Finding the perfect breed of dog for your family can be a difficult task. Dogs come in every shape and size, and each one has it’s own personality. Right now toy breeds are extremely popular, for more then one reason. First off, they are so darn cute, and they take up little room. But, having a toy breed pooch, might not be all that it seems. Yes, they are adorable, but their not family dogs. Toy breeds do better with smaller families, with no or older children. Smaller kids are hyper, and rambunctious, which can lead to a serious injury to the dog. It’s not the kids fault, kids are kids, but most toy breeds just aren’t hardy enough for child’s play.
There are other small breeds of dogs that are perfect for families with smaller children. Just because a toy breed might not be right for you, doesn’t mean your stuck getting a large dog. Don’t get me wrong, large dogs are great, but if your looking for something small there is still hope for you. Rumor has it that small dogs are typically bad with children, and yes in some breeds that is true. However, some breeds are known to be playful, and loving toward children, almost treating them as if they were another puppy. Here are 3 wonderful small breeds that you might want to consider.
1) Bichon Frise : This super cute little snowball, is hard to resist. In general this breed is very intelligent, affectionate, and has a happy go lucky temperament. This is a small pup that only weighs between 7 and 12 pounds full grown. They do great in apartments, love the indoors, are very playful, and live 15 years or more. They do require weekly grooming, but it’s well worth it.
2) Miniature Schnauzer : These little guys are very perky, and full of energy. Their also obedient, and love children. They do have a loud bark, which makes them a great inside watch dog. Unfortunately, they also have the heart of a big dog, and aren’t scared to stand up to dogs 10 times their size. Miniature Schnauzer’s do well in apartments, love going for walk, and is very playful. These little guys live about 15 years, and weight between 10 and 15 pounds full grown.
3) Pug : Pugs are very rambunctious, but loyal. They have a loving disposition, and get along well with children. These little guys are very clever, and can be mischievous at times. They make good indoor watch dogs, and aren’t yappy. When full grown they weigh between 13 and 20 pounds, and live 12 – 15 years. They do great in apartments, and require little grooming.
All 3 of these breeds are good family dogs, however keep in mind each dog will have it’s own personality. Make sure the entire family goes with you to pick out a new dog. Watch the dog, and see how it reacts to each person. If he’s shy, or snappy, then he’s not the right one. Look for a dog that greets the kids with a wagging tail, and kisses. Kisses are always good. If you have other pets, bring them along to, to ensure a happy end result.
