Why do smaller dogs have a reputation for being reactive?

5 March 2024

Smaller dogs are often described as having ‘little man syndrome’. If they snap or growl some people will often state that they are ‘sassy’ and laugh it off. I have some adorable smaller dogs that have attended puppy class and the first time I met them my instant desire was to pick them up and cuddle them. However, they don’t know me and I know it’s not sensible so I resist the desire to do so!

Quite often because of their miniature appearance smaller dogs have to put up with strangers picking them up, grabbing them or stroking them without permission. This is not ideal for a number of reasons – a dog may be scared of people, they may be in pain, and having a stranger pick you up is very different to someone you know lifting you in their arms. Without a strong reinforcement history of good experiences with that person (such as treats, praise, or touch that is enjoyable), it is not surprising why many dogs do not enjoy it. If attempts at space are routinely ignored, such as moving away looking away, showing the whites of the eyes or other body language on the ladder of communication it is likely that a dog will resort to higher levels of behaviour such as growling, snapping or even biting.


It’s important that smaller dogs are able to assess and make a choice in regards to interacting with people in the park. There are things that can be done to build confidence around people but picking up a dog and stroking it when they’re scared will not magically cure them of their fear – it is likely to reinforce it.


What can be done to build confidence instead?


·     Remembering that dogs have an incredible sense of smell is important and that sniffing is information gathering – it does not mean they instantly want to be petted. Allow a dog to sniff and explore and retreat if they want to.


·     See if the dog wants to interact by allowing a person to pat their knees to see if the dog wants to come over.


·     Use consent petting with new people so that the dog is not feeling overwhelmed and can move away if they want to.  With consent petting you stroke a dog for three strokes then take the hand away to  see if they want the interaction to continue – if they don’t then you stop the stroking. It’s important that the dog is not on a short lead and can easily move away.


·     Watch out for body language signs that they are feeling uncomfortable and assess it.


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