Best Small Dog Breeds for Kids That Are Safe, Gentle and Playful

Finding the perfect four-legged friend for your family is exciting, but when you have children, the stakes feel a bit higher. You want a dog that’s not just adorable but also patient, playful, and safe around your little ones. Small dog breeds can be excellent companions for kids, offering the perfect combination of manageable size and big hearts.

Small dogs often fit better into family homes, especially apartments or houses with limited space. They’re easier for children to handle during walks, require less food, and many adapt wonderfully to the energy levels of growing kids. But here’s the thing: not all small breeds are created equal when it comes to kid-friendliness.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best small dog breeds for kids, what makes them great family pets, and how to choose the right match for your household. Whether you’re looking for kid friendly puppies or small dogs good with kids of all ages, you’ll find your perfect companion here.

1. What Makes Small Dog Breeds Good with Kids?

Before diving into specific breeds, let’s understand what separates great family dogs from those better suited for adult-only homes.

Temperament Matters Most

The best small dogs for kids have gentle, patient personalities. They don’t startle easily when a toddler accidentally steps on their tail or when kids get loud during playtime. Look for breeds known for being affectionate, tolerant, and even-tempered. A naturally nervous or snappy breed, no matter how cute, isn’t worth the risk.

Playfulness is equally important. Little dogs for kids should enjoy games of fetch, gentle tug-of-war, and interactive play. But they also need the ability to settle down and relax when it’s time to wind down for the evening.

Size Considerations by Child’s Age

Size matters, but not in the way you might think. For toddlers aged 2-4, you’ll want sturdier small breeds that won’t get hurt during clumsy moments. Breeds weighing 15-30 pounds work better than tiny toy breeds that can be accidentally injured.

Elementary-age children (5-10 years) have better coordination and can handle a wider variety of small dog breeds. They’re learning responsibility and can participate in feeding and basic care with supervision.

Tweens and teens (11+) can manage nearly all small breeds, including the more delicate toy varieties. At this age, they can take on more responsibility for training and daily care.

Energy Level Match

Active families who spend weekends hiking or playing in the yard need good small dogs for kids that can keep up. These dogs typically need 45-60 minutes of exercise daily. If your family prefers movie nights and board games, choose calmer breeds that are content with 20-30 minutes of walks and indoor playtime.

Matching energy levels prevents frustration on both sides. An under-exercised high-energy dog may develop behavior problems, while a low-energy breed forced into constant activity becomes stressed and unhappy.

2. Top 16 Best Small Dogs for Kids

2.1 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Weight: 13-18 pounds | Height: 12-13 inches

These gentle souls are consistently ranked among the best small dog breeds for kids, and for good reason. Cavaliers are sweet-natured, affectionate, and remarkably patient with children. They’re equally happy playing fetch in the backyard or snuggling on the couch during movie time.

Best for families with children of all ages, Cavaliers adapt beautifully to your lifestyle. They need about 40-60 minutes of exercise daily—a morning walk plus some evening playtime works perfectly. Their silky coats require brushing 2-3 times weekly to prevent tangles.

One standout quality: Cavaliers are incredibly forgiving of children’s mistakes. They rarely snap or show aggression, even when kids accidentally get too rough.

2.2 Beagle

Weight: 20-30 pounds | Height: 13-15 inches

Beagles bring endless energy and enthusiasm to family life. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they have stamina to spare and love adventure. If you have active kids who want a playmate for outdoor activities, Beagles are small dogs good with kids who can keep pace.

These cheerful dogs need 60+ minutes of exercise daily—think long walks, backyard games, and sniffing adventures. They’re food-motivated, which makes training easier using positive reinforcement. Their short coats need minimal grooming, just weekly brushing.

Best for: School-age children (6+) in active families with securely fenced yards. Beagles are escape artists who follow their noses, so supervision is essential.

2.3 Pug

Weight: 14-18 pounds | Height: 10-13 inches

Don’t let their wrinkly faces fool you—Pugs are comedians at heart. These sturdy little dogs love children and have the patience of saints. They’re content to play dress-up, learn tricks for treats, or simply follow kids around the house offering moral support.

Pugs are perfect for apartment living and less active families. They need only 20-30 minutes of gentle exercise daily due to their flat faces, which can make breathing difficult during intense activity. Regular veterinary checkups are important, so understanding puppy veterinary needs helps you prepare.

Their short coats shed moderately but require minimal grooming. Clean their facial wrinkles weekly to prevent infections.

2.4 French Bulldog

Weight: 16-28 pounds | Height: 11-13 inches

French Bulldogs have skyrocketed in popularity, partly because they’re fantastic with kids. Their muscular, compact build makes them sturdy enough for enthusiastic child handling. Frenchies are playful yet calm, alert yet not yappy—the perfect balance for family life.

These bat-eared beauties need minimal exercise, around 30 minutes daily split between short walks and indoor play. They’re heat-sensitive, so outdoor time should happen during cooler parts of the day. Grooming is easy: weekly brushing and regular facial fold cleaning.

Best for: First-time dog owners, apartment dwellers, and families with younger children who need a patient, gentle companion.

2.5 Bichon Frise

Weight: 12-18 pounds | Height: 9.5-11.5 inches

Fluffy, cheerful, and hypoallergenic—Bichon Frises check many boxes for families. These kid friendly puppies grow into wonderful adult dogs that love playing games and learning tricks. Their happy-go-lucky attitude is contagious.

Bichons are particularly great for families with allergies since they shed minimally. They need 30-45 minutes of exercise daily and thrive on mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks keeps their curly coats looking their best, though you can learn to groom at home to save money.

These dogs form strong bonds with all family members and don’t typically play favorites, making them ideal for multi-child households.

2.6 Havanese

Weight: 7-13 pounds | Height: 8.5-11.5 inches

Cuba’s national dog brings sunshine to any home. Havanese dogs are naturally social, gentle with children, and eager to please. They’re small enough to be portable but sturdy enough that older children can safely handle them.

These adaptable dogs need 30-40 minutes of daily exercise and absolutely love interactive play with kids. They’re highly trainable and respond well to essential puppy training tips when started young. Their long, silky coats require daily brushing to prevent matting.

Best for: Families seeking a constant companion. Havanese don’t like being left alone for long periods and do best when someone is usually home.

2.7 Cocker Spaniel

Weight: 20-30 pounds | Height: 13.5-15.5 inches

American Cocker Spaniels are gentle, intelligent, and surprisingly playful for their sophisticated appearance. Their sweet expressions match their sweet personalities. These good small dogs for kids are patient teachers, helping children learn responsibility through daily care routines.

Cockers need 45-60 minutes of exercise daily, enjoying both structured walks and off-leash play in safe areas. Their beautiful coats require commitment: brushing every other day and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. However, their affectionate nature and adaptability make the grooming worth it.

They’re particularly good with school-age children who can help with brushing and participate in training sessions.

2.8 Boston Terrier

Weight: 12-25 pounds | Height: 15-17 inches

Boston Terriers are nicknamed “American Gentlemen” for good reason. Their tuxedo-like markings are matched by polite, friendly personalities. These compact dogs are sturdy enough for active play but gentle enough for quiet time.

They need 30-45 minutes of daily exercise and love games that challenge their smart minds. Bostons are excellent at reading their family’s moods—they’ll ramp up the energy for playtime or settle down for calm evenings. Minimal grooming needed: weekly brushing and occasional baths.

Best for: Families in any living situation. Bostons adapt equally well to apartments and houses, city life and suburban settings.

2.9 Shih Tzu

Weight: 9-16 pounds | Height: 9-10.5 inches

Originally bred as palace pets in ancient China, Shih Tzus haven’t forgotten their royal roots. But don’t mistake their elegance for snobbiness—these little dogs for kids are affectionate, patient, and surprisingly playful. They’re particularly wonderful with gentle, calm children.

Shih Tzus need only 20-30 minutes of daily exercise. Short walks and indoor play sessions satisfy them completely. Their long, flowing coats require daily brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Many families opt for shorter “puppy cuts” to reduce maintenance.

These dogs are ideal for families with quieter households, younger children under constant supervision, or families seeking a lap dog that occasionally plays.

2.10 Miniature Schnauzer

Weight: 11-20 pounds | Height: 12-14 inches

Miniature Schnauzers are spunky, alert, and absolutely devoted to their families. Their distinctive bearded faces and eyebrows give them character, while their personalities deliver loyalty and playfulness. They’re naturally protective without being aggressive, making them excellent watchdogs.

These energetic pups need 45-60 minutes of exercise daily. They excel at learning tricks and commands, making them fun training partners for older children. Their wiry, hypoallergenic coats need professional grooming every 5-8 weeks but don’t shed much.

Best for: Active families with kids aged 6+ who want a dog that’s both playful companion and protective guardian.

2.11 Pomeranian

Weight: 3-7 pounds | Height: 6-7 inches

Pomeranians are tiny packages of personality and fluff. While their small size means they’re better suited for families with older, gentler children (8+), they’re incredibly loyal and affectionate. These little extroverts love being the center of attention and have energy to burn.

Poms need 20-30 minutes of daily exercise, easily met with short walks and indoor play. Their thick double coats require brushing 2-3 times weekly to manage shedding and prevent matting. Despite their small size, they’re surprisingly sturdy and not as fragile as they look.

They’re natural entertainers who love learning tricks and showing off for their families.

2.12 Maltese

Weight: 4-7 pounds | Height: 7-9 inches

Maltese dogs are gentle, affectionate, and surprisingly brave for their tiny size. Their pure white coats and dark eyes create an endearing appearance that matches their sweet personalities. These best puppies for kids (older kids, specifically) are devoted companions who form deep bonds with their families.

Daily exercise needs are minimal: 20-25 minutes of walks and playtime suffice. Their long, silky white coats require daily brushing and frequent professional grooming to maintain. Some families keep them in shorter “puppy cuts” for easier maintenance.

Best for: Families with children aged 8+ who understand gentle handling and can participate in the daily grooming routine.

2.13 West Highland White Terrier (Westie)

Weight: 15-20 pounds | Height: 10-11 inches

Westies are confident, cheerful little dogs with terrier spunk and family-dog friendliness. Their white coats practically glow with energy and enthusiasm. These dogs love active play and make excellent companions for adventurous kids who want a playmate.

They need 45-60 minutes of exercise daily and enjoy activities like fetch, agility, and hiking. Their double coats require professional grooming every 8-10 weeks and weekly brushing at home. Westies are independent thinkers, so consistent training is important.

Best for: Active families with school-age children who want a dog that’s both cuddly and adventurous.

2.14 Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Weight: 22-30 pounds | Height: 10-12 inches

Corgis might be famous as the Queen’s favorite breed, but they’re equally at home romping with kids. Their long bodies, short legs, and fox-like faces are irresistible. More importantly, they’re intelligent, affectionate, and naturally good with children.

These herding dogs need 60+ minutes of daily exercise. They love learning and excel in training sessions, making them great for families who want to teach kids about dog behavior and training. Their double coats shed heavily twice yearly but need only weekly brushing most of the time.

Best for: Active families who want a small-to-medium dog with big-dog confidence and energy.

2.15 Italian Greyhound

Weight: 7-14 pounds | Height: 13-15 inches

Italian Greyhounds are elegant, gentle, and surprisingly playful. These mini versions of racing Greyhounds love to sprint and zoom around the house, then curl up for cuddles. They’re best suited for families with calmer, older children (8+) who appreciate their sensitive nature.

They need 30-40 minutes of exercise daily, preferably in safely fenced areas since their prey drive can kick in suddenly. Their short coats require minimal grooming but they’re sensitive to cold weather and need sweaters in winter.

These dogs bond deeply with their families and make devoted, affectionate companions.

2.16 Norfolk Terrier

Weight: 11-12 pounds | Height: 9-10 inches

Norfolk Terriers are sturdy, fearless little dogs with huge hearts. Unlike some terriers, they’re remarkably good-natured and patient with children. These compact dogs pack plenty of personality and playfulness into their small frames.

Norfolk Terriers need 40-50 minutes of daily exercise and love interactive games with kids. They’re food-motivated and respond well to positive training methods. Their wiry coats need professional grooming every 8-12 weeks and weekly brushing.

Best for: Families wanting a small but tough dog that’s equally comfortable playing in the yard or relaxing indoors.

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing a family dog is exciting, but avoiding these pitfalls ensures success.

Choosing based on looks alone is the biggest mistake families make. That Instagram-famous breed might not fit your lifestyle. Research temperament, exercise needs, and grooming requirements before falling in love with a cute face.

Skipping the meet-and-greet can lead to problems. Always meet the specific puppy or dog you’re considering, ideally with your children present. Watch how the dog interacts with your kids. Are they calm? Playful? Nervous? This tells you more than any breed description.

Underestimating time commitment creates frustration. Even small dogs need daily exercise, training, grooming, and attention. If your family’s schedule is already maxed out, waiting until things calm down might be wiser.

Neglecting training is unfair to both dog and family. Even the friendliest breeds need basic obedience training. This creates structure, prevents behavioral issues, and helps children learn to communicate properly with their pet. Consider starting when you bring your new puppy home.

Wrong expectations about breed behavior cause disappointment. Every dog is an individual. While breed traits provide guidance, your specific dog might be calmer or more energetic than typical. Be flexible and love the dog you have, not the ideal you imagined.

Conclusion

Finding the best small dog breeds for kids means matching your family’s lifestyle, energy level, and experience with the right canine companion. Whether you choose a playful Beagle, gentle Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or cheerful Bichon Frise, you’re adding a family member who’ll teach your children about responsibility, empathy, and unconditional love.

Remember that while breed characteristics provide helpful guidance, every dog has their own personality. Spend time meeting potential pets, ask questions, and trust your instincts. The perfect small dogs good with kids are out there waiting to join your family adventures.

Take your time with this important decision. Research breeds thoroughly, prepare your home, and involve your children in the process. When you find the right match, you’ll gain a loyal companion who brings joy, laughter, and countless precious memories to your family for years to come.