Chihuahua Barking
Stopping Chihuahua Barking
Some people make the mistake of thinking that Chihuahua barking will not be a problem. They think if they get a cute little tiny dog that it will be very easy to control and train them. Anyone who has owned a Chihuahua, however, will tell you a far different story.
The fact is that Chihuahuas are rather stubborn little creatures. They are also possessive and protective, a combination that can lead to a whole lot of Chihuahua barking. Another misconception is that a little dog will have a cute little bark. Again, those who have owned the breed know that is not the case.
Some people are amazed that such a tiny dog can produce such an annoying – and surprisingly loud – bark. This can be especially problematic for those who live in an apartment and must deal with neighbors complaining about their pet.
Of course each dog is different. Some Chihuahuas are very quiet. If, however, yours is not, here are some tips to help you curb Chihuahua barking.
Learn the Cause
If you can figure out what is causing the Chihuahua barking that can help you stop it. Unfortunately, sometimes there is no reason at all for the barking. If, however, you can isolate a cause, you may be able to stop it.
General Obedience Training
If you can successfully complete obedience training with your dog, then you will be able to get him to stop barking by using simple hand and voice commands. The beauty of good obedience training is that it can be applied to new situations as they arise. Even if the class does not specifically deal with barking, you will be able to apply the principles that you learn. If properly trained, your dog should respond to the verbal command “NO!”.
Doggie Daycare
Of course, even if the dog is very well trained to obey your commands, if he is barking all day while you’re at work, you still have a problem. One solution to this type of Chihuahua barking may be to enroll your dog in doggy day care. That way your dog will not have to spend the day alone. Of course, if the barking is due to being separated from you rather than from being alone in general, the barking will continue at the doggy day care and a new solution may be needed.
Training
Working with a dog trainer is different from an obedience class in that the training can take place one on one and can address your specific problem, such as Chihuahua barking. Rather than dealing in generalities, a good trainer will be able to work closely with your dog to develop a plan that will give you the best chance of overcoming the problem.
If the Chihuahua barking is a new behavior that came on rather suddenly, it is important to rule out a medical cause for the behavior. Visit your vet to make sure that the barking is not the result of your dog being in pain or distress.
Excessive Chihuahua barking is a problem that must be addressed. It is not likely to go away without intervention, so you will need to develop a plan. Whether you try to solve the problem on your own, or enlist the help of a professional, the sooner you start, the sooner you can help solve the problem.