Why are small dogs more aggressive than bigger dogs?

THE REASON: HUMAN ERROR

Aggression is a common behavioural problem in small dogs that many owners run into, because they do not realise that the way they treat their dog is exactly what leads to such behaviour. Many dog owners forget that dogs are animals driven by instinct. Owners of small dogs fail to provide them with proper training and discipline simply because these dogs are seen as toys or even as cute little babies. Dogs live with people, people become part of their pack, and dogs follow whoever has the greatest authority in that pack. If you show weakness within the pack, the dog will use it to take over the leading role.

THE MISCONCEPTION: BIGGER DOG, BIGGER PROBLEM, SMALLER DOG, SMALLER PROBLEM

People often see small dogs as cute, vulnerable and stubborn. From large dogs, on the other hand, people expect far too much, and whenever a big dog shows unwanted behaviour, everyone treats it as a problem that has to be solved immediately. The truth is that size matters only to people, not to dogs. On walks, small dogs are in most cases allowed to take the lead simply because they are not strong enough to knock their owners over. Jumping on, growling at and barking at the owner is an attempt to establish dominance, in large dogs and small dogs alike. Whenever small dogs bark at big dogs, most owners believe they are just trying to get the big dog's attention, but from the dog's point of view, these little ones are simply trying to show their dominance. They do not distinguish the size of the pack leader. This kind of behaviour has to be corrected and must not be allowed.

HOW TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM?

Discipline and asserting your will are extremely important, with large dogs as much as with small ones. Walking properly at heel is one of the most important rules of good manners. By controlling how your dog walks at heel, you control the dog's behaviour as well. Get rid of retractable leads, harnesses and similar equipment that lets the dog pull uncontrollably and gives it unlimited freedom, because the dog must follow you on a walk, not the other way round. A leather-covered choke collar is the solution to your problems, not because it chokes the dog, but because dogs respond to sound. Hold the lead loosely, because if you pull on the lead, the dog will resist even more. Use short tugs, and the choke collar will produce a sound that warns the dog to return to the correct position, together with the HEEL command. www.dresurapsa.com