Small dogs have long been a favorite among pet owners, especially those living in apartments or urban settings. Their compact sizes make them well-suited for small living spaces, but they often have a reputation for being more difficult to train. Many pet owners struggle with potty training, excessive barking, or stubborn behavior, leading to the assumption that small breeds are more challenging to manage.
Is there truth to this perception? While they may exhibit a strong personality, small dogs are just as capable of learning commands and proper behavior as their larger counterparts. The key difference lies in how they are trained and the expectations set for them. Many challenges stem from owner habits, physical attributes, training inconsistencies, and environmental factors rather than the dog’s intelligence or temperament.
For example, house training small dogs can be more difficult simply because of their tiny bladders and their tendency to resist going outside in bad weather. The good news is that solutions like Gotta Go Grass, a dog grass pee pad, provide a natural alternative for small breeds needing an indoor potty option, making training more effective and convenient.
Why Do Small Dogs Behave Differently Than Large Dogs?
Several studies have examined the behavioral differences between small and large dogs. A 2010 research by the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna found that small dogs are perceived as less obedient, more excitable, and more prone to anxiety and fear than larger breeds.
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Small dogs are generally less obedient, responding less reliably to basic commands.
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They tend to be more excitable and reactive, making them prone to barking and growling.
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They exhibit higher levels of anxiety and fear, often reacting more sensitively to unfamiliar situations.
But are these traits hardwired into small dogs, or are they shaped by human behavior? While some breeds may have predispositions, their behavior is primarily influenced by their upbringing and training.
Factors that Influence Small Dog Behavior
The research indicates that owners of small dogs tend to be less consistent with training and discipline while engaging less in structured play and training activities. These inconsistencies contribute to behavioral challenges, reinforcing the idea that small dogs are more difficult to train. On the other hand, small dogs with owners who provide clear, consistent guidance and regular training tend to be more obedient and well-adjusted.
Inconsistent Training: Many small dog owners are more lenient with training, allowing bad habits to develop.
Fewer Activities: Unlike large dogs, small breeds are often not given structured training or outdoor activities, which can lead to behavioral issues.
Use of Punishment: Small dogs tend to be more sensitive to punishment, which can increase anxiety and lead to disobedience.
The takeaway? Small dogs are not inherently harder to train. Much like larger dogs, they simply require consistent, structured guidance to thrive.
Why Are Small Dogs Perceived as Harder to Potty Train?
Another common reason small dogs are perceived as harder to house-train is a combination of their physical traits, behavior, and owner habits.
Expand the descriptions below to 3 sentences for each point for better context.
Smaller Bladders & Faster Metabolism
Small dogs have a higher metabolism and smaller bladders, meaning they need to relieve themselves more frequently than larger breeds. On average, a small breed like a Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier may need to pee every 2-3 hours, compared to larger breeds that can usually hold it longer. If you don’t schedule frequent potty breaks or provide an accessible bathroom area, accidents become inevitable, making house training more challenging.
Cold Weather & Surface Preferences
Many small breeds are particularly sensitive to cold temperatures and may refuse to go outside during winter or rainy conditions. This avoidance can make outdoor potty training difficult and lead to indoor accidents. This is particularly true if you don’t provide an alternative solution, like an indoor grass pee pad.
Harder to Catch Accidents
Due to their small size, a small dog’s urine is easy to miss, particularly on carpets or rugs. Unlike larger dogs, whose accidents are more obvious, you may not immediately notice small-dog accidents, leading to repeated incidents in the same spot. If accidents aren’t thoroughly cleaned with an enzyme-based cleaner, dogs may continue to mark the area, reinforcing bad habits.
“Lap Dog” Mentality
Certain small breeds were historically bred as companions rather than working dogs, influencing their training responsiveness. Unlike working breeds like Border Collies or German Shepherds, companion breeds such as Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, and Maltese were developed for companionship rather than obedience. As a result, they may not be as naturally eager to please, requiring more patience and motivation during training.
Owner Inconsistency
Because small dog accidents tend to be less messy and easier to clean up, some owners become more lenient with house-training rules. Unlike a large dog accident, which is harder to ignore, minor accidents from a small breed might go uncorrected, unintentionally reinforcing the behavior. Consistent training, regardless of a dog’s size, is essential for successful house-training and long-term success.
How Gotta Go Grass Helps with Potty Training
Indoor grass potty pads for dogs, such as Gotta Go Grass, offer a convenient solution for house training. These grass pads recreate natural outdoor surfaces, making it easier for small dogs to learn where to relieve themselves.
Using a grass pad for dogs is especially beneficial for:
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Small dogs that refuse to go outside in bad weather.
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Apartment dwellers without immediate access to outdoor space.
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Providing consistency in potty training routines.
Tools like Gotta Go Grass make house training significantly easier when combined with regular outdoor breaks and positive reinforcement.
Actionable Tips for Raising a Well-Behaved Small Dog
Many small dogs miss out on proper training simply because they aren’t treated the same way as larger dog breeds. Without training and enrichment, behavioral issues like barking, reactivity, and stubbornness become more common. Providing structure helps small dogs develop confidence and reduces unwanted behaviors.
1. Socialize Early to Prevent Anxiety and Reactivity
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Introduce your small dog to different environments, people, and other pets from a young age to reduce fear-based behaviors.
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Schedule short trips to new places to build confidence and adaptability.
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Use positive reinforcement and desensitization techniques for adult dogs to improve social skills.
2. Prioritize Safety During Playtime
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Always supervise play sessions with larger dogs to prevent accidental injuries.
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Choose playmates similar in size and temperament to ensure safe, positive interactions.
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Enroll in training classes that separate dogs by size for a safer learning experience.
3. Teach Independence Instead of Always Picking Them Up
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Avoid picking up your small dog whenever they seem nervous, as this can reinforce fear-based behaviors.
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Reward calm, confident behavior with treats and praise instead of lifting them for reassurance.
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Gradually expose them to new situations so they learn to navigate challenges without excessive dependence on you.
Final Thoughts
Small dogs may have unique training challenges, but they are just as capable of learning as large breeds. Many of their behavioral issues stem from inconsistent training, lack of socialization, and unintentional reinforcement of bad habits.
Tools like Gotta Go Grass can make a significant difference in potty training, especially in overcoming weather-related struggles. Investing in training, structure, and proper socialization will help small dogs grow into well-behaved, confident companions.
Looking for small breeds that are easier to house-train? Check out our list: 12 Small Dogs That Are Surprisingly Easy to Potty Train!
