Little Dogs, Big Concerns
Contrary to popular belief, small dogs are not invariably difficult to house-train, nor are they prone to bark excessively or behave aggressively toward people. The typical underlying cause of these behaviors has nothing to do with the dog’s size. The culprit is the family’s behavior in relation to the dog’s size.
Alternately known as the “Napoleon Complex” or “Small Dog Syndrome,” this refers to all sorts of ill-mannered and unsafe behaviors that owners of diminutive dogs tolerate and/or encourage. They are the result of inadequate management and training that would be less tolerated from a larger dog.
Owners of puppies sometimes indulge in this permissiveness, allowing behaviors such as nipping and jumping because they consider it cute and harmless. Unfortunately, when the dog is an adult, he is reprimanded for the same unruly behavior that has been rewarded for many months. The dog not only becomes very confused, but the habit is now ingrained and difficult to revise.
This permissive approach is often more extreme in the case of small-breed puppies. They are coddled and pampered with little regard for their ultimate behavior as adults. Aggression is often allowed to get completely out of hand simply because of their small size. However, small dogs can inflict serious bites. Without proper training and socialization they are also more likely to become fearful and defensive because of their size disadvantage. Regardless of a dog’s size, compliant and mannerly behavior should Í always be encouraged.
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