Toy breed · Popularity #34
Chihuahua Training
The Chihuahua is the world's smallest dog breed and possibly its boldest, packing enormous personality and attitude into a tiny frame. Devoted and alert, it makes a surprisingly effective watchdog thanks to a strong tendency to bark. Because owners often overlook training in such a small dog, Chihuahuas are prone to small-dog syndrome, resource guarding, and house-training struggles—all preventable with consistent, reward-based training and firm boundaries. Early socialization builds confidence and reduces reactivity. They need little exercise but real mental engagement. Trained and socialized properly, the Chihuahua is a spirited, affectionate, and fiercely loyal companion.
Trainability
Energy
Barking
- daily exercise
- ~30 min
- size
- Toy
- guides
- 30
Temperament
AlertBoldDevotedSassy
Common training challenges
Excessive barkingSmall-dog syndromeHousetraining difficultyResource guarding
8 guides
Obedience
How to Leash Train a ChihuahuaTeaching calm, polite walking without pulling on the leash.BeginnerHow to Train a Chihuahua to Come When CalledA reliable recall is the most important safety skill you can teach.IntermediateHow to Teach a Chihuahua to SitThe foundational obedience cue every dog should learn first.BeginnerHow to Teach a Chihuahua to StayBuilding duration, distance, and distraction control with the stay cue.BeginnerHow to Teach a Chihuahua to Leave ItImpulse control around food, objects, and hazards.IntermediateHow to Teach a Chihuahua to HeelPrecision loose-leash walking in the heel position.IntermediateHow to Teach a Chihuahua to Lie DownThe down cue as a building block for settle and impulse control.BeginnerHow to Teach a Chihuahua the Place CommandSending your dog to a mat or bed and holding a relaxed stay.Intermediate
6 guides
Puppy
How to Potty Train a Chihuahua PuppyA step-by-step house-training routine for reliable results.BeginnerHow to Crate Train a ChihuahuaMaking the crate a safe, calm den your dog chooses willingly.BeginnerHow to Stop a Chihuahua Puppy From BitingCurbing nipping and teaching gentle bite inhibition.BeginnerHow to Socialize a Chihuahua PuppyBuilding confidence during the critical socialization window.BeginnerHow to Stop a Chihuahua Puppy From Crying at NightSettling a new puppy for peaceful, uninterrupted nights.BeginnerThe Ideal Training Schedule for a Chihuahua PuppyA daily routine balancing training, play, rest, and potty breaks.Beginner
10 guides
Behavior
How to Stop a Chihuahua From BarkingIdentifying triggers and reducing excessive or nuisance barking.IntermediateHow to Treat Separation Anxiety in a ChihuahuaA gradual desensitization plan for dogs that panic when left alone.AdvancedHow to Stop a Chihuahua From Chewing EverythingManaging destructive chewing and teaching appropriate outlets.BeginnerHow to Stop a Chihuahua From Jumping on PeopleTeaching polite greetings instead of jumping up.BeginnerHow to Handle Aggression in a ChihuahuaUnderstanding and safely managing aggressive behavior.AdvancedHow to Fix Leash Reactivity in a ChihuahuaReducing lunging and barking at dogs or people on walks.AdvancedHow to Stop a Chihuahua From DiggingRedirecting the urge to dig into acceptable outlets.IntermediateHow to Stop Resource Guarding in a ChihuahuaSafely resolving guarding of food, toys, and spaces.AdvancedHow to Help a Chihuahua Overcome Fear of StrangersBuilding confidence in a shy or fearful dog around new people.AdvancedHow to Stop a Chihuahua From Counter SurfingKeeping paws off counters and food off the menu.Intermediate
6 guides
Advanced
How to Train a Chihuahua to Be Off LeashDeveloping the reliability needed for safe off-leash freedom.AdvancedHow to Clicker Train a ChihuahuaUsing marker-based training for fast, precise communication.IntermediateHow to Teach a Chihuahua TricksFun trick training from shake and roll over to advanced chains.IntermediateHow to Start Agility Training With a ChihuahuaIntroducing your dog to agility equipment and courses.AdvancedHow to Prepare a Chihuahua for the Canine Good Citizen TestPassing the AKC Canine Good Citizen certification, step by step.IntermediateAdvanced Obedience Training for a ChihuahuaProofing advanced obedience under real-world distractions.Advanced