If you are thinking about bringing a dog into your home, you most likely are thinking of the fun you have. The long walks in the woods, playing fetch in the yard, and snuggling up on the sofa are all activities that you can look forward to. However, things are more complex if you have a home with children in it.
There won’t be any issues if you get a small dog. After all, they can’t really knock your kid over, can they? However, even if you are bringing a small pooch into your home, you still have to take precautions. You want the dog to feel safe and comfortable, and you want the same for your children. Luckily, there are some breeds that are perfect for this situation. With a little training and socializing, they will be a great playmate. Here are six small dog breeds that are great with kids.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are known for their furry little coat and their friendly demeanor. They are typically between 10 to 20 pounds and are easy to take care of. Their hypoallergenic coat means that they are a perfect choice for a household with allergies or respiratory issues like asthma. As long as they are groomed properly, including a clip every couple of months, your lungs will be protected.
They are very cheerful and hard to get down, and they love playing in water. If you have a pool, then it’s great for them. They would swim all day if they could. They also like running through sprinklers and getting wet. They are very obedient and a joy to train as they pick things up quickly.
Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier was bred to be a companion and to be protected. What more could a family want? They will stand by your children and protect them if they perceive there to be any threat. That said, they are very playful and loving with their families. They will gladly follow their people around the house and go where the action is.
Australian Terriers need a lot of exercise and love to run around to burn off energy. Encourage your children to play outside and get your dog good and tired. If they don’t burn enough, then they will get bored and resort to destructive behaviors. This dog doesn’t shed much, which is good since you don’t want to be adding extra cleaning on top of picking up after your kids. They also don’t require a lot of maintenance, which is very handy.
Beagle
The Beagle is another hunting dog, so you can bet it loves to work. It was also bred to travel in large groups of mixed company, from people to horses, to other dogs. They are very easy to socialize, and they are very friendly. All of that makes the Beagle a wonderful family dog. On top of that, the Beagle loves to run and play with kids. They do tend to bark, but often it’s in the heat of the moment when they are having fun. You will have to train them to only bark when it’s appropriate, though. Beagles are such a social animal that they do get separation anxiety when they are apart from their people. They are also curious, so keeping them on a leash is important so they don’t wander.
Mini Irish Doodle
When you find Mini Irish Doodle puppies for sale, you’re in for a ton of fun. They are very sweet and gentle but like to roughhouse and play. Fetch and other seeking games are the best for them since the Setter was raised to retrieve. However, the two breeds together make a very smart and very friendly dog. They are often used as service dogs because of their gentle and caring nature. Your kids will love a mini Irish Doodle because they are always up for doing something, whether it’s a long hike with lots of interesting smells or getting into trouble in the backyard. They are very well suited to very small children since they are so patient and kind.
French Bulldog
Otherwise known as the Frenchie, the French Bulldog is very friendly to children and other pets. They are also fine if left alone, although they will love it when you return. While they can handle the length of a work and school day, try to leave them quickly. While you’re gone, they’re certain to be resting up for when you get back. They love being around family, and they don’t need too much exercise to be happy, so you don’t have to fit long walks around your busy schedule. Unfortunately, they are susceptible to health issues, so make sure to visit the vet regularly to keep on top of things.
Mini Schnauzer
The mini Schnauzer is very popular in countries around the world and with good reason. While they are miniature, they are sturdy. They can handle the wear and tear of roughhousing and playing hard all day long. They are also bred to watch over the flock, so they will guard your house against any and all potential intruders. They do require regular maintenance with haircuts and nail trims. Their coats can pick up dirt and debris from pretty much anywhere if not clipped back. They are very smart, quick to learn, and love to have fun.
If you have children in your home, then having a dog around can provide so many benefits. If you also love smaller types of dogs, then even better. Small dogs can’t knock over your kid or take up too much space in their beds. So if you are looking for a small dog that’s great with kids, look no further.
Read More:
