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By Adam Goldfarb
These days it's hard to find a red-carpet event that doesn’t include the celeb-utante of the month toting around a small dog in a $2,000 purse.
These pint-sized pooches might be cute, but a recent study from the Journal of Applied Animal Behaviour Science suggests their bite might be worse than their bark.
In the study, dachshunds and chihuahuas showed higher-than-average aggression levels toward both people and other dogs when compared to other breeds.
Though breed alone can't determine a dog’s likelihood to bite, this study should serve as a stern reminder that small dogs—as cute as they might be—are still dogs, and any dog can bite.
Furry Faux-Pas
Despite the pictures that are often featured in celebrity magazines and the movies and television shows that portray small dogs as fashion accessories, animals should never be acquired or treated that way.
All dogs, large or small, fluffy or hairless, have special needs.
Animals are not dolls, and most do not enjoy being dressed up, unless they need special protection from the weather. Whether you have a petite poodle or a mighty mastiff, dogs are dogs, and they’re best served when their owners remember that.
Why Would Small Dogs Bite?
A chihuahua sees things from a very different perspective than a Great Dane. Tiny canines are constantly underfoot in a world that's much larger than they are. It's not surprising that such an animal would be fearful.
This study supports that idea: dachshunds, chihuahuas and Yorkshire terriers all showed above average fear coupled with aggression.
Where Do They
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Dachshunds and chihuahuas are both very popular breeds, and there's no shortage of unscrupulous puppy mills selling poorly-bred versions of these dogs online, through newspaper ads and in pet stores.
Any dog from a puppy mill is at a greater risk of developing health and behavior problems—including aggression. Read more about puppy mills and how to avoid buying a puppy mill dog by visiting www.stoppuppymills.org. |
What to Do
If you're a small dog owner, don't fret—most of these guys won't turn into demonic ankle-biters. You can help steer your dog in the right direction through early and regular socialization and positive training.
• Socialization means exposing your dog to different people, things and situations. It’s especially important for puppies to be well-socialized, but socialization should continue regularly through a dog's adult years too.
• Teaching your dog basic skills like sitting, lying down or returning to you on command can help build your dog's confidence. Training through positive reinforcement rewards your dog for succeeding and simply teaching these basic skills can go a long way.
• If there are children in the house, make sure they are trained too! Children should be taught that small animals are not toys and should be treated gently and with respect. Always supervise children when they are interacting with a dog.
Professional Help
Aggression is a problem that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Dog bites can cause serious damage—even when small dogs are involved. If your dog has developed tendencies to snarl, snap or bite people, professional help may be in order.
Consult with a trainer or behaviorist for experienced advice.
Adam Goldfarb is an issues specialist for the Companion Animals section of The HSUS.
