Chihuahua (Smooth-haired): the character and training of this little powerhouse

The Chihuahua (Smooth-haired) may well be the smallest dog breed in the world, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character. These feisty little dogs are known for their confident demeanour, their loyalty to their owner and their sometimes surprisingly headstrong behaviour. Anyone bringing a Chihuahua into their home shouldn’t be fooled by its cute appearance: beneath that sleek coat lies a real personality.

A little dog with a big personality

Chihuahuas are intelligent, alert and often surprisingly brave. They sometimes behave as if they are much bigger than they actually are and do not shy away from barking at larger dogs. This self-confidence is charming, but can also lead to undesirable behaviour if not properly managed. Many Chihuahuas form a strong bond with one person and can be somewhat wary of strangers.

They are also true companion dogs. They love being close to their owner, preferably literally on their lap or snuggled up against you on the sofa. This affection makes them fantastic pets for people who spend a lot of time at home, but it can also lead to separation anxiety if the dog doesn’t learn to be left on its own.

Alert and sometimes a little suspicious

By nature, Chihuahuas are alert and watchful. They hear and see everything and make sure everyone knows it. This makes them good ‘watchdogs’ in the sense that they react quickly to noises or unfamiliar situations, but it also means that barking can become an issue during training. Early and positive socialisation is therefore essential: the more different people, dogs, sounds and situations a Chihuahua puppy is calmly introduced to at a young age, the more balanced the dog’s reactions will be later on.

• Introduce your puppy to different people and pets from an early age
• Reward calm behaviour when faced with new stimuli, rather than ignoring or punishing fear or barking
• Avoid just picking the dog up and carrying it around; let it walk and explore on its own as well
• Provide a fixed, predictable daily routine to promote a sense of calm and self-confidence

Consistent upbringing without excessive pampering

Precisely because Chihuahuas are so small and affectionate, their owners sometimes spoil them or raise them less strictly than larger dogs. That’s a shame, because even a Chihuahua benefits from clear rules and consistent training. Without boundaries, a Chihuahua may become possessive, jealous or even snappy, particularly towards other dogs or people who get too close to ‘its’ owner.

Positive training methods work best with this clever, sensitive little breed. Reward desired behaviour with a treat, attention or a toy, and ignore or interrupt undesired behaviour in a calm, non-punitive manner. Chihuahuas learn quickly, but like any small dog, they need repetition and patience for new habits to really take hold.

A well-trained Chihuahua is a confident, sociable and affectionate companion who need not be afraid of anyone, not even itself.

House-training and house rules

Chihuahuas have a reputation for being difficult to house-train, but this is more often down to inconsistent training than the breed itself. A designated spot for going outside, plenty of patience and consistently rewarding good behaviour help enormously. Because of their small size, they may be less keen to go outside in winter or when it’s raining, which can sometimes make house-training more difficult. A fixed routine and a positive approach remain the best tools for this.

Socialising with other dogs and children

Due to their small size, Chihuahuas may feel insecure around larger dogs or boisterous children, which can lead to defensive behaviour such as growling or biting. It is therefore important to always supervise interactions with children and never force the dog into a situation where it feels overwhelmed. With the right guidance, however, Chihuahuas can live very happily alongside other pets and family members of all ages.

With love, a consistent upbringing and plenty of socialisation, a Chihuahua will grow into a confident, cheerful companion who, despite its small size, claims a big place in the family. If you have any concerns about your Chihuahua’s behaviour or health, always consult a vet or a qualified dog behaviourist for personalised advice.