20 Small Dog Breeds That Are Easy to Train

By: Lindsey Broman|In: Terrier Dog|Last Updated: August 17, 2021

20 Small Dog Breeds That Are Easy to Train

Dog training not only results in a happy and obedient addition to the family, but the practice is also the perfect way to bond with man’s best friend.

And while some breeds are easier to train than others, neither a dog’s size nor intelligence determines how easy they are to instruct.

The most important factors instead seem to be how enjoyable training sessions can be made and a dog’s eagerness to please its owner.

Here are the dog breeds at the smaller end of the spectrum considered the easiest to train, according to the American Kennel Club (AMC).

1. Affenpinscher

Part of the toy group, weighing only 7-10 pounds, Affenpinschers are courageous, bold and feisty.

Gina DiNardo, AKC’s executive secretary, suggests they are very intelligent and generally eager to please

By: Lindsey Broman|In: Catahoula Leopard Dog|Last Updated: August 9, 2021

10 of the Best Dog Toys for Small Breeds

Our littlest furry friends have tiny teeth and paws, which is precisely why small dog breeds need toys specifically made for them. (And food, too!) Too big of a ball, and it won’t fit in your Yorkie’s mouth. Too large of a toy and your Pomeranian might not be able to hold it between their paws. That’s why small pups love toys designed for their small stature!

What makes a good toy for small dogs? Well, it should be easily grabbable, chewable and long-lasting. It should be size-appropriate, and it should squeak very, very loudly!

These are the best small dog toys that dogs love—from Amazon, Chewy and Petco. As always, the prices listed may fluctuate over time as products go on sale.

10 Best Small Dog Toys

Charming Pet Balloon Squeaky Plush Dog Toy

best dog toys for small breeds 1 — An extra-squeaky squeaker is what makes small dogs love this little toy so much.
CHEWY

By: Lindsey Broman|In: Terrier Dog|Last Updated: August 6, 2021

Most dog owners will know that their pet’s hair can be nightmarishly difficult to keep off of clothes and soft furniture.

And for those with allergies, dogs that shed a lot can be a deal breaker.

Newsweek asked Gina DiNardo, executive secretary of the American Kennel Club (AKC) to tell us about small dog breeds that don’t shed.

1. Affenpinscher

Affenpinschers are a small breed and stand at only 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder.

They have a characteristic coat that does not shed much, and are often compared to Wookies and Ewoks by Star Wars fans.

DiNardo says: “The Affenpinscher is loyal, curious and entertaining. Many say the breed is human-like. They have a dense, harsh, wiry coat.”

2. American Hairless Terrier

By: Lindsey Broman|In: Terrier Dog|Last Updated: August 3, 2021

While some dogs’ bark are worse than their bite, a noisy canine can still create an annoying disturbance.

The American Kennel Club’s (AKC) chief veterinary officer Dr. Jerry Klein explains some dog breeds are quieter by nature, while others are naturally a little louder.

“Barking is a dog’s way of communicating with those around them, but some breeds tend to be quieter than others,” he tells Newsweek.

“Dogs bark for a variety of reasons. This could be because they animals outside, while others bark out of boredom, for attention, or because of separation anxiety.

“All dogs, including these quieter breeds, need the appropriate amount of mental stimulation, physical activity, and human interaction to keep them happy and not barking unnecessarily.”

Here are some of the quietest dog breeds that generally bark the least.

1. Basenji

By: Lindsey Broman|In: Terrier Dog|Last Updated: August 2, 2021

20 Small Dog Breeds That Are Good With Kids

There are plenty of pint-sized pups with appropriate dispositions to make wonderful additions to families with small children.

Dr. Jerry Klein, the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) chief veterinary officer, says dogs can be a good addition to almost any family with children, but there are certain factors to consider.

“Dogs teach kids about responsibility and the importance of taking care of a pet,” he tells Newsweek. “When choosing a dog for your family, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and the ages of your children.

“If a child is too young, a delicate dog would not be a good match for a rambunctious two to six-year-old. Those children might fare better with a bit sturdier but stable breed.”

The AKC expert adds different dog breeds may be more appropriate for specific circumstances.

He said: “Some breeds have plenty of patience, others have the energy to play for hours, and

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