Sometimes, pups with small dog syndrome are also really anxious because their owners are overprotective.
Owners might not take the time to train their small dogs, enforce healthy boundaries, or give them outlets to express their natural canine and breed-specific behaviors. A toy poodle, for example, may not be taught to sit and greet a guest, while a boxer would.
When it’s time to go for a walk, does your dog nip at you or growl when you try to put on a leash? Many dogs with small dog syndrome will resist any attempt to control them and fight to go off-leash. [6] X Research source Does your dog beg for food? While many dogs beg for food, dogs with small dog syndrome may be particularly persistent. They may whine, bark, and stare until they get their way, despite being told to quiet down. In extreme cases, a small dog may start refusing their own food in favor of table scraps. They are often much better at training their owners than their owners have been at training them.
A small dog may be terrified of other dogs. They might bully other dogs to make them go away, like chasing other dogs away from the food bowl or growling at dogs that attempt to get on the couch with them. Your dog may be very aggressive on walks. They may bark, lunge, or growl at passing dogs.
Your dog may also push through doors and immediately approach people instead of waiting for you to walk inside a building. For example, they might pull you into a grocery store to investigate all the sounds or run over to customers. In order to get attention or treats from other people, your dog may also whine in an attempt to get what they want. Dogs with small dog syndrome may also ignore personal boundaries and jump on people without warning. This behavior can be especially risky if they pounce on small children.
There are other physical health problems associated with small dog syndrome, too. If you’re carrying your dog around a lot, they may become overweight. Weight gain can lead to joint pain as well as extra pressure on their organs. [10] X Research source
The longer they’re allowed to pee everywhere, the longer the potty training process will eventually take. Dogs with small dog syndrome may present a real hassle because they might jump up on your bed or furniture, including when they need to go potty. Your dog may not just urinate in your home. Your dog might also pee when visiting the homes of friends or family members.
You should only pick your dog up when it’s necessary for your dog’s safety. For example, if an aggressive dog is running at your dog, it’s appropriate to pick your dog up. Many small dogs are under-socialized and may stop walking because they are nervous or are physically out of shape. They may learn that if they stop, you will eventually pick them up. Start with short walks in calm areas, and work up to longer walks in busier areas once your pup is more comfortable on walks and is interested in exploring. [14] X Expert Source Lauren NovackCertified Dog Behavior Consultant Expert Interview. 23 February 2021
If small dogs believe they’re the exception to the rule, then they may start to think they’re the “alpha” and boss other animals around. [16] X Research source When you communicate with your small dog, use the same firm voice and give commands you use with other pets so your small dog is aware that you’re the “alpha” of the house. Determine house rules just as you would for any dog. You may require that they sit before being invited onto your lap, or before you put their food bowl down.
Repeat this behavior every time you’re passing a larger dog—over time, you’ll socialize your small dog to look forward to walks, no matter what pet they run into. Your dog will learn to associate larger dogs with good, happy things rather than danger. This can reduce anxiety and aggression associated with small dog syndrome.
Explain basic rules. Inform guests not to let the dog jump on them, and not to let the dog up on the couch uninvited. Let visitors know that table scraps are not okay for your dog unless they’re placed in his bowl.
Go for a trainer that values positive reinforcement over punishing a dog. Punishment-based techniques have proven to be ineffective. Most trainers have a website that overviews their training process. You can also read reviews of trainers online, or contact past clients. This can help you make sure a trainer’s techniques are effective. When meeting with potential trainers, make sure the trainer is friendly, listens to you, and respects all your concerns.
You can wait until your dog’s regular appointment to ask questions. Small dog syndrome can often be treated at home and is not usually a medical risk right away. However, excessive urination may be a symptom of other conditions. If your dog is urinating a lot, you may want to make a vet appointment early. [23] X Research source
Small dogs are generally seen as less intimidating than large dogs, so tinier breeds get a lot more leeway. Double standards lead to many behavioral problems in the long run. When a small dog becomes bored and has never experienced discipline, they will come up with their own ways to amuse themselves. To counteract double standards, small dogs need to learn to follow rules. Once they’re taught obedience, small dogs can enjoy trick training, walks and hikes, and dog sports or competitions just like larger breeds. [26] X Expert Source Lauren NovackCertified Dog Behavior Consultant Expert Interview. 23 February 2021
lf you keep your small dog away from larger dogs even when they’re well trained and generally friendly, then your small dog is more likely to be anxious around all pets they meet.
For example, a tiny dog may bark at a larger dog on a walk or a park. You might say something soothing like, “Shhh, it’s okay. Your dog may interpret this as praise and feel that aggressively barking is correct behavior. You may also let small dogs break household rules. When a small dog jumps on someone, you may see it as cute. Therefore, the dog learns these behaviors are appropriate. Over time, the dog fails to recognize any boundaries.
