Someone once told me that chihuahuas are naturally aggressive and impossible to train. This perception isn’t unusual. Spend a little time on social media, and you’ll see memes, posts, and even entire groups reinforcing the idea. But is there any truth to it?
The reality is very different. Chihuahuas are highly intelligent and entirely trainable. Even behaviours that seem entrenched can improve with the right approach. The key is understanding what’s driving the behaviour.
But when owners are presented with a dog that’s barking and lunging, biting hands, being aggressive it’s understandable why owners are overwhelmed. What happens nest is they scout around on the net looking for solutions. They try bits of this and bits of that. Taking a scattergun approach to their chihuahua training. None of this is likely to work and will probably make the dog’s behaviour worse, so they either learn to live with challenging chihuahua behaviour or they surrender the dog.
The real problem: fear and anxiety
When a chihuahua behaves like this, it’s often due to fear or anxiety. Their actions stem from a sense of uncertainty or perceived threats in their environment. For instance:
- A chihuahua may bark excessively at noises because they see them as potential dangers.
- Lunging and barking at other dogs to get the other dog to stay away.
- Reactivity to visitors because they are anxious about strangers.
These behaviours aren’t inevitable or part of their nature. They’re a response to being stuck in a cycle of stress, and with proper chihuahua training, they can learn healthier ways to respond.
Why chihuahuas are misunderstood
Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation about chihuahuas and how to work with them. This misunderstanding contributes to them being one of the most surrendered breeds. People often assume their small size means they don’t require the same time, effort, or techniques as larger dogs. However, chihuahuas benefit just as much from clear guidance and consistent chihuahua training.
Helping your chihuahua thrive
The good news is that you can help your chihuahua become calmer and more confident. With the right methods, they can learn to make better decisions about what genuinely needs their attention. At Chihuahua School, our focus is on breaking the cycle of anxiety and helping dogs develop into more confident, optimistic dog. Here’s what you can achieve.
- Less barking at every noise in the home
- Teaching your chihuahua to ignore other dogs on a walk.
- Giving them alternative things to do when visitors arrive.
- Growing confidence and optimism.
- Helping your chihuahua make better decisions.
Imagine walking your chihuahua down the street, knowing they can remain calm and focused. It’s entirely possible, and with the right chihuahua training approach, you can achieve it.
Where to start
Effective chihuahua training begins with understanding what’s happening in your dog’s mind. Understanding why they are behaving the way they are. Giving them an opportunity to unlearn unhelpful responses. Rebuilding confidence and helping them to make better decisions themselves.
If you’re ready to support your chihuahua in becoming the best version of themselves, we’re here to help.
At Chihuahua School, we provide the tools and techniques to help your chihuahua become the best version of themselves.
You don’t have to live with a grumpy, bad tempered dog whose poor behaviour is ruling the household.
What is Chihuahua School?
Chihuahua School is an award-winning online training programme that’s all about helping chihuahua owners with easy-to-follow video lessons. With a force-free approach rooted in real science, our qualified trainers guide you through addressing some of your chihuahua’s trickier behaviours. Whatever your behaviour struggle, our lessons offer simple, practical advice you can put to work right away. Join us and get the tools you need for a more enjoyable life with your chihuahua. Sign up today and start your journey with your chihuahua!
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