Aggressive Behaviors in Small Dogs

Aggressive dogs are a major problem for many pet owners, and a justified cause for concern. Some canine experts refer to aggression in miniature breeds as small dog syndrome, the animal kingdom's version of a Napoleon complex. Unfortunately, many people fail to take this behavior seriously, believing that an aggressive small dog won't be able to cause much harm. Professional dog trainers do take this phenomenon seriously, however, and recommend that dog owners do the same. Fortunately, small dog syndrome can be successfully mitigated with proper training and follow-up.

Small Dog Syndrome

Small dog syndrome is a term that many trainers use to describe aggression in miniature breeds. This phenomenon is sometimes mocked or discounted because small animals usually can't impart the level of damage that a large breed can. Consequently, pet owners allow their tiny companions to exhibit behavior that would never be tolerated with a large dog. Rather than training the tiny canines to display correct behavior, owners often control by force. It's easy to scoop a tiny dog up in your arms and carry him away when he acts up, but this does nothing to teach it proper behavior. This practice causes a variety of complications that can reward and reinforce bad behavior rather than eliminate it. In addition, this degree of close contact, when overdone, can make the dog feel uncomfortable and overwhelmed.

The Most Aggressive Small Dog Breeds

As you might expect, the usual suspects top this list: Poodles, Jack Russell terriers, Chihuahuas and Lhasa apsos are the most commonly reported breeds for aggression. It may surprise you to learn that cocker spaniels, beagles, dachshunds and shih tzus are also frequently noted as being antagonistic. Rounding out the list are the bichon frisé and the Pomeranian. Of course any dog, regardless of size, can develop aggression.

Experts say that it is important not to blame the dog's breed or expect breed-specific negative behavior patterns. Behavioral patterns in domestic canines almost always have more to do with human influences and the degree to which the animal was successfully socialized as a puppy.

Understanding and Addressing Tiny Aggression

Aggression in small dogs may have different influences than for larger breeds. And while tiny pups are more easily hurt, it may be difficult to make the adjustments necessary to overcome aggression while still keeping them safe. It is important to watch your dog for signs of fear or discomfort, which are the typical emotions that precede aggression. Careful observation will help you learn to recognize those situations that trigger unwanted behaviors. Watch for your dog to tuck its tail, assume a wide, crouching stance, put its ears back or lick its lips. If the situation elevates, it may bark, growl, initiate eye contact, snap at the air or put its hackles up.

The best way to remedy aggression in small breeds is with training, specifically using reward-based training techniques with obedience, confidence-building and socialization. It isn't easy to break old habits with weekly pet-store classes, however. Many experts suggest boot-camp-style programs. In this scenario, away from the owner's influence, a small dog can have the comfort level to successfully master new behavior patterns. At the end of the program, pet owners typically join their dogs to learn how to maintain and reinforce the new behaviors. With this approach, you are much less likely to experience recidivism, wherein the dog reverts to his old aggressive dog ways.