Contributing to Dog Aggression

I have had several calls from clients who say that their dog growls and tries to bite people who reach to pet them. Then I find out that they are carrying their dogs because they are little. Stop that!

If you are concerned about the safety of your pup because someone unstable (be it dog or human) is approaching, then do what you feel is best. Otherwise, you are contributing to the very behavior that you are trying to correct.

By giving affection (holding) your dog as someone reaches toward them, you can be giving the message that if the dog responds aggressively, it’s okay or even good. They may also be attempting to protect you and again, you are letting them know that growling and snapping is acceptable.

Little dogs, fragile though they may seem, are still dogs. You knew I was going to say that. IT IS TRUE. It’s as important to instill confidence and to expect appropriate behavior from small dogs as it is from larger breeds.

Of course it’s okay to give affection, but only when the dog is in a calm state of mind.