Some of us enjoy the duties of upper management more than others. It may feel a little intimidating if it’s not your natural cup of tea, but learning how to be the captain of the ship can do miracles for your confidence (and his). Take stock: Don’t let anything go by unnoticed. Have a plan. Take every opportunity to show how thoughtful and prepared you are. Be smart and think ahead. Take action: Step up and put yourself in between him and any “trouble.” Remove him if necessary and let him observe from a distance as you handle things. Have policies and procedures. Don’t just wing it and throw caution to the wind. Put protocols in place and follow them: Everybody sits and waits for their dinner bowl or they don’t get it. Nobody gets on the furniture without permission or they don’t get to be on it at all. Dogs wait in the family room when guests are greeted at the front door and allowed to socialize after coats have been taken and drinks have been served.

He was bred to pay attention, notice everything, and take action when needed . . . in the interest of the realm. The question he has, before he concedes that he is not most fit to lead this army, is “Are you upper-management material?” You had better answer with a firm yes, 24/7. Then he will be happy to just couch it and remain on standby. Infinite patience and inactivity are, fortunately for you, the complimentary attribute of any good tank on the battlefield.

Guardian Relationship Survival Key:

1. As you enjoy the pleasantries of living with a more laid-back dog, never forget his GENETIC propensity for action when it comes to protecting his home and family.
2. Though he can thrive in any number of ENVIRONMENTS, remember that you must always manage him in order to stay one step ahead and prevent aggression toward “intruders.”
3. Help him LEARN, through your consistent planning and action, that everything is cool and under control at all times both in and outside your home.
4. He is a dog made to do a whole lot of nothing until the moment he decides to do a whole lot of something. Keep it simple and well controlled, and you can enjoy a laid-back, loving guy.

MEET YOUR . . .

Toy Dog

“LITTLE COMPANION”

Maltese

Tibetan Spaniel/Chihuahua mix

Bichon Frise • Bolognese • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel • Chihuahua • chinese crested • coton De Tulear • Havanese • Japanese chin • Lhasa Apso • Maltese • Papillon • Pekingese • Pomeranian • Pug • Shih Tzu • Tibetan Spaniel • Toy Poodle • mixes of any of the above breeds

You’ll fall in love with your toy dog because he’s:

SENSITIVE—Intuitive and emotional, he is designed for attending to and comforting his person.

ENGAGING—Your toy dog is fun-loving, playful, and curious with family and friends.

PRACTICAL—Highly portable, he is easier to care for, manage, and satisfy than many other dogs.