Recently as I was searching for a small dog for Little J, I ran across a few articles about Small Dog Syndrome (SDS). Signs of SDS include being yappy, nippy, aggressive, hostile, possessive, jealous, and demanding. I had read only a few paragraphs before I could no longer deny the truth--Little J has a classic case of SDS. The evidence:Claiming the human: Dogs with SDS are very possessive of their human and want constant attention. They sit on their human without asking, demand to be petted and entertained, and growl when others try to usurp their position.
Comparison: Little J sits on me all the time, even though she is nine.
Warning: Dog handlers note that humans let dogs get away with this type of behavior because humans think the dog is showing love. But they're not showing love, they're just claiming space and asserting dominance.
Sleeping positions: Dogs with SDS always seek the most comfortable place to sleep, often on the human's pillow.
Comparison: Little J is always trying to sleep in my bed because she thinks it is the most comfortable place to sleep.
Warning: Dog handlers claim that the most comfortable sleeping position always goes to the pack leader. To let the dog claim that spot is to allow the dog to become the pack leader over the human.
Jumping up on humans: Dogs with SDS jump up on humans whenever they want.
Comparison: Little J is always trying to jump up into my arms and to get me to hold her.
Warning: Dog handlers suggest that humans let little dogs get away with this type of behavior because it is cute and because they interpret the dog's behavior to mean that the dog is glad to see them. However, for dogs, jumping up is a sign of dominance. So when the dog jumps up on the human, the dog is claiming the position of pack leader.
Leading while walking: Dogs with SDS will always walk in front of the human while on walks, instead of beside or behind the human. They will sniff and relieve themselves where ever and whenever they want.
Comparison: Little J usually takes the lead position during walks. Although she has yet to relieve herself during a walk or sniff at trees and fire hydrants, she nonetheless wanders off the sidewalk and investigates whatever interests her.
Warning: Dog handlers insist that pack leaders are the ones that lead in a pack walk. When the dog asserts his place as being in front, he is claiming to be pack leader.
Conclusion: Little J has SDS.
Recommended procedures: Reassert my position as pack leader by making her eat after I eat. Make her obey a simple command, like "sit," before giving her food, playing with her, or taking her on a walk. Take her for a pack walk at least once daily, making sure that she either walks beside me or behind me. Use my finger to poke her when she sits on my lap until she moves off. Do not allow her to eat whenever she wants.
Sounds like good advice to me.
