You’ve decided to bring a dog home. If you're thinking of the best small dogs for apartment living or young children, our Rabun County veterinarians have got you covered. Though these breeds may be small in size, they are big in personality.
What should I consider when looking for the best small dog for families?
Care Needs: What are the specific care requirements of that pup you have your eye on? Do they have specific grooming needs or known health risks? Who will walk it? Think about your new pet and who will be responsible for training and daily care.
Size: If you have young, rambunctious kids who love to run and play, you’ll want to carefully consider if a small dog is for you, since some breeds may be more fragile, while large dogs can feel more confident due to their stature (although they may require regular grooming and walks, and need a large yard).
Temperament: Dogs can be jovial and playful, calm and laid-back, or anywhere in between - just like people. Ensure your new pet has a temperament that matches your brood’s.
Energy: Some dogs are extremely physically active and require a lot of stimulation; they enjoy spending their days running around the yard and playing with their owners, whereas others are content to lie next to you while you read. Decide whether you want a running companion or a cuddly canine with the family. If you live in a small apartment, you should research the best small dogs for apartment living.
Now that you know what to consider when it comes to choosing a dog, let’s look at the best small dogs for kids.
Best Small Dogs for Apartments
The following are our picks for the best small dogs if you live in an apartment.
Poodle
Poodles are known for their eagerness to please their owners, fondness for people, and of course, their playful nature. Their agility and sharp sense of intelligence mean training is easy and fun.
However, they’ll need mental stimulation and exercise to ensure all that energy is used constructively, and this breed will need the training to curb the instinct to rule as the alpha dog.
Beagle
This breed has long been known for its upbeat, friendly personality. Its pack instincts, gentle temperament, and even temperament make it an excellent choice for families with children. Its short coat makes grooming simple.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This toy spaniel is gentle, sweet, and attentive - ideal for a family looking for a canine companion for children who get along well. And don't worry if you have another dog in the house; they're known to be friendly. Because of their athleticism, this breed will be up for chasing squirrels in the park or throwing that frisbee you've been meaning to try.
French Bulldog
A couch potato who requires little exercise (a daily walk will suffice), French Bulldogs are known for being gentle, humorous, and mischievous companions to children. Its alertness makes it an excellent watchdog, and its short coat is low-maintenance, requiring only an occasional brushing.