Chihuahua can struggle with separation anxiety. They often latch onto one person and find it tough when that person isn’t around.
Separation anxiety isn’t great for your dog. It might look cute when they follow you everywhere and can’t bear to be apart, but for the dog, it just creates stress and limits what they can do.
One of the best things you can do for your chihuahua is help them grow independence. It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a new rescue, a puppy, or an older dog. It’s never too late to make a start.
An independent dog can settle down or go off exploring without constantly needing you there. They can stay home alone without getting anxious, hang out downstairs while you’re upstairs, or relax without jumping up every time you move.
As with most behaviour issues, it’s much easier to prevent separation anxiety than fix it once it sets in. So it’s worth putting in the effort early on.
Simple Steps to Grow Independence:
- Don’t mollycoddle a puppy or rescue. Over-fussing creates oxytocin spikes — that’s the hormone responsible for attachment. When you bring a new puppy home, make sure they get some time alone, have games they can play by themselves, and try activities that build confidence, like treasure hunts or confidence paths.
- Give your dog more choice in how they’re handled. Because chihuahuas are small, it’s easy to swoop in and pick them up without thinking. But they might not always want that. Take time to learn how your dog communicates (see the ladder of communication) and respect their signals.
- Presence doesn’t mean access. Just because you’re home doesn’t mean your dog should have constant access to you. Use a ‘golden five minutes’ rule when you come through the door: focus on something else first before giving your dog attention. You can also create gentle boundaries inside the house. For example, have your dog behind a baby gate with a long-term chew or a food toy while you move around. This helps them get used to being near you without always having direct access, teaching them to settle and relax even when you’re on the move.
- Crate train and have your dog sleep in the crate at first. If a puppy or rescue immediately sleeps in your bed, it can create separation anxiety attachment issues down the line.
- If your dog is sleeping or just chilling out, leave them alone. If you always go over and pet them when they’re relaxing, you’ll teach them that your movement always means something’s happening. This makes them feel like they need to follow you around.
- Leave the house calmly, without interacting with your dog. Making a big fuss when you leave ramps up their arousal and makes it harder for them to settle after you’ve gone.
A more independent dog is able to do much more. chihuahuas can get involved in dog sports and activities just like any other breed.
