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are patient, calm, affectionate, and happy to pass the time sitting on someone’s lap. They’re great family dogs, with a gentleness that’s ideal for young children. Shih Tzus are also content with apartment living. 

 

Shih Tzus’ long coat requires regular grooming, and they sometimes possess an independent streak.

 

Weight: 9 to 16 lbs 

Lifespan: 10 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

If adaptability is a key quality for you, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great choice. Gentle, elegant, and eager to please, Cavaliers bond closely with all family members and are perfect companions for kids.

 

Cavaliers are prone to some heart conditions, so regular contact with your veterinarian is highly recommended.

 

Weight: 13 to 18 lbs 

Lifespan: 9 to 14 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs look tough with their muscular build and large, square head, but they’re actually laid-back, patient, and easy-going. These traits, plus their playful streak, make the French Bulldog great for busy households. 

 

They also have minimal exercise needs, so they’re ideal for families living in apartments or homes without yards. Because French Bulldogs are sensitive to heat, you need to watch them in hot weather. And due to their short, flat faces, they’re prone to breathing issues.

 

Weight: 16 to 28 lbs 

Lifespan: 10 to 12 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Bichon Frise

If you’re looking for a cheerful dog who’s gentle, playful, and seeks affection, Bichon Frises are a good bet. Your kids and other pets will receive plenty of positive attention with this natural family dog.

 

In fact, Bichon Frises are so connected to their families that they sometimes experience separation anxiety. They also need regular grooming to prevent their coat from matting.

 

Weight: 10 to 18 lbs

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are even-tempered, friendly, adaptable, and fun. But they’re sensitive to extreme heat and cold and sometimes have eye issues. On the flip side, their coat is easy to groom.

 

Weight: 12 to 25 lbs

Lifespan: 11 to 13 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are sporting dogs who thrive on adventures. If your family is always on the go, this eager-to-please, easy-to-train breed might be just right for you. 

 

While Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections and need regular grooming, their gentle, happy demeanor makes them a favorite for families.

 

Weight: 20 to 30 lbs

Lifespan: 10 to 14 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Havanese

Havanese are outgoing, intelligent, affectionate, and very trainable. Like Bichon Frises, they’re prone to separation anxiety. And they need regular grooming for their hypoallergenic coat.

 

Weight: 7 to 16 lbs

Lifespan: 14 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Miniature Schnauzer

You know a Miniature Schnauzer when you see one with their dapper, distinctive beard.

 

They’re friendly, smart, and spirited. They’re also highly trainable and obedient, so taking them on family outings is easy. Like many other small dog breeds, Miniature Schnauzers need regular grooming.

 

Weight: 11 to 20 lbs

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

Maltese

With their silky white coats and lively personalities, Maltese are beautiful and bold. They’re affectionate, playful, and shed minimally. 

 

Because Maltese are especially small and even sometimes fragile, they’re best suited for families with older children who understand gentle handling. You also need to watch for dental issues with Maltese and regularly groom them.

 

Weight: 4 to 7 lbs

Lifespan:  12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are tiny in size, but big in personality. They’re fiercely loyal and deeply affectionate: a great combo for a family pet. They also have a beautiful coat. 

 

Because of their small, fragile size, Yorkies match best with families with older children. They’re well-suited for apartment living but sometimes need to be trained not to bark.

 

Weight: 4 to 7 lbs

Lifespan: 13 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Pomeranian

Pomeranians are tiny, bold, fox-faced, fluffballs, full of curiosity and energy. They’re smart and eager to learn, making them enticing companions. 

 

Best suited for families with older children, Pomeranians can be fragile due to their size. Their puffy coat needs plenty of grooming.

 

Weight: 3 to 7 lbs

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Chihuahua

One of the smallest breeds on this list, Chihuahuas are known for their strong loyalties and long lifespans. They often hone in on one person and bond closely, but eventually warm up to the whole crew.

 

Like Yorkies and Pomeranians, Chihuahuas are fragile, so they’re best for families with older kids, as well as those living in apartments. They may be wary of strangers, and because of their thin coats, they’re sensitive to the cold. 

 

Weight: 3 to 6 lbs

Lifespan: 14 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are fast on their feet. Full of energy, these small athletes need plenty of exercise. Their fearless nature makes them always ready for a family adventure. (But they need a secure yard to prevent solo excursions!)

 

Although Jack Russells may chase small animals, they’re excellent pets for a family on the go. 

 

Weight: 13 to 17 lbs

Lifespan: 13 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Poodle (Miniature/Toy)

Poodles are one of the smartest breeds around, so they take to training really well and make excellent family members. Because of their high intelligence, Poodles need plenty of mental stimulation.

 

Poodles need their curly coat professionally groomed.

 

Weight: 6 to 15 lbs (miniature); 4 to 6 lbs (toy)

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Corgi (Pembroke Welsh)

Corgis are sturdy herding dogs with short legs, big ears, and an even bigger personality. Their intelligence and alertness, combined with their affectionate nature, make them excellent family members.

 

Because they’re so smart and have herding in their DNA, Corgis need a regular, active routine and consistent mental stimulation. 

 

Small issues to be aware of regarding Corgis are that they’re prone to weight gain, like to make noise, and may nip at human heels.

 

Weight: 25 to 30 lbs

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Cairn Terrier

Cairn Terriers are fearless, adventurous, and like their independence. But they’re also loyal and affectionate, so they make wonderfully devoted pets. 

 

They can get spunky with cats and other dogs, so it’s best to get a Cairn Terrier when they’re young to socialize them to other animals from the start. 

 

Weight: 13 to 14 lbs

Lifespan: 13 to 15 year

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are graceful, sensitive, and delicate. They’re best for calm households in families with older children who can be gentle. They also love warmth and affection. 

 

They tend to have slender, narrow bodies, so they’re sensitive to cold weather and prone to injury. 

 

Weight: 7 to 14 lbs

Lifespan: 14 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Miniature Pinscher

Called the “Kings of Toys” because of their big, fearless personality, Miniature Pinschers take care of their owners with endless energy and keen watchdog instincts.

 

They’re spirited and proud, making them great additions to an active family. They do have escape artist tendencies, though, so they need secure fencing. 

 

Weight: 8 to 12 lbs

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos are known for their calm demeanor, keen instincts, and beautiful coat. They carry themselves with confidence and demonstrate loyalty. However, they can sometimes be wary of strangers, so you have to introduce them to people with care.

 

Weight: 12 to 18 lbs

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terriers’ compact, sturdy, short-legged build, coupled with their tall, erect ears and tail, gives them an air of importance. 

 

While they can be a little stubborn at times, sometimes balk at rough handling, and express shyness around strangers, their confidence, loyalty, and fierce devotion to their people make them ideal pets. 

 

Weight: 18 to 22 lbs

Lifespan: 11 to 13 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Lakeland Terrier

Not only are Lakeland Terriers trainable, friendly, energetic, and confident, but they also have a sense of humor. Lakeland Terriers need plenty of exercise, so they’re best paired with an active family.

 

Weight: 15 to 17 lbs

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

 

Norfolk Terrier

If you want a dog that’s adventurous but dedicated to sticking by your side, Norfolk Terriers are the perfect choice. They love to explore, and their alert and fearless nature brings a richness and joy to any activities you do together.

 

Important to note: Norfolk Terriers have a strong prey drive, so they need secure fencing. It’s also important to groom their coats regularly.

 

Weight: 11 to 12 lbs

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Papillon

Extremely athletic and easily trained, Papillons make great additions to active families. 

 

Because of their size and fragility, they’re best placed in homes with older children. And better yet, if those kids are interested in teaching their dog some tricks, Papillons love mental stimulation.

 

Weight: 5 to 10 lbs

Lifespan: 14 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: No

 

Dachshund

Dachshunds are unmistakable with their short legs and long bodies. Bold, curious, fearless little hounds, they make wonderful and entertaining members of your family. 

 

Their signature long bodies make them prone to back problems, so they need to avoid jumping and stairs. And beware, they also have a stubborn streak! 

 

Weight: 16 to 32 lbs (standard); up to 11 lbs (miniature)

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

Hypoallergenic: No

Small Dog Breeds for Families: Quick Comparison

Breed

Weight (lbs.)

Lifespan (years)

Temperament

Energy Level

Grooming Needs

Beagle

20 to 30

12 to 15

Curious, friendly, playful

High

Low

Pug

14 to 18

12 to 15

Affectionate, sociable

Low

Low

West Highland White Terrier

15 to 20

13 to 15

Friendly, confident, spirited

Moderate

Moderate

Shih Tzu

9 to 16

10 to 16

Affectionate, placid

Low to moderate

High

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

13 to 18

9 to 14

Gentle, affectionate

Moderate

Moderate

French Bulldog

16 to 28

10 to 12

Playful, easygoing

Low

Low

Bichon Frise

10 to 18

12 to 15

Cheerful, gentle

Moderate

High

Boston Terrier

12 to 25

11 to 13

Friendly, bright

Moderate

Low

Cocker Spaniel

20 to 30

10 to 14

Happy, gentle

Moderate to high

High

Havanese

7 to 16

14 to 16

Cheerful, outgoing

Moderate

High

Miniature Schnauzer

11 to 20

12 to 15

Friendly, smart

Moderate to high

High

Maltese

4 to 7

12 to 15

Lively, affectionate

Moderate

High

Yorkshire Terrier

4 to 7

13 to 16

Feisty, affectionate

Moderate

High

Pomeranian

3 to 7

12 to 16

Bold, curious, lively

Moderate to high

High

Chihuahua

3 to 6

14 to 16

Alert, charming, sassy

Low to moderate

Low

Jack Russell Terrier

13 to 17

13 to 16

Energetic, clever, fearless

High

Low

Poodle (Miniature/Toy)

6 to 15

12 to 15

Intelligent, active

Moderate to high

High

Corgi (Pembroke Welsh)

25 to 30

12 to 15

Affectionate, smart, alert

High

Moderate

Cairn Terrier

13 to 14

13 to 15

Fearless, cheerful

Moderate to high

Moderate

Italian Greyhound

7 to 14

14 to 15

Gentle, playful, sensitive

Moderate

Low

Miniature Pinscher

8 to 12

12 to 16

Spirited, fearless

High

Low

Lhasa Apso

12 to 18

12 to 15

Confident, calm, loyal

Low to moderate

High

Scottish Terrier

18 to 22

11 to 13

Independent, confident

Moderate

Moderate

Norfolk Terrier

11 to 12

12 to 16

Alert, fearless, fun-loving

Moderate to high

Moderate

Lakeland Terrier

15 to 17

12 to 15

Bold, friendly, confident

High

High

Papillon

5 to 10

14 to 16

Happy, alert, friendly

Moderate to high

Moderate

Dachshund

16 to 32

12 to 16

Curious, brave, lively

Moderate

Low to moderate

Table of Contents

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