Is Your Pup a Napoleon? Small Dog Syndrome

Sharing is caring!

Small Dog Syndrome – while seemingly just a funny term to describe small pups with larger-than-life attitudes, you may be surprised to know that this is actually a common set of characteristics often displayed in small dogs.

You may also be surprised to know that “Small Dog Syndrome” largely makes up for why small dogs are often considered to be “yappy” or exhibit more dominant behavior than many larger breeds. Because of their size, teacup, miniature, or toy dog breeds such as the Yorkie are often allowed to exhibit this sometimes aggressive behavior since they don’t appear as threatening as larger dogs.

As a result, little dogs are often allowed to get away with this problematic behavior, with their owners considering it cute and unthreatening, when they contribute toward the smaller dog’s own view that they are the dominant one in this relationship.

Most Common Breeds that have Small Dog Syndrome

It’s important to remember that Small Dog Syndrome is not breed-specific. It’s more about the behavior that some small dogs might exhibit, often as a result of how they’re treated by their owners. Any small dog breed can potentially develop these behaviors.

However, there are certain breeds that often display behaviors associated with Small Dog Syndrome due to their personality traits or the way they are commonly treated due to their size. Here are a few:

1. Chihuahuas
2. Dachshunds
3. Yorkshire Terriers
4. Pomeranians
5. Jack Russell Terriers
6. Shih Tzus
7. Miniature Schnauzers
8. Papillons
9. Bichon Frises
10. Pekingese
11. French Bulldogs
12. Maltese
13. Toy Poodles
14. Miniature Pinschers
15. Lhasa Apsos
16. Boston Terriers
17. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Again, this doesn’t mean every dog in these breeds will exhibit Small Dog Syndrome. A dog’s behavior is largely influenced by their environment, training, and socialization, not just their breed.

It’s important to remember that little dogs don’t realize they’re little – they’re under the impression that they’re the same size as any other dog out there and just as threatening! The difference is, that we don’t discourage this behavior from a young age, resulting in Small Dog Syndrome. If you’re worried that your tiny dog may be headed down this very same road, keep on reading.

What Are Common Behaviors of Small Dog Syndrome?

Several behaviors may indicate that your Yorkie or other tiny dog is developing Small Dog Syndrome. These behaviors include, but are not limited to the following:

Jumping

Jumping is often a behavior that we don’t really mind, especially when it comes in the form of your dog jumping onto your lap for a cuddle. While this may seem like an adorable display of affection from your pup to you, we shouldn’t be allowing our dogs to jump up on our laps and certainly not without a command.

Unfortunately, jumping up onto your lap whenever they like it is your dog’s way of saying, “I own you,” establishing their dominance in the relationship. This can contribute to more dominant and aggressive behaviors down the line, including your dog becoming territorial of you.

Growling

While growling can be quite a frightening trait in a larger dog, we generally don’t think twice about it when it comes to a smaller dog. It’s a fact that acceptable behavior tends to be determined by how intimidating your dog is in size and stature; this should never be the case. If your tiny dog growls at you or a guest in your home, you should make it clear that this is unacceptable behavior, in the exact same way that you would when dealing with a big dog.

Tugging on the Leash

Small dogs are just as likely as larger dogs to tug on the leash when going for a walk. This may be because they’re excited or have too much pent-up energy. However, this may also be that they’re asserting dominance over their owner, believing that they can get away with this behavior.

We’re a lot less likely to reprimand a dog that’s pulling and tugging on their leash when they can’t knock you over. However, this is another instance where you must treat a small dog exactly as you would a larger dog. As your pup’s owner, you should always lead the way, with your dog either walking alongside or slightly behind you.

Yapping

One of the most common characteristics of Small Dog Syndrome is, of course, yapping. Many dog owners will shy away from smaller dogs simply because they don’t want a “yappy” dog. In reality, this is a learned behavior and not directly the result of your pup simply being small.

You’ll often notice that yappy dogs consider themselves the leader of the house and largely lack discipline. If it is made clear that your pup is not the house leader, your dog should become less vocal. It’s important to teach your dog both the “speak” and the “quiet” command, so you can regain some control over your small dog’s vocalizations.

How Humans Affect Dog Behavior

Unfortunately, we humans often unknowingly contribute to Small Dog Syndrome. We let our pocket-sized Yorkies get away with behaviors we’d never tolerate from larger breeds. To stop Small Dog Syndrome, we need to train our Yorkies just as we would any other dogs, regardless of their size.

In reality, we have reinforced their negative behavior, which will only worsen the longer we allow it to continue. Small dog owners are less likely to train their smaller dogs than their larger dogs, which is largely why smaller dogs appear to be spoiled and disobedient.

Improving Small Dog Syndrome

So, is it really possible to improve Small Dog Syndrome after it appears that the damage has been already done? In the case of Small Dog Syndrome, the owner’s behavior directly influences the behavior of their pup. So, as much as it may be a heavy adjustment for your tiny dog, there are certain methods you can try to improve their unwanted behavior, including:

• Setting rules and boundaries that are enforced by all family members.
• Engaging regularly in appropriate play sessions with your dog, where you are not encouraging or rewarding aggressive behavior.
• Slowly introduce your dog to other dogs in a neutral location.
• Practicing training with your dog and/or attending obedience classes.
• Rewarding positive behavior with treats and praise.
• Speaking with a qualified animal behaviorist if you are concerned about your dog’s behavior.

Here are a few more things to keep in mind about Small Dog Syndrome:

• Fear Factor: Sometimes, Small Dog Syndrome stems more from fear than a craving for dominance. Your Yorkie might use assertive behavior as a defense mechanism because of their size. Always ensure your dog feels safe.
• Bred for Boldness: Yorkies were originally bred for tasks that required assertive independence, such as hunting and controlling vermin. So, some of their audacity might be more about their breed than their syndrome.
• Health Check: Sudden changes in behavior could hint at health issues. If you notice a drastic shift, it’s a good idea to consult your vet.
• Socialization is Key: Introducing your Yorkie to a variety of people and animals from a young age helps them understand not every unknown creature is a threat.
• Consistent Training: Yorkies, like any other dog, benefit from regular, positive reinforcement-based training. Mental and physical stimulation can prevent behavioral problems.
• Big Dog Syndrome: It’s not just the little ones! Larger dogs can show similar behaviors if indulged or not properly trained.

Final Thoughts

Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Always approach training with patience, consistency, and understanding of your specific dog’s needs. If you’re ever in doubt, there’s no harm in consulting a professional dog trainer or a behaviorist. By guiding our Yorkies with love and consistency, we can ensure they’re happy, well-adjusted, and the best they can be!

It’s important to be prepared to witness some changes in your dog’s personality – after all, they’re no longer the dominant force in the relationship. Submissive behavior such as their ears being back and their head down does not mean they are sad. This means that they are no longer challenging you for leadership, which is a good thing!

While it’s tempting to let our tiny Yorkies rule the roost, it’s not the best for them in the long run. For a friendly, balanced, and well-socialized Yorkie, we need to be the pack leaders. So, let’s help our Yorkies ditch the Small Dog Syndrome and become the best versions of themselves!