For some families, the thought of a small dog may not be appealing. While many larger dogs can be great companions, these can be intimidating to smaller children and cause tears and tantrums. But just because a dog is small does not mean they can’t be just as affectionate as their big counterparts.
With more laid back personalities, small dogs can become great friends to children and offer a safe playmate for smaller children. But, the best part about owning a small dog is that they can be great companions for adults too.
Small dogs are the perfect size for young children. The smaller the dog, the easier it is for little ones to carry them around, so children don’t get so tired out by the time they take their dog to the park. Small dogs are easier to take care of, and there is less mess to clean up, and they are easier on your child’s back when playing, making these dogs a fun and rewarding family pet.
Now imagine all the great things about small dogs, and the joys of them not shedding! Children can be more sensitive to things like shedding than adults. In this article we cover the best small dogs for kids with minimal to no shedding.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu’s are also known as the Chinese Lion Dog and are one of the best small and low shedding dogs for kids. They weigh around 10 pounds and grow up to 10 inches tall. Shih Tzu’s are playful, friendly and affectionate. They form strong bonds with family members, especially children. Their coat does not shed a lot but does need regular grooming. Their coat should be brushed daily with a pin brush to prevent tangles.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise is a small dog that grows to between 9.5 to 11.5 inches tall and weighs between 12 to 18 pounds. They are playful and energetic and make a great dog for families with children. They have a double coat that is soft and fluffy. The name ‘Bichon Frise’ is a French term that means ‘curly lap dog.’ While many curly dogs are known to shed, Bichon Frise does not shed.
Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are the smallest among the Poodles. These dogs are less than 10 inches tall and weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. They are popular because of their rich and fluffy coat. Poodles owners often take their dogs to professional groomers to get a stylish cut for them. While they look like they would be a dog that sheds a lot, the truth is they don’t shed at all.
The fact that they don’t shed makes them an excellent dog for children. No shedding allows Toy Poodles to play with children and family members that have dander allergies.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzer is a bearded terrier that is friendly and intelligent and they’re easy to train. They weigh between 11 and 20 pounds and are just over 12″ tall. Miniature Schnauzer enjoys children of all ages and are protective towards their family. They have a double coat with a rough top coat. While they do not shed much, they have high grooming needs. Their long coat can mat and weekly brushings are needed to prevent their fur from matting.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier will get just under 12″ tall and weigh between 18 to 22 pounds. They are intelligent and a superb watchdog. Scottish Terriers love the company of their family, they are also gentle and playful with children. They have a long double-coat but they still shed less than short-coat dogs.
Bolognese
Bolognese are a good companion dog that gets along well with children. They like to go on walks and play with children. Bolognese are small and weigh between 8 to 14 pounds and will usually be under 12″ tall. They adapt well to apartment living and don’t have high attention needs. They are a great small dog that doesn’t shed.
West Highland Terrier
West Highland Terrier or Westies is a playful, loyal and friendly dog. They are curious and love to spend time with family members, including children. Westies get along with other dogs and are also easy to train. They weigh between 13 to 22 pounds and grow to just under 12″. Westies are great because they don’t shed much.