Yes, it’s real. Chihuahuas get a bad rep. Small dogs tend to have less patience. But, there’s a reason.
Small dogs (in general) get less “training” than big dogs. Many people assume they don’t need it because they can just pick them up and move them. They don’t pull as hard on a leash. They often can barely keep up when we walk anyway.
But, many of these small dogs feel constantly overwhelmed and that’s what their behavior often reflects.
Instead of calling them over and waiting for them to respond, it is easier to pick them up and move them to where you want them. When you call a dog, they have time to process it and make a choice, and know where they are headed (to their human in the kitchen for example). A small dog, is just surprised! All of a sudden they’ve been picked up and have no idea where they are going.
They are often assumed to be easier because they are smaller. But in reality they need the same care and enrichment and exercise! Especially the terriers!
Small dogs are prone to a lot of barking. Why? Usually, they aren’t getting enough exercise. Or, they are trying to use their voice because they rarely feel heard or respected. They are trying to feel big in a world that makes them feel small (and therefore unsafe).
The best things for small dogs, is to treat them like big dogs. Teach them all the same things. Exercise them. If they have less patience, understand there is a reason. They feel vulnerable. Small dogs gets pushed around a lot, not intentionally, just because of their size.
Their size makes them feel more like toys than dogs. Because of their size they are treated differently than larger dogs. This does not help them, it hurts them. They develop excessive behaviors to try to make up for their lack of confidence and their insecurities. They try to act “big”.
So if you have a small dog that is very reactive or that barks a lot. Start by teaching the dog all the things you would teach a 100 lb, strong dog. It will give your small dog confidence. It will give your small dog choice. It will give your small dog enrichment.
Your small dog will be so much happier and so much more balanced.
