12 Things Only Small Dog Owners Understand

While all dogs are special, there is something unique about owning a small dog. Small dogs can get a bad rap for being too fragile, yippy, and less dynamic than larger dogs. However, life with a small dog can be fun and exciting, and it comes with its own set of quirks.

We love celebrating dogs and have a great appreciation for small dogs. They are adorable and perfect companions to tote around and are always around to cheer you up. Here are some things that all small dog owners will find all too relatable.

The 12 Things Small Dog Owners Understand

1. They’re Small but Mighty

Small dog owners know that their tiny dogs are packed with personality. There are plenty of small dog breeds that can command any pack of dogs. Toy breeds, like Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus, are known for their larger-than-life personalities, and there are plenty of small terriers that will bravely face new challenges.

So, don’t let their small size fool you. Many small dogs can hold their own and are full of surprises.

2. Traveling Can’t Be Any Easier

Small dogs are the perfect travel companion. They usually fall under many airline pet weight limits, and they can easily rest in a small carrier or curl up in your lap. Their equipment is also smaller, so it is easy to pack up their things for travel, and you don’t have to worry about carrying too much extra luggage.

Since a lot of small dogs fit in carrier bags and backpacks, they can accompany you wherever you go. Many pet carrier bags are also designed to be hands-free, so you can go about your day carrying around your dog with comfort and ease.

3. They’re Extremely Smart

Small dogs are really good at getting what they want. Maybe it’s because of their size, but these dogs can be pretty good at figuring out how to get to hard-to-reach places. They’re also super adorable and are experts at dishing out irresistible puppy eyes to get some extra treats from you.

You can also find plenty of intelligent small dog breeds that are easy to train. Toy Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, and Fox Terriers are all small dogs that are known to be extremely smart and have a love for learning new things.

4. All the Dog Clothes

People love dressing up dogs, especially small dogs. You can find way more options for small dog clothes than larger dog clothes. Some clothing brands only produce clothes for small dogs and toy dogs.

Since making small dog clothes requires less material, they’re often cheaper than clothes made for larger dogs. So, you can buy more cute clothes and accessories for your tiny dog at a more affordable price.

5. Loud Barks

Small dogs can have some of the loudest barks. Many can also be very vocal and develop a habit of barking at everything. They can bark every time the doorbell rings or when they see a person or another dog walking past the window.

Fortunately, you can do several things to train or prevent your small dog from barking excessively. Since many small dog breeds are also intelligent, training is less likely to be extremely challenging. If you would ever struggle with your small dog's training, the easiest thing you can do is get in touch with a vet for some good advice.

6. Having a Favorite Pee Pad Brand

Tiny dogs are known to be difficult to potty train because of their small bladders. So, many small dog owners have to use pee pads to keep their floors clean and free of any bathroom accidents.

We wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve developed a liking or loyalty to a particular pee pad brand. Many small dog owners can relate to the feeling of disappointment that they get when their preferred brand is out of stock at their local pet store.

7. Walks Are a Breeze

While you take one step, your tiny dog may have taken 10 steps. So, even though you have an energetic dog, it may not take as much effort to meet their exercise needs. They might just need a brisk 20-minute walk. While it feels short to us, it may be the right amount for small dogs as their tiny legs move quickly to keep up with your long strides.

Another benefit of walking with a small dog is that if it gets tired halfway, it’s easy just to scoop them up and carry them the rest of the way home.

8. You’re a Hide-and-Seek Expert

Small dogs tend to enjoy burrowing for warmth, especially if they have shorter hair or thin coats. While living with a small dog, you’ve probably become an expert at finding your tiny dog and know all the good hiding spaces.

If all else fails, you probably also know the perfect snack or treat that’ll get your dog scurrying out of its comfy hiding space and into your arms.

9. They’re Popular and Approachable

It’s a good thing that many small dogs love receiving attention because most strangers will find them very approachable. Small dogs generally look less intimidating than large and giant dog breeds. They can even be the same size as some stuffed animals, so children are often less afraid of them. You’ve probably lost count of how many times you’ve had to remind young children to “be gentle” when playing with your small dog.

Because many small dog breeds were bred for companionship, they make excellent therapy dogs and can frequent hospitals, nursing homes, and other places once they receive the proper training.

10. Everything Becomes Small

Small dogs have the smallest collars, leashes, and food bowls. They also have tiny beds, and even their dog kibble is tiny. Over time, you start getting used to seeing more small things around the home and purchasing miniature versions of pet products.

Because of their small size, products for small dogs are often cheaper than products for larger dogs.

11. You’re Careful with Every Step

While you’ve been living with a small dog, you’ve probably unknowingly become more careful with how you walk. It’s easy not to notice a small dog and accidentally trip over them. So, you’re a lot more cautious with your steps.

You might’ve also developed the habit of looking behind you before completely turning around and taking a step. The last thing you’d want is to step on your dog as it’s been following you from behind.

12. You Probably Have More Than One

Why stop at one? It’s easier to care for smaller dogs since they don’t take up much space and usually don’t require too much exercise. You also don’t have to worry too much about spending extra on food and treats because they have smaller appetites than larger dogs.

There are plenty of small dog breeds that are social and get along well with other dogs. Bichon Frises, Boston Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Pugs are all great small dog breeds that are known to be friendly with other dogs.

Conclusion

That concludes our list of relatable things that small dog owners understand. When you stop and think about it, you’ll realize just how much your small dog has been training you all along. There are probably many smaller lifestyle changes you’ve had to make that aren’t on our list. Despite their tiny size, these dogs impact people’s lives, and it’s always a pleasure caring for these adorable and lovable companions.

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