Little Dog Big World

When I do get the opportunity to have training sessions with little dogs. I try to view the world from their height. The world must appear big everywhere. No matter what they look at, everything is big. The home furniture, people, the walks may be challenging as well.

I have seen them get up on furniture to be at a better height and the view is better. In 2025 I met with two small dogs, and they were like little team as they would greet at the door barking. Then quickly jump up on the couch.

Little dogs should also have training. They too can learn new skills, and also some wonderful tricks.

In May of 2026 I had the opportunity to work with a little dog. I met him and immediately knew he was going to need more enrichment and mind stimulation. He already knew several basic skills, but he was one of those dogs, that was engaged and ready for what was about to happen. A Beagle mixes a very alert young 11-month-old, most likely in his teenager stage in life.

He enjoyed sitting in the window in his home and watching outdoors, like it was a television. The area was cleared out for him so he could sit there and enjoy the view. With time he was able to observe dogs walking near his home and also the dogs living near his home.

Walking could go really well with him, but then there were those moments it was difficult and he would be very vocal, and his body would move quickly at the end of the leash.

This is where data can come in very useful. Taking data helps to track the good moments and the troubled spots.

How to track data

1. The date and time of the walk.

2. Was the walk really nice?

3. How many dogs did the dog see?

4. When reactivity happened, where was it at?

5. What breeds were the other dogs?

6. Did the dog have pointy ears?

7. Was the other dog big or small?

8. Did the other dog also bark and bounce on the leash?

9. Were you able to use scattering of treats to help distract?

10. What other survival skills were used?

The more data that can be collected a pattern will start to develop.

I often start to teach clients BAT leash skills because this really helps on walks. There will most likely be times when these skills will be needed. Little dogs can also be reactive, so if you have a small reactive dog, you are not alone.

Reactive dogs come in all sizes and when a person is ready to learn how to help their dog, I can be reached out to.

The little dog has agency and chooses to look at Mecca making eye contact.

You too can have a professional dog trainer working with you.

Mecca Curtice, CDBC, CCDT, CBATI-KA, FDM

Mecca's All Breed Dog Training, LLC.