Chihuahua

Training your Chihuahua

Is a Chihuahua the right dog for you?

When deciding whether or not to buy a Chihuahua, whether it be for a pet or for showing, you should consider carefully the following points:

Hype

Don't be drawn to the Chihuahua simply because they are so small. You may have heard of phrases like "teacup Chihuahua", "pocket Chihuahua" and "miniature Chihuahua". These phrases are sometimes used by breeders and pet shops as a marketing play, to make more sales. These phrases do not apply to Chihuahuas; they do not exist in the breed standard. Implying that a Chihuahua pup is a teacup Chihuahua is simply a device to entice the customer into purchasing the pup with the hope of getting a very small Chihuahua.

Fragility

Chihuahuas are not usually suited to small children. They can actually be killed or badly injured if they are stood on or dropped, or even crushed in a well-meaning cuddle. Being such a small dog, the Chihuahua needs constant supervision, and should always be kept on a lead when taken outdoors.

Behavior

It's not often that you will come across an overly docile Chihuahua. Most are loud and dominant, trying to run the entire household, your other pets included. It's not unheard of for a Chihuahua to boss around a Boxer or even a Rottweiler, without any concern for their own safety. What they lack in size, they make up for in spirit. You need to be firm with some consistent training to help gain the upper hand. This is also necessary if the Chihuahua has developed the bad habit of what is sometimes called 'yapping'. They tend to bark at almost anything that moves or frightens them, and can sometimes become quite aggressive towards strangers. This behaviour could lead to biting and needs to be controlled.

Housebreaking

Of all the dog breeds, the Chihuahua would have to be one of the hardest to train. This is especially the case if the Chihuahua suffers from extreme shyness. Raising your voice and/or losing your temper will not help the matter as sometimes the deed is done on the carpet before they even get to the litter tray. Patience and easy access to facilities are the only avenues, and even then this task may never be accomplished.

Though there are a few downsides to owning a Chihuahua, there are many more upsides, like: a friend for life (can live well into their teens); a great travelling companion (travels light); loves to snuggle (with no expectations); doesn't need much exercise or space and will gladly give its life for you. What more could you ask for? 

More About Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas: Dog Breed For You?
Chihuahuas are one of the most popular dog breeds today, especially after the famous Taco Bell commercials.  They are the smallest of any breed, which is another reason why they everyone likes them.  Even though they are so common, this does not mean that this is the dog for you.  These dogs are not for everyone

The Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is one of the few breeds native to the Americans.

Choosing a Chihuahua Puppy
First of all you want your Chihuahua to look like a Chihuahua.  He or she should be a tiny dog with a fairly stocky build.  The head of a Chihuahua...

What Chihuahua Puppy Really Makes Your Heart Race?
According to the AKC standard a Chihuahua should not exceed 6 pounds.  In real life, however, they do.  Some Chihuahuas weigh in at 10 pounds or more.

Tips on Chihuahua Training
A good obedience class to train your Chihuahua is always helpful.

The Chihuahua Becomes Popular
When Xavier Cugat, the rumba king, appeared with his Chihuahuas in movies and on television...

The Ultimate Chihuahua Care Handbook

Yo Quiero Chihuahuas

Chihuahua Links:

http://www.akc.org/breeds/chihuahua - American Kennel Club Breed Standard.  

http://www.the-kennel-club.org.uk/discoverdogs/toy/y906.htm - UK Kennel Club Breed Standard.  (NB. Photo of smooth coated Chihuahua) 

http://www.the-kennel-club.org.uk/discoverdogs/toy/y1075.htm - UK Kennel Club Breed Standard.  (NB. Photo of long haired Chihuahua) 

http://www.the-british-chihuahua-club.org.uk/index.php - website of the British Chihuahua Club, lots of info (especially see the Chihuahua Care section).

http://www.ukchihuahuas.co.uk/home - lots of info, photos and fun stuff. 

http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/cherished_chis_uk - lots of Chihuahua photos. 

http://www.redlipstick.net/knit/chihswe.html - how to knit a Chihuahua sweater. 

http://www.kateconnick.com/postcards/page8b.html – send a Chihuahua e-card. 

http://www.first-school.ws/t/cp_animals/dogs/chihuahua-pomeranian.htm - print off and colour in your own picture of a Chihuahua and a Pomeranian.