Training Your Pint-Sized Puppy

People prefer toy breeds for many reasons. They're so cute! So funny! So portable! (Most weigh less than 15 lbs.) The toy breed group includes many unique and intelligent breeds like the Japanese Chin, the Chihuahua, and the Brussels Griffon.

Owners of toy breed dogs often overlook obedience training because behavior issues don't seem as obvious. For instance, if a little Pomeranian jumps on you, it's cute and maybe a bit annoying. But...if a German Shepherd jumps on you, it's just plain dangerous. All breeds of dog require obedience training. Let's take a look at some special tips and hints for training your pint-sized puppy.

First, get an idea of how your little dog sees the world. Lie down on the floor and have an adult walk closely around your head. Have them bend over you and say "OH, What a cute little doggy". Have them reach for you just as if you were a puppy. This sounds ridiculous! But this exercise will help you understand that your little dog needs some special treatment during training.

During training sessions, get down on your knees or put your dog on a low table covered with a towel. These positions are more reassuring for your dog in the beginning. As she gains confidence and learns to enjoy your training sessions, you can slowly stand up.

I mentioned that toy breeds are portable. Those bags are really cute!! But don't rush out and buy one just yet. Your little dog needs to learn how to walk on a loose leash. Why? Because dogs think differently that humans. You think carrying your dog all over the place will make her feel loved and safe. Your dog, however, thinks it makes her the leader of the pack. She could become possessive of you, viewing you as her property. This leads to growling or snapping at anyone who comes near you. Shy dogs who are constantly carried around can exhibit fearful aggression. In the dog's mind, you're protecting her, so there must be something to fear.

Teaching your dog to walk on a loose leash can minimize or even eliminate these problem behaviors. Be careful not to step on your little dog. In the beginning, walk slowly and take small steps. Be aware of where she is and offer lots of treats and verbal praise. Walk her every day. Training treats should be kept itty-bitty. The recommended size treat for a Lab is pea-sized. Your dog will need treats that are half that size.

Most dogs in the toy group weren't bred to work, so they're not really as driven to perform as dogs in other groups. Keep your training sessions fun. Offer lots of treats and lots of praise in the beginning. Make it a game and your little dog will look forward to every training session.