Anyone who has met a small dog knows their personality is often bigger than their frame. What many don’t realize is that this outsized behavior can often be a manifestation of Small Dog Syndrome (SDS).
Although it may sound cute, it’s far less charming for the human at the other end of the leash. These little dogs, particularly when undergoing Chihuahua training, can sometimes overcompensate in ways similar to the Napoleon complex. They might also be spoiled by owners who overlook their misbehaviors due to their tiny, adorable size. In some cases, inconsistent dog training techniques from the beginning can foster such problematic traits.
The Chihuahua Training Challenge: Small Size, Big Personality
Chihuahuas, for example, are known for fierce loyalty, feisty temperaments, and quick-wittedness. They’re also expressive and affectionate, as many enjoy snuggling up to their humans for a cozy nap.
Their size makes them relatively easy to care for, but it’s that same small stature that can pose challenges. A lack of training can lead to SDS due to fear, insecurity, and inconsistency. As Holiday Barn Pet Resorts says, “Jumping, growling […], [ignoring] commands, acting nervous […], barking, lunging, [and] nipping” are all telltale signs.
Expert Insights: Tips from Professionals

We spoke with Alan Carr, Founder and CEO of Alan’s K9 Academy in Cartersville, GA, for his perspective. He says small breeds such as Chihuahuas “respond well to positive reinforcement.”
Consistency with commands and “building trust through reward-based techniques” are important in tackling this. He also recommends short, yet engaging sessions as small dogs tend to lose their focus and may tire more easily. To avoid the development of Small Dog Syndrome, he suggests working on desensitization to curb such behaviors.
The ‘Protective Pickup’: A Common Mistake

Picture this: while outside walking, your small dog barks at an approaching dog and their owner. You may instinctively scoop your pal into your arms to avoid an altercation—instant ‘air jail.’
We asked Susie Aga, Owner of Atlanta Dog Trainer, if such actions can affect dog development. She says a “protective pickup” stops them from learning on their own whether they’re safe. Instead, it can reinforce dependence on their owner and anxiety in unfamiliar situations. Leaving your pup on the ground and rewarding them for calm behavior is a better option. This helps them find their way, and training treats can reinforce this.
Setting the Pace: Leadership and Boundaries
On walks, you should always be the first one out the door and the first one in. By following a routine and establishing boundaries, you’re showing your small dog that you’re their pack leader.
Susie Aga also teaches “777 training,” a socialization technique that can be used weekly throughout a dog’s life. This means “7 new people; 7 new places; 7 different objects; 7 new sounds; [and] 7 different surfaces.” Vet trips, car rides, new locations, and visits with people of all ages and characteristics are great desensitization techniques.
Susie suggests exposing dogs to many different sounds and new objects as well. Walking on surfaces like “grass, gravel, pavement, [and] warm sand” creates new experiences. She believes these encounters will allow “them to be brave and build confidence” over time.
Consistency is Key: Training Musts

Your role is to be assertive—not submissive to your dog’s demands. As Alan Carr says, dogs love routines and become confused when their humans are “not clear or consistent with [their] expectations.”
However, he discourages punishment-based training as it “can lead to fear and mistrust.” Instead, maintain routines and provide a calm demeanor for your dog to mirror. Alan highlights the importance of recognizing a dog breed’s traits. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, “may require extra patience in certain areas, like leash training.” Not all dogs are alike, after all.
Success Stories: Training Triumphs
These techniques have a proven track record. A great example of this is Max, a Chihuahua whose owner had almost given up. When Alan met him, Max was suffering from severe anxiety and would nip at strangers. He was transformed using “a combination of confidence-building exercises, structured training routines, and socialization with calm, larger dogs.” With his owner’s continued work, he became a “confident and friendly companion.”
Susie Aga similarly helped a 6-year-old Boston Terrier’s “aggressive behavior completely turn around.” The key was “helping the new owner understand how their own actions could create positive change.”
Then there’s Chewey the Chihuahua—an aggressive biter who would growl and nip at dogs and humans alike. Cody’s Dog Training in Connecticut desensitized him to a pack of dogs and trained his owner to be the leader. He’s since become a “calm couch potato […] who is always ready to go for a walk.”
Training Essentials: The Right Tools for the Job

While these success stories illustrate the importance of training, having the right tools is essential. Alan suggests using “a good clicker,” like the Educator FC-100 Finger Clicker.
Rewarding with “high-value treats,” such as Pupford Beef Liver and Chicken Freeze-Dried Training Treats, works well.
He also recommends using “a sturdy, well-fitted leash and front clip easy walk harness.” A front clip discourages pulling and establishes your dog’s role as a follower. A Buckle-Down Small Dog Leash clips easily to a PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness, suiting this purpose perfectly.
For a more tangible resource, Alan recommends Don’t Shoot the Dog! by Karen Pryor, about positive reinforcement. The Other End of the Leash, by Patricia McConnell, also delves into the influence of human behavior on our furry companions.
Building a Lifelong Bond
Using these techniques with the right training aids can help you avoid Small Dog Syndrome altogether. However, bad behavior can typically be corrected if it creeps in. When necessary, we recommend researching professional dog trainers in your area for help.
Susie Aga compares dog training to teaching a child. Ideally, “you want to create good habits that will shape your dog’s behavior and confidence for years to come.” There will be small victories along the way, and it’s important to celebrate them with your companion. In the end, the ultimate reward will be the sense of accomplishment and harmony between you and your dog.
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