How to Train a Chihuahua?

The Keys to Gently Training a Chihuahua

One of the most popular dog breeds in the world is the adorable Chihuahua. Unfortunately, many owners never take the time to discover how to properly educate and train a Chihuahua, assuming that these small dogs cannot get into serious trouble because they are small and so adorable. 🥰

Yet, this sociable and affectionate dog breed is probably one of the most stubborn and, at times, aggressive breeds when it comes to following commands.

Proper education can take a lot of time and should start as early as possible, while the dog is still a puppy.

 

A Chihuahua's temperament is unique in many respects

First of all, this dog will be absolutely thrilled to enjoy all the time it spends with you. As a companion dog, Chihuahuas love to accompany you everywhere you can go.

Nevertheless, this attachment can also lead to dominant behaviors, and when these dogs are not properly socialized with other dogs and humans, several problems arise:

- they think they are bigger than they look, which, although very adorable and sometimes even entertaining, can be quite dangerous if your dog is not properly trained.

- they can be distant with strangers.

- they can become aggressive toward other dogs.

- be snappy with children.

- be overly nervous around outside noises.

But fortunately, all these behaviors can be managed through good early training. 😉

Training Your Chihuahua

 

The first thing to do to train a Chihuahua is to take control of the house.

You are the BOSS! Not them 😜

Contrary to popular belief, this adorable little dog thinks they are in charge of the house and will do whatever it takes to show you it's true, if you let them...

👉 Here are some important basic principles for training a Chihuahua:

1) You must establish boundaries and be the leader.

2) Mealtimes: feed your Chihuahua at fixed intervals and never let the dog decide when it wants to eat. This seems trivial, but it shows your pet WHO makes the decisions in the house, and that they must comply.

3) Walk your Chihuahua 3-4 times a day or more, but be sure to control the walk. Do not let the dog pull or dictate the direction to take. When training a Chihuahua, leash control is vital!

4) Jumping on furniture

With a small dog like a Chihuahua, you might easily let them jump on furniture whenever they want. However, controlling your space is important to impose boundaries. Never respond to barking or whining, and establish restrictions on which furniture the dog is allowed to use.

5) Coming and going

Monitor your dog when you enter and leave the house. Only pay attention to your companion when they reach a calm and relaxed state.

To truly train a Chihuahua, you must be the alpha leader, otherwise the dog will always feel like they are in charge, and they will make your life difficult every day...

Improving Your Small Dog's Mental Stimulation

 

A Chihuahua is not known for being a very fragile dog (except for the toy/miniature size), but the majority of these dogs still do not get enough exercise or mental stimulation.

How many people play fetch or go to dog parks with such a small dog?

And how many people go out for a morning jog with their enduring little best friend?

You can easily train your Chihuahua with basic commands like "sit and stay," "down," "fetch," etc.

The Chihuahua possesses an intelligence recognized as capable of being trained without any worries using simple commands 😊

Like all dogs, it takes a lot of patience and creativity from the owner to take care of them and repeat the exercises.

Chihuahuas may be small in stature, but they actually have a big and strong character.

In fact, these doggies have the ability to control a house and its master, which explains why proper training is so important.

When you positively teach this dog different commands, you help them learn to obey you instead of manipulating you to get what they want.

Another benefit of training your best friend is that you strengthen your bond with your pet, which ensures their loyalty to you for as long as they live. 🥰

Chihuahuas are naturally intelligent, energetic, and lively. They love physical activities and those that stimulate their brains.

Since training involves these last two elements, Chihuahuas embrace it warmly if they are encouraged correctly.

Of course, one should never forget rewards (treats) and constant praise! They are crucial to encourage these stubborn dogs to do what you decide.

What You Can Teach Your Chihuahua

When training Chihuahuas, owners must keep in mind that patience is absolutely essential.

Avoid exercises when you are tired or angry.

Go step-by-step and be sure to prepare treats before starting your lessons (the dog must associate the treat as a reward for good work, so just after the exercise and not during).

At home, it is also important for the Chihuahua to be house-trained at an early stage, at the beginning of their growth.

Crate training is also recommended to teach housebreaking. This should teach them the right place to relieve themselves in the house when they are a puppy (for an adult dog, it is obviously outside).

Basic commands should not be ignored. They include:

- Sit

- Stay or wait

- Come (or heel)

😊 Tip: you can place your dog on a table while teaching these commands, as it can be tiring if you have to bend down all the time.

How to Handle Your Small Dog

 

The number one rule when handling Chihuahuas is to always be gentle with them.

Remember to NEVER use a choke collar on a Chihuahua, as their neck and especially their trachea can easily be injured.

A good option is to use a flat buckle collar or a harness to protect their trachea.

Their training should be a priority and, if possible, it should be practiced daily.

Being consistent with their education, like 5-10 minutes/day, is better than just twice a week.

Final Paw

When you decide to adopt a Chihuahua, be patient in training your Chihuahua puppy or adult, and don't forget to have fun together!

Finally, nothing is stopping you from calling on a professional dog trainer near you for your dog's well-being. They will only be happier, and so will you. 😊

- The Teckelshop team - We are fans of dachshunds but remain in love with all canine breeds 💚🐶