Miniature Dogs for Kids

Miniature dogs are popular companion pets because their small size makes them appropriate for apartment living. If you have children in the home, you may also want a small dog so the kids don't get knocked down or pushed around. Not all small dogs are good with kids and knowing the breeds that are kid-friendly will help you make the right choice for your family.

  1. Pomeranian

    • The Pomeranian has lots of energy.

      Pomeranians generally weigh around 3 to 7 lbs. and stand around 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Originally bred in Germany to be lapdogs, these dogs love to be around humans and are eager to please. Pomeranians are high energy and like to move. According to Pet Place, the Pomeranian does best in families with older children.

    Yorkies

    • Yorkies were used to hunt rodents.

      Yorkshire terriers, often called yorkies, weigh around 4 to 7 lbs. and usually stand around 8 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. The English bred this breed to be rodent hunters, so they have a lot of energy. According to Pet People's Place, yorkies are loving and high-spirited. They do moderately well with children.

    English Toy Spaniel

    • English toy spaniels are smaller spaniels that weigh between 8 to 14 lbs. and stand between 9 to 11 inches at the shoulder. These dogs were originally lapdogs to the royalty in England and are less active. According to Pet People Place, they are quiet and very small. Like all spaniel breeds, they do well with children.

    Pug

    • Pugs love to play with children.

      One of the larger breeds of miniature dogs, the pug usually weighs around 14 to 18 lbs. and stands 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder. These dogs are brachycephalic, or flat faced. The Chinese originally bred pugs to be lapdogs. According to Pet Place, this breed is great with children and happily play with them.

    Shih Tzu

    • Shih Tzus love to please.

      The Shih Tzu, sometimes called the Chrysanthemum dog because its face resemble the petals of a mum, weighs around 9 to 16 lbs. and stands between 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Also bred as Chinese lapdogs, the Shih Tzu is a low-energy breed. According to Pet Place, these dogs love to please, are happy to live the life of luxury and play with children.