Dog behaviourist Alan Peiro has warned that picking up your dog in public can do more harm than good, potentially encouraging anxiety, dependence and attention-seeking habits. Speaking on the Branni Podcast, he said that constantly fussing over pets, picking them up or soothing them at every whimper may inadvertently reinforce fearful behaviour.
Picking up dogs sends the wrong message
According to the expert, picking a dog up in public could indicate to the animal that it “should be afraid of other dogs”. He also expressed concern that this behaviour prevents socialisation, stressing that dogs “speak a different language to us” and require owners to learn how to communicate with their own species.
While most owners have good intentions, the trainer suggested that overindulging a pet could potentially cause “harm” and “psychological problems”. This is because it undermines their decision-making and affects their emotional well-being.
Advice for owners of small dogs
Addressing owners with small dogs, Alan said: “Those people with tiny dogs, such as Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, Maltese, Italian Greyhounds, Miniature Pinschers... When you pick your dog up, you're sending the wrong message.
“What you're really telling the dog is that it should be afraid of other dogs; you're not letting it socialise.
“Dogs need to learn how to socialise; they speak a different language from us. Obviously, if I see a dog coming towards me with bloodshot eyes, I'm not going to go near it.”
He added: “Of course, you have to use your judgement. But if I see someone coming towards me with their dog, the first thing I'll do is ask: 'Does your dog get on well with other dogs?' If the answer is yes, I'll let them meet because dogs need to socialise.”
Psychological problems from overprotection
Alan said: “When we overprotect our dogs and treat them as if they were children, that's when psychological problems start. Carrying them around in handbags or pushing them in prams... All of that actually harms the dog.”
Instead of babying a dog, he recommends letting them figure out encounters on their own, taking a step back and carefully observing the body language of both pets. Allowing the dog to handle the situation itself can teach invaluable lessons about socialising.
To help a dog feel confident and independent, Alan recommends “setting boundaries from when they're puppies”. However, there are also steps that can be taken to make adult dogs feel more confident.
Tips for a more confident and independent dog
- Reward bravery, not reassurance: when a dog investigates something new, quietly praise and treat, avoiding over-soothing anxious behaviour.
- Use gradual exposure: introduce unfamiliar things at a distance the dog can handle, then slowly reduce the distance as they stay relaxed.
- Let them make choices: on walks, allow sniffing and choosing between two routes sometimes, as choice builds confidence.
- Teach simple “wins”: short sessions of sit, down, touch, “find it” or basic trick training can make nervous dogs feel more in control.
- Stop constant “shadowing”: if a dog follows everywhere, gently break the habit with baby gates or settling them on a mat, returning before they become distressed.
- Create a predictable routine: regular meals, walks and rest periods can reduce clinginess stemming from uncertainty.
- Reward calm attention, not demanding attention: if a dog paws or barks for fuss, wait for quiet, then reward.
