The tenacity of a terrier is legendary. These small dogs were bred to take on some hefty opponents, above and below ground. A feisty and fearless attitude was required to stand their ground with a badger, rat, or other small game with the same degree of fight and determination. Small dogs bred to be companion pets lived in castles and monasteries, and were treated like royalty. They were given as gifts, and some breeds were believed to have mystical or healing powers. Because of their history, some people see small dogs as difficult, stubborn, stand-offish, yappy, and not as smart as larger breeds. Myths about small dogs are a misunderstanding of dog behavior and canine body language.
Small dogs are too yappy and bark all the time.
Seven of the twelve most talkative dog breeds are larger breeds, like the German Shepherd and Bloodhound. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Boston Terrier are among the quietest dog breeds. There's a variety of reasons why dogs bark, and some breeds have a tendency to bark more than others, especially when their prey drive is activated. Dogs bark to communicate with us or other dogs, or to get a response - usually from us. A bored or lonely dog might vocalize his displeasure with his voice. Outside noises can cause a dog to bark, or frustration with seeing a squirrel or cat and not being able to pursue the trespasser will incite barking. Giving your dog more exercise, providing interactive toys he can play with, and spending some quality playtime with him can help him feel appreciated and less bored or frustrated. It's not the size of dog that matters, it's what's causing a dog to bark that needs to be dealt with. Barking to a dog is as natural to them as using our voice is to us. It's how we communicate. Never punish a dog for doing something that's natural for him to do. Find the root of the problem, then work on finding an appropriate solution.
Smaller dogs don't need exercise.
Some small dogs require more exercise than larger breeds. A bored Jack Russell Terrier or any dog can dismantle your living room in a single afternoon if he doesn't get stimulative exercise on a daily basis. A good workout is healthy for the body and mind. Terrier breeds, Dachshunds, and Chihuahuas are among the breeds known as expert escape artists. They can dig under, climb over, or go through enclosures or barriers that appear sturdy and secure. Small dogs love to get out and explore their environment just as much as larger dogs enjoy it, and some little dogs, like Jack Russell Terriers, enjoy jogging or hiking with their owner. Making sure your small dog has plenty of exercise can help prevent him from developing bad behavior, like barking, escaping, or chewing inappropriate things out of boredom.
Small dogs are couch potatoes and prefer to stay inside.
Some of the biggest couch potatoes are large breeds. Even small dogs bred to be companion pets want and need to get outside to sniff out interesting smells. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a good example of a dog bred to be a companion pet that isn't a couch potato. He may be small, but his spaniel traits and characteristics as a hunter are alive and well. Many small dogs excel at dog sports like agility, conformation, flyball, Frisbee, and especially Earthdog trials. The Chihuahua may be the smallest dog in the world, but he needs fresh air and exercise to keep his mind and body healthy.
Small dogs don't make good watchdogs
The largest dog in a pack isn't always the one that leads. Sometimes it's the smallest dog that takes on the role of pack leader. Little dogs are fierce defenders of their home and family. Some small breeds, like the Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, Dachshund, and Yorkshire Terrier are recommended by security experts as some of the best watchdogs. Small dogs are alert, loyal, and ready to sound an alarm when it's necessary. There's a reason why terriers are known for their feisty temperament. These small dogs were bred to be fearless and courageous.
Small dogs are more stand-offish.
Small dogs are just as loyal, affectionate, courageous, friendly, and intelligent as larger breeds. There are many breeds, large and small, that are instinctively wary of people they don't know. Proper socialization help to give a dog confidence when meeting new people. The biggest problem small dogs face is an owner who forgets their little canine has four perfectly good legs, and isn't the dog's leader.Small Dog Syndrome is when a small dog takes the role as leader of his human family; a role he really doesn't want. If he feels like his owner can't protect him, a small dog will react with aggression towards other people, other dogs and sometimes his owner to protect himself. Snapping, growling, and misbehaving is a sign of anxiety and an unhappy dog. It's important to remember small dogs aren't accessories, and his owner has an impact on how he behaves.
Myths create a false impression, and when it's about any dog breed, it's the canine that suffers the consequences. Give a small dog encouragement, exercise, socialization, training, respect, and leadership to earn his trust, and in return you'll receive unconditional love and a willingness from your dog, small or large, to do what you ask him to do.
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