How to Successfully Train a Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is currently an extremely popular breed of dog, which can bring a great deal of happiness to its owner. However, if not trained correctly a Chihuahua can become unruly, disobedient and, at times, aggressive. Below you will find tips on how to successfully train a Chihuahua.

1. Begin When Your Dog is Still a Puppy

Obviously, it is possible to train an older dog and if you have adopted an adult, even one with behavioral problems, it is possible to achieve a well-behaved dog in a matter of weeks. However, when possible, it is far easier to begin training while your dog is still a puppy. It is crucial to the success of training that your dog identifies you as the leader of its pack. All dogs are genetically programmed to obey the hierarchy of their packs. Therefore, you will find training a relatively easy task if your Chihuahua considers you to be the dominant member of the family.

2. Training Takes Time

Housetraining your puppy, which is likely to be the first step in your Chihuahua’s training, takes time and patience. Some owners purchase a puppy and are then surprised that he, or she, makes a mess on the carpet. A dog will not know to go outside unless you teach it. Therefore, before welcoming a Chihuahua into your home, it is wise to ensure that you can dedicate some time in the first few weeks to train him, or her. Any kind of obedience training can be made relatively simply, as long as you have the time to spend with your dog.

3. Don’t Overdo the Fuss

Of course, if your dog obeys a command or displays good behavior you will want to praise it. In fact, praise is fundamental to successful training. However, it is possible to spoil a dog and this is particularly common among Chihuahuas. A spoilt dog can result in numerous behavioral problems, including aggression. Therefore, it is advisable to only offer treats and praise when your dog has done something to warrant them.

4. Social Integration

Naturally, dog temperament varies from one dog to the next. However, small breeds of dog have a reputation for being more aggressive than their large counterparts are. The fact is, even if your dog is perfectly well-behaved with you, it can display aggression with other animals and people. Therefore, it is wise to socialize your dog from an early age. Ensure that your Chihuahua has plenty of contact with people of all ages and different types of animals. If your dog views you as dominant, it will almost certainly take its cues from you. Subsequently, if you are comfortable with the visitors in your house, your Chihuahua will be too.

5. Don’t Change the Rules

Alarmingly often, people will bring a new dog home and they will play with it, make a fuss of it and allow it to sit on the couch. Several months later, when the novelty has worn off, suddenly, it is not so cute when the puppy chews your shoe or is shedding on your expensive furniture. However, your dog does not understand what it has done wrong. When trying to train your Chihuahua, consistency is fundamental. Ensure that your dog knows its boundaries, but, most importantly, you must stick to these boundaries. For example, if you know there will be times when you do not want your dog to sleep in your bed, do not allow him, or her, to do so from day one.

The Chihuahua is a very intelligent and affectionate dog. However, it is wise to remember that contrary to the behavior of some Chihuahua owners, it is a dog, not a toy. Therefore, your dog will be much happier if he, or she, is treated as such.