7 Small Dog Breeds That Are Great for Families

If you're considering adding a furry friend to your family, there are plenty of kid-friendly breeds out there. While some families prefer medium or large dogs, small dog breeds can also make great companions for kids and adults alike.

Bringing a dog into your home may seem overwhelming, but it can also be an effective way to teach your kids responsibility and teamwork. Of course, when considering what type of dog is best, you'll want to find the best small dog breeds for kids.

According to the American Kennel Club, there are seven best small dog breeds for kids. These breeds are considered good with young children due to their tolerance and patience with children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature.

Extra-small and small dog breeds are generally those weighing under 25 pounds, but the weight of male and female dogs can vary. Here's a look at some of the best small dog breeds that are worth considering as your next family dog.

Choosing a new dog to bring home is a big decision, especially when you have young children. There are a lot of things for any future dog owner to consider when researching breeds, but for families, it's important to consider the breed's temperament and energy level more than other traits.

Dogs that are patient, gentle, and tolerant of children's behavior are going to be the best options. It's also important to consider a breed's energy level. Some breeds need to spend a lot of time outdoors, which is great for more active families. However, if you know you won't be able to give your dog the exercise it needs, it's better to choose a more laid-back breed.

• Weight: 15-20 pounds

Australian Terriers are incredibly affectionate dogs that are great with kids. These adorable dogs have a rough, medium-length coat with minimal shedding. This type of terrier is known for its confidence and loyalty to its owner. Australian Terriers are also know for their spirited personalities, so there's no doubt they'll be able to keep up with your kids.

• Weight: 20-30 pounds

Beagles are considered hunting dogs, but they can also be incredibly loyal companions for families. This breed has a short, smooth coat with a medium amount of shedding. Beagles are intelligent, affectionate, and friendly dogs. They also have a great sense of smell, which is why they're known for hunting.

• Weight: 13-15.5 pounds

Border Terriers are upbeat and affectionate dogs that can live between 12 and 15 years. They have a short, wiry coat and are very playful. These kid-friendly dogs are also highly adaptable, which makes them a great choice for busy families.

• Weight: 14-24 pounds

The Cesky Terrier is a loyal and protective breed, with a calm and playful temperament. It's also the national dog of the Czech Republic, which is where this breed originated. Cesky Terriers have a medium, wavy coat and short legs. Although they're great family dogs, this breed isn't very common in the U.S.

• Weight: 10-25 pounds

The Japanese Spitz is a fun breed that is extremely eager to please. This makes it easy to train compared to other breeds, and it's also very open to strangers. As a relatively low-maintenance dog, it's great for families trying to teach responsibility to their kids.

• Weight: 6-9 pounds

The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a toy breed that's great for families. This type of dog is affectionate with family, good with young kids, and good with other dogs. With a wavy, medium-length coat, there will be some shedding, and daily brushing can prevent any issues with the fur.

• Weight: 8-25 pounds

The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is extremely affectionate, good with children, and good with other dogs. It's also an incredibly loyal and protective breed, which may lead it to being attached to one member of your family specifically. These dogs are relatively easy to train, but are a little wary around new people.

Even if a specific dog or breed is supposed to be great with young kids, it's still important to supervise any dog around little ones. Breeds that are good with kids are usually tolerant of kids petting and pulling on them, but any dog can reach a point of annoyance or frustration.

From the time your kids are little, teach them how to properly pet and care for your dog so they know how to be gentle. With the type of breeds on this, your kids will have the best friend for life.