Teach Big Dogs to Play Nicely With Small Dogs

We all want our dogs of all sizes to get along, but sometimes the owners of small dogs can get (understandably) a little nervous about inviting bigger dogs to play. 

Here in Fargo, the dog parks are even divided up with an area for "big dogs" and an area for "small dogs." The following are some ideas to

Help your dog (no matter her size) get along with larger and smaller dogs.

1. All dog introductions should be slow.

When a new dog enters the dog park, all the other dogs come charging up to greet the newcomer. This can be threatening - or at least overwhelming - to the new dog. This is why I only recommend dog parks for extremely easygoing, well-socialized dogs.

To be on the safe side, it's always best to introduce new dogs very slowly. Walking them together side by side with no pressure to interact is much better than head-on greetings with direct eye contact. This is true for dogs of all sizes, but when introducing a small dog to a larger dog, it's even more important. I recommend using a martingale dog collar during walks to encourage good leash manners while preventing the dog from slipping away.

2. Make sure the small dog behaves, too.

I've noticed quite a few dog-to-dog interactions where the small dog is the one being inappropriate. The small dog might be barking constantly, nipping at the larger dog's face or paws or perhaps trying to climb on top of the larger dog. No one says anything until - finally - the big dog lets out a growl or a nasty bark. And then what happens? The big dog is scolded! Instead, the owners should've intervened a long time ago and re-directed the attention of the smaller dog.

It's important to watch both dogs for signs of stress. For example, one dog might be trying to avoid the other by looking away or pretending to show interest in the grass.

3. Take breaks during play sessions.

If two dogs are playing nicely, and there starts to be a lot of barking, growling, wrestling and chasing, it's a good idea to re-direct them for a moment so the overall energy defuses. As play escalates, sometimes it can lead to rougher and rougher play and sometimes a fight. So, it's best to encourage the dogs to take it down a notch and resume appropriate playing after a few minutes. This is especially true for dogs that don't know each other well, if you're dealing with two dogs of very different sizes or if the larger dog has any amount of prey drive.

A few other safety precautions:

• Keep all the dog toys put away. This prevents either dog from showing possessiveness over a toy.
• When dogs are playing, buckle dog collars are a good option because these are easier to remove if the dogs get tangled.

4. Slowly socialize your dog to dogs of all sizes.

It's important for dogs to learn to play appropriately with other dogs of all sizes. If you have a puppy or a friendly dog, start introducing her to a variety of dogs of different breeds, sizes, ages and energy levels. Of course, there are some dogs that just don't play nicely with others. If your dog needs some help in this area, it's a good idea to seek some help from a professional trainer.

Introducing dogs of different sizes to each other requires patience, understanding, and careful management to ensure positive interactions. As a dog owner myself, I have faced the challenge of helping my dog get along with others, regardless of their size. Here’s a more in-depth look into how I approach these introductions and manage playtime effectively.

The Importance of Slow Introductions

When I first take my dog to a new environment or introduce her to a new dog, I ensure the process is slow and steady. This prevents overwhelming her or the other dog. I’ve noticed that a common issue at dog parks is the rush of dogs greeting a newcomer all at once. This can be especially intimidating for smaller dogs or those that are shy.

To avoid this, I prefer one-on-one introductions outside of the busy dog park setting. Walking both dogs together, side by side, is an excellent strategy. This method allows them to get used to each other’s presence without the pressure of direct interaction. Using a martingale collar during these walks has proven beneficial for me, as it provides gentle control and prevents my dog from slipping out of her collar.

Ensuring All Dogs Behave Appropriately

It’s so important to keep in mind and remember that inappropriate behavior can come from dogs of all sizes. I’ve seen instances where smaller dogs are the instigators, barking incessantly or nipping at larger dogs. This can lead to a situation where the larger dog reacts defensively, often getting unfairly blamed for the altercation.

In my experience, it’s important to monitor both dogs for signs of stress or discomfort. If I notice either dog trying to avoid interaction, such as looking away or pretending to be interested in something else, I intervene to give them some space. Redirecting a smaller dog’s attention early on can prevent the situation from escalating. For example, I might call my dog away or engage her in a different activity to diffuse any tension.

Taking Breaks During Play Sessions

Playtime can sometimes become too intense, leading to rough behavior or potential fights. I always keep an eye on the energy levels during play sessions. If the dogs start to bark, growl, or wrestle too vigorously, I step in to give them a break. This helps reset the energy and prevents the play from becoming too rough.

One effective method I use is to call my dog over and have her sit or lie down for a minute or two. This brief pause helps calm things down. Once both dogs are relaxed, they can resume playing more appropriately. This approach is particularly useful when dealing with dogs that are not familiar with each other or when there’s a significant size difference.

Safety Precautions and Playtime Management

Ensuring a safe play environment is paramount. One precaution I take is to keep all toys put away during initial introductions. This prevents possessiveness and potential conflicts over toys. Additionally, I use buckle collars for my dog because they can be quickly removed if the dogs get tangled up during play.

Another important aspect of managing dog interactions is being aware of the prey drive, especially in larger dogs. If I’m introducing my small dog to a larger one with a high prey drive, I’m particularly cautious and supervise closely to prevent any chasing that could lead to harm.

Gradual Socialization with Dogs of All Sizes

Gradual socialization is key to helping dogs learn to play well with others. I’ve found that exposing my dog to a variety of other dogs from a young age helps her develop good social skills. Introducing her to different breeds, sizes, and energy levels has made her more adaptable and comfortable in various social settings.

For dogs that struggle with socialization, seeking help from a professional trainer can make a significant difference. I’ve seen many dogs benefit from structured training sessions that teach them how to interact positively with other dogs. If your dog has difficulty playing nicely, don’t hesitate to get professional assistance.

Personal Experiences and Practical Tips

In my personal experience, creating a positive and safe environment for dogs to interact involves a few practical tips. Here are some additional thoughts based on what has worked well for me:

• Use Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding good behavior with treats or praise encourages dogs to behave appropriately. For instance, if my dog greets another dog calmly, I reward her to reinforce that behavior.
• Observe Body Language: Understanding canine body language helps me anticipate and prevent conflicts. Signs of stress, like lip licking, yawning, or tail tucking, indicate that a dog might need a break.
• Manage Your Own Stress: Dogs can pick up on our emotions. If I stay calm and relaxed, it helps my dog feel more at ease during introductions.
• Choose the Right Environment: Opt for neutral, open spaces for initial meetings rather than confined areas. This reduces territorial behavior and gives dogs room to move around comfortably.
• Be Patient: Building good relationships between dogs takes time. I don’t rush the process and allow the dogs to set the pace for their interactions.

Reflecting on Dog Park Experiences

In Fargo, where dog parks are divided into areas for big and small dogs, I’ve found that this separation can be beneficial for initial play sessions. However, it’s also valuable for dogs to learn to interact across these boundaries in controlled settings. By taking the time to facilitate positive interactions between dogs of different sizes, I’ve seen my dog become more confident and better behaved around others.

Does your dog play nicely with others? If not, consider these strategies and remember that every dog is unique. Tailoring your approach to your dog’s specific needs and temperament will help create a harmonious environment for all dogs, big and small.