Purebred Chihuahuas are categorized as either long-coat or smooth-coat (AKA short coat). Contrary to what some people may believe, these aren’t actual breeds but rather varieties of the Chihuahua. If you’re thinking of adding a new Chihuahua to your family in the near future, it’s important to understand the differences between long-coats and smooth-coats. While their appearance is likely the most noticeable difference, there are some other unique features associated with each of these varieties. Knowing what features and characteristics the different Chihuahua varieties have will help you make the most educated decision possible.
Long-Coat Chihuahua
Before we start, it’s important to note that the breed standards for both the long-coat and smooth-coat Chihuahua variety are the same with a few exceptions. The AKC states that all Chihuahuas, regardless of their coat, must meet a certain criteria. You can visit the official AKC website for a more descriptive outline of these standards, but some of them include a weight of no more than 6 pounds, well-rounded head (apple-shaped), full and round eyes, slightly-arched neck, lean shoulders and muscular hindquarters. So what differences are there in the breed standards between the two varieties?
Long-Coat Breed Requirements
Soft-to-the-touch fur coat.
Fur can be either be straight or naturally wavy.
Undercoat preferred.
Fur should remain strong and prominent all the way to the tip of the tail.
Excess hair around neck (AKA ruff) is preferred.
Smooth-Coat Breed Requirements
Short fur coat that’s close to their body.
Glossy
Soft texture
Excess hair around neck (AKA ruff) is preferred.
Excess hair on tail is preferred.
The criteria listed above is simply the official breed standards set by the AKC. If you’re looking to register your Chihuahua with them or allow them to participate in an AKC-sponsered show, you’ll need to make sure they meet all of the specifications. Start by determining whether your Chihuahua is a long-coat or smooth-coat variety and then work your way down through the requirements. Remember, the breed standards are the same for both varieties with the exception of the listed requirements previously mentioned.
Long-Coat Chihuahuas
Whether you own a Chihuahua or not, you’ve probably seen or at least heard of the long-coat variety before. As the name suggests, they have a much longer coat of fur than their counterpart, the smooth-coat Chihuahua. The long-coat variety tends to soft and semi-fluffy coat of hair, and they may or may not have an undercoat.
One might assume that long-coat Chihuahuas require more grooming and maintenance, but this isn’t always the case. If you do a little searching online and at some of the various Chihuahua forums, you’ll probably notice how most owners agree that long-coat Chihuahuas shed less than their smooth-coat counterpart. This can be somewhat confusing given the fact that they have more fur, so why is it that they shed less? One of the reasons is simply because their fur stays more securely on their body, which then prevents it from falling off. Long-coat Chihuahuas that lack an undercoat will also naturally shed less than long-coat Chihuahuas with an undercoat. Of course this doesn’t mean a long-coat variety isn’t going shed at all, but they are a smarter choice for owners who are concerned with keeping their floors cleaned.
While long-coat Chihuahuas do in fact shed less, they also pick up more grass, dirt and debris from being outside. The extra fur on their body acts as a magnet to anything they come into contact with. If you allow your long-coat Chihuahua run and play outside for long periods of time, they will likely drag in leaves and debris on their coat. You can minimize this, however, by brushing their coat before letting them back in the house.
Smooth-Coat Chihuahua
Smooth-Coat Chihuahuas
On the other side of the fence so to speak is the smooth-coat Chihuahua. It should go without saying that this variety possesses a much shorter and smoother fur coat. The fur rests directly directly on top of the Chihuahua’s skin, creating the appearance that they have little-to-no fur. Smooth-coat Chihuahuas can be found in a variety of colors, from white and black to brown and grey.
Something that you need to be aware of is that smooth-coat Chihuahuas will in fact shed more than long-coat Chihuahuas. If you plan to own a smooth-coat Chihuahua, be prepared to spend extra time grooming them and cleaning the floors in your home; otherwise, you’ll find their fur stuck to you anytime you sit down on the living room furniture. This can certainly be an annoyance, but it’s easy to deal with their shedding once you learn the basics. Visit the link for a more detailed guide on how to minimize your Chihuahua’s shedding.
Although smooth-coat Chihuahuas shed less than long-coats, grooming them is actually easier and less time-consuming. All Chihuahuas will need to be occasionally groomed, but smooth-coat varieties can go for a longer period of time without it. The short coat on their body prevents build-ups of dirt and debris, and it also doesn’t get tangled up like that of a long-coat’s.
In Conclusion…
The choice between a long-coat and smooth-coat Chihuahua is one that only you can make. Both of these varieties can make wonderful loving pets for the family when raised in a healthy environment. As long as you raise your Chihuahua with lots of love, attention and care, they will grow up and offer you the same level of respect you gave them. The length of their fur coat has absolutely no affect on their personality or characteristics.
Whether your Chihuahua is a deer head or apple head, long coat or smooth coat, he’s going to shed. With the exception of certain hairless breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli or Chinese Crested, all dogs shed. It’s a natural and ongoing process that’s actual beneficial for our canine companions.
As an owner, though, you may have some questions about your Chihuahua’s shedding.
Why do Chihuahuas shed?
How often will my Chihuahua shed?
Are Chihuahuas heavy shedders compared to other breeds?
Do long coat Chihuahua shed more than smooth coat Chihuahuas?
How can I manage excess fur in my home?
Is excessive shedding a sign of an underlying health problem?
Why Chihuahuas Shed Their Fur
Chihuahuas shed their fur so that a new, more protective coat can grow in its place.
Consisting of keratin (a protein also found in nails) and dead skin cells, fur helps to regulate the internal body temperature of dogs. Dogs are homeotherms, meaning they maintain a constant body temperature, typically around 101-102.5 degrees °F. Unlike us humans, dogs cannot sweat to cool off, so they rely on other means to regulate their temperature.
To cool off, dogs will pant, lie on cool surfaces like kitchen tile, and limit their physical activity. To stay warm, they’ll lower their metabolic rate, sit in front of a sunny window, or burrow under a blanket (something that Chihuahuas are particularly fond of doing).
A Chihuahua’s coat can also help him stay warm or cool, depending on its thickness. Chihuahuas typically have a thicker coat in the fall and winter months and a thinner coat in the spring and summer. A thick coat helps them stay warm by preventing heat from escaping their bodies, much in the same was as clothes insulate our bodies. A thin coat, on the other hand, keeps Chihuahuas cool by slowing down the process of heat absorption.
Single-Coat vs Double-Coat Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas can have either a single coat or a double coat.
Single-coat Chihuahuas have a single outer coat (top coat) consisting of thick guard hairs.
Double-coat Chihuahuas have a top coat of guard hairs and an under coat of softer, thinner hair.
The AKC’s breed standards accept Chihuahuas with or without an undercoat. In regards to the coat, only a “sparse” coat is grounds for disqualification.
Long-Coat vs Smooth-Coat Chihuahuas: Which Sheds More?
Conventional wisdom should tell you that long-coat Chihuahuas shed more than smooth-smooth Chihuahuas, but this isn’t necessarily true. If a smooth-coat Chihuahua has an undercoat, he will shed less than a long-coat Chihuahua without an undercoat. Most long-coat Chihuahuas have two coats, though some only have a top coat.
Furthermore, long-coat Chihuahuas often shed their hair in clumps, making it easier to clean up.
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Most double-coated Chihuahuas shed their undercoat twice per year, once in spring and again in late fall, and their top coat gradually throughout the entire year. Single-coat Chihuahuas typically shed either once in spring or gradually throughout the entire year.
Shedding in spring allows for the development of a lighter and thinner coat, whereas shedding in fall allows for the development of a heavier and thicker coat. When a dog sheds all or most of his coat in a short period of time, it’s referred to as “blowing a coat.”
In addition to seasonal shedding, both single and double-coat Chihuahuas will also shed small amounts of hair year-round. This is why we don’t see packs of hairless Chihuahuas roaming the street.
But not all Chihuahuas follow this cookie-cutter shedding schedule. Whether single-coated or double-coated, a Chihuahua may shed once per year, twice per year, or gradually throughout the entire year.
How Daylight Affects Shedding
It’s a common assumption that seasonal temperature changes are responsible for shedding, but it’s actually daylight variations that trigger this biological process.
The frequency and time of year when a Chihuahua sheds varies depending on his biological clock, known as the circadian rhythm. All animals have a circadian rhythm; it’s the collection of physical, mental and behavioral changes that respond to light and darkness in the animal’s environment. In addition to telling a Chihuahua when to sleep, it also tells him when to shed.
A Chihuahua’s circadian rhythm, and subsequently when he sheds, is affected primarily by the amount of light in the day (photoperiod). Following the Spring Equinox, Earth’s Northern Hemisphere begins to tilt closer to the sun, which results in longer days with more sunlight. In comparison, the Northern Hemisphere tilts farther from the sun in fall and winter, making the days shorter with less light.
The photoperiod variations between spring and fall regulate the amount of melatonin produced by the Chihuahua’s pineal gland. Dubbed the “hormone of darkness,” melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that triggers mood, reproductive cycles, body rhythms and shedding/fur growth. The nuances in seasonal daylight affect production of melatonin, telling the Chihuahua when to shed his coat and when to grow new fur.
The Shedding Cycle
Dogs, humans and many other mammals have a 3-stage cycle for growing and shedding hair.
Anagen (growth phase): nutrient-rich blood from the papilla stimulates hair growth.
Catagen (transition phase): growth stops as hair follicle separates from papilla.
Telogen (resting phase): hair follicle is temporarily anchored in place before falling out.
After telogen, the hair follicle falls out and a new hair follicle begins growing in its place; thus, repeating the 3-stage cycle.
Here’s an illustration of a Chihuahua’s hair growth cycle (click to enlarge):
Common Causes of Excessive Shedding and Hair Loss
You can expect your Chihuahua to lose some of his hair through shedding. However, excessive hair loss and/or bald spots, patches of uneven fur, or brittle fur could be signs of an underlying problem.
Hypothyroidism: Typically occurring in middle-aged dogs, hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces an insufficient amount of thyroid hormone. Symptoms include high blood cholesterol, lethargy, excessive shedding, weight gain and anemia. If you believe your Chihuahua is suffering from hypothyroidism, ask your veterinarian to perform blood test to check his thyroid hormone levels.
Cushing’s Disease: Characterized by a chronic overproduction of adrenal gland hormones, Cushing’s Disease causes hair loss, increased appetite, increased thirst, and increased urination.
Heat Cycle: Due to elevated levels of the hormone estrogen, female Chihuahuas will shed more during heat. Her estrogen levels will normalize about 24-48 hours before the end of the second stage (estrus).
Stress: Just like stress causes our hair to fall, it can also cause a Chihuahua’s hair to fall out. Common stressors include separation anxiety, punishment-based behavioral training (not recommended), moving into a new home, a death in the family, and the addition of a new family pet.
Food Allergies: If your Chihuahua is allergic to one or more ingredients in his food, he may shed an excessive amount of hair. This is a direct response by what your Chihuahua’s immune system to what it believes to be a foreign invader. Experiment with different varieties of food until you find one that doesn’t cause excess shedding or other allergic reactions.
Contact Allergies: Even if your Chihuahua doesn’t have a food allergy, he could be allergic to other chemicals or compounds in his environment. Possible allergens include shampoo, flea medicine, antibiotics, metals such as nickel, rubber, wool, plastic, and household cleaning products. Use process of elimination to identify and remove the allergen from your home.
Infections: Certain fungal and bacterial infections can cause excessive shedding, including ringworm and pyoderma.
Fleas: Not all Chihuahuas will experience hair loss from fleas. If your Chihuahua is allergic to flea saliva (known as flea allergy dermatitis), though, he may scratch profusely until bald spots are created.
Mange: Caused by the parasitic mite Demodex, mange is a skin disease that causes intense itching and subsequent hair loss in dogs.
How to Control Your Chihuahua’s Shedding
Chihuahuas are considered light shedders when compared to other breeds. A poll of 2,160 readers and 249 veterinary professionals conducted by VetStreet ranked the Chihuahua as the seventh lightest shedder, only behind the Poodle, Bichon Frise, Toy Poodle, Chinese Crested, Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese.
Nonetheless, Chihuahuas will shed, leaving behind piles of loose hair scattered throughout the home. It’s frustrating when you discover pet hair covering your floor, furniture and clothes, but thankfully there are ways to control shedding.
Here are some tips to control your Chihuahua shedding:
Brush your Chihuahua. The single most effective way to control a Chihuahua’s shedding is daily brushing. It removes loose hair, straightens tangled knots, and evenly distributes your Chihuahua’s natural skin oils throughout his coat.
Choose the right type of brush. We recommend using a slicker brush on Chihuahuas with an undercoat and a bristle brush on Chihuahuas without an undercoat. There are also special de-shedding tools, such as the Furminator, that work well for all coat types.
Bathe your Chihuahua. While not the most enjoyable activity for Chihuahuas, bathing promotes a clean coat by removing dirt, dander, debris and loose hair. We recommend bathing Chihuahuas once every 2-3 weeks. If your Chihuahua sheds during winter and/or spring, however, you can bathe him weekly during these seasonal sheds.
Treat allergy-related shedding with hydrocortisone shampoo. If contact allergies are to blame for your Chihuahua’s excessive shedding, use a hydrocortisone shampoo when bathing him. Hydrocortisone suppresses inflammation and itching associated with allergic reactions.
Use a blow dryer. After bathing your Chihuahua, use a blow dryer on the cool-air setting to remove loose hair from his coat.
Use a deshedding spray. Try using a waterless deshedding spray to control your Chihuahua’s shedding. These sprays typically contain natural ingredients that moisturizes and strengthens a dog’s hair.
Vacuum and sweep floors. By vacuuming carpet and sweeping floors, you’ll remove excess hair in your home. Alternatively, you can use a damp mop to remove loose hair from hardwood and vinyl floors.
Use a lint roller. Sofas and recliners are magnets for loose pet hair. To keep your Chihuahua’s hair off your furniture, run a lint roller across the upholstery. You can also use a lint roller directly on your Chihuahua to remove loose hair from his coat.
Provide your Chihuahua high-quality food. Avoid feeding your Chihuahua food consisting mostly of corn, filler ingredients, preservatives and artificial ingredients. Instead choose a variety of food with high-quality protein (not meal) as the leading ingredient. You can click on the aforementioned link for more information on choosing the right food for your Chihuahua.
Add olive oil to your Chihuahua’s diet. Drizzle a teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil over your Chihuahua’s food once daily. The high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids keeps excessive shedding in check by promoting a healthy, shiny coat.
Give your Chihuahua nutritional supplements. There are dozens of nutritional supplements designed specifically to reduce shedding in dogs. These supplements often contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, flaxseed oil, and various vitamins. While it’s no substitution for a well-balanced diet, supplements can certainly help.
Take your Chihuahua for regular checkups. Assuming he’s full grown, you should take your Chihuahua to the vet every 6 months for a routine wellness checkup. This can reveal infections, diseases, skin disorders and other problems that may cause excessive shedding.
Dress your Chihuahua in clothes. A dog shirt or sweater isn’t just a fashion statement; it controls shedding by keeping loose hair in place. After undressing your Chihuahua, immediately brush his coat to remove stray hair.
What You Shouldn’t Do
While excessive shedding can be a nuisance, you shouldn’t shave your Chihuahua. A dog’s coat plays an important role in regulating his body temperature. If you shave his coat, he’ll lack the insulation needed to stay warm during winter, and he’ll lack the protective top hairs needed to slow down heat absorption and stay cool in summer.
Shaving your Chihuahua also exposes his skin to sun damage. Without a protective layer of fur, dogs can develop painful sunburns, regardless of the season. You can trim your Chihuahua’s coat, but you should never shave it.
How do you manage your Chihuahua’s shedding? Let us know in the comments section below!
Choosing a dog food for your Chihuahua isn’t a decision that should be made lightly. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas have very specific nutritional needs that must be met through proper dieting. Unfortunately, most of the dog foods sold in pet stores and grocery stores fail to provide enough nutrients for healthy growth and development. While they may provide your Chihuahua a “full” belly, they don’t offer the right balance of nutrients and minerals. If you’re wondering what the best type of dog food is for a Chihuahua, keep reading.
Chihuahua Dog Food
Why The Right Dog Food Is Important For a Chihuahua
Many owners overlook the importance of a premium dog food for their Chihuahua. As you can expect, a good brand of dog food is naturally going to cost more money, which is why some owners opt to go with the cheaper types. The problem in doing so, however, is that cheap, low-quality dog food opens up your Chihuahua to a whole world of new health problems. You might save a couple dollars by feeding your Chihuahua a low-quality dog food, but you’ll likely end up paying more in the long run for vet visits and healthcare.
Here are some of the most common side effects associated with feeding a Chihuahua the wrong dog food:
Coat loses some of its color and sheen.
May suffer from tooth decay, tooth loss or other oral problems.
Weakened immune system leaves them more susceptible to disease.
Stunts their growth and development, causing them to grow at a slower pace than normal.
Leads to obesity and canine diabetes.
Increases the chance of food allergies.
May contain potentially life-threatening strains of food borne-illness, such as salmonella.
Corn
What To AVOID When Choosing Dog Food For Your Chihuahua
There are some common mistakes owners make when choosing dog food for their Chihuahua, one of which is placing their trust in brands sold at the grocery store. This can undoubtedly be confusing given the fact that some of these brands are labeled premium, but you have to carefully inspect any food you’re thinking of purchasing and feeding to your Chihuahua. Even some of these so-called “premium” dog foods are loaded down with junk ingredients and filler products that offer little-to-no nutritional value when consumed. Does this mean that ALL premium dog foods sold in grocery stores are poor choices that should be avoided? Not necessarily, but you need to be cautious and not risk your Chihuahua’s health based on the package labeling alone. Don’t worry, we’ll reveal what a good Chihuahua dog food needs to contain in a bit.
Another common mistake owners make is following the advice of their veterinarian. There are some ethical vets out there who enjoy helping people and the pets brought into their office, but there are others who are simply in the business to make money. If a vet recommends feeding your Chihuahua a type of dog food sold on their office premises, it’s almost certain that they are getting a commission for the sale. I recommend that you politely turn down a veterinarian’s offer to sell you dog food if it’s available in their office, and instead look for a type elsewhere.
Here are some of the ingredients that should be kept to a minimum in a dog food for your Chihuahua:
Food dyes.
Preservatives.
Filler products, such as corn and low-quality grains.
Corn gluten.
Wheat gluten.
Sugar.
Corn syrup.
Animal fat.
Cooked Chicken
Things To Look For In Chihuahua Dog Food
Now that you know what to avoid in a dog food for your Chihuahua, let’s take a look at some of the beneficial ingredients that you should look for. As previously stated, most of the “premium” dog foods gold in grocery stores are actually poor choices that don’t offer the right balance of meat, vegetables and overall nutrition; therefore, they should be avoided. Instead, take a look at the dog food products sold in pet stores around your area. If there aren’t any good choices here, you can always order your Chihuahua’s food online, but you’ll probably have to pay to have it shipped. Of course this is a small price to pay for your Chihuahua’s health and well being.
The number one ingredient that dog food for your Chihuahua should contain is meat. Whether it’s chicken, beef, fish or lamb, the dog food needs to have roughly a 40% meat content; otherwise, it’s not going to offer enough protein to meet their needs. It might be hard to determine exactly how much meat a bag of dog food has, but you can read the ingredients label to get an idea. I like to see meat products listed in at least 3 of the top 5 ingredients, as this is a sign it’s made with a substantial amount of meat.
The second most important ingredient a dog food needs to contain are vegetables. This is essentially where your Chihuahua will get the majority of their beneficial vitamins and minerals, so you’ll want to choose a dog food with a good balance of vegetables and meat. Look for the more healthy vegetables labeled on the ingredients, such as carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, squash, zucchini and broccoli. Regular potatoes are considered filler ingredients and should be avoided. These healthy vegetables should make up roughly 40% of the ingredients in a dog food as well. The remaining 20% should consist of starches like pastas.
Here’s a short list of high-quality premium dog foods that are great choices to feed a Chihuahua:
Choosing a dog food for your Chihuahua isn’t a decision that should be made lightly. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas have very specific nutritional needs that must be met through proper dieting. Unfortunately, most of the dog foods sold in pet stores and grocery stores fail to provide enough nutrients for healthy growth and development. While they may provide your Chihuahua a “full” belly, they don’t offer the right balance of nutrients and minerals. If you’re wondering what the best type of dog food is for a Chihuahua, keep reading.
Chihuahua Dog Food
Why The Right Dog Food Is Important For a Chihuahua
Many owners overlook the importance of a premium dog food for their Chihuahua. As you can expect, a good brand of dog food is naturally going to cost more money, which is why some owners opt to go with the cheaper types. The problem in doing so, however, is that cheap, low-quality dog food opens up your Chihuahua to a whole world of new health problems. You might save a couple dollars by feeding your Chihuahua a low-quality dog food, but you’ll likely end up paying more in the long run for vet visits and healthcare.
Here are some of the most common side effects associated with feeding a Chihuahua the wrong dog food:
Coat loses some of its color and sheen.
May suffer from tooth decay, tooth loss or other oral problems.
Weakened immune system leaves them more susceptible to disease.
Stunts their growth and development, causing them to grow at a slower pace than normal.
Leads to obesity and canine diabetes.
Increases the chance of food allergies.
May contain potentially life-threatening strains of food borne-illness, such as salmonella.
Corn
What To AVOID When Choosing Dog Food For Your Chihuahua
There are some common mistakes owners make when choosing dog food for their Chihuahua, one of which is placing their trust in brands sold at the grocery store. This can undoubtedly be confusing given the fact that some of these brands are labeled premium, but you have to carefully inspect any food you’re thinking of purchasing and feeding to your Chihuahua. Even some of these so-called “premium” dog foods are loaded down with junk ingredients and filler products that offer little-to-no nutritional value when consumed. Does this mean that ALL premium dog foods sold in grocery stores are poor choices that should be avoided? Not necessarily, but you need to be cautious and not risk your Chihuahua’s health based on the package labeling alone. Don’t worry, we’ll reveal what a good Chihuahua dog food needs to contain in a bit.
Another common mistake owners make is following the advice of their veterinarian. There are some ethical vets out there who enjoy helping people and the pets brought into their office, but there are others who are simply in the business to make money. If a vet recommends feeding your Chihuahua a type of dog food sold on their office premises, it’s almost certain that they are getting a commission for the sale. I recommend that you politely turn down a veterinarian’s offer to sell you dog food if it’s available in their office, and instead look for a type elsewhere.
Here are some of the ingredients that should be kept to a minimum in a dog food for your Chihuahua:
Food dyes.
Preservatives.
Filler products, such as corn and low-quality grains.
Corn gluten.
Wheat gluten.
Sugar.
Corn syrup.
Animal fat.
Cooked Chicken
Things To Look For In Chihuahua Dog Food
Now that you know what to avoid in a dog food for your Chihuahua, let’s take a look at some of the beneficial ingredients that you should look for. As previously stated, most of the “premium” dog foods gold in grocery stores are actually poor choices that don’t offer the right balance of meat, vegetables and overall nutrition; therefore, they should be avoided. Instead, take a look at the dog food products sold in pet stores around your area. If there aren’t any good choices here, you can always order your Chihuahua’s food online, but you’ll probably have to pay to have it shipped. Of course this is a small price to pay for your Chihuahua’s health and well being.
The number one ingredient that dog food for your Chihuahua should contain is meat. Whether it’s chicken, beef, fish or lamb, the dog food needs to have roughly a 40% meat content; otherwise, it’s not going to offer enough protein to meet their needs. It might be hard to determine exactly how much meat a bag of dog food has, but you can read the ingredients label to get an idea. I like to see meat products listed in at least 3 of the top 5 ingredients, as this is a sign it’s made with a substantial amount of meat.
The second most important ingredient a dog food needs to contain are vegetables. This is essentially where your Chihuahua will get the majority of their beneficial vitamins and minerals, so you’ll want to choose a dog food with a good balance of vegetables and meat. Look for the more healthy vegetables labeled on the ingredients, such as carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, squash, zucchini and broccoli. Regular potatoes are considered filler ingredients and should be avoided. These healthy vegetables should make up roughly 40% of the ingredients in a dog food as well. The remaining 20% should consist of starches like pastas.
Here’s a short list of high-quality premium dog foods that are great choices to feed a Chihuahua:
Most owners are fully aware of the dangers presented by toxic chemicals like bleach, anti-freeze, medicine and cleaning agents. However, a lesser-known threat comes from common houseplants that are toxic when ingested by a small Chihuahua. These plants may look nice and decorative when used in your home, but they could pose a serious risk […]
If you’ve noticed your Chihuahua hopping while holding one of their back legs up, chances are they are suffering from a knee condition known as “patellar luxation.” This is one of the breed’s most common health problems, as Chihuahua experts and health professionally estimate roughly 10% of the population suffers from it. At first glance, […]
Have you noticed your Chihuahua wheezing, gasping or making similar hacking-like sounds? A lot of owners automatically assume the worst when their Chihuahua begins to experience one of these episodes, and as a result, they may hastily rush them to a nearby emergency veterinarian where they rack up bills in excess of $1,000. The fact […]
If you see a flea on your Chihuahua, it’s important to take immediate action to treat and prevent them from coming back. Although they are most commonly found in parts of Europe, Asia and Africa, dog and cat fleas can still be found year-round in warmer regions of the U.S. The problem is that many […]
Just because we can eat a particular food doesn’t mean that a Chihuahua can. Many common foods that are perfectly safe for us to consume can cause severe illness in a Chihuahua. We’ve all heard that chocolate is toxic to dogs, but you might be surprised to learn what other foods are on the list. […]
Canine microchipping has become more and more popular in recent years with roughly 10 million dogs receiving the implant. If you own a Chihuahua, chances are you’ve at least considered microchipping them before. However, any smart and caring owner should weigh the advantages and disadvantages associated with this procedure before jumping into it. The fact […]
Biting is an instinctual characteristic shared by all dogs, and Chihuahuas are no exception.
Long before we domesticated them, dogs have used their teeth to kill prey, improve jaw strength, fend off predators, establish dominance in their pack’s social hierarchy, and play with other canines. Modern-day dogs have inherited this behavior from their ancestors, biting when provoked or otherwise stimulated. Unfortunately, this often results in owners, family members or complete strangers getting bit — behavior that should not be allowed.
Is a Biting Chihuahua Really That Bad?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4.7 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year, 800,000 of which require medical attention. Because of their small size, however, many owners turn a blind eye to their Chihuahua’s biting. After all, how much harm can a 5-pound Chihuahua really cause?
While a bite from a Chihuahua isn’t going to inflict the same damage as a bite from a larger dog like a pit bull or boxer, it can still leave a painful wound that’s prone to infection. There’s an old myth that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s mouth, but this isn’t a true. A dog’s saliva may contain one or more disease-causing pathogens, including Pasteurella multocida, Pasteurella canis, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Capnocytophaga canimorsus. When a Chihuahua bites, germs such as these can enter through the wound and cause an infection.
Biting is also a financial liability for the owner. If someone is bitten by your Chihuahua while visiting your home, the victim could sue for the cost of medical bills, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III) and State Farm, roughly one-third of all homeowner’s insurance claims paid out in 2014 and 2015 involved dog bites.
Furthermore, it’s usually children between the ages of 5 and 9 who are bitten by dogs. Their small size, erratic movements, and inability to identify a dog’s temperament makes them a prime target for an attack. Children and Chihuahuas can safely coexist in the same home, but only after teaching both the boundaries of acceptable behavior.
Why Chihuahuas Bite
Chihuahuas possess innate behavioral traits passed down from their ancestors, including biting. Even the most docile “lap-friendly” Chihuahua can bite when pushed to the edge. To prevent this unacceptable behavior, owners must familiarize themselves with some of the reasons why Chihuahuas bite.
Teething
A Chihuahua puppy’s baby teeth (milk teeth) will erupt through his gums at 3 to 5 weeks of age, allowing the pup to transition from mother’s milk to dry food. To relieve the discomfort associated with this developmental process, puppies will bite and chew on just about anything they can get their paws on, including toys, socks, shoes, carpet, rugs or even your hand.
This behavior will continue until all 28 baby teeth have erupted. Your Chihuahua’s biting and chewing habits may return when his adult teeth erupt — usually occurring around 3 to 4 months of age.
Because of his young age, a puppy’s bite isn’t going to inflict much damage, nor does he intend to cause damage. Nonetheless, it’s important to begin teaching your Chihuahua early that biting is not acceptable.
Follow these tips to control your Chihuahua’s biting during the teething stage:
Allow but don’t encourage your Chihuahua to bite your fingers.
Teach bite inhibition by pulling your hand away saying “Ouch! That hurts!” when your Chihuahua bites too hard. This is the single most important thing you can do (we explain in greater detail below).
Fill ice cube trays with low-sodium chicken or beef broth and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, offer the cool treat to your teething Chihuahua.
Chilled carrots are an excellent and nutritious treat for a teething Chihuahua.
Divert your Chihuahua’s chewing away from things like shoes and carpet by providing them proper toys. Rope toys are great because they can withstand countless hours of chewing. Kong toys are some of the toughest dog toys on the market, making them perfect for a teething Chihuahua. You can even fill them with water and freeze it for added relief of sore gums.
Avoid plush toys, as they offer little-to-no relief of sore gums and are easily torn apart.
Maternal Aggression
Female Chihuahuas are more likely to bite during the first 2-3 weeks after giving birth. Known as maternal aggression, this behavior is the result of powerful chemical alterations occurring throughout her body, including increased production of the hormones oxytocin and prolactin, and decreased production of progesterone.
Known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is released by the hypothalamus section of the brain and is associated with maternal bonding, nurturing and attachment. It’s used to stimulate contractions during labor, helping the fetus move through the birth canal.
Levels of the calming hormone progesterone decrease when a female Chihuahua is about to give birth, triggering increased production of the hormone prolactin. In addition to stimulating milk production, prolactin is associated with nesting and maternal instinct. Veterinary experts believe prolactin is also primarily responsible for the behaviors exhibited by female dogs during pseudopregnancy. These hormonal changes experienced by a female Chihuahua during pregnancy, or shortly after, can make her more aggressive.
You shouldn’t attempt to correct a female Chihuahua’s maternal aggression, but rather keep your distance until her hormones go back to normal. If you need to inspect or weigh her puppies, wait until she leaves her nesting area for food or water. Her aggression should gradually fade with each passing day after giving birth, with her behavior returning to normal within 3 to 4 weeks.
Pain-Induced Aggression
Chihuahuas have a natural instinct to protect themselves from danger. When a Chihuahua experiences pain, he may lash out and bite the person nearest to him, regardless of whether that individual caused the pain. He doesn’t know who or what caused the pain, but his natural fight-or-flight instinct tells him to lash out at the nearest person or animal.
According to a study of 13 dogs conducted by researchers at Autonomous University, Barcelona, pain-inducted aggression was identified in all dogs. “Dogs that had never been aggressive before the onset of pain began to behave in this way in situations where an attempt is made to control them,” explained lead researcher Tomàs Camps. This study was published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior— Clinical Applications and Research.
If your Chihuahua suffers from a medical condition like patellar luxation, which is common in this breed, he may exhibit aggressive behavior when touched in the affected knee. Owners and family members should use caution when handling a Chihuahua who’s suffering from painful physical conditions or injuries to avoid being bit.
A Chihuahua doesn’t necessarily have to be suffering from an injury or medical condition to exhibit pain-induced aggression. Toy breeds are most susceptible to pain-induced aggression because of their small size and heightened sensitivity towards pain. If a child (or adult) presses pulls, pinches or pushes your Chihuahua with too much force, he or she may get bit.
Signs that your Chihuahua is in pain may include:
Aggressive behavior
Flattened ears
Loss of appetite
Not interested in playing
Reluctance to accept treats
Yelping, whining or growling when touched (reactions such as these typically occur when a specific spot is touched)
Difficulty jumping and climbing stairs
Heavy panting
Excessive paw-licking
Difficulty sleeping
If your believe your canine companion is suffering from pain, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian ASAP. After performing an examination, your veterinarian can help to identify the cause of the pain and offer advice on treatment and pain medication options.
Past Abuse
According to the study “Behavioral and Psychological Characteristics of Canine Victims of Abuse” published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science (JAAWS), dogs with a history of past abuse were more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior towards unfamiliar people and unfamiliar dogs.
If you adopted a Chihuahua from a shelter or rescue, perhaps his biting is the result of abuse by a former owner. You can check with the organization from which you adopted your Chihuahua to see if there’s any history of abuse, but many cases go unreported.
Whether it’s physical abuse, social isolation, yelling/verbal punishment, confinement to a chain, or removing the pup from its mother too early, abuse comes in many different forms. Some Chihuahuas recover quickly from such abuse, while others have lasting emotional scars that sow the seeds for aggressive behavior.
Teaching a Chihuahua with past abuse to trust humans again isn’t an easy task, nor will it happen overnight. With time, patience, dedication and lots of affection, however, you can help your Chihuahua overcome these negative feelings.
Fear
A Chihuahua is more likely to bite another animal or person if he fears for his safety. Veterinarians are often the target of such aggression, simply because dogs are fearful of unfamiliar people and situations. When you take your Chihuahua to see a new veterinarian for the first time, he may growl and nip during the examination. The veterinarian isn’t going to harm your canine companion, but he or she is still perceived as a potential threat.
Because the victims of fear bites are typically strangers, owners should tell strangers not to pet or otherwise touch their Chihuahua. It’s not uncommon for strangers to stop and pet dogs at the park. In doing so, they place themselves at risk of being bitten. If you walk your Chihuahua in a park or other public area, politely decline any requests to pet your canine companion, unless your Chihuahua is familiar with the individual.
Socialization is key to nipping fear-inducted biting in the bud.
Territorial
Chihuahuas have a natural instinct to protect what they believe is their property, including toys, food, treats, water, beds, people and home. Known as territorial aggression, a Chihuahua is more likely to bite another person or animal if that person or animal encroaches upon their property. The purpose of this isn’t to harm the individual but to make him or her go away.
A prime example of territorial aggression is when a postal worker delivers mail to a home, only to get chased and potentially bitten by the homeowner’s dog. According to a report by the United States Postal Service (USPS), 6,549 of its employees were attacked by dogs in 2015. The dog perceives the postal worker as encroaching upon HIS territory, so his natural instinct is to chase the postal worker away.
Preventing bites from territorial aggression begins with teaching your Chihuahua that it’s YOUR property and that YOU will protect it. If he acts aggressively when a stranger knocks on the door, show him that it’s okay by asking a friend to come over and knock and enter through the front door, rewarding your Chihuahua with a treat afterwards.
If your Chihuahua is aggressive in a particular area, such as the corner of the living room, give him access to the area only when he’s not displaying signs of aggression. You can do the same if he’s aggressive around a toy, taking the toy away and giving it back when he’s docile. Some experts also recommend making dogs “work” for their toys and property by performing basic obedience commands like sit or heel, after which the dog is rewarded with the toy or item. Along with regular socialization and positive reinforcement, this can put an end to territorial aggression.
To prevent territorial aggression around food, carefully approach your Chihuahua with a treat while he’s eating. He should stop eating momentarily to accept the treat, after which you should walk away and wait a few minutes before returning with another treat. This shows your Chihuahua that it’s not always bad when someone enters his territory.
Illness
Certain illnesses and diseases may trigger aggressive behavior in Chihuahuas. Hypothyroidism is one such disease that can make an otherwise docile dog more likely to bite. Located next to the larynx (voice box), the thyroid gland is a small gland that’s responsible for producing thyroid hormones, which regulate healthy metabolic functions. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of these hormones.
While hypothyroidism occurs mostly in larger breeds, Chihuahuas may develop it as well. A simple blood test performed at the veterinarian’s office can reveal whether your Chihuahua is suffering from this disease. Thyroid hormone supplements like Levothyroxine (Soloxine) are often prescribed to treat hypothyroidism in dogs.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
Aggressive behavior
Lethargy
Hair loss and excessive shedding
Sudden weight gain
Hyperpigmentation of the skin
High cholesterol
Anemia
Lyme disease is another disease that’s been linked to aggressive behavior in dogs. Transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, it can cause swollen joints, swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, loss of appetite, as well as neurological symptoms like irritability, confusion and aggression. However, only 5-10% of dogs with Lyme disease show symptoms.
There’s a vaccine available for Lyme disease, but many veterinarians recommend traditional tick prevention methods instead due to the risk of adverse reactions from vaccination.
Teaching Your Chihuahua Not to Bite
There’s no universal training technique that will stop all Chihuahuas from biting. Dogs bite for many reasons, and the method for stopping this behavior varies depending on the trigger. With that said, the following tips can greatly reduce many instances of biting and other forms of aggression in Chihuahuas.
Don’t Punish for Growling
Many owners scold or otherwise punish their Chihuahuas for growling. In doing so, they eliminate a key warning sign that precedes biting. If you teach your Chihuahua that growling is bad, perhaps he’ll bite without warning the next time he’s provoked. The possibility of biting is still there, but the warning sign — growling — is removed.
Allowing your Chihuahua to growl may sound counterproductive if you’re trying to teach him not to bite, but it’s actually beneficial. Owners can teach their children to back away from the Chihuahua when he growls to avoid getting bit.
Growling may also reveal the cause of his aggression. If your Chihuahua growls when picked up, perhaps he’s suffering from a painful injury or medical condition. If he growls when another pet approaches his crate, his aggression is territorial.
Teach Bite Inhibition
Bite inhibition refers to a dog’s ability to control the force of his bite. When you give your Chihuahua a treat for instance, he shouldn’t bite your hand using the full strength of his jaw. If he knows bite inhibition, he’ll accept the treat more cautiously to prevent injuring you. The goal isn’t to prevent your Chihuahua from biting, but rather to teach him to control the force his of bite.
Puppies learn bite inhibition at an early age while nursing and playing with their littermates. If a puppy bites one his littermates too hard, the littermate may let out a high-pitched yelp, saying “You bit me too hard — and it hurt!” The same goes for puppies while nursing: biting the mother too hard may cause her to get up and walk away. If a puppy wants to play and nurse, he must learn to control his bite.
This is one of the reasons why puppies should stay with their mother for at least eight weeks. If a puppy is removed too early, he’s less likely to develop bite inhibition through playing and nursing. The same goes for singletons who are born without playmates.
Here are the three rules to follow when teaching bite inhibition:
Respond to forceful bites. When your Chihuahua bites too hard, respond by pulling your hand away and saying “Ouch, that hurt!” You should then ignore him for the next few minutes to discourage forceful biting.
Be consistent with your training efforts. Consistency is key when teaching your Chihuahua bite inhibition. If you respond with a loud “Ouch” on one occasion but not the next, it confuses him by sending mixed messages.
Reinforce into adulthood. Bite inhibition is best taught at an early age, while the puppy is still young. However, you should continue to reinforce it well into your Chihuahua’s adulthood.
Socialization
Chihuahuas are much more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior if they aren’t socialized. When a Chihuahua isn’t exposed to other people, animals and environments, he’s likely to develop fear-induced aggression, such as biting an unfamiliar person’s hand.
One study conducted by researchers from Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University found that unsocialized puppies were 580 times more likely to develop aggression problems later in life.
The idea behind socialization is to show your Chihuahua that other people and animals aren’t bad, preferably while he’s still a puppy. Puppies are most sensitive to socialization between the ages of 3 and 16 weeks, making this is a critical time to prevent aggression. If your Chihuahua has positive experiences with other people and animals at a young age, he’ll develop a more relaxed disposition towards unfamiliar faces in the future.
Here are some tips to follow when socializing your Chihuahua:
Make sure your Chihuahua is up to date on his vaccinations before exposing him to other people and animals.
Take a trip to the pet store with your Chihuahua.
Bring your Chihuahua on car trips (just don’t leave him the car).
Go on walks with your Chihuahua, such as dog parks, around the neighborhood, wooded trails, etc.
Play fetch with your Chihuahua outdoors.
When taking your Chihuahua to a dog park, walk him around the outside of the fence first.
Take your Chihuahua to friends’ and family members’ homes.
Invite friends or family members over to your home, encouraging them to play with your Chihuahua.
Sign up for a group-based obedience training class.
Reward your Chihuahua with a treat after each socialization experience.
Spaying/Neutering
Spaying or neutering may reduce aggression in Chihuahuas. According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of California, intermale aggression was reduced in 60% of male dogs by neutering, with rapid reduction of aggression in 25% and gradual reduction in 35%.
Neutering results in lower levels of testosterone, reducing behavior associated with this hormone such as urinating to mark territory, hyperactivity, running away, and aggression.
Spaying a female Chihuahua eliminates her heat cycle, and subsequently the behaviors associated with going into heat. It may also reduce female hormone-driven behavior, including nest guarding in pseudopregnancy.
In the past, it was widely believed that neutering male dogs before puberty was necessary to prevent these behavioral problems. A study cited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA), however, suggests that neutering male dogs in adulthood is just as effective at reducing aggression as neutering before puberty.
Professional Help for Biting and Aggression
When all else fails, seek professional help for your Chihuahua’s behavior. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends consulting with a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.
Alternatively, you can seek professional help from a Certified Processional Dog Trainer (CPDT) or member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).
The bottom line is that you shouldn’t throw in the towel just because your previous training efforts have failed.
Biting is an instinctual characteristic shared by all dogs, and Chihuahuas are no exception.
Long before we domesticated them, dogs have used their teeth to kill prey, improve jaw strength, fend off predators, establish dominance in their pack’s social hierarchy, and play with other canines. Modern-day dogs have inherited this behavior from their ancestors, biting when provoked or otherwise stimulated. Unfortunately, this often results in owners, family members or complete strangers getting bit — behavior that should not be allowed.
Is a Biting Chihuahua Really That Bad?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4.7 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year, 800,000 of which require medical attention. Because of their small size, however, many owners turn a blind eye to their Chihuahua’s biting. After all, how much harm can a 5-pound Chihuahua really cause?
While a bite from a Chihuahua isn’t going to inflict the same damage as a bite from a larger dog like a pit bull or boxer, it can still leave a painful wound that’s prone to infection. There’s an old myth that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s mouth, but this isn’t a true. A dog’s saliva may contain one or more disease-causing pathogens, including Pasteurella multocida, Pasteurella canis, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Capnocytophaga canimorsus. When a Chihuahua bites, germs such as these can enter through the wound and cause an infection.
Biting is also a financial liability for the owner. If someone is bitten by your Chihuahua while visiting your home, the victim could sue for the cost of medical bills, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III) and State Farm, roughly one-third of all homeowner’s insurance claims paid out in 2014 and 2015 involved dog bites.
Furthermore, it’s usually children between the ages of 5 and 9 who are bitten by dogs. Their small size, erratic movements, and inability to identify a dog’s temperament makes them a prime target for an attack. Children and Chihuahuas can safely coexist in the same home, but only after teaching both the boundaries of acceptable behavior.
Why Chihuahuas Bite
Chihuahuas possess innate behavioral traits passed down from their ancestors, including biting. Even the most docile “lap-friendly” Chihuahua can bite when pushed to the edge. To prevent this unacceptable behavior, owners must familiarize themselves with some of the reasons why Chihuahuas bite.
Teething
A Chihuahua puppy’s baby teeth (milk teeth) will erupt through his gums at 3 to 5 weeks of age, allowing the pup to transition from mother’s milk to dry food. To relieve the discomfort associated with this developmental process, puppies will bite and chew on just about anything they can get their paws on, including toys, socks, shoes, carpet, rugs or even your hand.
This behavior will continue until all 28 baby teeth have erupted. Your Chihuahua’s biting and chewing habits may return when his adult teeth erupt — usually occurring around 3 to 4 months of age.
Because of his young age, a puppy’s bite isn’t going to inflict much damage, nor does he intend to cause damage. Nonetheless, it’s important to begin teaching your Chihuahua early that biting is not acceptable.
Follow these tips to control your Chihuahua’s biting during the teething stage:
Allow but don’t encourage your Chihuahua to bite your fingers.
Teach bite inhibition by pulling your hand away saying “Ouch! That hurts!” when your Chihuahua bites too hard. This is the single most important thing you can do (we explain in greater detail below).
Fill ice cube trays with low-sodium chicken or beef broth and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, offer the cool treat to your teething Chihuahua.
Chilled carrots are an excellent and nutritious treat for a teething Chihuahua.
Divert your Chihuahua’s chewing away from things like shoes and carpet by providing them proper toys. Rope toys are great because they can withstand countless hours of chewing. Kong toys are some of the toughest dog toys on the market, making them perfect for a teething Chihuahua. You can even fill them with water and freeze it for added relief of sore gums.
Avoid plush toys, as they offer little-to-no relief of sore gums and are easily torn apart.
Maternal Aggression
Female Chihuahuas are more likely to bite during the first 2-3 weeks after giving birth. Known as maternal aggression, this behavior is the result of powerful chemical alterations occurring throughout her body, including increased production of the hormones oxytocin and prolactin, and decreased production of progesterone.
Known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is released by the hypothalamus section of the brain and is associated with maternal bonding, nurturing and attachment. It’s used to stimulate contractions during labor, helping the fetus move through the birth canal.
Levels of the calming hormone progesterone decrease when a female Chihuahua is about to give birth, triggering increased production of the hormone prolactin. In addition to stimulating milk production, prolactin is associated with nesting and maternal instinct. Veterinary experts believe prolactin is also primarily responsible for the behaviors exhibited by female dogs during pseudopregnancy. These hormonal changes experienced by a female Chihuahua during pregnancy, or shortly after, can make her more aggressive.
You shouldn’t attempt to correct a female Chihuahua’s maternal aggression, but rather keep your distance until her hormones go back to normal. If you need to inspect or weigh her puppies, wait until she leaves her nesting area for food or water. Her aggression should gradually fade with each passing day after giving birth, with her behavior returning to normal within 3 to 4 weeks.
Pain-Induced Aggression
Chihuahuas have a natural instinct to protect themselves from danger. When a Chihuahua experiences pain, he may lash out and bite the person nearest to him, regardless of whether that individual caused the pain. He doesn’t know who or what caused the pain, but his natural fight-or-flight instinct tells him to lash out at the nearest person or animal.
According to a study of 13 dogs conducted by researchers at Autonomous University, Barcelona, pain-inducted aggression was identified in all dogs. “Dogs that had never been aggressive before the onset of pain began to behave in this way in situations where an attempt is made to control them,” explained lead researcher Tomàs Camps. This study was published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior— Clinical Applications and Research.
If your Chihuahua suffers from a medical condition like patellar luxation, which is common in this breed, he may exhibit aggressive behavior when touched in the affected knee. Owners and family members should use caution when handling a Chihuahua who’s suffering from painful physical conditions or injuries to avoid being bit.
A Chihuahua doesn’t necessarily have to be suffering from an injury or medical condition to exhibit pain-induced aggression. Toy breeds are most susceptible to pain-induced aggression because of their small size and heightened sensitivity towards pain. If a child (or adult) presses pulls, pinches or pushes your Chihuahua with too much force, he or she may get bit.
Signs that your Chihuahua is in pain may include:
Aggressive behavior
Flattened ears
Loss of appetite
Not interested in playing
Reluctance to accept treats
Yelping, whining or growling when touched (reactions such as these typically occur when a specific spot is touched)
Difficulty jumping and climbing stairs
Heavy panting
Excessive paw-licking
Difficulty sleeping
If your believe your canine companion is suffering from pain, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian ASAP. After performing an examination, your veterinarian can help to identify the cause of the pain and offer advice on treatment and pain medication options.
Past Abuse
According to the study “Behavioral and Psychological Characteristics of Canine Victims of Abuse” published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science (JAAWS), dogs with a history of past abuse were more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior towards unfamiliar people and unfamiliar dogs.
If you adopted a Chihuahua from a shelter or rescue, perhaps his biting is the result of abuse by a former owner. You can check with the organization from which you adopted your Chihuahua to see if there’s any history of abuse, but many cases go unreported.
Whether it’s physical abuse, social isolation, yelling/verbal punishment, confinement to a chain, or removing the pup from its mother too early, abuse comes in many different forms. Some Chihuahuas recover quickly from such abuse, while others have lasting emotional scars that sow the seeds for aggressive behavior.
Teaching a Chihuahua with past abuse to trust humans again isn’t an easy task, nor will it happen overnight. With time, patience, dedication and lots of affection, however, you can help your Chihuahua overcome these negative feelings.
Fear
A Chihuahua is more likely to bite another animal or person if he fears for his safety. Veterinarians are often the target of such aggression, simply because dogs are fearful of unfamiliar people and situations. When you take your Chihuahua to see a new veterinarian for the first time, he may growl and nip during the examination. The veterinarian isn’t going to harm your canine companion, but he or she is still perceived as a potential threat.
Because the victims of fear bites are typically strangers, owners should tell strangers not to pet or otherwise touch their Chihuahua. It’s not uncommon for strangers to stop and pet dogs at the park. In doing so, they place themselves at risk of being bitten. If you walk your Chihuahua in a park or other public area, politely decline any requests to pet your canine companion, unless your Chihuahua is familiar with the individual.
Socialization is key to nipping fear-inducted biting in the bud.
Territorial
Chihuahuas have a natural instinct to protect what they believe is their property, including toys, food, treats, water, beds, people and home. Known as territorial aggression, a Chihuahua is more likely to bite another person or animal if that person or animal encroaches upon their property. The purpose of this isn’t to harm the individual but to make him or her go away.
A prime example of territorial aggression is when a postal worker delivers mail to a home, only to get chased and potentially bitten by the homeowner’s dog. According to a report by the United States Postal Service (USPS), 6,549 of its employees were attacked by dogs in 2015. The dog perceives the postal worker as encroaching upon HIS territory, so his natural instinct is to chase the postal worker away.
Preventing bites from territorial aggression begins with teaching your Chihuahua that it’s YOUR property and that YOU will protect it. If he acts aggressively when a stranger knocks on the door, show him that it’s okay by asking a friend to come over and knock and enter through the front door, rewarding your Chihuahua with a treat afterwards.
If your Chihuahua is aggressive in a particular area, such as the corner of the living room, give him access to the area only when he’s not displaying signs of aggression. You can do the same if he’s aggressive around a toy, taking the toy away and giving it back when he’s docile. Some experts also recommend making dogs “work” for their toys and property by performing basic obedience commands like sit or heel, after which the dog is rewarded with the toy or item. Along with regular socialization and positive reinforcement, this can put an end to territorial aggression.
To prevent territorial aggression around food, carefully approach your Chihuahua with a treat while he’s eating. He should stop eating momentarily to accept the treat, after which you should walk away and wait a few minutes before returning with another treat. This shows your Chihuahua that it’s not always bad when someone enters his territory.
Illness
Certain illnesses and diseases may trigger aggressive behavior in Chihuahuas. Hypothyroidism is one such disease that can make an otherwise docile dog more likely to bite. Located next to the larynx (voice box), the thyroid gland is a small gland that’s responsible for producing thyroid hormones, which regulate healthy metabolic functions. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of these hormones.
While hypothyroidism occurs mostly in larger breeds, Chihuahuas may develop it as well. A simple blood test performed at the veterinarian’s office can reveal whether your Chihuahua is suffering from this disease. Thyroid hormone supplements like Levothyroxine (Soloxine) are often prescribed to treat hypothyroidism in dogs.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
Aggressive behavior
Lethargy
Hair loss and excessive shedding
Sudden weight gain
Hyperpigmentation of the skin
High cholesterol
Anemia
Lyme disease is another disease that’s been linked to aggressive behavior in dogs. Transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, it can cause swollen joints, swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, loss of appetite, as well as neurological symptoms like irritability, confusion and aggression. However, only 5-10% of dogs with Lyme disease show symptoms.
There’s a vaccine available for Lyme disease, but many veterinarians recommend traditional tick prevention methods instead due to the risk of adverse reactions from vaccination.
Teaching Your Chihuahua Not to Bite
There’s no universal training technique that will stop all Chihuahuas from biting. Dogs bite for many reasons, and the method for stopping this behavior varies depending on the trigger. With that said, the following tips can greatly reduce many instances of biting and other forms of aggression in Chihuahuas.
Don’t Punish for Growling
Many owners scold or otherwise punish their Chihuahuas for growling. In doing so, they eliminate a key warning sign that precedes biting. If you teach your Chihuahua that growling is bad, perhaps he’ll bite without warning the next time he’s provoked. The possibility of biting is still there, but the warning sign — growling — is removed.
Allowing your Chihuahua to growl may sound counterproductive if you’re trying to teach him not to bite, but it’s actually beneficial. Owners can teach their children to back away from the Chihuahua when he growls to avoid getting bit.
Growling may also reveal the cause of his aggression. If your Chihuahua growls when picked up, perhaps he’s suffering from a painful injury or medical condition. If he growls when another pet approaches his crate, his aggression is territorial.
Teach Bite Inhibition
Bite inhibition refers to a dog’s ability to control the force of his bite. When you give your Chihuahua a treat for instance, he shouldn’t bite your hand using the full strength of his jaw. If he knows bite inhibition, he’ll accept the treat more cautiously to prevent injuring you. The goal isn’t to prevent your Chihuahua from biting, but rather to teach him to control the force his of bite.
Puppies learn bite inhibition at an early age while nursing and playing with their littermates. If a puppy bites one his littermates too hard, the littermate may let out a high-pitched yelp, saying “You bit me too hard — and it hurt!” The same goes for puppies while nursing: biting the mother too hard may cause her to get up and walk away. If a puppy wants to play and nurse, he must learn to control his bite.
This is one of the reasons why puppies should stay with their mother for at least eight weeks. If a puppy is removed too early, he’s less likely to develop bite inhibition through playing and nursing. The same goes for singletons who are born without playmates.
Here are the three rules to follow when teaching bite inhibition:
Respond to forceful bites. When your Chihuahua bites too hard, respond by pulling your hand away and saying “Ouch, that hurt!” You should then ignore him for the next few minutes to discourage forceful biting.
Be consistent with your training efforts. Consistency is key when teaching your Chihuahua bite inhibition. If you respond with a loud “Ouch” on one occasion but not the next, it confuses him by sending mixed messages.
Reinforce into adulthood. Bite inhibition is best taught at an early age, while the puppy is still young. However, you should continue to reinforce it well into your Chihuahua’s adulthood.
Socialization
Chihuahuas are much more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior if they aren’t socialized. When a Chihuahua isn’t exposed to other people, animals and environments, he’s likely to develop fear-induced aggression, such as biting an unfamiliar person’s hand.
One study conducted by researchers from Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University found that unsocialized puppies were 580 times more likely to develop aggression problems later in life.
The idea behind socialization is to show your Chihuahua that other people and animals aren’t bad, preferably while he’s still a puppy. Puppies are most sensitive to socialization between the ages of 3 and 16 weeks, making this is a critical time to prevent aggression. If your Chihuahua has positive experiences with other people and animals at a young age, he’ll develop a more relaxed disposition towards unfamiliar faces in the future.
Here are some tips to follow when socializing your Chihuahua:
Make sure your Chihuahua is up to date on his vaccinations before exposing him to other people and animals.
Take a trip to the pet store with your Chihuahua.
Bring your Chihuahua on car trips (just don’t leave him the car).
Go on walks with your Chihuahua, such as dog parks, around the neighborhood, wooded trails, etc.
Play fetch with your Chihuahua outdoors.
When taking your Chihuahua to a dog park, walk him around the outside of the fence first.
Take your Chihuahua to friends’ and family members’ homes.
Invite friends or family members over to your home, encouraging them to play with your Chihuahua.
Sign up for a group-based obedience training class.
Reward your Chihuahua with a treat after each socialization experience.
Spaying/Neutering
Spaying or neutering may reduce aggression in Chihuahuas. According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of California, intermale aggression was reduced in 60% of male dogs by neutering, with rapid reduction of aggression in 25% and gradual reduction in 35%.
Neutering results in lower levels of testosterone, reducing behavior associated with this hormone such as urinating to mark territory, hyperactivity, running away, and aggression.
Spaying a female Chihuahua eliminates her heat cycle, and subsequently the behaviors associated with going into heat. It may also reduce female hormone-driven behavior, including nest guarding in pseudopregnancy.
In the past, it was widely believed that neutering male dogs before puberty was necessary to prevent these behavioral problems. A study cited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA), however, suggests that neutering male dogs in adulthood is just as effective at reducing aggression as neutering before puberty.
Professional Help for Biting and Aggression
When all else fails, seek professional help for your Chihuahua’s behavior. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends consulting with a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.
Alternatively, you can seek professional help from a Certified Processional Dog Trainer (CPDT) or member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).
The bottom line is that you shouldn’t throw in the towel just because your previous training efforts have failed.
Choosing a dog food for your Chihuahua isn’t a decision that should be made lightly. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas have very specific nutritional needs that must be met through proper dieting. Unfortunately, most of the dog foods sold in pet stores and grocery stores fail to provide enough nutrients for healthy growth and development. While they may provide your Chihuahua a “full” belly, they don’t offer the right balance of nutrients and minerals. If you’re wondering what the best type of dog food is for a Chihuahua, keep reading.
Chihuahua Dog Food
Why The Right Dog Food Is Important For a Chihuahua
Many owners overlook the importance of a premium dog food for their Chihuahua. As you can expect, a good brand of dog food is naturally going to cost more money, which is why some owners opt to go with the cheaper types. The problem in doing so, however, is that cheap, low-quality dog food opens up your Chihuahua to a whole world of new health problems. You might save a couple dollars by feeding your Chihuahua a low-quality dog food, but you’ll likely end up paying more in the long run for vet visits and healthcare.
Here are some of the most common side effects associated with feeding a Chihuahua the wrong dog food:
Coat loses some of its color and sheen.
May suffer from tooth decay, tooth loss or other oral problems.
Weakened immune system leaves them more susceptible to disease.
Stunts their growth and development, causing them to grow at a slower pace than normal.
Leads to obesity and canine diabetes.
Increases the chance of food allergies.
May contain potentially life-threatening strains of food borne-illness, such as salmonella.
Corn
What To AVOID When Choosing Dog Food For Your Chihuahua
There are some common mistakes owners make when choosing dog food for their Chihuahua, one of which is placing their trust in brands sold at the grocery store. This can undoubtedly be confusing given the fact that some of these brands are labeled premium, but you have to carefully inspect any food you’re thinking of purchasing and feeding to your Chihuahua. Even some of these so-called “premium” dog foods are loaded down with junk ingredients and filler products that offer little-to-no nutritional value when consumed. Does this mean that ALL premium dog foods sold in grocery stores are poor choices that should be avoided? Not necessarily, but you need to be cautious and not risk your Chihuahua’s health based on the package labeling alone. Don’t worry, we’ll reveal what a good Chihuahua dog food needs to contain in a bit.
Another common mistake owners make is following the advice of their veterinarian. There are some ethical vets out there who enjoy helping people and the pets brought into their office, but there are others who are simply in the business to make money. If a vet recommends feeding your Chihuahua a type of dog food sold on their office premises, it’s almost certain that they are getting a commission for the sale. I recommend that you politely turn down a veterinarian’s offer to sell you dog food if it’s available in their office, and instead look for a type elsewhere.
Here are some of the ingredients that should be kept to a minimum in a dog food for your Chihuahua:
Food dyes.
Preservatives.
Filler products, such as corn and low-quality grains.
Corn gluten.
Wheat gluten.
Sugar.
Corn syrup.
Animal fat.
Cooked Chicken
Things To Look For In Chihuahua Dog Food
Now that you know what to avoid in a dog food for your Chihuahua, let’s take a look at some of the beneficial ingredients that you should look for. As previously stated, most of the “premium” dog foods gold in grocery stores are actually poor choices that don’t offer the right balance of meat, vegetables and overall nutrition; therefore, they should be avoided. Instead, take a look at the dog food products sold in pet stores around your area. If there aren’t any good choices here, you can always order your Chihuahua’s food online, but you’ll probably have to pay to have it shipped. Of course this is a small price to pay for your Chihuahua’s health and well being.
The number one ingredient that dog food for your Chihuahua should contain is meat. Whether it’s chicken, beef, fish or lamb, the dog food needs to have roughly a 40% meat content; otherwise, it’s not going to offer enough protein to meet their needs. It might be hard to determine exactly how much meat a bag of dog food has, but you can read the ingredients label to get an idea. I like to see meat products listed in at least 3 of the top 5 ingredients, as this is a sign it’s made with a substantial amount of meat.
The second most important ingredient a dog food needs to contain are vegetables. This is essentially where your Chihuahua will get the majority of their beneficial vitamins and minerals, so you’ll want to choose a dog food with a good balance of vegetables and meat. Look for the more healthy vegetables labeled on the ingredients, such as carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, squash, zucchini and broccoli. Regular potatoes are considered filler ingredients and should be avoided. These healthy vegetables should make up roughly 40% of the ingredients in a dog food as well. The remaining 20% should consist of starches like pastas.
Here’s a short list of high-quality premium dog foods that are great choices to feed a Chihuahua:
Choosing a dog food for your Chihuahua isn’t a decision that should be made lightly. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas have very specific nutritional needs that must be met through proper dieting. Unfortunately, most of the dog foods sold in pet stores and grocery stores fail to provide enough nutrients for healthy growth and development. While they may provide your Chihuahua a “full” belly, they don’t offer the right balance of nutrients and minerals. If you’re wondering what the best type of dog food is for a Chihuahua, keep reading.
Chihuahua Dog Food
Why The Right Dog Food Is Important For a Chihuahua
Many owners overlook the importance of a premium dog food for their Chihuahua. As you can expect, a good brand of dog food is naturally going to cost more money, which is why some owners opt to go with the cheaper types. The problem in doing so, however, is that cheap, low-quality dog food opens up your Chihuahua to a whole world of new health problems. You might save a couple dollars by feeding your Chihuahua a low-quality dog food, but you’ll likely end up paying more in the long run for vet visits and healthcare.
Here are some of the most common side effects associated with feeding a Chihuahua the wrong dog food:
Coat loses some of its color and sheen.
May suffer from tooth decay, tooth loss or other oral problems.
Weakened immune system leaves them more susceptible to disease.
Stunts their growth and development, causing them to grow at a slower pace than normal.
Leads to obesity and canine diabetes.
Increases the chance of food allergies.
May contain potentially life-threatening strains of food borne-illness, such as salmonella.
Corn
What To AVOID When Choosing Dog Food For Your Chihuahua
There are some common mistakes owners make when choosing dog food for their Chihuahua, one of which is placing their trust in brands sold at the grocery store. This can undoubtedly be confusing given the fact that some of these brands are labeled premium, but you have to carefully inspect any food you’re thinking of purchasing and feeding to your Chihuahua. Even some of these so-called “premium” dog foods are loaded down with junk ingredients and filler products that offer little-to-no nutritional value when consumed. Does this mean that ALL premium dog foods sold in grocery stores are poor choices that should be avoided? Not necessarily, but you need to be cautious and not risk your Chihuahua’s health based on the package labeling alone. Don’t worry, we’ll reveal what a good Chihuahua dog food needs to contain in a bit.
Another common mistake owners make is following the advice of their veterinarian. There are some ethical vets out there who enjoy helping people and the pets brought into their office, but there are others who are simply in the business to make money. If a vet recommends feeding your Chihuahua a type of dog food sold on their office premises, it’s almost certain that they are getting a commission for the sale. I recommend that you politely turn down a veterinarian’s offer to sell you dog food if it’s available in their office, and instead look for a type elsewhere.
Here are some of the ingredients that should be kept to a minimum in a dog food for your Chihuahua:
Food dyes.
Preservatives.
Filler products, such as corn and low-quality grains.
Corn gluten.
Wheat gluten.
Sugar.
Corn syrup.
Animal fat.
Cooked Chicken
Things To Look For In Chihuahua Dog Food
Now that you know what to avoid in a dog food for your Chihuahua, let’s take a look at some of the beneficial ingredients that you should look for. As previously stated, most of the “premium” dog foods gold in grocery stores are actually poor choices that don’t offer the right balance of meat, vegetables and overall nutrition; therefore, they should be avoided. Instead, take a look at the dog food products sold in pet stores around your area. If there aren’t any good choices here, you can always order your Chihuahua’s food online, but you’ll probably have to pay to have it shipped. Of course this is a small price to pay for your Chihuahua’s health and well being.
The number one ingredient that dog food for your Chihuahua should contain is meat. Whether it’s chicken, beef, fish or lamb, the dog food needs to have roughly a 40% meat content; otherwise, it’s not going to offer enough protein to meet their needs. It might be hard to determine exactly how much meat a bag of dog food has, but you can read the ingredients label to get an idea. I like to see meat products listed in at least 3 of the top 5 ingredients, as this is a sign it’s made with a substantial amount of meat.
The second most important ingredient a dog food needs to contain are vegetables. This is essentially where your Chihuahua will get the majority of their beneficial vitamins and minerals, so you’ll want to choose a dog food with a good balance of vegetables and meat. Look for the more healthy vegetables labeled on the ingredients, such as carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, squash, zucchini and broccoli. Regular potatoes are considered filler ingredients and should be avoided. These healthy vegetables should make up roughly 40% of the ingredients in a dog food as well. The remaining 20% should consist of starches like pastas.
Here’s a short list of high-quality premium dog foods that are great choices to feed a Chihuahua:
Biting is an instinctual characteristic shared by all dogs, and Chihuahuas are no exception.
Long before we domesticated them, dogs have used their teeth to kill prey, improve jaw strength, fend off predators, establish dominance in their pack’s social hierarchy, and play with other canines. Modern-day dogs have inherited this behavior from their ancestors, biting when provoked or otherwise stimulated. Unfortunately, this often results in owners, family members or complete strangers getting bit — behavior that should not be allowed.
Is a Biting Chihuahua Really That Bad?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4.7 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year, 800,000 of which require medical attention. Because of their small size, however, many owners turn a blind eye to their Chihuahua’s biting. After all, how much harm can a 5-pound Chihuahua really cause?
While a bite from a Chihuahua isn’t going to inflict the same damage as a bite from a larger dog like a pit bull or boxer, it can still leave a painful wound that’s prone to infection. There’s an old myth that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s mouth, but this isn’t a true. A dog’s saliva may contain one or more disease-causing pathogens, including Pasteurella multocida, Pasteurella canis, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Capnocytophaga canimorsus. When a Chihuahua bites, germs such as these can enter through the wound and cause an infection.
Biting is also a financial liability for the owner. If someone is bitten by your Chihuahua while visiting your home, the victim could sue for the cost of medical bills, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III) and State Farm, roughly one-third of all homeowner’s insurance claims paid out in 2014 and 2015 involved dog bites.
Furthermore, it’s usually children between the ages of 5 and 9 who are bitten by dogs. Their small size, erratic movements, and inability to identify a dog’s temperament makes them a prime target for an attack. Children and Chihuahuas can safely coexist in the same home, but only after teaching both the boundaries of acceptable behavior.
Why Chihuahuas Bite
Chihuahuas possess innate behavioral traits passed down from their ancestors, including biting. Even the most docile “lap-friendly” Chihuahua can bite when pushed to the edge. To prevent this unacceptable behavior, owners must familiarize themselves with some of the reasons why Chihuahuas bite.
Teething
A Chihuahua puppy’s baby teeth (milk teeth) will erupt through his gums at 3 to 5 weeks of age, allowing the pup to transition from mother’s milk to dry food. To relieve the discomfort associated with this developmental process, puppies will bite and chew on just about anything they can get their paws on, including toys, socks, shoes, carpet, rugs or even your hand.
This behavior will continue until all 28 baby teeth have erupted. Your Chihuahua’s biting and chewing habits may return when his adult teeth erupt — usually occurring around 3 to 4 months of age.
Because of his young age, a puppy’s bite isn’t going to inflict much damage, nor does he intend to cause damage. Nonetheless, it’s important to begin teaching your Chihuahua early that biting is not acceptable.
Follow these tips to control your Chihuahua’s biting during the teething stage:
Allow but don’t encourage your Chihuahua to bite your fingers.
Teach bite inhibition by pulling your hand away saying “Ouch! That hurts!” when your Chihuahua bites too hard. This is the single most important thing you can do (we explain in greater detail below).
Fill ice cube trays with low-sodium chicken or beef broth and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, offer the cool treat to your teething Chihuahua.
Chilled carrots are an excellent and nutritious treat for a teething Chihuahua.
Divert your Chihuahua’s chewing away from things like shoes and carpet by providing them proper toys. Rope toys are great because they can withstand countless hours of chewing. Kong toys are some of the toughest dog toys on the market, making them perfect for a teething Chihuahua. You can even fill them with water and freeze it for added relief of sore gums.
Avoid plush toys, as they offer little-to-no relief of sore gums and are easily torn apart.
Maternal Aggression
Female Chihuahuas are more likely to bite during the first 2-3 weeks after giving birth. Known as maternal aggression, this behavior is the result of powerful chemical alterations occurring throughout her body, including increased production of the hormones oxytocin and prolactin, and decreased production of progesterone.
Known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is released by the hypothalamus section of the brain and is associated with maternal bonding, nurturing and attachment. It’s used to stimulate contractions during labor, helping the fetus move through the birth canal.
Levels of the calming hormone progesterone decrease when a female Chihuahua is about to give birth, triggering increased production of the hormone prolactin. In addition to stimulating milk production, prolactin is associated with nesting and maternal instinct. Veterinary experts believe prolactin is also primarily responsible for the behaviors exhibited by female dogs during pseudopregnancy. These hormonal changes experienced by a female Chihuahua during pregnancy, or shortly after, can make her more aggressive.
You shouldn’t attempt to correct a female Chihuahua’s maternal aggression, but rather keep your distance until her hormones go back to normal. If you need to inspect or weigh her puppies, wait until she leaves her nesting area for food or water. Her aggression should gradually fade with each passing day after giving birth, with her behavior returning to normal within 3 to 4 weeks.
Pain-Induced Aggression
Chihuahuas have a natural instinct to protect themselves from danger. When a Chihuahua experiences pain, he may lash out and bite the person nearest to him, regardless of whether that individual caused the pain. He doesn’t know who or what caused the pain, but his natural fight-or-flight instinct tells him to lash out at the nearest person or animal.
According to a study of 13 dogs conducted by researchers at Autonomous University, Barcelona, pain-inducted aggression was identified in all dogs. “Dogs that had never been aggressive before the onset of pain began to behave in this way in situations where an attempt is made to control them,” explained lead researcher Tomàs Camps. This study was published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior— Clinical Applications and Research.
If your Chihuahua suffers from a medical condition like patellar luxation, which is common in this breed, he may exhibit aggressive behavior when touched in the affected knee. Owners and family members should use caution when handling a Chihuahua who’s suffering from painful physical conditions or injuries to avoid being bit.
A Chihuahua doesn’t necessarily have to be suffering from an injury or medical condition to exhibit pain-induced aggression. Toy breeds are most susceptible to pain-induced aggression because of their small size and heightened sensitivity towards pain. If a child (or adult) presses pulls, pinches or pushes your Chihuahua with too much force, he or she may get bit.
Signs that your Chihuahua is in pain may include:
Aggressive behavior
Flattened ears
Loss of appetite
Not interested in playing
Reluctance to accept treats
Yelping, whining or growling when touched (reactions such as these typically occur when a specific spot is touched)
Difficulty jumping and climbing stairs
Heavy panting
Excessive paw-licking
Difficulty sleeping
If your believe your canine companion is suffering from pain, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian ASAP. After performing an examination, your veterinarian can help to identify the cause of the pain and offer advice on treatment and pain medication options.
Past Abuse
According to the study “Behavioral and Psychological Characteristics of Canine Victims of Abuse” published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science (JAAWS), dogs with a history of past abuse were more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior towards unfamiliar people and unfamiliar dogs.
If you adopted a Chihuahua from a shelter or rescue, perhaps his biting is the result of abuse by a former owner. You can check with the organization from which you adopted your Chihuahua to see if there’s any history of abuse, but many cases go unreported.
Whether it’s physical abuse, social isolation, yelling/verbal punishment, confinement to a chain, or removing the pup from its mother too early, abuse comes in many different forms. Some Chihuahuas recover quickly from such abuse, while others have lasting emotional scars that sow the seeds for aggressive behavior.
Teaching a Chihuahua with past abuse to trust humans again isn’t an easy task, nor will it happen overnight. With time, patience, dedication and lots of affection, however, you can help your Chihuahua overcome these negative feelings.
Fear
A Chihuahua is more likely to bite another animal or person if he fears for his safety. Veterinarians are often the target of such aggression, simply because dogs are fearful of unfamiliar people and situations. When you take your Chihuahua to see a new veterinarian for the first time, he may growl and nip during the examination. The veterinarian isn’t going to harm your canine companion, but he or she is still perceived as a potential threat.
Because the victims of fear bites are typically strangers, owners should tell strangers not to pet or otherwise touch their Chihuahua. It’s not uncommon for strangers to stop and pet dogs at the park. In doing so, they place themselves at risk of being bitten. If you walk your Chihuahua in a park or other public area, politely decline any requests to pet your canine companion, unless your Chihuahua is familiar with the individual.
Socialization is key to nipping fear-inducted biting in the bud.
Territorial
Chihuahuas have a natural instinct to protect what they believe is their property, including toys, food, treats, water, beds, people and home. Known as territorial aggression, a Chihuahua is more likely to bite another person or animal if that person or animal encroaches upon their property. The purpose of this isn’t to harm the individual but to make him or her go away.
A prime example of territorial aggression is when a postal worker delivers mail to a home, only to get chased and potentially bitten by the homeowner’s dog. According to a report by the United States Postal Service (USPS), 6,549 of its employees were attacked by dogs in 2015. The dog perceives the postal worker as encroaching upon HIS territory, so his natural instinct is to chase the postal worker away.
Preventing bites from territorial aggression begins with teaching your Chihuahua that it’s YOUR property and that YOU will protect it. If he acts aggressively when a stranger knocks on the door, show him that it’s okay by asking a friend to come over and knock and enter through the front door, rewarding your Chihuahua with a treat afterwards.
If your Chihuahua is aggressive in a particular area, such as the corner of the living room, give him access to the area only when he’s not displaying signs of aggression. You can do the same if he’s aggressive around a toy, taking the toy away and giving it back when he’s docile. Some experts also recommend making dogs “work” for their toys and property by performing basic obedience commands like sit or heel, after which the dog is rewarded with the toy or item. Along with regular socialization and positive reinforcement, this can put an end to territorial aggression.
To prevent territorial aggression around food, carefully approach your Chihuahua with a treat while he’s eating. He should stop eating momentarily to accept the treat, after which you should walk away and wait a few minutes before returning with another treat. This shows your Chihuahua that it’s not always bad when someone enters his territory.
Illness
Certain illnesses and diseases may trigger aggressive behavior in Chihuahuas. Hypothyroidism is one such disease that can make an otherwise docile dog more likely to bite. Located next to the larynx (voice box), the thyroid gland is a small gland that’s responsible for producing thyroid hormones, which regulate healthy metabolic functions. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of these hormones.
While hypothyroidism occurs mostly in larger breeds, Chihuahuas may develop it as well. A simple blood test performed at the veterinarian’s office can reveal whether your Chihuahua is suffering from this disease. Thyroid hormone supplements like Levothyroxine (Soloxine) are often prescribed to treat hypothyroidism in dogs.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
Aggressive behavior
Lethargy
Hair loss and excessive shedding
Sudden weight gain
Hyperpigmentation of the skin
High cholesterol
Anemia
Lyme disease is another disease that’s been linked to aggressive behavior in dogs. Transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, it can cause swollen joints, swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, loss of appetite, as well as neurological symptoms like irritability, confusion and aggression. However, only 5-10% of dogs with Lyme disease show symptoms.
There’s a vaccine available for Lyme disease, but many veterinarians recommend traditional tick prevention methods instead due to the risk of adverse reactions from vaccination.
Teaching Your Chihuahua Not to Bite
There’s no universal training technique that will stop all Chihuahuas from biting. Dogs bite for many reasons, and the method for stopping this behavior varies depending on the trigger. With that said, the following tips can greatly reduce many instances of biting and other forms of aggression in Chihuahuas.
Don’t Punish for Growling
Many owners scold or otherwise punish their Chihuahuas for growling. In doing so, they eliminate a key warning sign that precedes biting. If you teach your Chihuahua that growling is bad, perhaps he’ll bite without warning the next time he’s provoked. The possibility of biting is still there, but the warning sign — growling — is removed.
Allowing your Chihuahua to growl may sound counterproductive if you’re trying to teach him not to bite, but it’s actually beneficial. Owners can teach their children to back away from the Chihuahua when he growls to avoid getting bit.
Growling may also reveal the cause of his aggression. If your Chihuahua growls when picked up, perhaps he’s suffering from a painful injury or medical condition. If he growls when another pet approaches his crate, his aggression is territorial.
Teach Bite Inhibition
Bite inhibition refers to a dog’s ability to control the force of his bite. When you give your Chihuahua a treat for instance, he shouldn’t bite your hand using the full strength of his jaw. If he knows bite inhibition, he’ll accept the treat more cautiously to prevent injuring you. The goal isn’t to prevent your Chihuahua from biting, but rather to teach him to control the force his of bite.
Puppies learn bite inhibition at an early age while nursing and playing with their littermates. If a puppy bites one his littermates too hard, the littermate may let out a high-pitched yelp, saying “You bit me too hard — and it hurt!” The same goes for puppies while nursing: biting the mother too hard may cause her to get up and walk away. If a puppy wants to play and nurse, he must learn to control his bite.
This is one of the reasons why puppies should stay with their mother for at least eight weeks. If a puppy is removed too early, he’s less likely to develop bite inhibition through playing and nursing. The same goes for singletons who are born without playmates.
Here are the three rules to follow when teaching bite inhibition:
Respond to forceful bites. When your Chihuahua bites too hard, respond by pulling your hand away and saying “Ouch, that hurt!” You should then ignore him for the next few minutes to discourage forceful biting.
Be consistent with your training efforts. Consistency is key when teaching your Chihuahua bite inhibition. If you respond with a loud “Ouch” on one occasion but not the next, it confuses him by sending mixed messages.
Reinforce into adulthood. Bite inhibition is best taught at an early age, while the puppy is still young. However, you should continue to reinforce it well into your Chihuahua’s adulthood.
Socialization
Chihuahuas are much more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior if they aren’t socialized. When a Chihuahua isn’t exposed to other people, animals and environments, he’s likely to develop fear-induced aggression, such as biting an unfamiliar person’s hand.
One study conducted by researchers from Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University found that unsocialized puppies were 580 times more likely to develop aggression problems later in life.
The idea behind socialization is to show your Chihuahua that other people and animals aren’t bad, preferably while he’s still a puppy. Puppies are most sensitive to socialization between the ages of 3 and 16 weeks, making this is a critical time to prevent aggression. If your Chihuahua has positive experiences with other people and animals at a young age, he’ll develop a more relaxed disposition towards unfamiliar faces in the future.
Here are some tips to follow when socializing your Chihuahua:
Make sure your Chihuahua is up to date on his vaccinations before exposing him to other people and animals.
Take a trip to the pet store with your Chihuahua.
Bring your Chihuahua on car trips (just don’t leave him the car).
Go on walks with your Chihuahua, such as dog parks, around the neighborhood, wooded trails, etc.
Play fetch with your Chihuahua outdoors.
When taking your Chihuahua to a dog park, walk him around the outside of the fence first.
Take your Chihuahua to friends’ and family members’ homes.
Invite friends or family members over to your home, encouraging them to play with your Chihuahua.
Sign up for a group-based obedience training class.
Reward your Chihuahua with a treat after each socialization experience.
Spaying/Neutering
Spaying or neutering may reduce aggression in Chihuahuas. According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of California, intermale aggression was reduced in 60% of male dogs by neutering, with rapid reduction of aggression in 25% and gradual reduction in 35%.
Neutering results in lower levels of testosterone, reducing behavior associated with this hormone such as urinating to mark territory, hyperactivity, running away, and aggression.
Spaying a female Chihuahua eliminates her heat cycle, and subsequently the behaviors associated with going into heat. It may also reduce female hormone-driven behavior, including nest guarding in pseudopregnancy.
In the past, it was widely believed that neutering male dogs before puberty was necessary to prevent these behavioral problems. A study cited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA), however, suggests that neutering male dogs in adulthood is just as effective at reducing aggression as neutering before puberty.
Professional Help for Biting and Aggression
When all else fails, seek professional help for your Chihuahua’s behavior. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends consulting with a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.
Alternatively, you can seek professional help from a Certified Processional Dog Trainer (CPDT) or member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).
The bottom line is that you shouldn’t throw in the towel just because your previous training efforts have failed.
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Most double-coated Chihuahuas shed their undercoat twice per year, once in spring and again in late fall, and their top coat gradually throughout the entire year. Single-coat Chihuahuas typically shed either once in spring or gradually throughout the entire year.
Chihuahuas are considered light shedders when compared to other breeds. A poll of 2,160 readers and 249 veterinary professionals conducted by VetStreet ranked the Chihuahua as the seventh lightest shedder, only behind the Poodle, Bichon Frise, Toy Poodle, Chinese Crested, Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese.
A Chihuahua puppy’s baby teeth (milk teeth) will erupt through his gums at 3 to 5 weeks of age, allowing the pup to transition from mother’s milk to dry food. To relieve the discomfort associated with this developmental process, puppies will bite and chew on just about anything they can get their paws on, including toys, socks, shoes, carpet, rugs or even your hand. 
Female Chihuahuas are more likely to bite during the first 2-3 weeks after giving birth. Known as maternal aggression, this behavior is the result of powerful chemical alterations occurring throughout her body, including increased production of the hormones oxytocin and prolactin, and decreased production of progesterone.
Bite inhibition refers to a dog’s ability to control the force of his bite. When you give your Chihuahua a treat for instance, he shouldn’t bite your hand using the full strength of his jaw. If he knows bite inhibition, he’ll accept the treat more cautiously to prevent injuring you. The goal isn’t to prevent your Chihuahua from biting, but rather to teach him to control the force his of bite.