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Dog breeds have their own specializations, for example, there are service dogs, sled dogs, rescue dogs, etc. Today we will talk about one of the specializations, companion dogs. They are the ones who best fit the definition of “a dog is man’s best friend.” These are dogs that are constantly near a person and are able to understand the owner at a glance, they have no aggression, and these dogs are also friendly and cheerful. Their appearance also plays an important role.
The FCI has classified toy dogs and companion dogs into the ninth group. The group itself is divided into 11 subgroups:
Bichons (lapdogs) and related breeds
Maltese.
Coton de Tulear.
Bichon Frize.
Hawaiian Bichon.
TOP 10 large dog breeds for apartments
If you have free space, you can choose a large dog as a pet. But it should be remembered that such dogs need special care and constant physical activity.
Labrador
The dog is a companion, accompanying its owner everywhere. Only in this case the dog will be infinitely happy. Patient, loyal, cheerful and unobtrusive. Has a tendency to obesity and allergic reactions.
Therefore, it needs a special diet and moderate physical activity. He is easy to train and gets along amazingly well with children.
Read the full description of the Labrador breed
German Shepherd
Smart, obedient and adequate dogs. Loyal and sociable, they become excellent defenders at the slightest threat. They love active games and long walks, learn the basics of training early and easily demonstrate their achievements. The character is phlegmatic, they do not need a lot of space to live.
Read the full description of the German Shepherd breed
Collie (Scottish Sheepdog)
An affectionate and gentle dog, devoted to its owners. Security qualities are not clearly expressed, but in case of danger it is capable of defending its owner. Easy to train, obedient and self-controlled.
Has no problems with other pets. An ideal nanny for young children, and a teenager can try his hand at training this graceful and noble dog.
Read the full description of the Collie breed
German dog
Balanced and friendly. Does not show aggression towards family members, but becomes a reliable defender when threatened from the outside.
Gets along with other pets. Physical activity and proper nutrition are necessary. Among the disadvantages, cynologists include excessive shedding and constant production of saliva.
Read the full description of the Great Dane breed
Basset Hound
Representatives of the breed have a calm and docile character. They are balanced and friendly, incredibly loyal to their owner. They are difficult to train and have a clearly defined sense of self-esteem. The owner is unlikely to have to count on the dog's unquestioning obedience.
Grooming is minimal, requiring regular brushing. He gets along great with children; it’s rare that a child can anger a Basset Hound. Patient and lazy dogs that are unlikely to enjoy long walks. An ideal solution for a single person or an elderly couple.
Read the full description of the Basset Hound breed
Doberman
It has excellent security qualities and will become reliable protection for the whole family. Representatives of this breed are easily excitable, so they require a calm and balanced owner.
It is easy to train and needs active walks and regular training. Gets along with children and happily takes part in games.
Read the full description of the Doberman breed
Rottweiler
A large dog that needs a strong owner. Representatives of the breed are calm and intelligent, but in the absence of proper upbringing they can grow up aggressive and uncontrollable.
Proper socialization and constant monitoring of the dog’s behavior makes him a reliable protector who is devoted to his family. But not the best choice for a family with small children.
Read the full description of the Rottweiler breed
Giant Schnauzer
A distinctive feature of this dog is its balanced character, intelligence and intelligence. They are obedient and amenable to training. The coat is tough and needs regular grooming.
It has pronounced protective qualities, so it will become a devoted and reliable protector. They get along well with children if they are raised appropriately.
Read the full description of the Giant Schnauzer breed
Saint Bernard
Good-natured, phlegmatic giants who are kind to all family members. Very affectionate and devoted. The character is phlegmatic, they move around the apartment little, so they are prone to obesity. Physical activity and a balanced diet are required. They often experience joint problems.
Read the full description of the Saint Bernard breed
Poodles
Miniature Poodle.
Royal Poodle.
Bichon Frize (French lapdog)
The white and fluffy French lap dog is always happy, she gives warmth and love to those around her every moment of her life. The affectionate sissy is faithful and devoted to her family, loves to play and attract attention.
Bichons are created to give a smile and a good mood.
This charming creature will decorate any home.
Small Belgian dogs
Petite Brabançon.
Belgian Griffon.
Brussels Griffon.
Eastern Spaniels
Pekingese.
If you are interested in the breed, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with its features in the article
Japanese Chin.
For a child
For children, the best dogs are (first, second and third) patient ones who can endure a lot of games and affection. Very small dogs should not be bought for very young children, as children sometimes do not understand that they are hurting and cannot control their strength. And small dogs don't know how to restrain themselves.
Sheltie (Scottish Sheepdog)
This is a miniature version of a collie. She is an ideal dog for a child, even if the child tortures the dog greatly, she will never allow herself to bite him.
She is a playful, active, cheerful dog. Difficulties: Sheltie is distrustful of strangers; The coat needs to be groomed regularly.
Beagle
An ideal dog for children. She can play with them for hours and not be offended by their pranks.
The difficulty is that the beagle requires long walks; An adult, experienced family member should take on the upbringing.
Cocker Spaniel
A great friend for children. He knows as much about friendship as no other person knows. And he can teach the child friendship. He enjoys fetching.
Dachshund
Patient and very funny friend for children, although behind the sweet appearance hides a persistent character. She does not require frequent care, but long walks are needed so that she does not waste her energy on the child’s sofas and toys.
Just look at this grandfather and his faithful, patient friend:
Border Collie
Hardy, patient, energetic dog. Great for kids. They are smart and quick-witted. Gets along with children. IMPORTANT! Not particularly suitable for living in an urban environment.
Four-legged friend: 34 dog breeds for children
Small Molossians
Pug.
French Bulldog.
If you want to get a puppy, all recommendations for care and maintenance can be found here:
Boston Terrier.
TOP 10 medium dog breeds for apartments
In addition to small breeds that are ideal for apartment living, there are several medium-sized pets that are perfect for this role.
Border Collie
The Border Collie is great for apartment living. Animals are distinguished by a calm and balanced character, without outbursts of aggression. They are easy to train and take leading positions in obedience.
Coat care includes brushing at least 3 times a week. The dog needs long walks and active games. In the absence of constant physical activity, he is prone to obesity. Treats strangers with distrust.
Read the full description of the Border Collie breed
2. Basenji
The Basenji is a unique breed of dog. This small, elegant hound is perfect for keeping in a city apartment, as the dog does not bark at all. This is perhaps what the Basenji is most famous for.
The Basenji is an agile, fast, strong dog with a lean, muscular body. Representatives of the breed are quite intelligent and inquisitive, perfect for families with children, and get along well with cats. Basenjis are not very trainable.
Read the full description of the Basenji breed
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The spaniel is an active, friendly and incredibly mobile dog. He will be an ideal playmate and will happily spend time both indoors and outdoors. Minimal grooming is required. It is enough to brush the dog 2 times a week. Not picky about food.
Security qualities are poorly developed, but the appearance of strangers will be greeted with a menacing bark. Gets along easily with other pets. The only exceptions are potential objects for hunting (guinea pigs, rabbits).
Read the full description of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed
Welsh Corgi Pembroke
Corgis were originally bred as herding dogs for herding cattle. Nowadays, they have long ceased to perform their shepherding functions, but have turned into wonderful companion dogs.
Corgis are loving and sweet, intelligent and highly trainable. This breed is a wonderful friend for any child and an excellent option for living in a city apartment due to its small size.
Read the full description of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed
Sheltie
Sheltie is often called a smaller copy of collie, but it is a completely independent breed, although, like collie, sheltie is a herding breed of dog.
This is a playful and very energetic breed that will certainly be loyal to its owner. However, it must be remembered that dogs of this breed are very active and need a lot of time, which their owners can give them.
Read the full description of the Sheltie breed
Poodle
The Poodle is a friendly and even-tempered dog. An excellent solution for a married couple with children. A medium-sized dog that seeks the company of its owners, but will never be intrusive.
Representatives of this breed are intelligent and highly trainable. They get along well with both people and other pets.
The poodle's coat rarely sheds. But the owner will have to brush his pet regularly. This must be done at least 2-3 times a week. Regular grooming will keep your dog looking impeccable.
Read the full description of the Poodle breed
Shar Pei
A great solution for a lonely person who is ready to devote all his free time to these cute dogs.
The dog's character is complex and requires certain training skills. He treats his family members evenly, without singling anyone out. But he can show aggression towards strangers and animals. Needs long walks and active games. The dog easily rushes into a fight, so it’s still not worth letting your child walk such a pet on his own.
Read the full description of the Shar Pei breed
Chinese Crested
This breed can be classified as both small and medium. Some pets weigh 4-6 kg, but there is a variety of the breed that reaches 8-10 kg. He has an easygoing character, cheerful and lively temperament.
Gets along well with children and does not need long walks. A very loyal and affectionate dog. Security qualities are minimal, so you should not count on her as a protector.
Read the full description of the Chinese Crested breed
Beagle
Active, friendly and cheerful pet. Attached to the owner and a wonderful participant in fun activities. The only downside is the difficulty of training. The owner needs to constantly train the pet so that it can easily carry out basic commands.
The pet's coat does not require complex care, so regular brushing is enough. The dog loves to walk on his own, exploring the area. He is not demanding in terms of nutrition, but physical activity is required. They will prevent the risk of developing obesity.
Read the full description of the Beagle breed
Miniature Bull Terrier
The medium-sized dog has superbly developed guarding qualities. He loves children, but dog experts do not recommend entrusting such a dog to younger family members for independent walks. The pet will actively protect the child even if there is no real threat.
Caring for the coat is not a hassle, and they are not picky about their diet. But training is fraught with certain difficulties. It is necessary from an early age to adapt the puppy to the company of other people and animals.
Read the full description of the Miniature Bull Terrier breed
Be sure to pay attention to our selection: TOP 30 best dog breeds for children
Breeds from other groups
But the list above does not include all decorative dogs that can be companions.
For example, the Yorkshire Terrier is classified as a terrier, it is no longer used in hunting, but has become a companion dog.
It's the same story with the toy terrier.
The following breeds can also be classified as decorative breeds and companion dogs:
Italian greyhounds.
You can read more about the breed here:
Miniature Pinscher.
Pomeranian Spitz.
Medium and medium-large sized dogs can also be companions.
Beagle.
Dachshund.
Welsh Corgi.
Shiba Inu.
Labrador Retriever.
Golden retriever.
Breeds for older people
For such an owner, the dog is not just a pet, but a full-fledged member of the family. Sociable breeds that are suitable for older owners meet the following requirements:
- Small sizes. Oversized dogs are difficult to care for and keep on a leash if the pet decides to break free. The best option is a dog that a person can easily pick up.
- Pleasant calm disposition. Dog breeds that are too active are not suitable, but it is better if the pet is still cheerful.
- Easy care. An elderly person does not always have enough strength for constant brushing and complex manipulations with the pet’s fur, ears and teeth. It is better to choose an unpretentious companion.
- Good health. Miniature breeds have problems related to body structure; not all older people can care for such pets.
Japanese Chin
The miniature-sized dog was bred specifically to be a companion. These are small, fluffy dogs that you just want to cuddle and hug. Live plush toy.
Description of the breed:
- wide skull;
- shortened bridge of the nose;
- eyes large and round;
- the ears are small, hanging on cartilage;
- the tail is a steering wheel, covered with long hair.
Personality of the Japanese Chin:
- goodwill and balance;
- loves silence, but needs communication;
- pets of this breed are moderately playful;
- don't make noise;
- get along well with other animals.
For an elderly person, such a dog is an ideal option, since the Chin will not make noise. If you are in the mood to play or take a walk, your companion will be happy to join you. Read about the features of caring for the breed here.
Poodle
This decorative and intelligent dog has 3 varieties that differ in size. The pet has a presentable appearance, expressive eyes and a good-natured character. You can read about the nature of other decorative breeds in this article.
The ears are rounded and long. The back is straight, the stomach is tucked. The limbs are strong, the paws are arched and compact. The smaller the poodle, the more elegant its bone structure. A miniature breed often becomes a companion for older owners.
By nature, they are mischievous, intelligent, devoted dogs, loyal to the family, always wanting to please someone. They are easy to train.
It is convenient for an elderly person that the poodle does not shed and does not have an unpleasant odor. But he still needs regular haircuts.
This is interesting: Are there dogs that don’t shed?
Brussels Griffon
These funny little companion dogs look more like monkeys. But a hilarious look is not the only advantage of having a pet. The breed is suitable for active older people who are not too lazy to take daily walks. The dog is distinguished by its mobility and energetic character. According to the standard, a purebred individual has the following exterior characteristics:
- rounded, large head, with a sharp transition from the bridge of the nose to the muzzle;
- the ears are raised on cartilage, the rounded ends hang down;
- the eyes are expressive, slightly protruding, widely spaced;
- back straight;
- the tail is carried above the level of the croup, but not curled.
Griffons are red in color and come in various shades. Small patches of black hairs on the beard are allowed. By nature, dogs are shy, devoted to one owner, and cannot stand loneliness. They are inquisitive. Suitable for inexperienced owners who have never bred dogs before and do not particularly know how to care for a pet.
Expert opinion
Anna Abramenko
An avid dog lover. Experience in veterinary medicine since 2009.
Ask a Question
If you have to change your place of residence often, then it is better not to get a griffon. These dogs do not tolerate moving well; it is very stressful for them.
A companion dog in the age of global relocation from private homes to apartments is becoming increasingly in demand. By and large, any breed is raised to be a companion from childhood, but this takes time. Varieties of dogs allow you to choose a pet with the necessary qualities for a family with children or elderly people. In this case, the size of the dog does not matter.
Unrecognized breeds
In addition to recognized breeds, there are also those that have not been officially registered with the FCI, but they are also excellent for the role of companion dogs.
American hairless dog.
Russian colored lapdog.
Prague rat.
Herding breeds of companion dogs
Longhaired Collie
Height: 51-61 cm.
Weight: 19-34 kg.
Country of origin: UK.
This breed was developed in the 17th century in Scotland. Currently, there is no single standard for it. In Russia and the USA, for example, collies are significantly higher than national standards. The breed continues to develop and improve.
Collies are very popular as family dogs throughout the world. They have a very soft, obedient, affectionate “family” character, so it is very easy to love them forever.
With the necessary training, a collie takes excellent care of children and can act as a nanny. She is completely non-aggressive and patient, so you simply cannot find a better assistant in a home kindergarten.
Sheltie
Height: 35-39 cm.
Weight: 6-12 kg.
Country of origin: UK.
This miniature shepherd was bred in Great Britain in ancient times. The British believe that these dogs are as old as the Shetland Islands, where they originally lived.
Over time, the little Sheltie stopped playing the role of a shepherd and became exclusively a pet. The breed evolved into the mini collie, although they are not genetically related, and has been recognized throughout the world.
The Sheltie is an excellent choice for those who love Shepherds but live in a small city apartment. They are very smart and understand their owner perfectly. This dog can become a real first friend for a child.
Welsh Corgi
Height: about 30 cm.
Weight: 12-14 kg.
Country of origin: Wales.
These are very ancient dogs, whose ancestors, from the point of view of experts, were brought to the British Isles by the Celts in the Bronze Age. This is a dwarf shepherd dog, which also herded livestock at one time. According to legend, it was given to people by elves.
The breed began to rapidly develop and improve at the end of the 19th century, when its first standard was developed. Welsh Corgis began to enjoy enormous popularity, first among the English nobility, and then among the entire people.
These are very cheerful and life-loving dogs who dearly love their owner and his family, especially children. They have a wonderful character, thanks to which they get along well even with cats.
