7 Best Small Dog Breeds for Families
Last month, we brought you the 10 best big dog breeds for families for those of you out there that adore the larger, huskier type of pooch. Today, we highlight the best small dogs for families.
Although pint-sized pups might look unassuming, children still need to be taught how to properly interact with any dog, big or small. Small dogs have been known to bite and in some cases, even more than larger dogs. However, small dogs do have a certain advantage.
For starters, they can go with you virtually anywhere. There are so many purse and bags out now in pet stores that you can literally take your dog with you everywhere you go.
Plus, for the many city dwellers who still really want to share their lives with a canine companion, a small dog is the way to go.
Related: The top 10 most popular dog breeds of 2012
Oh, and did we mention they are devastatingly cute? (I mean, just look check out the photos below.)
Maltese
Don't be fooled by the Maltese. Although they are tiny in stature, they are fearless canines. Typically gentle and affectionate, they are also lively and playful. They are intelligent, quick learners and respond well to rewards. These pint-sized pups weigh anywhere from 3 to 7 pounds.
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Dachshund
This adorable and popular pup is a short-legged, long-bodied breed belonging to the hound family. They come in three different coats: smooth, wirehaired or longhaired. They are lovable and playful, and require moderate exercise. Dachshunds weigh between 8 and 15 pounds.
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Related: 9 animal photos that will melt your heart
Pomeranian
Friendly and lively, Pomeranians love to be around their owners and are also protective of them. Because they bond so quickly with their owners, they tend to suffer from separation anxiety if not trained to spend time alone. They are watchful and aware of changes in their environment so they can also tend to bark a bit, unless trained not to do so. Pomeranians are intelligent and train well, and weight between 4-7 pounds.
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Pembroke Welsh Corgi
These delightful pooches are very affectionate and love nothing more than to be involved in the family. They also tend to follow owners wherever they go. They require moderate activity and weight about 25-30 pounds. Because they have an immense desire to please their owners, they are easy to train, despite their sometimes stubborn streak. And really, those cute lil legs make up for any stalwart traits, don't you think?
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Related: 10 ways my dog has prepared me for parenthood
Pug
Originally from Asia, this breed is named for its pushed-in, or pug, nose. Pugs generally have good tempers, playful personalities, and loving dispositions. These dogs can live very happily in small apartments because they also require minimal exercise and are adaptable. Their short coat requires little grooming, and they typically weigh between 14 to 18 pounds.
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Shih Tzu
Interestingly, the word Shih Tzu means "lion" and as the American Kennel Club points out, "although this dog is sweet and playful, he is not afraid to stand up for himself!" Shi Tzus are friendly and alert, requiring not a whole lot of exercise. But what you time you make up for in walks will be made up for in grooming. These guys requite daily brushing and maintenance.
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Yorkshire Terrier
For such a little dog, Yorkies have very big personalities in a small package. Because of their tiny size, they are easily portable and can travel around with owners. This is good because as naturally social animals, they require regular, daily interaction with people. Only a small amount of exercise is needed for Yorkies, but their long coats require regular brushing.
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-By Danielle Sullivan
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