Big Dogs and Little Dogs

Hey, bro, let’s use Mackey for a conference table.  He doesn’t seem to mind.”

The conventional wisdom seems to be that Chihuahuas should not be in homes with big dogs.  Like most generalizations, that edict should come with the “It depends” disclaimer.  What type of breed is the big dog?  What is his/her temperament?  What is his/her age? What is the plan for introducing the newcomer?  So far our two male Labs, ages 8 and 10, have done well with Carino and Pepito although we continue to monitor their interactions.  I especially do not allow the little guys around when the big guys are eating. My family members and I also make sure to give the big guys lots of attention so that they don’t feel their positions have been usurped.