All about Chihuahuas and why they still need dog walks
Did you know that the Chihuahua is the "oldest breed on the American continent and the smallest breed in the world" and is of unknown breed origin.And here is something else you may not know: " Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures (Chihuahuas) about, these are active little dogs that need a daily walk. Play can take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfil their primal instinct to walk.
Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display a wide array of behaviour problems, as well as neurotic issues. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard." (dogbreedinfo)
At the moment I walk Sniffy on occasions, a very social 14 year old Chihuahua and we will soon be joined by a 6 year old anxious Chihuahua that plays aggressive alpha to another dog it lives with.
What I want people to know is that you can start socialising your dog at any stage but the earlier the better. I have transformed several anxious jack russells to enjoying the park. They come home they sleep well, they don't rip into things, they don't bark they don't dig as many holes, all of a sudden people get a "new dog". they cant believe how this simple one thing, daily morning off lead dog walks can change their little darling.
The problem for many people its like letting go of their child. They don't want anything to happen to their dog, so wrapping them in cotton wool seems the best idea, but its the worst thing you can do.
Dog are pack animals, Even antisocial ones are curious about other dogs. Some need to start out with a muzzle but that is mostly for their own protection if they try fear biting. We never walk dogs that are a real risk to themselves or other dogs.
It is just so amazing that modern people get so caught up with the internet and socialising themselves they have so little real time for their dogs. Perhaps they don't want to share their dog. The problem with a dog living with a human only, is that they can take on the bad things of human society. Jealousy, aggression, domination. They want to protect you and be your alpha, and the smaller the dog often the more likely we are to accept bad behaviour because we think it is cute - but its exactly the stuff that stops you taking your dog anywhere or having people over.
The other site goes on to say " Socialize them well. For some, they may be slightly difficult to train, but they are intelligent, learn quickly, and respond well to proper, firm but gentle (positive reinforcement) training. "
Many Chihuahuas are used as guard or watch duties in Mexico. They seem to withstand the heat better than other dogs, and have great hearing, are brave and cost very little to feed. No wonder this utilitarian dog has spread so far and so many people find them irresistible ..
But remember a dog that can be used for guarding and is very independent will manipulate their owner far easier than many breeds. Don't be fooled by how small or cute a dog is - for every health reason imaginable (including your own) they need those walks off lead. Making their own decisions and fitting safely into a dog pack will turn most dogs back into the best natural dog they can be, and make their humans life so much better !
Stay tuned on facebook for our new dog adventures.
At the moment I walk Sniffy on occasions, a very social 14 year old Chihuahua and we will soon be joined by a 6 year old anxious Chihuahua that plays aggressive alpha to another dog it lives with.
What I want people to know is that you can start socialising your dog at any stage but the earlier the better. I have transformed several anxious jack russells to enjoying the park. They come home they sleep well, they don't rip into things, they don't bark they don't dig as many holes, all of a sudden people get a "new dog". they cant believe how this simple one thing, daily morning off lead dog walks can change their little darling.
The problem for many people its like letting go of their child. They don't want anything to happen to their dog, so wrapping them in cotton wool seems the best idea, but its the worst thing you can do.
Dog are pack animals, Even antisocial ones are curious about other dogs. Some need to start out with a muzzle but that is mostly for their own protection if they try fear biting. We never walk dogs that are a real risk to themselves or other dogs.
It is just so amazing that modern people get so caught up with the internet and socialising themselves they have so little real time for their dogs. Perhaps they don't want to share their dog. The problem with a dog living with a human only, is that they can take on the bad things of human society. Jealousy, aggression, domination. They want to protect you and be your alpha, and the smaller the dog often the more likely we are to accept bad behaviour because we think it is cute - but its exactly the stuff that stops you taking your dog anywhere or having people over.
The other site goes on to say " Socialize them well. For some, they may be slightly difficult to train, but they are intelligent, learn quickly, and respond well to proper, firm but gentle (positive reinforcement) training. "
Many Chihuahuas are used as guard or watch duties in Mexico. They seem to withstand the heat better than other dogs, and have great hearing, are brave and cost very little to feed. No wonder this utilitarian dog has spread so far and so many people find them irresistible ..
But remember a dog that can be used for guarding and is very independent will manipulate their owner far easier than many breeds. Don't be fooled by how small or cute a dog is - for every health reason imaginable (including your own) they need those walks off lead. Making their own decisions and fitting safely into a dog pack will turn most dogs back into the best natural dog they can be, and make their humans life so much better !
Stay tuned on facebook for our new dog adventures.
