Small dogs have big personalities—and when properly trained, they can be some of the most loyal, well-behaved companions you’ll ever meet. But training a small-breed dog requires a slightly different approach than training a large-breed.
At K9 University in Oklahoma City, we specialize in dog training, obedience classes, behavior correction, and boarding school programs for dogs of all sizes and temperaments. If you’ve recently welcomed a small breed into your life—or are struggling with an unruly pup—this guide is for you.
Common Challenges With Small Breed Dogs
Small dogs often get labeled as “yappy,” “stubborn,” or “hard to train”—but the truth is, many of these issues come down to training inconsistencies and how we interact with them due to their size.
Here are a few common hurdles:
- Overindulgence: Their cuteness often leads to fewer boundaries.
- Lack of structure: Owners may carry them everywhere or avoid leash training.
- Underestimation: Small dogs are just as smart and trainable as larger breeds, but often aren’t challenged enough.
How to Train a Small Breed Dog Effectively
1. Start With Obedience Basics
Just like big dogs, small breeds need to learn foundational commands like:
- Heel
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Leave it
- Down
At K9 University, our obedience classes are designed to help dogs of all sizes master these core skills using proven, reward-based techniques.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Small dogs respond best to praise, treats, and play. Avoid harsh corrections—they can damage trust and cause fear-based behaviors like nipping or barking.
Pro Tip: Use gentle praise words and touch-praise for a reward, and occasionally use soft, very small bite-sized treats that are easy for little mouths to chew.
3. Be Consistent With Rules
Just because your dog is tiny doesn’t mean that the bad behavior is harmless. Jumping, growling, and leash pulling should be corrected the same way you would with a larger breed.
Set clear rules and be consistent—don’t allow them “on-the-bed” one day and punish them the next. Either rule is fine, but be consistent 100% of the time.
4. Incorporate Leash and Socialization Training Early
It’s easy to skip leash training with small dogs—but walks are essential for mental stimulation and preventing anxiety. Socialize your dog early with people, dogs, and different environments to avoid fear-based reactions later on.
Our trainers at K9 University include leash work and controlled socialization in every training program to help build calm, confident dogs.
5. Avoid Carrying Them Everywhere
It might feel natural to pick up your little seven-pound dog in a stressful situation, but this can unintentionally teach them that the world is scary and that barking or whining gets rewarded. Remember that touching them is a very strong reward, so if they are acting badly towards a person or dog and you pick them up, you’ve rewarded the behavior and it is certain to repeat itself.
Instead, teach confidence through training, exposure, and structured exercises.
Small Dog Breeds That Benefit from Professional Training
While every dog is unique, these popular small breeds often benefit from extra training support:
- Chihuahua
- Pomeranian
- Shih Tzu
- Dachshund
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Yorkie
- French Bulldog
- Toy Poodle
- Papillon
- Maltese
- Dachshund
- Boston Terrier
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Pug
- Havanese
- Terriers
Each of these breeds is very smart and capable—they just need structure and consistency, which we specialize in at K9 University in Oklahoma City.
How K9 University Helps Small Dogs Succeed
At K9 University, we know that small dogs deserve big-time training. That’s why we offer:
- Group obedience classes for small breeds
- Behavior correction and curbing for barking, aggression, or anxiety
- Private training sessions for custom support
- Full-service boarding school programs for immersive learning
- Trainers experienced in small breed personalities and needs
Our goal is to help your small dog become the calm, obedient companion you know they can be—using safe, science-backed techniques tailored to your dog.
Train Smarter, Not Harder
Whether you’re struggling with a barking Chihuahua or an anxious Yorkie, K9 University in Oklahoma City is here to help you and your small dog build better habits, stronger communication, and a more peaceful home life.