Keeping Small Dogs Safe in the City

Small dog accessories

These days, almost all pet supply stores carry a variety of equipment sized to fit even the smallest dogs. When outside your little dog should wear a properly fitted collar that he cannot slip out of, such as a martingale style collar. For little dogs that pull on leash, an anti-pull harness such as a "Sensible" or "Easy-walk" is a good option. For small dogs with sensitive throats, body harnesses are usually a safe option. Because of their tiny size, little dogs are in danger of being stepped on while walking on city streets and should be walked on 4' leashes and kept close to their guardian's side. Retracting leashes pose a hazard to pedestrians/other dogs and potentially to your little dog as people/drivers might not see them if they are out in front of you.

Safety and identification

For safety and identification purposes small dogs should always wear an i.d.tag. If the tags are too big for your dog to wear, invest in a custom embroidered collar or a collar with a name plate. Little dogs are hard for people to see in the daytime but at night it is even more difficult. Use special lighted or reflective leashes/collars on little dogs at night and remember to keep them at your side not out in front or behind you!!

Little Dog Big World

Daily life can be very overwhelming for small dogs. It is your responsibility to protect your little one from all of the dangers associated with city living. Drivers and bikers might not see your little dog so it is a good idea to carry him across busy streets. When you are in a crowd of people your little dog may be accidentally stepped on if you are not careful. Many little dogs are shy around strangers so don't force your dog to interact with people if he or she is scared of them. Since young children can be too rough while handling small dogs be extra vigilant and careful when introducing your dog to children. If your dog is scared of people, adults or children, seek the help of a dog training professional to teach you how to build your dog's confidence and how best to help him.

Safe places to play

Little dogs are just like their bigger counterparts in that they require daily physical & mental exercise to keep them happy, healthy, pleasant companions. Even though they are easy to carry, you still must provide them with daily opportunities to just be a dog. They need to run and sniff and socialize. Their speedy little metabolisms require frequent meals and the chance to burn off those calories with exercise. Too many treats and too much time in a doggie carrier will lead to obesity and health problems. Play opportunities with other small dogs in dog parks with special sections for little dogs, or special playgroups and get-togethers for small dogs can be found throughout the Bay Area. Many little dogs are nervous around other dogs so choose playmates carefully and supervise to be sure your dog is comfortable with the other dog's play style. Don't hesitate to intervene if you feel your little dog is overwhelmed.

It is very risky to allow your little dog to play with dogs that are significantly larger. Your little dog can quickly become injured by another dog playing too roughly. Unfortunately it is not uncommon for little dogs to excite the prey instinct in other dogs causing them to grab and shake just as though your dog is a rabbit. We advise keeping your little dog safe at all times and avoiding playful interactions with bigger dogs.

Some dogs (big and little) just don't care for interactions with other dogs. This means it's up to you to provide fun and exercise with interactive games such as fetch or tug. Most little dogs love learning tricks (there are books and classes available). Stuffed Kongs and puzzle toys that challenge your dog to work for meals are a great way to keep things interesting, especially on those rainy days.

Of course, even little dogs must obey the leash laws. Only allow your dog off leash in legally designated areas, preferably fenced. Little dogs off leash can easily be distracted and dash out into traffic or fall prey to other dangers.

Little Dogs Love School too!

A few doggie manners are essential for city living dogs and there isn't much a little dog can't be trained to do, assuming of course that he is big enough for the task! As easy as it is to pick your little one up if he or she is misbehaving it is much better for them to learn how to behave politely. Well-mannered dogs are welcome in more places and you and your well behaved dog will make a great impression on people all over the city when you demonstrate basic dog manners/etiquette. Take a small dog training class and teach your dog the basics (sit, down, stay, come, leave-it and how to walk on a leash). Want to read a book about training your little dog? Check out the book called "Little Dogs: Training your pint Sized Companion" by Deborah Wood.

When you are away

When choosing service providers for your little dog make sure that they have experience with little dogs and their special needs. Many people/places now offer daycare and dog walking options just for little dogs!