Why do so many guys hate small dogs?

Question

They are just as cute as big dogs. I think most guys are trying to be macho when they say they don't like little dogs because they think it will make them look weak, what do you think?

Ps: I have a black Pomeranian named Jimmy and he is just cute as a button. I love big dogs. I have no prefrance, I just wonder why there is such a bad rep for the little guys

Gazorpazorp · Accepted Answer

The short answer - past experience.

I can only speak for myself but before I was interested in dogs I had no preference thinking they were are all more or less the same and then I met little dogs... obnoxious, entitled poorly trained little menaces paired with humans who can't train/handle them. Granted this is a stereotype and can occur in other breeds large or small but I can honestly only think of 2 small dogs I have ever met that I dont hate and both those belong to a girl who is an amazing dog trainer and knows how to raise them.

Also what you call cute I would call pathetic looking - little timid thing full of hate and fear shivering and barking at anything else thats alive (that is perceived as a threat) versus big friendly smiling thing - its an easy choice for me at least. Timid baby to coddle versus fluffy friend - its got nothing to do with being macho or anything.

I have 2 dogs a golden retriever and a leonberger - so large and giant size. Now more than ever I cannot stand little dogs because 95% of dogs smaller than say a beagle just seem to be tiny balls of rage whenever they encounter my two particularly my Leo. Owners generally are genuinely/act surprised when the little dog just yap yap yap yap then lunges and bites my dogs lips/ears. Of course being a gentle giant he just kind of looks away confused by it all but this is a daily occurrence. Generally speaking I avoid them when I'm out with my two for that reason, I don't want to subject them to little dog's bad behavior and its inherit insecurities.

The reason I like having my big dogs - they are quiet, the Leo for example hasn't barked once in the past ~6+ months. They are never fearful of anything - thunderstorms power tools vacuum cleaners, other people other dogs etc etc they honestly couldn't care less. Every person is their friend, cats are their friends. I can confidently leave them in any situation and I know they are patient/level headed enough to not bite/lash out. Its far more enjoyable patting/cuddling/walking/playing with an animal that's super gentle and almost the same size as you as opposed to a moving stuffed animal who thinks the world is out to eat it.

0ddjob · Accepted Answer

(1) Big dogs are usually from the working breeds and have some inbred ability that is useful, engaging, admirable, etc. They have a talent for doing something besides turning kibble into dog crap.

(2) a nice, substantial baritone or bass "WOOF!", instead of that godforsaken, incessant, brain-rasping, high-pitched "yip, yip, yap!"

(3) value as a deterrent: a burglar, rapist, thief, etc. is going to pay a lot less attention to an animal that might tear a hole in his sock, vs. one that could tear a hole in his jugular vein, his windpipe or his reproductive organs.

(4) personality: little dogs tend to be bossy, needy, nervous, spiteful, willful (at least in my experience). Big dogs (though some can be mean bastards) generally are more mellow and less often manifest personality traits that I find annoying.

(5) small breeds, on average, require more veterinary care than large breeds.

toulouse · Accepted Answer

i have small dogs. al are very hardy and wolf/ fox like. and I only ever get tons of compliments from guys who see them or are around them for any length of time. they are strong and I can wrestle hike for hours on end, do all the things with them I could do with my huskies, but they can live in a city which my huskies could not. anyways, I don't know any guys who hate small dogs. maybe guys who hang out at bars and have to protect their image so they come up with nonsense like you can't do anything with small dogs. dogs came from wolves and fox. breeds like chihuahuas are ancient. dogs are dogs. they are all awesome. its nota c guy thing to hate animals that domesticated humans. w/e the currently strain.. its just about being an idiot. we owe a lot to wolves and fox. anyways,  its idiocy to be hating on animals period. imo.

Winteredrose5162 · Accepted Answer

The bigger the better! Its not just guys, I prefer big dogs too. Especially Newfoundlands which are great for hiking in the snow! Some people like lap dogs and some prefer outdoors and rough housing dogs. My boyfriend likes small dogs because they're gentle, I like big ones because I won't have to worry about everything eating them when we go hiking. I don't think its about cuteness, you see it as cuteness but the people who prefer big dogs see the activities and look for companionship. A small dog feels more like a dependent than a friend.

Lol My dad would never let me go hiking alone unless I brought our half pit bull/half bulldog (who was actually the sweetest dog I've ever known!) but I don't think he would let me go at all if I had a chiwawa or some other tiny dog.

Haha which would you take hiking: link

snowangle · Accepted Answer

I dunno, lol it's funny. I personally prefer big dogs (like GREAT DANE big), but then my large, football-player cousin has a little pug. :P

Guys who are complaining about the traits small dogs have: the truth is, there are lots of small dog breeds that are intelligent, independent, quiet, and playful. And small dogs are cheaper, easier to keep up or take on trips, and ideal for apartment living. All you need is a little research. :) If large dogs are just what you prefer, that's fine, but don't go bad mouth the little ones haha.

kheserthorpe · Answer

Cute isn't something men tend to choose unless its a sex partner.

They think their own kids are cute but that's something they sort of stumble into.

I would say generally men like dogs specifically because they are bigger. They like dog-as-companions more than dog-as-substitute-child. Now small dogs do act as companions and some people treat huge dogs like their babies. Both are spectrums. But guys tend to be higher on the 'my dog is a buddy' scale and lower on the 'my dog is my cute baby' scale.

The way you phrase it seems to suggest men wish they could drive cute cars while wearing cute outfits and playing with their cute dogs, but hold back because they worry about appearing less macho. That may be true for some men, but most men actually -prefer- 'macho' stuff. They like tough looking things and rugged stuff and movies where tough guys blow things up. It's not an act.

wpmason · Answer

I've had both, and I definitely prefer large breeds. They usually have better dispositions because they're not threatened by everything. Also, little dogs tend to be noisier, as in they bark all the time. Plus, I've seen a lot of little dogs that attach to one person, and treat everyone else terribly. Big dogs spread the love around.

And from a practical standpoint, I'd rather have a dog that could save my life. Whether it attacks an intruder, drags me out of a burning building, pulls me out of icy water... whatever, I like the security that they offer.

MilaPohstro · Answer

I'm with the guys who really don't care for them that much.

I usually enjoy the small quiet ones.

The yappers, that get up under your feet and won't shut up. I just find that annoying.

I love big dogs I have grown up with medium to large to extra large dogs all my life. They are powerful, great to cuddle with and all the ones I have had are so incredible sweet, protective and gentle.

Lol, I need a guy like that :p

I find it funny though usually really big guys like small dogs :P

My mom knew a guy he had a small black dog with wire heir she saw so tiny...he loved her do death! That was his baby. A guy in they office had a chihuahua under his arm that look like it weighed no more than three pound, he was rubbing it's little nose and smiling.

DanteSparda · Answer

I also don't have preference..I think it depends upon guy's personality... for me, I like pugs and they're so cute ^_^ plus they're less expensive ,though some people don't like them...

Anonymous · Answer

"They are just as cute as big dogs"

I think that statement explains your misunderstanding. For guys, dogs are about fun, companionship and loyalty, not cuteness.

It's nothing to do with being macho. Dogs are descendants of wolves, and real dog breeds were bred to be working animals with many of their wolf-like qualities still intact. Pomeranians and other little "dog" breeds don't resemble wolves any more than rats do. They are inaccurately identified as canines and are annoying, noisy little rodents that serve no purpose aside from being 'cute', just like cats, which is why men don't like them any more than they like cats.

Northeast106 · Answer

Small dogs to me are not real dogs. It has nothing to do with being macho, but aside from having a dog as a companion, I also want that dog to be able to protect the house, intimidate intruders, and possibly work. Dogs were actually bred for specific jobs, they weren't just pampered as pets or children. They are called man's best friend for their loyalty, dedication, and the fact that they could contribute to hunting, herding, etc. Cats were kept around to kill mice, and to protect grains/food storage. I love all animals, I even had a chinchilla that was the coolest and cutest thing even though he wasn't a "macho pet". But a dog to me just needs to be a dog. Either a shepherd, rottweiler, mastiff, husky, etc. That being said if a woman has a small dog and I'm with her, than of course I would be good to her pet. Her pet is a part of her, so I would treat her/him like it was my own dog. Take it for walks, pet it, treats, etc.

Prettygurl12 · Answer

Coming from someone who was born and raised in a farming/ranching community...small dogs are wastes of space. They serve no purpose other than to give one headaches and run under foot and and tire.

Small dogs are cute, but I need my dog to have some use (herding,hunting,hiking) and small dogs don't do that.

As my mom says, "If we had a small dog, I guarantee you'd all have broken an ankle by now and we'd have another grave in the back yard."

To each his own though I suppose.

sef0181 · Answer

My question: Why do so many women like small dogs?

If it fits in a glass tank it's probably a rat, not a dog.

And have you ever heard a yappy dog? They're usually the size of a football. And they're annoying, so man's initial instinct is to punt them.

Konnour · Answer

Because they are ugly (the main reason, chihuahua for example looks worse than rats)

..they are obnoxiously loud and aggressive (caused by insecurity - they know they are tiny and want to prove themselves)

..they are useless (when walking down the street when it's late - you're better accompanied by a kitten)

Anonymous · Answer

I hate how they bark a lot. I hate how they freak out all the time when someone's at the door. I hate how they always want to walk over you and sit on your lap.

I'm sure not all small dogs are like this but all the ones I know of are. It's almost like they can't shut the hell up. I have a bigger dog and it doesn't bark or walk over people. He may get happy when someone new comes along but he doesn't freak out. I can trust letting him outside and know he will stay on the property or just lie down on the deck for a while. They seem more independent to me.

TheStaff_Sergeant · Answer

I have white poodle. In his mind, he is a big dog. If you ever knocked on my door while he's in patrol mode, you'd might think that I had rottweiler. Well, maybe a rottweiler puppy, but nonetheless, a rottweiler.

By the way, his name is Kobe, and he hates the Boston Celtics.

sketchy · Answer

You may as well have a pet rat. You can't play games with them or even take them for a decent walk. If you want a dog, get a proper dog. If you just want something cute for companionship, get a cat - they're far more intelligent and have more character.

Hotstuffhhh · Answer

A woman with dogs is the biggest turn off there is. Even if it was the last woman on the planet, I would never ever date a dog owner. Dont they see that it is the reason they stau signle forever? Why not go for independent animals like a cat? Dogs are disgusting and their clinging and complete lack of indpendence is repulsive! Even if dating a dog owner would be a nightmare, it could potentially be better than dating a single mom, as the dog can be taken out of its misery at the vets. Animals belong in nature and not in the living room.

nermalinda · Answer

I have seen a lot of guys with small dogs, recently. Especially in bigger cities where there's not as much room.

I think a lot of guys actually do like small dogs because they're cute and they attract women.

However, some guys want their dog to make them look macho, so they get bigger breeds. Personally, when a guy has a scary-looking dog, it turns me off. I would love a guy who liked cute pets :D

KnuckleheadMMA · Answer

I've had big dogs and small dogs and I prefer big dogs.  Best thing I like about 'em is being able to wrestle with 'em.  Little dogs are often snippy little things with a Napoleon complex.  Also, if a guy is out walking a boxer it looks better than if he's walking a toy poodle.

Anonymous · Answer

It's always a red flag to me if people say they "hate" any kind of dog, haha!

Anonymous · Answer

because they are annoying as hell. I used to work in a doggy day camp and literally every little dog, and a lot of little dogs I meet out in the park and whatnot, have this inferiority complex where they are overly-aggressive and barky

sexyasianboi26 · Answer

Yup I hate small dogs. I currently got a grey wolf, only 3 years old but she's BIG :D

posted · Answer

A husky is a f***ing amazing dog, that or a wolf.  A little purse dog is kinda meh. I like my cats but I have always wanted a husky.

Anonymous · Answer

cause men are not maternal and want a dog as a protector and best friend not to mommy them I think.

raineydaygurl · Answer

some small dogs are fine but I find the vast majority of them yippy little things. and they annoy me. I vastly prefer big dogs myself.

TMcBride · Answer

I have met a few exceptions to the rule, but most of the small dogs I have met are extremely yappy and all around poorly trained or downright untrainable. As many people have pointed out, besides being "cute" and having a ton of health problems because of it, the are pretty useless. I like cats because they're less needy and quieter. I believe dogs are happiest when they have a job and when they are kept as accessories they have so many mental/emotional issues.

Georgiacarr · Answer

They don't like cute dogs. I guess it's not masculine enough for them. I prefer tiny, fluffy cute dogs. I'm not the wrinkled, saggy, droopy faced bulldog loving type. Men adore these dogs the most for some reason. I love animals but if I get a dog it'll have to be a Maltese, Golden Retriever or Yorkie. :)

Silvershade · Answer

Small dogs have more behavioral problems...
times I've been bitten by a small dog: 5 times
times I've been bitten by a large dog: 0 times

times a small dog has been agressive around me: 60 times
large dog?: 2ce (and I was hugging him so it was my fault)

KittyLink · Answer

Maybe they think it reflects on them, and they don't want to be perceived as small and cute. They want you to relate them to big strong things. RAWR! lol idk. It's what I think! :D

PricelessPearl · Answer

I know!  I love my little dog :P They don't like them because they are annoying and usually yappers and biters. But my dog is so well behaved..

mangetsby · Answer

The only dogs I don't like are the ones that can't jog alongside you. I really like Jack Russell Terriers for what it's worth

crazybastard · Answer

I hate small dogs  because they usually come with a stupid girl who thinks Africa Is a country. its like a package deal.

queefy · Answer

Dogs are always barking at me. Though the few who don't are golden retrievers and grayhounds. Such sweet dogs :)

lucky24 · Answer

I like small dogs but I prefer big dogs. When I run around the house with my cousins dog I feel like one wrong step and he will die...

douchebag4eva · Answer

Cause theyre pointless... If I wanted a little creature to climb on me, lick me etc... I'd get a cat, theyre much better at showing affection than any small dog. Not to mention theyre f***ing annoying... their barking...

ihatework · Answer

small dogs are cool except chihuahua's, those have to be the dumbest dogs on the planet.

Anonymous · Answer

I think a lot of it is that small dogs tend to be kind of nippy and nobody likes a dog that goes after them all the time.

SaltandVinegar · Answer

I have a small dog and wouldn't trade it for the world

the-man-who-knows · Answer

Small dogs tend to be loud, annoying, and paranoid.  I like labs and german shepards.

Moloch · Answer

You can't rough house with them. They're good company, but boring to pay with.

Robotic · Answer

I've actually seen a lot of girls preferring big dogs myself

red324 · Answer

We only have small dogs. They leave more room on the couch:P

m8rix · Answer

Women attack men about their choice of dogs men attack the characteristics of the dog see the pattern here

Lj237 · Answer

I just don't like how the really small dogs bark so much

maiez · Answer

I think they are annoying and no fun.

Anonymous · Answer

i don't like dogs too...im kinda scared of them

pezzonovante88 · Answer

I love all dogs.

LovrUFFAllls · Answer

I prefer big cats

Anonymous · Answer

They are too small

Anonymous · Answer

They aren't fun

Why do so many guys hate small dogs?

Most Helpful Opinions

Most Helpful Opinions

What Girls & Guys Said

Why do so many guys hate small dogs?

Most Helpful Opinions

Most Helpful Opinions

What Girls & Guys Said

We're glad to see you liked this post.