Best Small Dogs for Families

"When looking for a small dog, it is best to do your homework first," says Michelle Besmehn, Dogtown co-manager at Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah. "Ask yourself if you want a high-energy or laid-back dog. Shelter and rescue workers tend to match your personality with the dogs in their care." Besmehn recommends shelter dogs because they seem grateful to be adopted. And people are surprised that they can often find pure breeds at animal shelters and many breed-specific rescues.