Little Dogs, More Than Just Cute
- DOGLi
- Aug 8
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 28
Why small dogs need just as much mental stimulation and enrichment tailored to their individual needs as big dogs – and how to support them meaningfully
When it comes to keeping dogs mentally stimulated, there’s one particular misconception we still hear far too often – whether in parks, training groups, or even from well-meaning dog owners:
“Small dogs don’t really need much to do.”
Or, slightly more gently:
“They’re perfectly happy curled up on someone’s lap – they don’t need that much stimulation.”
It’s a stubborn myth – and one that does small dogs a real disservice.
Small Dogs, Big Needs
Whether it’s a lively Jack Russell, a clever Papillon, a sensitive Havanese, or a mellow senior Chihuahua – small dogs need more than cuddles and soft blankets.
Yes, they often love being close to their people. But just like their larger counterparts, they truly thrive when given the opportunity to sniff, search, solve problems, explore new things, and be brave.
These activities don’t just satisfy natural curiosity – they reduce stress, help prevent behavioral issues, and lead to a more balanced, content life.
Mental enrichment has nothing to do with body size – it’s all about whether a dog is being supported in ways that meet their species-specific needs.
Small Dogs, Big Jobs
What many people forget: small dogs weren’t just bred to be cute companions – many had clearly defined jobs.
Dachshunds, terriers, miniature schnauzers, and others were specifically bred for particular tasks:
• tracking and flushing out foxes or badgers from underground burrows
• catching rats and mice in barns, homes, and aboard ships
• guarding property and food supplies
• and acting as watchful travel companions
These dogs had to be clever, agile, courageous, and independent – traits they still possess today.
So just because they’re small doesn’t mean they need less stimulation. On the contrary: many small dogs have an especially high need for mental enrichment and clearly defined tasks that suit their instincts and behavioral makeup.
🧠 Scent Games & Confidence Challenges – Not Just for Big Dogs
Scent games and gentle bravery challenges are excellent ways to engage small dogs mentally, boost their confidence, and offer meaningful tasks.
With a good eye for detail and a little creativity, you can create enriching, safe activities tailored to small dogs – ideally suited to their compact size and often lively, intelligent nature.
Great materials for scent games with small dogs include:
• yogurt cups or small jam jars – just the right size for Yorkshire Terrier noses and Pomeranian paws
• small fabric pouches or socks – easy for little dogs to move and explore
• ice cube trays or muffin tins – provide multiple small hiding spots at once
• shoeboxes with low sides – even short-legged dogs can access them with ease
• egg cartons – each compartment becomes a fun little treasure chamber
🤸♀️ Mini Confidence Challenges for Bravery & Body Awareness
Many small dogs tend to be cautious at first – especially if they’ve been picked up a lot, had negative experiences with larger dogs, or rarely had the chance to explore independently.
That’s where confidence-building games and exploration courses come in. These small-scale challenges help dogs try new things, improve coordination, and gain confidence in navigating their environment on their own.
Some simple and effective materials:
• textured rubber or doormats – perfect for sensitive paws to explore different surfaces
• shallow boxes – easy for small dogs to step in and out of
• small tunnels made from lined-up chairs – just the right size to crawl through underneath
• small sections of bubble wrap – less intimidating than large sheets
• a mix of surfaces like towels, bath mats, or carpet remnants – create variety without overwhelming
• bricks – used as mini platforms or obstacles to step over
These mini courses don’t just build confidence – they also support balance and coordination, which are valuable for dogs of all sizes.
💡 Things to Keep in Mind with Small Dogs
• Adjust treat size: Use tiny rewards or break larger treats into small pieces – a full-sized biscuit can be too much for a 2 kg Chihuahua.
• Keep hiding spots low: What’s easily reachable for a retriever might be a serious climb for a dachshund.
• Be especially careful with swallowable items: What’s harmless for large dogs can pose a choking risk for smaller ones. Don’t leave your dog unsupervised with materials that haven’t been tested for safety.
• Introduce new experiences gently: Many small dogs are naturally a bit cautious – give them time to observe and explore at their own pace. Celebrate the small victories!
• Create success moments: Start with easy challenges and simple hiding spots. These encourage curiosity, build confidence, and provide a solid foundation for future enrichment.
Big Personality, Small Body
Just because a dog fits in a handbag doesn’t mean their brain does.
Small dogs often have bright minds, powerful noses, and a huge sense of curiosity – and they absolutely deserve opportunities to use all of that.
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