Chihuahuatraining differs from training other breeds of dogs because of the small size of the dogs. Gentle handling is especially important with toy breeds. Gentle handling works with most dogs, but is especially important with Chihuahuas.
Training isn't an option. Train your Chihuahua or you may end up with a spoiled brat. Many Chihuahuas have a terrier disposition and can develop a real attitude if not trained. Shirk your responsibility to teach your dog to behave in a reasonable manner and you'll be looking for another home for your dog. Don't let that happen. Train your dog.
Remember you must be the leader in the relationship with your pet. You must decide what is and isn't acceptable behavior and patiently guide your pet toward your goals. Be patient but firm and persistent.
Housebreaking A Chihuahua Puppy
Housebreaking a Chihuahua puppy should start early, but not too early. The puppy must be physically capable of controlling elimination. Many owners choose crate training as a fairly quick way to help puppies learn to control elimination. Crate training confines the puppy in a fairly small area and the dog will usually try not to foul the nest. Watch your puppy closely and you can usually tell when it's time to whisk the pup from the crate to an appropriate spot. Just a few days of intense effort can be all it takes for house breaking a Chihuahua puppy.
Socialization for Chihuahuas
A well-balanced Chihuahua must be comfortable in whatever the setting he finds himself in. If a dog grows up around other dogs, the dogs teach each other by give-and-take and normal interaction. Puppies that leave their birth place at a young age miss that interaction. The pet owner must provide the training to teach the dog how to fit into the society where he or she will live.
Make sure to protect the puppy from scary and overly stressful experiences. Tiny dogs are often fearful as well they should be. Even other dogs can be seen as scary giants! Do as much as possible to expose your puppy to all the experiences you expect as normal activities including car trips, visits from other people, and trips to the vet.
Obedience Training
Just teaching your pup simple commands like "come", "sit", and "stay" can help you and your dog to have a better relationship. Think of obedience training as teaching basic communication skills, an important part of Chihuahua care. It's a way for you and your dog to understand and respond to each other.
If you don't know anything about Chihuahua training, don't hesitate to get some help. There are resources available to help you train your pet...to help you learn to communicate with your dog. The training of the trainer must come first. Get the early training wrong and avoid much future trouble.
Remember that each dog is different and you must learn your individual dog. Your Chihuahua will surely respond positively to firm, but gentle direction. Clearly communicate your desires and reward acceptable behavior and you and your dog will make quick progress.