Discussions surrounding favorite dog breeds and sizes often ignite passionate debates, particularly regarding the compatibility of big and small breeds in households. Despite concerns about potential challenges, it’s reassuring to know that big dogs and small dogs can coexist harmoniously and enjoy each other’s company. While introducing a smaller dog to a household with larger dogs may require caution initially, well-mannered interactions and adaptability can foster positive relationships regardless of size differences. While some people worry about the safety of smaller dogs in the presence of larger ones, others emphasize the importance of nurturing affectionate bonds and ensuring the happiness of all family members, including pets.
This sentiment is echoed in a recent post on the AITA subreddit, where u/IttyBittyDoggo shared their decision to get a small dog for their child despite concerns raised by a friend. Despite initial apprehensions, the small dog quickly integrated into the family dynamic and formed a close bond with their son. But due to the friend’s objections, OP started to rethink her decision to get a small dog for her youngest son when the elder children have big dogs.
Scroll down to read the full story.
Source: Reddit
1. The OP is contemplating her decision to get a small breed dog for her son when all her other kids have large breed dogs.
2. OP’s family get their children a dog when they get mature enough to handle them. Recently, her youngest son got a small breed dog on his wish while the rest of his siblings have large breed dogs.
3. Upon seeing this OP’s friend reprimanded her as her friend thinks that the small dog would be anxious in the company of the big ones and will live its life in fear.
4. The friend pointed out that the small dog follows her son everywhere because he is scared and seeks protection from her son. While OP believes that the dog is not afraid at all and follows the son for treats.
5. Despite the apparent harmony among all the dogs in the household, OP finds herself reconsidering her decision due to her friend’s opinions.
Now that you have read the story, it’s time for you to see what Redditors had to say about this. Read till the end to see what are other people’s opinions on this.
6. A Redditor shared their own firsthand experience of successfully raising both a large and small breed dog together in the same household, highlighting that they encountered no issues with compatibility or cohabitation.
7. My Shih Tzu ignores every dog that is not a large breed when she visits the park. She loves playing with the big dogs.
8. If the dogs get along and there is no aggression then cohabitation of different breed dogs is not a problem.
9. With proper training and environment, the big dogs learn how to interact with the small dogs.
10. The small dog would show signs of anxiety and fear if he felt intimidated by the big ones.
11. OP’s friend appears to tend to interfere in others’ affairs and offer unsolicited advice, even in situations where it is not warranted or requested.
12. In many cases, smaller dogs assert themselves as leaders and assert dominance over larger ones.
13. OP’s friend has no idea what she is talking about…she just wants to force her opinions on OP.
14. OP’s friend may not fully comprehend the assertive and sassy nature that small dogs can exhibit.
15. Dogs don’t feel insecure about their sizes.
16. The largest and smallest dogs often form the strongest bonds and exhibit remarkable compatibility, regardless of their size differences.
17. The dogs care more about attitude and body language than the size of the other dogs.
18. If there are no problems now, there will be no problems in the long run too if the dogs are trained properly.
19. Another Redditor recounted her story where their dog would be afraid of their pet cats and feel intimidated by them.
20. Even veterinarians confirm that dogs typically have no awareness of their own size or the sizes of other dogs. As long as there is no aggression present, dogs generally get along well regardless of their size differences.
The OP can rest assured that there is no need to be concerned about her friend’s claims. As long as she observes that the small dog is thriving in the company of the larger ones, there is no genuine issue at hand. Additionally, the community’s consensus aligns with this perspective, as they have observed firsthand that small dogs can indeed get along perfectly well with big dogs. What are your thoughts on this? Do share them in the comments section below.
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