6 Tips For Training Your Chihuahua

Small breed dogs have become very popular in households. They don’t take up much space, they train easily and can be some of the best companions that humans ever own. Chihuahuas, in particular, are extremely popular for all dog owners alike. Their sassy vibrancy and big buggy eyes simply melt your heart away. They’re also relatively easy to take care of and with the right obedience, they can be a breeze to train.

These adaptable breeds can be a great start for anyone who is first getting a dog or an avid Chihuahua owner looking to add another pup to the family. Chihuahuas are not too kid-friendly but you can definitely expect them to lay on your lap at any given chance. Besides these quirky characteristics, it’s important that you begin training your Chihuahua as soon as possible to get him acclimated to your home and environment. Follow these helpful and proven 6 tips for training your Chihuahua so you both may enjoy a happy life together.

1. Potty Training

Although Chihuahuas can easily adapt to almost any sound environment, they are one of the toughest breeds to potty train. They do have stubborn and domineering personalities, which can counteract their ability to be obedient in this area all the time. One of the best ways to ensure your Chihuahua understands proper housebroken rules is by being firm, consistent and reinforce his behavior in positive ways. Start him on a schedule where he knows that he should hold it until it’s time to go outside. When he does go outside, watch to see if he urinates or poops and praise him for doing so. He will be able to associate this behavior with positive praise from you, which is something he’ll enjoy. Of course, it’s inevitable that he may go in the house every once and awhile. Be sure that if you punish him, point to the area and tell him, “No.” Then, place him outside for a bit so he connects that he should have done that outside. Keep up the consistency and he’ll catch on soon enough.

2. Walking Using a Harness

Like all dogs, Chihuahuas will need ample amounts of exercise and fresh air. This is why walking these little guys on a regular basis is important for their health and happiness. But, there are proper ways to walk them outside that will keep them safe by your side. It’s not recommended that you use just a collar and leash to train your Chihuahuas. They can easily slip out of the collar or worse, choke themselves out when pulling. So, invest in a nice, well-fitted dog harness to help keep your doggie comfortable and safe. Harnesses are ideal for keeping your pet secure and from pulling on the leash. There are several harnesses that are designed specifically to help you train your Chihuahua.

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3. Preventing Barking at Strangers

Chihuahuas may be small, but they definitely have loud and screeching voices to signal when they are either happy or threatened. They have what’s deemed as, “Big Dog Syndrome” which only makes them more prone to barking at other dogs and strangers. One way to alleviate this behavior is by using a spray bottle with water. Each time your pup barks, you can give him a small spray to indicate you don’t want him barking at other people or animals. You can also utilize a harness to train your Chihuahua to stop barking. The moment he begins to bark, you can give him a gentle and quick tug on the leash that will then comfortably transfer to his harness without hurting him.

4. Establish a Schedule

Similar to humans, Chihuahuas need structure to keep them consistent and well-behaved. You can start by keeping your Chihuahua on a semi-strict schedule when it comes to eating, sleeping and going outside. This way, he has a routine he can follow and look forward to. Keeping your Chihuahua on a routine is ideal for training because it will help to keep him out of mischief most of the time. Plus, if he were to see you pull out a harness and leash, it would signal to him that it’s time for his daily walk. Giving him ways to identify with objects and actions in the house is great for maintaining consistency.

5. Show Your Chihuahua Who’s Boss

Remember that Chihuahuas have domineering personalities and can very easily try to take control of their owners. Many Chihuahua owners are known to spoil their pups, but this should have limitations. Chihuahuas are dogs, after all, so they follow the same natural instinct of alpha pack rules. As the owner, you must establish that you are the alpha role in the house from the beginning. Otherwise, you’ll have your Chihuahua walking his tiny little paws all over you. For instance, when you take him on walks, do not let him dictate the walk. You should be in control of how far he can go and what he’s allowed to get into.

6. Love Your Chihuahua

There are many ways to ensure that you will train your Chihuahua properly. One of the most important tips to remember is that you should always love your Chihuahua because he will always love you back. Give him attention in proper increments and give him reason to believe that you were meant to be companions. Remember that he only has you while you have your job, family and friends. Show him as much love as you possibly can and you’ll find yourself falling more and more in love with your little Chihuahua each day.

Although he can be somewhat challenging to train, owning a Chihuahua will definitely be worth it. His character and personality are all you need to validate your relationship. Following these 6 helpful tips for training your Chihuahua will significantly improve your ownership span with your pup. You’ll soon find that the training may be heavier at first but will begin to ease as he becomes much more comfortable and obedient with you. Chihuahuas are great little breeds and you will definitely enjoy the companionship of these little-big dogs.