Why Even Small Dogs Need Training
We’ve all experienced it: we’ve all walked into a friend’s house, an owner of a tiny pocket dog, and had that dog jump up on our legs, on our lap. Small dogs can often be the most aggressive, and while some people may chock this up to a Napoleon Complex, it does stem for an actual evolutionary need. Because of small size, they have to make up for physical dominance with personality dominance. And while some people believe this to be cute, most people are disturbed and annoyed with these small dogs. Though they have small jaws, their bites and barks can be just as bad as a large dog’s.
In addition, small dogs are far more likely to jump up onto a lap and demand attention than large dogs are. This can be extremely annoying to visitors, especially if they do not like dogs, or if they have an aversion to be licked and nuzzled by a tiny dog. Though we may not be able to understand it, some people simply do not like to be in close proximity of any dog, no matter its size. And while a large dog may seem more obtrusive, it is in fact the small dog that can really get up into a person’s face.
Because of their small size, it is very easy for on one of these little animals to be hurt. They can easily get underfoot, meaning that might be stepped on if they are lingering at the foot of a visitor. If they are prone to jumping onto the couch, they may also be sat on or otherwise in danger of harm. Training is a great way to get your dog to respond to commands that can keep him out of harm’s way. This means these tiny creatures need just as much training as a big dog.
But how do you start training a small dog? First of all, dispense with the preconceived notion that little dogs are difficult to train. While they may have big personalities for their small bodies, they are just as willing to listen as any other dog. Like any other dog, start with short, simple commands and work your way up to more difficult commands. As always, ask your friends and family for help, especially with jumping and aggressive behavior. Training should be done as much through conditioning exercises as through actual training sessions, so be consistent and patient.
Throughout this whole process, keep in mind that small dogs see the world very differently from how their larger counterparts see it. Not only does everything look giant and intimidating, but they also often feel as though they have to jump and bark, just to be involved in what you’re doing all the way up there. Take into consideration that they may be acting out simply because they are experiencing anxiety about the world they live in.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, and like us on FaceBook for updates!
Related Posts
Barks and Rec: 10 Secrets Your Pup Wants You to Know Attention all dog owners! Your pooch has a message for you: fetch these 10 secrets […]
Dogs vs. Moles: Digging Season has Begun Not only do digging dogs destroy the yard [say that 5 times fast!], but they also […]
Common Reasons Owners Rehome Their Dogs The number of dogs relinquished to animal shelters or rehomed through sites such as […]
Are you Using Dog Treats Correctly? Three common problems in canine households include pet obesity, excessive begging, and […]
I started newdogowners.com for one simple reason, to help prepare new dog owners for owning a new puppy. My goal is to help stop the passing around of dogs. The forever home, should be a dog's first home.
- How to Get a Service Dog for Anxiety and Depression: The Ultimate GuideIntroduction - February 6, 2024
- Best Toys for Teething Dogs: 10 Options to Soothe Their Gums - January 29, 2024
- How to Prevent a Mess: Dog Proof Trash Can and DIY Hacks - January 29, 2024
I agree no matter you have big small or even toy dog you should train him properly. That will be much better for you as well as for your dog.