What kind of dog to have in an apartment for a child: 30 suitable breeds and subtleties of choice

Small dog breeds have long earned popularity among city residents. In addition to their compact size, they are valued for their affection for their owner and high level of intelligence. It is noteworthy that the cognitive abilities of miniature creatures are not lower, and sometimes much higher, than their larger relatives.

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Today, depending on height and weight, there are three groups of such pets:

Small - up to 10 kg, height at the withers 40-45 cm.
Dwarf - up to 5 kg, height at the withers up to 35 cm.
Toi - up to 2 kg, height at the withers up to 28 cm.

Determining the intellectual level of a breed is not an easy task. For this purpose, experts have developed a number of tests. Eg:

Checking the speed of avoiding various obstacles.
Animal understanding of human gestures.
The dog's brain's ability to quantify objects.

It is noteworthy that during the tests, scientists discovered an interesting pattern. Thus, smart pets are good at passing a variety of obstacles and show the highest test results in all kinds of industries. In general, the intelligence of pets has a structure similar to that of humans.

Suitable breeds

There are quite a lot of them. Let's briefly look at 30 that are suitable for keeping in an apartment with children of different ages.

Little ones

They do not take up much space in the house, eat little and usually do not require long walks. But even a small dog will have to be raised, socialized and taught basic commands in the first year of life. Otherwise, his behavior will become problematic.

Chihuahua

Miniature decorative dogs with a brave character. Very loyal, often even jealous. Sometimes they choose the main favorite from the family.

Chicks don't need long walks. But they do not like to stay alone at home for a long time: they constantly need communication with their owners.

Chihuahuas come in short-haired and long-haired varieties and come in a variety of colors. They vary in size.

Russian toy terrier

Many people confuse him with the Chihuahua. It is not difficult to distinguish them. Chicks have an apple-shaped head, bulging eyes, and a stocky body. The little toys are built more elegantly: they resemble a fawn with large ears.

Toys come in different colors, short-haired and long-haired. By nature, the dogs are active, very emotional, sociable, affectionate and playful. Not bad watchmen.

Yorkshire Terrier

A small decorative dog with a spectacular appearance. Yorkies are very energetic, playful, hardy, and smart. Excellent companions for everyone: children, adults and the elderly. But to keep your Yorkie from being mischievous at home, you will have to train him.

Long fur requires careful care. To make their lives easier, most owners give their pets a haircut: there are dozens of models. Dogs shed minimally, and their fur is considered low-allergenic.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A toy spaniel with an affectionate, energetic character and charming appearance. The dogs are smart, friendly, and well trained.

Tireless participants in children's games, as well as listeners and consolers. They love communication and tactile contact, so it is recommended to bring them into large families, where they will be provided with attention and petting and hugging.

They don’t tolerate loneliness well, they can cause destruction at home.

Welsh Corgi (Pembroke and Cardigan)

Small shepherd dogs with an elongated body and short legs. The Pembroke and Cardigan varieties are similar in appearance and character. Dogs are very charming. They captivate with their good nature and intelligence: they love children, get along with cats, and are easy to train.

Sometimes the shepherd awakens in the pet, then he begins to bite family members, especially children, on the heels: this is how he gathers the herd. It is better to wean yourself from this habit immediately.

Dogs love their owners very much and need communication. They willingly play with children and tolerate their affection.

Welsh Corgis should be protected from jumping from heights: due to their long body and short legs, there is a high risk of injuring the spine. But they can run around to their heart's content.

Maltese (Maltese dog)

A small dog with a luxurious white coat. A very sociable, inquisitive, playful dog. Loves to bark from excess of feelings.

She loves to communicate with her owners and is good with children. Good-natured towards other pets.

Maltese doesn’t like to sit at home alone for a long time: he starts to get bored, he might spoil something or chew on it.

The coat requires care, but can be cut shorter. The Maltese hardly sheds and is a low-allergenic breed.

Bichon Frize (French lapdog)

Cute dog with white curly fur. Kind, affectionate, playful and very energetic. He gets along well with children, is very sociable, and loves to bark loudly.

The Bichon is not suitable for busy people who are away from home for a long time: the dog will feel sad when alone.

Bichons have no dog odor, hardly shed, and are a hypoallergenic breed.

Pomeranian Spitz

A baby with a luxurious thick fur coat. She loves her owners, gets along well with children, but does not like and will not tolerate familiar treatment.

Spitz barks frequently and loudly. They show good security qualities.

Despite its touching appearance, the Pomeranian has a stubborn character. Education must be consistent, otherwise the pet will take power into its own paws.

Pug

Great for keeping in an apartment with children. He has a balanced, calm disposition. The dog is funny, friendly and sociable.

Puppies are active and playful, while adult pets prefer quiet walks and short runs. And rightly so: heavy loads are dangerous for them.

Dogs don't just bark. They are happy to lie next to their owner. They love to eat, but you shouldn’t overfeed them: there is a high risk of obesity.

Pugs need temperature control: overheating and hypothermia threaten their lives.

Poodle (toy and miniature)

Extraordinarily sweet, intelligent, emotional dogs with beautiful curly hair. They are distinguished by their good nature, playful disposition, get along well with children and are excellent companions.

Small poodle varieties can be more timid than their larger counterparts. This can be corrected by proper socialization. Poodles are obedient and easy to train.

They cannot stand harsh treatment or punishment.

Wool requires grooming and trimming. The breed is considered hypoallergenic.

Italian Greyhound

A miniature representative of greyhounds with an aristocratic appearance. Italian Greyhounds love their owners very much, need communication, and love tactile contact.

Dogs are emotional, curious and energetic. They will willingly play outdoor games with children. But they can also do harm, so you shouldn’t spoil them.

Italian Greyhounds are in good health. But in puppyhood, you should take care of the fragile bones.

Average

If you like medium-sized dogs, then take a look at the following list of 9 breeds. Perhaps one of them will suit you.

French Bulldog

Charming and friendly, Bulka will become an excellent friend to a grown-up child, who will not bother him with unpleasant pranks. The dog is sociable and cannot imagine life without close communication with his owners.

Bulldogs are smart, but can be stubborn. The owner will have to be smart and patient in training.

Bulldogs do not need long walks; a little activity is enough for them. Some people don’t like their slobbering, but dogs don’t bother their owners with needless barking.

They do not tolerate heat well and need air conditioning.

English bulldog

An adorably terrifying dog, muscular, intelligent and unflappable. Cute lazy, stubborn, fat and charming. A loyal friend and protector of the owners.

Children are treated warmly and with love. He tolerates their squeezing and is even ready to play.

But to a greater extent he is a homebody. Enjoys lying next to the owners' sofa. He doesn't need long walks, but exercise walks are important for his health.

He can be stubborn and lazy. His mentor must be patient, persistent and preferably experienced.

Disadvantages include drooling, snoring, a tendency to flatulence and obesity. But for lovers of the breed, the benefits outweigh.

Chinese Crested

Loving and loyal dogs with an unusual appearance. Sociable, affectionate, gentle and even dependent on the attention of their owners. They get along well with children who already know how to communicate properly with a pet.

There are naked and downy varieties. Both require careful coat and skin care. The dog's fur does not have a dog smell and almost does not shed.

The breed is not suitable for busy people: pets do not tolerate long-term loneliness, which they notify neighbors about by howling.

The “crested” ones should be protected from overheating and hypothermia, and the hairless variety should also be protected from skin damage and sunburn.

Poodle (small)

Smart, friendly dog with an elegant appearance. Active, affectionate, obedient, tireless participant in children's games.

The dog is well trained and tries to please its owner. You can do agility with it.

Spaniels (English and American Cocker Spaniels, Russian Hunting Spaniels)

These hunting dogs are distinguished by their good-natured disposition, intelligence and energy. Properly raised pets will become good friends for a child.

Dogs are inquisitive, love walks, active games, and willingly frolic with children. However, they will not tolerate discomfort and pain; they can fight back.

English and American spaniels can bite a child when playing: this behavior should be stopped immediately.

The long coat of Cocker Spaniels, especially American ones, requires careful grooming. It’s easier in this regard with a Russian spaniel.

Some Spaniel breeders believe that of the 3 varieties, it is the Russian Hunting Spaniel that is distinguished by the greatest friendliness and obedience.

Beagle

A hunting dog with an energetic, playful and sociable character. A fidget who doesn't like loneliness.

Dogs need regular active walks and physical exercise, which will save the owner’s apartment from destruction. The dog is always happy to run and play with children outside. Just first you will have to properly practice the “Come to me!” command with your pet, otherwise he may chase a pigeon or cat and get lost.

It is better not to have cats, birds or other small animals with them: beagles have too strong a hunting instinct.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Fluffy cute dogs that are often found in the leading roles of TV series or films. Dogs have truly achieved the status of the ideal family pet. They are smart, kind, affectionate, calm, a little lazy and cute.

The breed was bred in Switzerland as an assistant to shepherds. They guarded and herded livestock. Several centuries later, pets are still in service, although more often they lie on the sofa in the circle of a loving family.

Due to their genetic bias towards humans, Zennen are not aggressive. They even treat strangers politely, although they defend their territory with loud barks.

They live friendly with children and pets. They protect them from danger, protect them and care for them like a herd. The distinctive habit of dogs is to herd those around them into a group, to monitor the integrity of the team, especially during walks. They actively participate in games, although they will not go jogging or racing a bicycle.
Long hair requires special care, at least regular combing. Walks may not be active. Sennenhunds can get along in an apartment, although it is better to keep them in a large house with a yard. They are suitable for a measured life in calm, friendly families; owners need to constantly give love to the dogs, otherwise the dogs will become sad.

Difficult rocks

It is difficult for a novice dog breeder without experience to raise a pet prone to dominance and making its own decisions. Aboriginal, fighting, and service dogs are distinguished by these qualities:

likes;
husky;
Alaskan Malamute;
Akita Inu;
Shiba Inu;
Basenji;
Doberman;
Rottweiler;
Ridgeback;
Cane Corso;
bull terrier;
pit bull;
Great Danes;
boxer.

Examples of successful experiences of these dogs living in families with children do not negate the potential danger of these breeds. Plus, they require much more effort to train than family companion dogs.

Border Collie

This breed is considered the smartest in the world, which makes it ideal for training, training work, participation in exhibitions, programs, and sports competitions. On the other hand, Collies are often cunning, manipulative, and like to regulate the lives of their household members and “guide” them.

The dogs are herding dogs and still remain working dogs. They got excellent physical abilities: speed, agility, endurance. Their owners must be prepared for constant activity. Pets vitally need physical and mental exercise.

Border collies are not aggressive and cannot serve as guards because they are not suspicious of strangers. They love pets and children and are always around. Experts advise bringing such an animal into families with older children (6-7 years old). Although if you need a good nanny, these dogs will do an excellent job. They will take you out of the burning house, pull you out of the pool, and take away the knife.

They have the most tender feelings for their owners. Dogs are loyal until their last breath, although they often run away out of curiosity. On walks they stay close to their family, but get along well with other pets and strangers.

Collie training is a pleasure. Pets quickly understand and remember commands, carry them out without stubbornness or evasiveness. Scientists have proven that their intelligence level is approximately equal to that of a three-year-old child.
It is impossible to say with certainty that the breed is suitable for everyone . She needs serious physical activity and constant training. The ideal pet will be for young active families without children or with older children. However, you need to be prepared for constant harassment and surveillance.
Dogs must be kept outside the city, in a private house with a large surrounding area . In urban conditions, the animal will feel uncomfortable, although it can get used to it with proper early socialization.

For children under 7 years old

A dog always means additional troubles and expenses. Therefore, you need to think about whether you have enough strength and resources not only for a small child, but also for a pet. Their communication will have to be constantly monitored.

Miniature decorative breeds are not suitable for children. Small dogs are often nervous and jealous, and are easily injured. Larger friendly pets are good:

lapdog;
pug;
poodles (small and large);
Welsh Corgi;
Labrador;
Golden retriever;
German Shepherd;
Bernese Mountain Dog.

While a child is 1, 2 or even 3 years old, it is difficult to explain to him how to properly communicate with a dog. Children from 4–5 years old can already learn the rules of handling four-legged animals:

do not grab the tail, ears, muzzle;
do not bother while eating and sleeping;
do not touch suddenly from the back;
pet and play taking into account the dog’s wishes;
do not frighten, do not tease;
do not shout;
don't hit.

At 6–7 years old, a child is quite capable of helping to feed and care for a pet. Walk your pet under adult supervision if you are able to keep it on a leash.

Golden retweeter

A traditional English dog breed, widespread throughout the world, famous for its boundless friendliness, huge heart, capable of loving everyone it meets. Retrievers are absolutely non-aggressive, all conflicts are resolved only peacefully, they are kind and affectionate towards familiar and unfamiliar people, brothers and other animals. They get along easily with both cats and rodents.

The dog has the most tender feelings for children. They have a soft mouth, so even when playing, the pet will not harm the child. They like to play, run and protect babies.

The breed is used as psychologists and assistants in many rehabilitation centers and medical institutions. Retrievers are kept to make visitors and patients feel calmer. In addition, dogs become good guides for blind people and disabled people.

Pets love attention, love to fool around, play, and will not refuse hugs and caresses. They are infinitely devoted to their family, but will be happy to anyone who crosses the threshold of the house.
It's not difficult to keep them . Pets get along both in apartment and outdoor conditions. Dogs have a self-cleaning coat and do not require special care. But they need physical and mental exercise, training and constant communication with family and other people. We can say that this breed is suitable for any family.

For children 7–14 years old

At this age, children are already more conscious. The entire list of 30 breeds will do here. It all depends on your capabilities, preferences, lifestyle and character of the child.

Every child and every family will find a pet to their liking. For an active child of 8, 10 or 12 years old, a spaniel, beagle, collie and other temperamental breeds are good. A pug or an English bulldog will be a friend to a calm child. For children who are interested in agility classes, poodles and shelties are suitable.

Pug

Even children know this breed. Bug-eyed wieners with short legs, a flat muzzle and an upturned nose. The appearance of dogs is truly unique. Pugs are cute and funny, they can cheer you up and support you in difficult times.

The animals are non-aggressive, calm, patient. They cannot be called active even in puppyhood; by old age, dogs completely stop running and prefer to snore on the owner’s bed.

Perfect for small children. Pets will tolerate all hugs and other displays of affection.

Pugs are passive towards strangers, as they are towards other animals. They are real phlegmatic people, happy only with the attention of the owner. Mental abilities allow you to train, but laziness and low activity slow down the training process. Dogs need to be motivated with treats and encouragement.
Dogs are kept indoors only . They are suitable for inactive people and children, because long walks, especially jogging, are contraindicated for Pugs. However, pets need constant attention and careful care.

For children 15 years and older

Giving a dog for a teenager's birthday is a great idea. But only if the child himself wants and is ready to spend a lot of time working with the dog.

Imposing a pet on a child to teach him responsibility is a bad idea. Responsibility is fostered through the example of parents and the desire of the child to communicate with the animal.

It is also worth assessing how the pet fits into the teenager’s plans in the next 10–15 years, which is approximately how long a dog will live. Even if the child has a great desire to take care of the dog, but there is no time, it is better to wait for better times.

Newfoundland

These are strong and resilient dogs, bred in Arctic conditions to help people. They are also called Divers. The dogs are friendly, non-aggressive, although they inspire fear with their size. In fact, Newfoundlands are fluffy, kind bears who need to sleep, eat and play with their owner.

They adore children, become one of the best nannies, play carefully, and are able to protect and protect from any threat: pull them out of the water, scare away an ill-wisher. Although Newfies are indifferent to strangers and other pets, and the dogs’ temperament is rather phlegmatic.

There are several mandatory points in keeping such pets:

Lots of space; dogs are absolutely not suitable for an apartment;
Availability of free time (grooming takes a lot of energy);
A sufficient amount of material resources, because dogs eat a lot and require veterinary care.

Newfoundlands are suitable for any family living in a private large house . They will be happy to play with children and give love to their owner. In return they will only require love, care and attention. Pets can be sensitive, so they do not tolerate quarrels and swearing.

Safety

Any dog can pose a danger to a child. Even the smallest one. Therefore, you should carefully approach the purchase of a pet: look for conscientious breeders, choose a pet with a stable psyche.

Plus, the pet will have to be trained and socialized. After all, even a purebred puppy needs training so that its behavior is manageable.

Cocker Spaniel

An active dog, ideal for families with older, restless children. Cocker spaniels are light and fast and can follow their little owners everywhere. Pets love active walks, forays out of town, hunting, and traveling.

These animals are kind and flexible. They are non-aggressive towards strangers and other pets, and get along with cats. Although rodents are not favored, just like poultry, they are mistaken for prey.

A pet is not suitable for everyone:

Firstly, long wavy hair needs to be looked after, combed, cut;
Animals are prone to many diseases;
They need frequent walks and constant care.

Spaniels can live in any conditions. They usually prefer apartment living.

Hypoallergenic dogs

Is it possible to get a dog for a child with allergies? It’s impossible to say for sure. Each person's reaction to a particular dog is individual. Hypoallergenic breeds are simply those breeds that spread fewer allergens around them.

It is preferable that the dog hardly sheds. Smooth-haired dogs without thick undercoat are also suitable. Breeds with increased salivation, such as bulldogs, are not suitable.

Here is a sample list of suitable breeds:

Yorkshire Terrier;
smooth-haired chihuahua;
smooth-haired toy terrier;
Italian Greyhound;
poodles;
Bichon Frize;
Maltese;
Chinese Crested.

It is believed that females are less allergenic than males.

It is advisable that the child spend at least 1–2 hours in the home of the owners of the chosen breed or with the breeders. If there is no negative reaction, then there is a chance that the allergy will not arise in the future.

How to choose a puppy

You should choose a dog in childhood. Usually a puppy is adopted when it is not yet one month old. This way he will quickly get used to new conditions and become more trainable.

You need to look for a companion from breeders or nurseries, having first studied their photographs, pedigree and profile. It is advisable to find out in advance what genetic diseases the breed is prone to and what kind of diet it needs.

How to care for a dog

Small dog breeds for apartments and children require special supervision. Because of their size, they are prone to injury. You need to carefully monitor them during walks and introduce them to other animals with caution.

It is worth checking with your veterinarian for a list of prohibited foods for the selected breed. Many dogs are prone to obesity, so their diet should be designed taking into account the healthfulness of foods. There is no need to wash the dog often; it is recommended to take baths as soon as it gets dirty.

Dog breeds for girls and boys

For girls, lap dogs, Toychiks, Chishkas, Yorkies, Chinese Crested, Poodles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Shelties are suitable. They can be combed, decorated with bows, collars with rhinestones, or dressed in overalls in cool weather.

But a boy won’t really like walking with such dogs. Their friends may make fun of them. True, small and large poodles, shelties and even a lively Yorkie without a glamorous haircut can look quite organic next to a boy.

Boys will love Beagle, Spaniel, Labrador, Golden, German Shepherd. However, these and other breeds from our list are also popular with girls.

Dog for special children

Today, dogs are used to improve the health of children with autism, mental retardation, and cerebral palsy. Communication, tactile contact and exercises with a dog reduce anxiety levels and help sensory development and socialization of such children.

For canistherapy, companion dogs with a stable psyche are used, often Labradors and Goldens, as well as dogs of various breeds that love to communicate specifically with children. Ideally, animals should be trained.

You can communicate with such dogs in special centers. Some parents want to bring such a pet into their apartment. However, here you need to remember that caring for a dog is an additional burden for adults.

Bichon Frize

Cute fluffy clouds with long curly hair. These lapdogs have an interesting original appearance and miniature size, which makes them show decorative pets. They love to be the center of attention and happily participate in exhibitions.

The breed is absolutely non-aggressive. It was bred to catch rats and mice, so it does not get along well with rodents. Although Bichons usually do not react to cats. The dogs are active and make good companions for jogging, traveling, and long hikes. They love to play outdoors and require frequent walks.

They do not try to dominate in the family; they love all members of the household equally. They get along well with children, do not snap or get angry. They have a positive attitude towards strangers, although they may bark due to a protective instinct.

Thanks to their sharp mind and good abilities, Bichons are well trained, easily follow all commands, and learn tricks. You can often find dogs in circus arenas or among street performers. The dogs have bright facial expressions and even know how to smile.
Such pets are only suitable for home keeping and require careful care and attention. They need a loving family who can give them enough attention. Future owners need to be prepared for the playfulness and hyperactivity of lapdogs. Pets are not suitable for busy and working people who are not prepared for frequent hygiene procedures and high material costs.

Gender question: boy or girl

It is believed that females are more flexible and affectionate than males. Although much depends on the character of the particular animal.

What difficulties may arise during walks? If unchecked, the cable will run after a bitch in heat or start a fight with other dogs. A pack of fighting males will gather around a female dog during the heat period: adults should walk the dog at this time.

If you plan to have a child walk with your pet, the animal can be spayed or neutered. This will reduce the risk of conflicts with other dogs.

Dachshund

For several years in a row, the breed did not lose first place in the top most popular. Dachshunds are indeed very common in Russia and other countries. They won love with their original appearance, small size and perky disposition.

The standard distinguishes 3 height variations and 3 coat lengths. The owner can decide for himself which type is suitable for him. First of all, the choice depends on temporary supplies and the future conditions of keeping the pet.

Dachshunds are proud and balanced dogs. They have self-esteem, which is what attracts people. They do not need special conditions, special nutrition or severe physical activity. But, like any hunting dog, they require frequent walks.
They treat children well and are happy to play with them and spend their free time. They get along with animals provided they grow up together. Strangers are tolerated, but this depends on upbringing. The breed is suitable for families with an active lifestyle who want to have an original, self-sufficient and funny friend.

It is impossible to say with certainty which breed is suitable for one or another family. There are no identical dogs, just as there are no similar people. When choosing a dog as a pet, you need to rely not only on personal wishes, but also on the advice of dog breeders and dog handlers.

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