Many small-dog owners have a habit of picking up their dogs and holding them like babies whenever they bark or react around other dogs. (I’m not talking about separating dogs during a scuffle or an emergency.)
But constantly picking your dog up when they act out can reinforce the pattern instead of teaching them how to handle the situation calmly. It can also bring more attention to your dog, putting them in a position where they’re barking down at other dogs while being held.
The goal is to teach your dog to self-regulate, build confidence, and learn how to remain calm before introducing them to group settings.
🐾 Here are 4 things to practice:
1️⃣ Redirect Immediately: Don’t allow barking at people, children, and other dogs to become the norm. Teach your dog a better response.
2️⃣ Drain That Energy: Provide physical exercise and mental stimulation before outings to help your dog settle and focus.
3️⃣ Create Space: Distance matters! Give your dog room to observe and coexist with others without feeling overwhelmed or putting you in stressful situations.
4️⃣ Build Trust: Your dog needs to trust your guidance and learn that you can confidently lead them through everyday situations.
Remember, being small doesn’t mean your dog shouldn’t learn boundaries, confidence, and self-control.
📩 Need help teaching your small dog how to stay calm around people and other dogs? DM Training With Troy to learn the right approach!
#TrainingWithTroy #SmallDogTraining #DogBehavior #DogReactivity #DogTrainingTips
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