One of the most common questions I am asked is how to train a Chihuahua puppy, and really it is no great mystery. Yes Chihuahuas can be a little cheekier than the average pooch, but the training methods should be the same.
A Chihuahua puppy should be trained as early as possible, once they are weaned from their mother or bought from a shelter. Yes, they are really adorable and cute creatures, but if they are not trained properly and you do not learn how to train a Chihuahua puppy correctly, like any other animal they may also be the cause of problem. Chihuahuas maybe small but can also be terrible at the same time when they grow up, since they do possess a dominating personality. When asking how to train a chihuahua you need to remember the three keys during the training session are, consistency, dog treats and a good relationship between you and your Chihuahua. Remember that you are dealing with a Chihuahua puppy and it is also similar to a human baby, which are also oblivious to what is right and wrong, so as an owner, proper guidance should be implemented.. When learning how to train a Chihuahua puppy know that there are no shortcuts so be sure to make it an everyday habit. Be prepared with the materials you need during the training session: your Chihuahuas dog crate which can be its home, a leash or harness and its doggy treats.
For the Ultimate Guide to Housetraining Your Puppy click HERE!
How to train a chihuahua puppy to learn commands.
We begin by making simple commands like “Come”. Be aware that if you use words, like for example “Come here”, be consistent on using those words since the puppy maybe confused of the slight difference of each command. When it grows older, it will then realize that it means the same thing. We train dogs because of their undesirable personalities that needs to be corrected. So observe your Chihuahua’s behavioral traits that you may not like, which are likely biting, chewing, liking or even barking. Each Chihuahua may be different, but be rest assured that the training process is the same. The way you approach and command your Chihuahua when you try to correct it should be like standing firm and steady. Try to make it understand that you are the master of the house and it should try to obey you. Use the commands “No” and “Stop”, in a deep voice, and then wait for the puppy to process it and to realize that you are not happy with their behavior. You can accompany with hand gestures to make your point or even putting them in their crate for time-out which is a last resort. Do this whenever you see your chihuahua doing the same act which you dislike and also apply it inside or outside your home. Another way is to show their vulnerability when you cradle like a baby with their belly facing upward, which can show their weakness when they feel exposed and limited movement they may experience. This exercise is one that the alpha leader would perform regularly to show other dogs it is in control
Potty training also takes time when learning how to train a chihuahua puppy, so be patient at this stage. Make it a habit, so do repeat it multiple times, and direct it to poop in a specific area until it goes there on its own unattended. Acknowledge your pup when it does good things with a small phrase like “Good Boy or Girl” and give it a doggy treat. Bribe them with treats every time they do well. Take it on walks using a harness for it to recognize the harness’s purpose and for it to adapt to the outside world.
Well I hope the question of how to train a Chihuahua puppy just became a little easier to comprehend. It’s always a little daunting but don’t forget there are clubs and groups that are a great place to socialize your pup and learn yourself exactly how to train a Chihuahua puppy, because lets face it, we need to learn how to behave around our furry friends so that they behave well around us and know what is acceptable behavior.
