10 of the Best Dog Toys for Small Breeds

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

By: Lindsey Broman|In: Terrier Dog|Last Updated: July 12, 2021

The 20 Most Affectionate Small Dog Breeds

Being greeted by an affectionate canine companion is undoubtedly one of life’s great joys.

From loving licks to wagging tails, dogs’ body language makes clear how devoted they are to their owners. Gina DiNardo, executive secretary at the American Kennel Club (AKC), believes prospective owners looking for a small dog breed should consider looking for characteristics tailored to their particular needs.

“Although cute, fluffy puppies may capture the hearts of so many potential owners, there are countless other aspects to consider when choosing a breed for your family,” DiNardo told Newsweek.

“Before bringing a new canine companion into your home, you should do your research to find a breed that will match your lifestyle, living quarters and even children’s ages, among other factors.”

She added: “Some breeds are known to be great with young children and sweet and affectionate with their people, while others are a little more independent

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