What Breeds Make Good House Dogs
Are you looking for a true companion animal; wondering what breeds make good house dogs that would rather be inside with you than chasing sticks in the yard? For those pet parents who cherish spending quality time with their fur babies, we have a list of terrific house dogs who are at their best indoors, alongside their favorite human!
Maltese
The toy-sized Maltese is the perfect indoor pet: he doesn’t shed much, and averages just seven pounds. The friendly Maltese loves to be around his family, and doesn’t cope well with long periods of separation. Full of personality, the Maltese has actually has been bred to be a companion dog and doesn’t do well in cold, outdoors weather.
Pekingese
The adorable Pekingese won’t grow beyond nine inches tall, making it an ideal choice as an indoor fur baby. The breed is very affectionate and typically weighs between seven and 14 pounds. The Pekingese does come with a couple of caveats though. The breed has a luxurious coat that requires attention, and they tend to have a bit of a stubborn streak, along with a penchant for barking at strangers.
Brussels Griffon
This is another pint-sized dog, typically growing to no more than eight inches tall and weighing up to a little over ten pounds. This curious, intelligent breed is perfect for hands-on owners as it craves attention and requires a bit more exercise than others on this list.
Related: How To Pick A Puppy That Is Right For You
Affenpinscher
Alert and feisty, the Affenpinscher will delight owners looking for a pint-sized ball of energy. Quick learners, the Affen is easily trained, but does best with older kids and adults capable of curbing their lively ways.
Japanese Chin
If you want a dog that acts like a cat, get a Japanese Chin! This agile breed leaps, climbs, and loves to clean his luxurious coat. The breed tops out at just under 10 pounds and can reach a height of just under a foot. The Chin loves to chase his toys, but is as graceful as a cat without the feline’s notorious aloofness.
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Bulldog
This is a short-haired, stout dog who at around a foot tall can reach up to 50 pounds! But his list of attributes is long: he’s great around kids, has a gentle personality, is content with short play sessions, and absolutely loves naptime!
Related: French Bulldog On Way To Becoming Most Popular Dog
Coton de Tulear
A shaggy little dog, the sweet Coton de Tulear likes to “talk” and loves to keep a firm schedule and routine; this includes being at your side 24/7! He’ll grow to reach about a foot in height and averages around 10 pounds.
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I have always wanted a dog, but it’s so hard to decide which one! Maltese would probably be my top pick!
What a great list! We have been looking for a dog for my mom just to keep her company, and some of these would be great for her. The Japanese Chin would be very interesting choice!
I think a maltese is adorable! It’s so nice to know that that breed makes a good house dog. I love small breeds, they are sweet and they are easier to handle.
We don’t own a dog but this is interesting ! Now I know what breed I should have!
My niece has a maltese and I couldn’t agree more. They are perfect indoor pets. So friendly even to the kids
dogs are always so adorable, these are so good to have, cuddling creatures gifted by god. I was planning to get a German shepherd.
I love all kinds of dogs. I am a dog lover but as of now, i dont have a dog. Got a trauma when my first dog died last 3 yrs. Still missed her.
We had a chihuahua/min-pin mix and that was not a good fit for a house with kids. We made it work, but it was tough.
We have a complete mix of a dog, she’s collie sized though and still thinks she is a lap dog bless her, I couldn’t imagine having her as anything but a house dog.
We have a Newfoundland. I wouldn’t classify her as a house dog – though I am sure she would classify herself as such. Somewhere along the way she turned from an adventure seeking crazy, take off out of the yard and freak everyone out type of dog to a barely open one eye to acknowledge the family while stretched out on the couch type of dog…
This is a great list of breeds for people who live in apartments or don’t have a lot of outdoor space. My neighbour has a bulldog and he’s the sweetest thing!
I think the cutest is the bulldog. I would love to have a french bulldog. The sad, sad eyes looks so adorable to me.
Can I just stick with having cats? They’re far less labour intensive, lol! 🙂 No seriously though, all these dogs are so super cute!
The first photo looks just like my Tink!! She’s the best house dog 🙂
It’s awesome to know what breeds to get when you’re planning to get a dog. This will help those who have been thinking about adopting a dog for a while now!
This is a great guide! We’re just planning to have a new dog. Glad I’ve found this!
My husband loves bulldogs, but sadly, I’ve heard about how common health issues are for American Bulldogs. Not as widespread as the difficulties with Dalmatians, but still. It’s always unfortunate to hear about. Great list here, I would agree these are great “house dog” breeds!
We don’t have dogs but I love this post and this is a perfect article for dog owners
Wow thanks for the recommendations! I have never owed a dog and I am glad I found this article.
I always wanted a dog. These are tough choice but if I’ve to choose I’ll get a bulldog. I love its built and masculine features.
Very interesting to know, my aunt* has a house dog named Chloe
Thank you for sharing this information…but there is no way I would have a dog in my house…unless it is picture…LOL
We prefer low maintenance dogs like mongrel and labrador. They are both medium sized dogs that are also good with kids. Ans also good house guards 🙂
Thank you for your tips, Blair!