Training Your Chihuahua

There is a myth about training Chihuahuas. Most people believe that Chihuahuas are one of the hardest breeds to train, but in reality, this only refers to housebreaking, due to the fact that Chihuahuas have an overwhelming need to mark their territory. However, when it comes to obeying commands or doing tricks, Chihuahuas are highly trainable, and quite intelligent.

Consistency and treats are the keys to successful training. Like most other animals, Chihuahuas respond to positive results. If they do something and get a positive result, such as praise and a treat, they are likely to repeat the action in an attempt to get the same positive result.

However, if they get negative results, they are not likely to try something a second time. This is why it is essential that you understand that discipline should not be used when it comes to training your Chihuahua. It simply is not effective at all.

Treats and praise should be used when the dog has done what you've wanted him to do - whether he had your help or not. Simply show the dog what you want done, and give him a treat immediately following this. Then, give the command and see if he will do it on his own. If he doesn't, don't give him the treat. After several attempts to get him to do the trick or obey the command without your help, try again and help him, and give him the treat.

Determine whether you will use voice commands, hand signals, or clicks. A clicker can be purchased at most pet stores, and clickers are often used by people who will be entering their dogs in dog shows. If you are just training a pet Chihuahua, verbal commands are typically used.

Training sessions shouldn't last more than fifteen minutes, but you can have two or three training sessions per day. Be sure not to skip any days, and try to hold the sessions at the same time each day. Start and end each training session with a trick or command that the dog has mastered.

Finally, realize that you can train your Chihuahua to follow any command that it he is physically capable of following. Start with simple behavioral commands, such as sit, stay, and come, and work your way up to the more complicated commands and tricks, giving the dog the opportunity to master one trick or command before moving on to another one.

Again, these are highly intelligent dogs, and the key to getting them to follow your commands is to be consistent, to praise them for a job well done, and to reward them with treats. Suitable treats for training sessions include peanut butter and cheese.

These are truly lovely dogs, and anyone fortunate enough to own one will be introducing a dog into their family that is both loyal, affectionate and eager to please. Yes at first you may need to spend time training them in the way that you want them to behave, but it will be time well spent.