Vocalizations are one way that dogs can communicate about how they are feeling and what they want. Dogs may bark to get attention, because they are alerting to something going on around them, because they are bored, anxious, frustrated, or feeling defensive of their homes or families.
Excessive barking is usually an indicator of underlying issue(s) such as pain, fear or distress, the presence of trigger(s) (e.g., passers-by, other dogs barking) and/or failure to meet the dogs' mental and physical needs (e.g., insufficient exercise, mental stimulation and/or social interaction).
A popular method of curtailing excessive barking is teaching the “quiet” command. Use a calm, firm voice to tell your dog to be “quiet” and positively reinforce correct behavior with treats and affection.
Researchers have learned that there is no inherent reason for small dogs to yap. In other words, it's not in their genetics to do so. Like most things related to unwanted or bad behaviors, the responsibility lies with the owners.
According to Horowitz, it might just be a small dog's way of compensating for their smaller size. By making a bunch of noise, they assert their dominance over their territory in a way.
Evidence Dogs Do Know Their Size
A study published in 2019 looked into this very question and found evidence that dogs do indeed have an awareness of their own body.
While some smaller dogs are hyperactive and yip and yap a lot, small breeds don't generally bark any louder or more frequently than other breeds. Small dogs don't need exercise. All dogs require a daily walk, no matter what size they are.
Fearful and anxious dogs are known to behave more aggressively towards strangers than relaxed hounds, and previous studies have associated small size with fearfulness. That make perfect sense – they're so vulnerable. Small dogs are also often less obedient and less well house-trained.
Unfortunately, dogs do not get tired of barking. This is typical behavior. It may seem like it would take a significant amount of energy to make them stop, but it doesn't. Barking is a dog's form of communication.
Small dog owners are less likely to train their dog than owners of larger dogs. Trained dogs are more likely to obey commands; therefore, this may be the reason that smaller dogs appear so disobedient. It is because they have never been trained.
Generally, this behavior is a result of your dog trying to get attention or another need met. If your dog is barking at you excessively, ignore your dog's barking and reward what you do want – the quiet moments between barking, engaging with toys etc. When your dog stops barking, praise and reward your dog.
Punishment does not teach your dog (or cat) what to do instead of scratch furniture, bark, dig, etc. Squirting your dog with a water bottle may stop the behavior temporarily. However, this punishment teaches your dog to practice the undesired behavior when you and the water bottle are not present.
As People Magazine reports: Based on the numbers gathered from Furbo users, Samoyed dogs bark the most, often up 52.8 times every day. The second chattiest canine, the Yorkshire Terrier, doesn't come close to the Samoyed's record… the little dogs bark about 23.6 times a day.
While small dogs earn lovable points in just about every category, training them to follow your directions or stop barking isn't one of them. Small dogs are indeed harder to train than large dogs, but it's not their fault; it's most likely due to genetics … and you (their owners).
While some smaller dogs are hyperactive and yip and yap a lot, small breeds don't generally bark any louder or more frequently than other breeds.
The Bottom Line
You should not put your dog in any situation in which he is stressed enough to bark all day long. This is not healthy or beneficial for the dog and will over time lead to other behavioral issues. Many dogs bark if left alone in the yard for many hours.
"It could be because little dogs feel more threatened and defensive than bigger dogs and are therefore more likely to react aggressively. And it could be that the owners of small dogs are more protective of their pets and consequently fail to socialize them properly when they are young and impressionable.
Experts in dog behavior believe that, in general, dogs do not like being embraced. However, every dog has a unique personality. Some may dislike hugs more strongly than others, and some may actually adore them. The closest thing our furry family members do to a hug is something referred to as 'standing over'.
As puppies age, they grow more independent, and by 6-12 months you may notice your once obedient pup is developing some unwanted behaviors. Don't worry, some simple training tips will help you both get through these growing pains.
When your dog is barking, say “Quiet” in a calm, firm voice. Wait until they stop barking, even if it's just to take a breath, then praise them and give them a treat. Just be careful to never reward them while they are barking.
The answer to this question isn't a simple “yes” or “no.” Dog owners know that each dog is an individual with different personalities and preferences. So some dogs love to be carried around while others may find it uncomfortable or even upsetting.