The Chihuahua is a lively, alert dog that tends to be noisy at times.
The Chihuahua is a toy-sized dog with a proportionately stout build and an apple-shaped head that ends in a short, tapered snout. The ears of Chihuahuas are large and triangular-shaped and are a distinguishing characteristic of this dog type. The Chihuahua is lively and alert as a breed, but can be noisy and strong willed and therefore requires training from the appropriate age. Although your Chihuahua would have already been house broken, additional training can be initiated at the age of 10 months.
Understanding General Training
The majority of behavior problems -- including biting and digging -- are a result of miscommunication or poor communication between the Chihuahua owner and her dog. The basis of training is to ensure that your dog knows what is expected of it. Establish yourself in the alpha position and retain such a position. Make it clear to your Chihuahua when it has done something right by giving it generous praise. Be equally clear when the dog is behaving incorrectly. Speak in a stern voice and use a sharp, simple word, such as "no."
Barking
Chihuahuas bark readily for many reasons. Barking is very natural for a Chihuahua, but owners and neighbors do not always appreciate a dog that barks continually. Chihuahuas have a more acute sense of smell and hearing than their owners and may be barking because of a disturbance that the owners are not aware of. Be conscious not to inadvertently reward your Chihuahuas for barking, though. Comforting a barking dog by picking it up will actually encourage barking, as will allowing a barking dog into the house. Shouting at a barking Chihuahuas is also incorrect behavior as the dog believes it is receiving attention for barking.
Additional Training Regarding Barking
Chihuahuas typically bark when the phone rings. Have a neighbor continue to call your number, but do not react in any way, beyond quietly telling your barking Chihuahua to stop. Eventually, because you have not reacted, the dog will give up barking at the sound of the phone. Your Chihuahua may also bark at the mail carrier and visitors. Enlist the help of these people by asking them to offer the dog one of its favorite treats. The dog will eventually not see these people as threats.
Crate Training
Having your Chihuahuas accept going into a crate can be valuable for many reasons, including when you need to take it to a vet or simply place it in a quite and safe place when there are strangers or workers in the house, for example. Begin by placing a familiar blanket pillow into the crate. Offer the Chihuahua a favorite treat within the crate and praise the dog warmly once it goes in. Initially, allow the Chihuahua free access to and from the crate, until it becomes comfortable remaining inside.
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