When it comes to training your pooch, size does not matter! Whether you have a giant breed dog or a miniature breed dog, they should all really be taught to mind their manners and observe boundaries. Training is imperative regardless of weight and size and, good behavior is appreciated in all dogs, from teacup all the way up to king size!
There does however, seem to be an epidemic of manner-less mini's which has created a condition called "small dog syndrome". Because little dogs are so adorable, there can be a tendency to allow certain behaviors to exist whereas the same behavior in a large dog would be seen as threatening or undesirable.
There does however, seem to be an epidemic of manner-less mini's which has created a condition called "small dog syndrome". Because little dogs are so adorable, there can be a tendency to allow certain behaviors to exist whereas the same behavior in a large dog would be seen as threatening or undesirable.
Because canines communicate with each other in unseen ways and usually far in advance of humans being aware of it, it's important that all dogs live in a balanced state. Dogs that are aggressive in nature that are not being properly trained and monitored by their humans can trigger the same behaviour in other dogs. When a dog guardian is under the illusion that aggressive behaviour in small breed dogs is non threatening to others (dogs, humans, other animals), this is likely due to a misconception or lack of knowledge. Ultimately, ALL dogs should be corrected immediately on unwanted behaviours being displayed.
A small dog may not have a big bite, but bites hurt no matter what size the jaw is and, an overture of aggression will not be viewed as "adorable" in the animal world. Typically, aggression is matched or escalated on and, in the event of small breed antagonizing a large breed dog, odds are on the large breed dog to achieve dominance. Dog skirmishes or fights are not "cute" or "adorable", they are hideous and scary and not many pet parents out there are equipped to break up a dog fight once it erupts "out of nowhere".
A small dog may not have a big bite, but bites hurt no matter what size the jaw is and, an overture of aggression will not be viewed as "adorable" in the animal world. Typically, aggression is matched or escalated on and, in the event of small breed antagonizing a large breed dog, odds are on the large breed dog to achieve dominance. Dog skirmishes or fights are not "cute" or "adorable", they are hideous and scary and not many pet parents out there are equipped to break up a dog fight once it erupts "out of nowhere".
Additionally, dogs actually do prefer to live in a state of calm, with their humans firmly in control and setting boundaries. When a dog is seen to be in a state of agitated stress, that should be a cue for the pet parent to de-escalate the behaviour to a calm state of mind. Imagine if you were experiencing a state of high stress and everyone around you was doing nothing but making comments on how cute you are being instead of helping you to calm down, what would that feel like?
Allowing an animal to dictate its own state of affairs is not an ideal situation and can lead to bites, fights, re-homing and, in extreme situations, euthanasia if the animal is labelled as out of control and a risk. All of these things are preventable through training and correction. Regardless of size, all dogs should be provided the basics of training and be permitted the opportunity to live a calm and happy life. If you need help with training or behaviour modification, ask around for advice or sign up for some training.
Allowing an animal to dictate its own state of affairs is not an ideal situation and can lead to bites, fights, re-homing and, in extreme situations, euthanasia if the animal is labelled as out of control and a risk. All of these things are preventable through training and correction. Regardless of size, all dogs should be provided the basics of training and be permitted the opportunity to live a calm and happy life. If you need help with training or behaviour modification, ask around for advice or sign up for some training.
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