Strong willed, but rarely aggressive, the Pug is suitable for families with children. The breed is tolerant of children, and sturdy enough to properly play with them. Otherwise they can be quiet and docile, but also vivacious and teasing, depending on their owner’s mood. They can make good watchdogs, and they are always alert, but not yappy.

The Yorkshire Terrier breed is bold and active.They are surprisingly brave for such a small breed. They are, however, also quite loyal and affectionate.

Pomeranians are typically very friendly and lively. This breed of dog loves to be around their owners and can be protective of them. They bond quickly with their owners, and can suffer from separation anxiety if not trained to spend time alone. Pomeranians are alert and aware of changes in their environment and barking at new stimuli can develop into the habit of barking excessively in any situation. They are somewhat defensive of their territory and will bark at any outside noise. Pomeranians are intelligent dogs and can be very successful in getting what they want from their owners. Their intelligence, however, means that they respond well to training.

Although the Pekingese is a thoroughly dignified dog, when the mood takes him he can be very playful and mischievous.  He is very courageous too and will guard his possessions fiercely.

The Papillon has the appearance of a dainty toy breed, but some people find that their Papillon is very capable of handling a good five-mile walk. In spite of this dog’s size and appearance; they are extremely athletic. The Papillon is highly energetic and intelligent.

The miniature pinscher is an energetic dog that thrives on owner interaction. They are very loyal dogs and are typically categorized as “one, or two person dogs”, but with socialization, they can be integrated into families, and get along moderately with other dogs, pets, and children. Socialization as puppies will help ensure they can co-exist and interact with other dogs as adults. Although originally bred for ratting, they are also excellent watch dogs, barking at all things they deem a threat.

Maltese are bred to be cuddly companion dogs, and thrive on love and attention. They are extremely lively and playful. Some Maltese may occasionally be snappish with smaller children and should be supervised when playing, although socializing them at a young age will reduce this habit. The Maltese is very active within a house, and, preferring enclosed spaces, does very well with small yards. For this reason, the breed also fares well in apartments and townhouses, and is a prized pet of urban dwellers.

The Löwchen is a friendly, happy dog. Dogs of this breed are both active and playful, and very intelligent. The Löwchen makes a good pet for families with children and an excellent house pet.

The Italian Greyhound is affectionate and makes a good companion dog. The breed is excellent for families and enjoys the company of people. While they are excellent with children, the breed’s slim build and short coat make them somewhat fragile, and injury can result from rough or careless play with children under the age of 12.

The breed is equally at home in the city or the country. They are fast, agile and athletic. Like any dog, daily exercise is a must for a happier, well-adjusted pet. Italian greyhounds love to run. The young dog is often particularly active, and this high level of activity may lead them to attempt ill-advised feats of athleticism that can result in injury. They are prone to broken legs which can be expensive to repair.

In general the Italian Greyhound is intelligent, but they often have a “what’s in it for me” attitude and do not exactly throw themselves into training with great excitement, so patience, firmness, gentleness, and reward in training seem to work best. They are also known for their mischievous ingenuity; despite a high center of gravity, they can easily walk upright on their hind legs to reach items up on tables. They may also use their ‘hidden talent’ of jumping to unusual heights to reach high-up items of interest to them, including leaping atop kitchen countertops from the floor.

Being naturally territorial and protective, Chihuahuas can be easily provoked to attack, and are therefore generally unsuitable for homes with small children. The breed tends to be fiercely loyal to one particular owner. They do not always get along with other breeds.

Chihuahuas crave attention, affection, exercise and being petted. They can be hyper, but eager to please. They have a reputation as a “yappy” dog, which can be resolved with proper training.