A small dog is more at risk than a large one, especially at dog parks, dog runs and even at doggie daycare. It’s up to you to keep your little dog protected. There are several steps that you could take to do so. When choosing a dog day care facility, choose a place where dogs are screened for good social skills and lack of aggressive tendencies. If the big dogs and small dogs are kept in separate areas, your dog will be much less at risk. Make sure that you are very vigilant at the dog park. An irresponsible owner can show up anytime with an overly excited or badly behaved dog.

I once had my small dog in the park on his lease and the very irresponsible dog owner let his large dog in the park without a leash. The dog charged toward me and my little dog, knocked me over and had my little dog in it’s mouth. After I got up and charged at him, the he my little dog. Luckily my little dog got away with some cuts, although he was very tramatized. I think of that horrible day from time to time and still can’t believe how people could be so stupid and not use any common sense!  My advice would be to look for a park with a separate area set aside for small days to play safely.

Remember, your pets count!