SMALL DOG SYNDROME?

What to do if your pint-sized pup is struggling with a Napoleon complex!

Have you ever noticed that smaller dogs are often the most vocal or the worst-behaved canines? Science backs this up, with research showing that small dogs are more likely to be aggressive and anxious than big dogs.

Part of the reason is “small dog syndrome”, where pups overcompensate for their size by barking, jumping, lunging and growling. Veterinarian Dr John Rigley says small dog syndrome is very common.

“In a dog’s mind, they’re all rottweilers, regardless of what size they actually are,” tells John. “They’re trying to outwardly show that they’re the protector of the family.”

He has noticed many dog owners treat their furry friend like a member of the wha- nau, which may mean giving them special attention or overlooking bad behaviour.

“We may be allowing them to get away with a few things – when they’re meeting other dogs, maybe we would tend to pick them up, rather than let them sniff each other,” he explains.

“We’re intervening in normal dog behaviours, so they’re a little bit confused as to whether they’re a dog or whether they’re human at times.”

Thankfully, you can train your pooch out of common small-dog misbehaviours.

TRAINING CUES

John says socialisation is a big part of neutralising small dog syndrome. Ideally, you need to start when they’re a puppy.

“Get them out mixing with other people and other dogs, big and small, and in different environments, so you’re exposing them to a huge range of environments and noises,” he says.

Dogs are pack animals, which means they need to be taught that

you, the owner, are the pack leader. This helps them feel less concerned about threats. Your vet or animal behaviour expert can give you tips. “When they’re barking and making a noise to pretend that they’re really this big, ferocious dog, they feel like they’ve got to be the protector of the pack,” he explains. “We need to become the pack leader and show them that we’ve got the situation under control.”

OLD DOG TRICKS

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but that isn’t true, says John. You can still train a senior out of bad behaviour, but it takes time and consistency.

First, make sure your dog gets plenty of stimulation with toys and walks with opportunities for sniffing. Avoid accidentally reinforcing bad behaviour, he adds.

“When dogs are barking and the owners are telling them off, all the dog is hearing is their name, especially if you’re using the same voice or cues as when they’re sitting normally and barking,” he says.

“In their mind, they’ve done nothing wrong, so they’re going to continue to do that.” John recommends getting your dog used to spending time alone, so they’re less likely to bark excessively or misbehave while you’re out.

“This means not making a big fuss when you leave or when you return because your dog will think, ‘They’re making a big fuss – they might never be back.’

“And then when you come home, you’re making a big fuss again and they’re thinking, ‘Oh, jeez, they didn’t think they were going to come back either.’

“If we act very nonchalant or calm and easy before we leave, without putting our anxiety on to them, that can help.”