Simple and Effective Small Dog Training Tips Every Pet Parent Should Know
There’s something undeniably charming about small dogs. They’re portable, adorable, and often bursting with personality that far exceeds their size. But that tiny stature sometimes leads to a big misunderstanding: that they don’t need as much training as larger dogs. That couldn’t be further from the truth.
If anything, small dog training is even more important. Without the right guidance, your little companion might develop habits that are hard to break—like barking at every passing car, snapping at strangers, or refusing to do their business outside. Whether you’re raising a Chihuahua puppy or caring for a rescued Yorkshire Terrier, the same principles apply.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the best small dog training tips to help you build a happy, healthy relationship with your pup. From potty training to behavior correction, everything you need to know is right here.
Why Training Small Dogs Is Important
Let’s bust a common myth right out of the gate: small dogs don’t get a free pass just because they’re cute. Sure, they might not be able to knock you over like a German Shepherd could, but that doesn’t mean their behavior is harmless.
In fact, many small dog behavior problems stem from a lack of consistent training. When a 5-pound pup growls, bites, or barks excessively, people often laugh it off. But the behavior is still undesirable, and over time, it can get worse.
That’s why one of the most important small dog training tips is to treat them with the same expectations you would a bigger dog. They still need structure, boundaries, and clear communication.
1. Start With a Plan
Training without a plan is like going on a road trip without a map. You might get there eventually, but you’re going to waste time and energy along the way.
Before you start working with your small dog, take a few minutes to figure out:
What commands or behaviors you want to teach
How often you’ll train (ideally short, daily sessions)
What rewards you’ll use (treats, praise, toys)
Write things down if it helps you stay organized. A training journal can be a great tool to track progress and adjust your methods.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
This is one of the most widely recommended small dog training tips—and for good reason. Positive reinforcement is all about rewarding the behaviors you want to see more of. For small dogs, even a tiny treat or bit of praise can make a big impact.
Here’s how it works:
Your dog sits when asked. → You give a treat and say, “Good job!”
Your dog comes when called → You give affection or a reward
Avoid yelling or harsh punishment, as these can damage trust and create fear. Focus on the behaviors you do want instead of the ones you don’t.
3. Be Consistent With Commands
Small dogs are smart, but they don’t do well with mixed messages. If one person in the house says “Down” to get the dog off the couch and another says “Off,” your dog may get confused.
Pick your command words and stick with them. Use the same tone, gestures, and timing each time. This consistency helps your dog associate words with actions faster—and prevents frustration for both of you.
4. Don’t Overlook Potty Training
It might be tempting to think potty training will be easier with a small dog because they produce, well, smaller messes. But many small dog owners actually find potty training more difficult, especially if they carry their pups around too much.
Here’s one of the best small dog training tips for potty training success: let them walk on their own. Carrying your pup to the potty spot takes away their chance to learn how to signal when they need to go out.
Other helpful potty training tips include:
Take them outside frequently (especially after meals and naps)
Choose one spot and stick with it
Reward immediately after they go
Avoid using pee pads long-term, as this can confuse your dog about where it’s okay to go
5. Address Aggression Early
Aggression in small dogs is often misunderstood. People assume their behavior is harmless due to their size, but even a little dog can bite or cause harm if not properly trained.
Some common triggers for aggression in small dogs include:
Resource guarding (toys, food, people)
Fear or anxiety
Lack of socialization
Overprotection by the owner
If you notice signs like growling, snapping, or lunging, don’t ignore it. Address it right away with firm, but kind training techniques. Professional help from a certified dog trainer or behaviorist may also be necessary, especially if the behavior is escalating.
6. Avoid Carrying Them Everywhere
We get it—your little fluffball is easy to pick up and snuggle. But constantly carrying your dog can actually interfere with training. When your dog is always in your arms, they’re not learning how to explore, interact, or respond to commands on their own.
Instead, let your dog walk on a leash and experience the world at their own pace. This builds confidence, independence, and helps with socialization, too.
This is one of the most overlooked small dog training tips, but it can dramatically improve your pup’s behavior.
7. Socialization Is Key
Small dogs need socialization just as much as big dogs. Introduce your pup to different people, pets, and environments while they’re still young—or as soon as possible if they’re already adults.
Some ideas include:
Walking through busy parks or neighborhoods
Visiting pet-friendly cafes or stores
Arranging playdates with other dogs (size-appropriate, of course)
Letting them meet visitors in your home
Just take it slow and make the experience positive. Use treats and praise to reward calm behavior and build good associations.
8. Practice Obedience Every Day
You don’t need to spend hours training your small dog—just a few minutes each day goes a long way. Daily practice helps reinforce what your pup has learned and keeps their brain active.
Work on basic commands like:
Sit
Stay
Come
Leave it
Down
You can also teach fun tricks like “roll over” or “high five.” These are great ways to bond and can help redirect your dog’s energy in a positive way.
Daily repetition is one of the simplest yet most effective small dog training tips you can apply.
9. Watch for “Small Dog Syndrome”
This isn’t an official diagnosis, but “small dog syndrome” is a popular term for when little dogs act like they run the world. Jumping, barking, growling, refusing commands—some of it stems from how we treat them.
Many small dogs develop behavioral problems because they’re unintentionally allowed to break rules that a large dog wouldn’t get away with.
The solution? Set the same expectations you would for a 50-pound Labrador. Don’t excuse bad behavior just because it’s coming from a pint-sized pup.
10. Use the Right Gear
Harnesses are often better than collars for small dogs, especially those with delicate necks like Yorkies or Pomeranians. A well-fitted harness provides more control and reduces the risk of injury.
Other training gear worth considering:
Clicker (for clicker training)
Small, soft treats (easy to chew)
Short leash (for better control during walks)
Baby gates or exercise pens (for managing space)
Choosing the right equipment makes training more comfortable and effective for both of you.
11. Stay Calm and Patient
It’s easy to get frustrated, especially if your dog isn’t picking things up as quickly as you hoped. But patience is a cornerstone of all effective small dog training tips.
Remember:
Training takes time—some behaviors won’t change overnight
Stay calm and consistent
Celebrate small wins
Avoid punishment or yelling
When in doubt, take a break and try again later. Your mood affects your dog’s learning, so staying calm and positive makes a big difference.
12. Know When to Get Help
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might hit a wall. That’s perfectly normal. Professional dog trainers can provide tailored advice, correct problems before they worsen, and help you build a better connection with your dog.
If you're near Virginia, consider working with a Massanutten dog trainer who understands the unique challenges of training small dogs.
They can offer insight into your dog’s behavior and guide you through personalized solutions.
Train the Dog, Not the Size
Small dogs might come in compact packages, but their need for structure, training, and leadership is just as big as any other breed’s. In some ways, it’s even more important—because small dogs can easily fall into bad habits when we forget to treat them like dogs.
The best small dog training tips aren’t about being strict—they’re about being fair, clear, and consistent. Your dog looks to you for guidance. With patience and the right techniques, you can help them grow into a calm, confident, and well-behaved companion.
So whether your pup is just starting out or you're trying to correct long-standing behaviors, keep showing up, keep reinforcing the good stuff, and don’t forget to have a little fun along the way.
Need support on your training journey? Contact The Trusted Companion to see how we can help you succeed with dog training in Massanutten. Let’s bring out the best in your little dog—together.
FAQs
What are the best practices for training small dogs?
To effectively train small dogs, use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Focus on short, engaging training sessions to keep their attention. Small dogs can be sensitive, so gentle handling and consistency are crucial.
How can I deal with a small dog's stubbornness during training?
Overcome stubbornness by making training fun and rewarding. If a small dog is resistant to learning a new command, break it down into smaller steps and reward each small success. Patience and a positive attitude are key; never respond with frustration or anger.
What is the ideal age to start training a small dog?
The ideal age to start training a small dog is as early as 8 weeks old. Puppies at this age are highly adaptable and capable of learning basic commands. Early training also helps in socialization and preventing future behavioral issues.
Are there specific commands that are more important for small dogs?
Yes, commands like "come," "sit," "stay," "down," and "leave it" are essential for small dogs. These commands not only improve their behavior but also ensure their safety, especially in outdoor or potentially dangerous situations.
How should I adapt training sessions for a small dog's physical needs?
Training sessions for small dogs should be shorter to match their attention span and energy levels, typically around 5 to 10 minutes. Use small-sized treats as rewards to avoid overfeeding. Ensure the training environment is safe and comfortable, free from hazards that might scare or harm them.