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How to Train a Small Dog

By Pawform Editorial Team · Updated July 31, 2026 · 5 min read

Understanding Your Small Dog Breed

Training a small dog begins with understanding their unique traits and tendencies. Small dog breeds like Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire Terriers often display strong personalities and may be prone to stubbornness. Knowing these traits helps in developing a tailored training plan that works best for your dog. Remember that small dogs often don’t respond well to harsh training techniques due to their size and temperament. Instead, emphasize positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.

The Importance of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the foundation of successfully training a small dog. This method rewards your dog for desired behaviors, making them more likely to repeat those behaviors. Here’s how to implement it effectively:

1. Choose Your Rewards: Use treats, praises, or toys that your dog loves. Small, bite-sized treats work best!
2. Timing is Key: Always reward your dog immediately after they perform the desired behavior. This helps them associate the reward with what they’ve done right.
3. Consistency: Use the same commands and rewards consistently to avoid confusion.

By fostering a positive environment, your small dog will be more eager to learn and participate in training sessions.

Start with Basic Commands

When learning how to train a small dog, begin with simple commands that serve as the foundation for more complex behaviors. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Sit:

   • Hold a treat above your dog’s nose.
   • Slowly move your hand upwards, encouraging your dog to sit back to reach the treat.
   • As soon as their bottom touches the ground, say “Sit” and reward them.

2. Stay:

   • Once your dog has mastered “Sit,” teach “Stay.”
   • Have your dog sit, then say “Stay” and take a few steps back.
   • If they stay in place, reward them. Gradually increase the distance.

3. Come:

   • Call your dog from a short distance, using a cheerful tone.
   • When they come to you, reward with treats and lots of praise.

Each of these commands not only boosts obedience but also enhances your bond with your dog.

Keep Training Sessions Short and Engaging

Small dogs often have short attention spans, so it’s important to keep training sessions short, engaging, and frequent:

1. Session Length: Aim for 5-10 minutes per session.
2. Frequency: Train a few times a day instead of one longer session.
3. Mix It Up: Use different commands, games, and rewards to keep training exciting.

Remember, the goal is to make training a fun experience, which can significantly improve your dog’s willingness to learn.

Incorporating Brain Games for Better Learning

To enhance your small dog’s training, consider integrating brain games. These activities stimulate your dog mentally and help reinforce what they’ve learned:

• Puzzle Toys: Use toys that require your dog to solve challenges to access treats.
• Hide and Seek: Hide treats around your home and encourage your dog to find them. This creates a fun scavenger hunt while enhancing their problem-solving skills.
• Interactive Games: Engage your dog in games like “find the toy” where they need to locate a hidden favorite toy.

As you use these brain games, your small dog not only learns obedience but also develops essential cognitive skills, leading to fewer behavioral issues.

Addressing Common Behavior Problems

Small dogs may be prone to certain behavior problems, such as excessive barking or jumping. Here are actionable steps to address these:

1. Barking:

   • Identify triggers (like the doorbell or another dog passing by).
   • Redirect their attention with a command (like “sit” or “come”) and reward quiet behavior.

2. Jumping Up:

   • Ignore your dog when they jump, as attention (even negative) reinforces the behavior.
   • Only greet them and give them attention when they keep all four paws on the ground.

3. Chewing:

   • Provide appropriate chew toys and distract them when they reach for furniture.
   • When they chew the correct items, reward them with praise and treats.

These methods address the problems positively without resorting to punishment, which can harm your relationship with your dog.

Being Patient and Consistent

Patience and consistency are vital throughout the training process. Remember that every dog learns at their own pace. Here are some tips:

• Set Realistic Expectations: It may take time for your dog to master a command.
• Always End on a Positive Note: Conclude training sessions while your dog is still engaged and happy, setting the stage for success in future sessions.

With dedicated efforts, your small dog will respond positively and improve their obedience.

Resources to Enhance Training

To support your training journey, consider advanced resources like Brain Training for Dogs, which utilizes brain games designed specifically to boost obedience and eliminate problem behaviors. Such programs offer guidance tailored to positive reinforcement techniques, ensuring you’re on the right track to a well-trained, happy companion.

Training a small dog doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right techniques, motivation, and patience, you’ll transform their behavior and strengthen your bond. Enjoy the journey of building a better relationship with your furry friend!