Is it OK to have a small dog and a big dog?
Jonathon Bartell
2025-06-06 13:37:37
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We as most know have 2 huskies and their big dogs and they play rough they are good with small dogs but they do play rough. Large dogs just can't play properly with a small dog. One breeder said that even though they can play together it won't be the same as 2 dogs of similar size playing it's just not a fair match. We have chosen a mini schnauzer and we've spoken too a few breeders and we have been given the same advice to wait till our 2 huskies are gone. I know their are members here with small and large dogs and I know they can get along but I'd like really honest awnsers here should we wait till our huskies are gone before we get a small dog.
Ruby Bergstrom
2025-06-06 13:04:48
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Big Dogs And Little Dogs Sharing A Household Small dogs and big dogs can get along beautifully, and may even snuggle up and share beds. With safety precautions in place, bigger and littler can have fun, enriching relationships. As with all doggy housemates, it's important that you do not show favouritism, and try to avoid situations that can lead to resource guarding. Give your dogs food and bones in separate crates, or use a puppy pen to give each dog a safe space of their own. Dogs typically recognize another from their own species, though it is possible for large dogs to think small dogs are prey, and they may lunge, chase, even kill small dogs. When large and small dogs play together, look for signs that the bigger dog is accommodating their little buddy. Often, large dogs will slow down, even lie down to get on their smaller friend's level. Play fighting is normal, even if it's noisy, just make sure both dogs are relaxed and bouncy, and neither dog is actively trying to get away. Praise your dogs when you notice that they are playing nicely.
Linnea Bechtelar
2025-06-06 12:38:26
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While it may seem funny, small dogs and big dogs can make the best of friends. Take best friends Jamie and Pirate for example. These two learned how to be great companions who know how to play safely & kindly. Sometimes, small dogs need a couple extra breaks as well as a few safety precautions to ensure a fun time. Keep the small dog’s comfort and desires in mind. Many small dogs, especially those that are older and may not have a lot of experience being in close proximity with larger dogs, use overt communication like growling or snapping to get across their needs & wants. If the small dog is being pushed past their comfort level consistently, then this likely means we need to back off those interactions a bit, maybe have the large dog a bit further away on a leash or behind a baby gate, so that the small dog can start with learning that being near to the large dog is a safe and comfortable thing to do. Small dogs can be awesome adventure buddies. Jamie and Pirate say, “we may be different sizes, but we are the two best friends ever!”
Turner Hegmann
2025-06-06 11:30:55
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Having a small dog and a big dog in one household can be a concern, as a bigger dog may accidentally hurt a smaller pup. My dog gets along fairly well with dogs of all sizes but she tends to play a little rough. I sometimes wonder about her prey drive and whether or not a smaller pup would trigger it. For anybody that has both small and big dogs in one household, have you ever worried about your bigger dog accidentally hurting your smaller pup? How’s the dynamic in your household?
Linwood Walter
2025-06-06 10:57:06
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Big dogs and little dogs can safely live together, but there are precautions you need to take to ensure all goes well. Before considering bringing another dog into your home, your first question should be if your existing dog wants another dog in the house. You get to make final decisions regarding bringing pets into your home. Just know that if you have a dog who already doesn’t like other dogs, you should address that first. Adding another dog is going to be a major project in management, training, and keeping your dogs and family safe. Does your dog jump at you when you are carrying things, like laundry or his food bowl? Work on him walking next to you instead, or sitting as you walk by, as it would not be good if he jumped up to try to get a small dog out of your arms. With your guidance and supervision, your big dog and little dog can develop a beautiful friendship to last a lifetime. Make use of crates, baby gates, exercise pens, and tethering (under supervision) to ensure everyone stays safe. Do not depend on the dogs to “work it out” on their own.
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