Why Do Big Dogs Attack Small Dogs :- Big Dog Little Dog is a massive dilemma, but let’s rewind to the start. Whenever folks discover my ownership of a pet magazine, it’s like clockwork — they unleash a torrent of pet horror tales, typically centered around birds. Yet, after a decade in this industry, I thought I’d heard it all… until now.
Now, let me come clean: I’m not a dog owner myself. However, having grown up with canines, I’m well-versed and utterly enamored with them! So, you can fathom my shock when I stumbled upon a veterinary term coined as ‘BDLD’ or Big Dog Little Dog.
Why A Big Dog May Attack A Little Dog
There’s a myriad of reasons behind why a big dog might lunge at a little one.
It’s such a prevalent issue that veterinarians have even coined a term for it – Big Dog Little Dog or BDLD.
These attacks can be incredibly severe, often posing life-threatening situations for the smaller dog involved.
But why does this happen?
One reason stems from tension redirection. Picture this: I once witnessed a scene while driving, where two dogs, both under the same owner’s care, became excessively agitated upon spotting another dog across the street.
In a sudden surge of heightened emotions, both dogs redirected their tension towards the closest target – each other!
Whether it’s triggered by overstimulation or mounting tension, a dog under stress may resort to nearby objects or animals as an outlet for their frustration.
Do Big Dogs See Small Dogs As Prey?
Dogs typically have a knack for recognizing their own kind, but there are instances where large dogs may mistake small ones for prey, leading to potentially dangerous situations. If you notice either dog exhibiting signs of prey fixation such as stalking, stiffness, staring, or lunging, it’s crucial to intervene immediately.
Avoid the instinct to pick up your small dog, as this can sometimes exacerbate the situation by making the large dog perceive the small one as a toy. Instead, focus on getting between the dogs and diverting the attacker’s attention with toys or treats until they’re under control.
For those who frequent neighborhoods bustling with off-lead large dogs, it’s wise to carry a tool like Pet Corrector. Pepper spray is not recommended due to the risk of affecting your own dog’s eyes. In urgent situations, waving a walking stick or tossing rocks in the direction of the large dog can help divert their attention, giving you the chance to move to safety.
Loose dogs pose a threat to everyone’s safety. If you’re unable to persuade the owner to confine their dog, it’s essential to contact your local animal control for assistance.
Small Dog Aggressive to Large Dog
Why Do Big Dogs Attack Small Dogs It’s a puzzling scenario: Rottweilers, Great Danes, and Saint Bernards peacefully strolling when suddenly, tiny dogs muster the courage to launch an attack. How do these petite pooches summon such audacity to confront adversaries many times their size? It’s a perplexing question that challenges our understanding of survival instincts. After all, no human in their right mind would dare to challenge a Tyrannosaurus Rex without some formidable backup plan!
Tragically, we’ve all heard tales of small dogs with oversized attitudes instigating confrontations with larger counterparts, only to be swiftly subdued with potentially devastating consequences. With just one well-placed bite and a swift head shake, the larger dog can quickly overpower the smaller one, resulting in grave outcomes.
For owners of small dogs prone to such behavior, it’s crucial to maintain strict control. This means eschewing retractable leashes, which leave the diminutive dog in a vulnerable position with limited control in case of an emergency.
But why do small dogs engage in such risky behavior? Since we can’t delve into the psyche of these spirited canines, we’re left to speculate based on observable behaviors. Let’s explore some plausible explanations in the following paragraphs.
5 Reasons Why Some Small Dogs Are Aggressive Towards Bigger Dogs
If you’re a small dog owner grappling with your furry friend’s propensity for picking fights with larger dogs, understanding the underlying reasons behind this behavior can offer valuable insights. While each dog is unique, and there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to dog behavior, here are some potential explanations:
- Perceived Size Discrepancy: Veterinarian Marty Becker suggests that small dogs may exhibit aggression towards larger dogs because they perceive themselves as equals when they’re safely ensconced in their owner’s arms or carriers.
- Reinforcement of Aggressive Behavior: Dogs learn through reinforcement. If a small dog’s aggressive display towards a larger dog results in the larger dog retreating, this behavior is reinforced. Over time, this pattern may become ingrained as the small dog’s default response.
- Attack from Behind: Some small dogs may adopt a sneakier approach by attacking larger dogs from behind when they’re least expecting it. From the small dog’s perspective, this tactic may appear successful in “sending the big guy away.”
- Breed Predisposition: Certain breeds, particularly terriers, were historically bred for their tenacity and courage, traits that may manifest as aggression towards larger dogs perceived as threats.
- Unsolved Behavior Problems: Behavioral issues in small dogs are often overlooked or dismissed due to their size. Lack of proper socialization and overprotective tendencies from owners can contribute to fear aggression towards larger dogs.
Regardless of the underlying reasons, it’s crucial for small dog owners to prioritize safety. This includes always keeping your small dog leashed during walks (avoiding retractable leashes) and ensuring secure fencing at home to prevent escapes.
Understanding and addressing the root causes of your small dog’s aggression towards larger dogs can help foster a safer and more harmonious relationship between your furry companion and others in the community.
Proactive Things You Can Do to Help Prevent a Dog Fight
While you’re never to blame if a big dog attacks your little one, there are proactive steps you can take to mitigate risks and ensure your small dog’s safety in public spaces. Here are some factors within your control:
- Environmental Awareness: Stay vigilant and observe your surroundings to avoid potential conflicts or risky situations.
- Recognize Dominant Behaviors: Watch out for dominant body postures from other dogs, such as prolonged eye contact, high tail and stiff-legged approach, or a small freeze.
- Socialization: Properly socialize your dog so they understand how to behave around other dogs and can interact respectfully.
- Neutral Behavior: Teach your dog to react neutrally to unfamiliar dogs to prevent escalating tensions.
- “Leave It” Command: Train your dog to respond to the “leave it” command, helping them disengage from potentially volatile interactions with other dogs.
- Leash Control: Keep your dog on a leash unless you’re confident in their 100% reliable recall ability.
- Honesty About Friendliness: If your little dog isn’t friendly to all dogs all the time, respond with a firm “no” when asked about their friendliness.
- Advocate for Space: Communicate to others that your dog prefers not to be approached, advocating for their personal space.
- Avoid Off-Leash Areas: Steer clear of off-leash areas, formal or otherwise, especially if you’ve noticed a high number of large dogs.
- Limit Close Interactions: Prevent your dog from running up to or away from large dogs, minimizing the potential for confrontations.
- Give Space: Ensure there’s plenty of space between your dog and larger ones to reduce the likelihood of conflicts.
- Remain Calm: Stay relaxed even if you’re nervous, as your dog can pick up on your emotions and become upset.
- Last Resort: Pick Up Your Dog: If necessary, pick up your small dog and calmly walk away, though be mindful that this action could result in injury if the big dog attempts to jump up to reach your dog.
Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of incidents involving big dogs and ensure your small dog’s safety in public settings.
