Training Large Dogs vs. Small Dogs: Key Differences and Tips

Training dogs, regardless of their size, requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. However, the size of your dog can influence training strategies and challenges. Here’s a guide to effectively train both large and small dogs, tailored to their unique characteristics.

Understanding the Differences

1. Physical Strength and Control

   • Large Dogs: Breeds like German Shepherds or Great Danes have significant physical strength. Training them to walk calmly on a leash and respond to commands is essential to ensure safety and manageability.  It is also important to teach them to sit and say, "Hello".  This will reinforce calm behavior before interacting with others.

   • Small Dogs: Breeds like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians may not pose physical challenges, but their small size can make them more vulnerable to injuries. Training should focus on gentle handling and avoiding overexertion.  It is important to understand their limitations but also don't let them get away with bad behavior.  For example, if you want to carry your small dog in a bag, it will be important to teach your dog how to say, "Hello" from the bag and not be territorial when in the bag.

2. Perception and Behavior

   • Large Dogs: They are often perceived as intimidating, so proper socialization is critical. Teaching them to remain calm and friendly around strangers and other animals helps counteract negative stereotypes.  Training large puppies takes time and patience.  Large puppy energy may be perceived as aggressive.  So, it is important to show your puppy that they must be calm before they can interact with people or other animals.  This will help others understand that your dog isn't aggressive, just a little excited to meet someone new.

   • Small Dogs: These dogs often get away with bad behavior because of their size. Owners might overlook growling or barking, but consistent discipline is just as important for small breeds.  Watching a small dog get mad may seem funny to you, due to their size.  However, this behavior can easily escalate to the point where they can't be around other people or animals.  It is important to stop this bad behavior early so you can enjoy socializing your pet.

3. Energy Levels

   • Large Dogs: Many large breeds have high energy levels and require ample physical exercise to prevent destructive behavior. Training sessions should incorporate physical activities like fetch or agility training.  It will be easier for your large dog to focus on training if they don't have excessive energy.  So, if you can allow them to play, prior to the training session, then they will have more focus.

   • Small Dogs: While they have less endurance, small breeds often have bursts of energy. Short, frequent training sessions work best to keep their attention.  Small dogs tend to do well with short, repetitive sessions, rather than long sessions.

4. Attention Span

   • Large Dogs: Tend to have a steadier focus, making them suitable for longer training sessions.

   • Small Dogs: Often get distracted easily, so training should be concise and engaging.

Training Tips for Large Dogs

1. Leash Training

   • Use a sturdy harness and practice loose-leash walking early on to prevent pulling.

   • Teach “heel” and “stop” commands to maintain control during walks.

   • Do not allow your large dog to walk in front of you.  This will give them a sense that they are in charge.  They should walk beside you (heel).  This will show that you are in charge and will help control your dog if you run into a situation where you need to quickly manage your dog.
     
     

2. Obedience Commands

   • Focus on essential commands like "heel," “sit,” “stay,” and “come” to ensure they respond reliably.

   • Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior.

   • Do not use their name when expressing your frustration.  They will learn to associate their name as a negative experience.  Use their name when you are positively reinforcing good behavior.
     
     

3. Socialization

   • Expose your large dog to various environments, people, and animals to build confidence and reduce fear-based reactions.

   • Even large dogs can have fears of sounds, situations and people/animals. Learn how to read subtle clues in your dog's demeanor, including ear movement, panting, etc.
     
     

4. Mental Stimulation

   • Incorporate puzzle toys and training games to keep their minds active and prevent boredom.  Both large dogs and small dogs can enjoy mental stimulation.  You may just have to get size-appropriate toys to ensure they enjoy this exercise.

Training Tips for Small Dogs

1. Overcoming “Small Dog Syndrome”

   • Treat small dogs as you would a larger breed. Do not let them develop habits like excessive barking or jumping on people because it’s “cute.”  This behavior can easily escalate to the point where socializing them is difficult and unpleasant for both you and your pet.

2. House Training

   • Small dogs often have smaller bladders, making house training more challenging. Set a consistent schedule for potty breaks and use crate training if necessary.

   • If you intend to paper train your dog, make sure the potty pads are easily accessible.
     
     

3. Positive Reinforcement

   • Use high-value treats and plenty of praise to keep their attention and motivate them during training.

   • Use training treats that they don't typically receive.  They will soon learn that if they succeed in completing tasks, they will get the "good treats."
     
     

4. Adapted Training Techniques

   • Get down to their level during training sessions to avoid intimidating them.  This means if you are trying to teach your small dog to sit, then sit in the floor with them.  Don't stand above them and command, "SIT."  This can be intimidating to small dogs.

   • Use lightweight collars and harnesses to ensure comfort.

   • Make sure you don't pull hard on their collar.  This can cause a collapsed trachea.  This is why a harness is preferred for leash training.

Common Challenges and Solutions

1. Barking

   • Both large and small dogs can develop excessive barking habits. Identify triggers and train them to respond to a quiet command.

2. Aggression

   • Large dogs with aggressive tendencies can be dangerous. Seek professional help if necessary.  Do not allow your large dog to control your environment.  You need to remain in charge, regardless of the situation.  If you are the lead, your large dog will look to you to determine how to behave.

   • Small dogs may exhibit fear-based aggression; focus on building their confidence through gradual exposure.  Don't avoid situations that scare them.  Just make sure you identify triggers and reinforce good behavior. "Good settle" is a great command to let them know to relax in a fearful situation.

3. Jumping

   • Train both large and small dogs to sit and stay when greeting people to prevent jumping.

   • If your pet tends to jump on you as soon as you get home, then ignore them until they settle down.  Once they settle down, then you can say hello.  If you give them attention while they are jumping, then they learn that jumping is allowed.

Conclusion

Training large and small dogs requires understanding their unique needs and challenges. By tailoring your approach and being consistent, you can ensure your dog becomes a well-behaved and happy member of your family. Whether you’re working with a gentle giant or a tiny dynamo, remember that patience and positive reinforcement are the keys to success.