The cute Chihuahua is one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. But many of these little dogs are not properly trained. It may be that the owners don’t expect a dog this small can be much trouble. That belief is wrong! Chihuahuas are one of the more aggressive breeds of dog and they can also be very stubborn, a trait that makes it harder to rid them of bad behavior. The best thing to do is to start training your Chihuahua when it is young. Plan to put in the significant amount of time it takes to produce a well-trained dog. The truth is you’ll both be much happier going forward.
Good Chihuahua Training Starts with You
Chihuahuas have a unique personality. They are excellent companion dogs and are very happy simply being with you. Problems arise when your little cutie isn’t properly socialized to be comfortable around other dogs or pets. Aggressive and dominant behaviors can develop in a Chihuahua that wants to protect its turf or becomes jealous by your attention to other animals. Therefore, it is up to you to acclimate your Chihuahua to being around other animals, allowing you to give them attention without your pooch becoming nasty.
Your Chihuahua thinks it’s bigger than it is! It can become dangerous if not properly trained because it won’t back down in many circumstances. It may become aggressive with strangers, other pets, or children. In addition, it can become restless and easily disturbed by noises. Even that behavior can be traced to inadequate training. All of these behaviors can be eliminated with proper instruction. That is why it is essential that you understand how to train your Chihuahua and be willing to work hard to complete the process.
Basics of Training Your Chihuahua
Good dog training of any kind begins with you being in charge. Your Chihuahua has a deeply ingrained need to know who the big dog of the household is, and if you don’t take that position it will assume it is in charge and act like it. As the alpha leader it is your responsibility to set clear rules and expect your doggie to follow them. This applies to every aspect of your Chihuahua’s life.
Control feeding times:
Your Chihuahua should eat at set times each day without variance. Don’t allow it to beg for food. Make sure it gets adequately fed and then stick to the appointed time.
Leash training on walks:
Your Chihuahua is an active dog and needs at least two vigorous walks each day. On those walks make sure the dog doesn’t pull or strain on the leash. It should learn to go at your pace and stop immediately when you tell it to. This is an essential part of your dog learning to live under your authority.
Getting on furniture:
Your Chihuahua should have a comfy little cushion of its own and be kept off the furniture. Again, this will teach it to stay to its submissive place. Give your cute pup appropriate boundaries and it will be very happy staying within them. Don’t tolerate whining to get up on the sofa. If you want to pet your Chihuahua sit on the floor and give it lots of love and affection.
Leaving and Returning:
If you make a big deal out of your leaving and returning it will train your dog to be jumpy and loud during these times and it will not do well in your absence. Dog trainers recommend ignoring the dog for 10-15 minutes before you leave and when you return. At the least, make sure your dog is calm and relaxed before you give it attention after you get home.
Overcoming Boredom in your Chihuahua
Just like with people, a bored dog is more likely to misbehave. The key to eliminating excess boredom is to make sure your Chihuahua gets the physical and mental exercise it needs. A well-trained dog can be taken to the park or an open field for a run and be trusted to return when you call and to not fight with other dogs. This training must include specific commands like stay, go, fetch, be quiet, and come.
A feisty, bad-tempered Chihuahua is the result of improper training. Be firm and encouraging in training your pooch and it will be calm and obedient. You will both be richly rewarded with a great relationship.
