Your goal may be to have your puppy grow up and mature to be friendly, happy and very well-adjusted for their lifelong emotional well-being. Socialization is so important for your puppy. You will want them to feel comfortable in their new world.
It is helpful for puppies to learn how to cope with their environment, (which includes people, animals, places and things), in a healthy and positive way throughout their lifetime. You will want your puppy's socialization experiences to be positive.
A puppy is usually very eager to explore their new environment. Puppyhood is an important period for your dog's development. Positive influence in the early weeks of the puppy's life can be very beneficial. I read that the time before the puppy is 16 weeks old is an important developmental time period when he may be very receptive and influenced by his experiences. Praise and positive reinforcement are so important with socialization and training. Socialization begins on the day your puppy is born and continues for the rest of his life.
Until your puppy has had all of his proper vaccinations, you may want to be guided by your veterinarian about socialization. I read that you should consult your veterinarian about when and also how to introduce your puppy to other animals in a safe manner.
Once you know that it is fine to socialize your Chihuahua puppy, you may want to gradually introduce your new puppy to some of your close friends or relatives in a pleasant, supervised manner. Your puppy can learn to get accustomed to people who are quiet or talkative, young (active), or old (possibly more inactive). You may wish to introduce your puppy to people wearing glasses or wearing hats or bike helmets, or to people carrying an umbrella, or wearing coats and gloves.
If your puppy seems scared about a certain object or specific person it may be a good idea to introduce that object or person more slowly, and you can try to associate the object or person with something positive, like a favorite treat. If your puppy is afraid of your grandfather who happens to be tall and speaks in a very loud voice, have your grandfather offer treats to the puppy.
You may want to get your puppy comfortable with handling, especially if they may need routine grooming in the future. You can safely and comfortably hold your cute puppy on your lap and help him practice being calm and relaxed with you. Your friends and family can help by gently handling the puppy the proper way. Positive reinforcement for your puppy may include lots of friendly praise and maybe also their favorite treats.
It may be lots of fun to safely take the puppy on short car rides, so he becomes familiar with riding in the car. This positive experience may make it easier for the both of you when you need to go for any future veterinarian office visits.
When the puppy is the appropriate age, you may decide to invite people that you already know that own pets who are friendly, healthy and vaccinated who can come over to your home for a little visit, and with your knowledge and supervision you can work on socializing your puppy.
If you happen to already have another pet in the home, you may want to make sure that you provide enough individual attention to your new puppy to help them develop their own personality.
You can also gradually introduce your puppy to a variety of items and sounds that are routinely around the house so they become a little familiar to them. Some sounds that may be new to your puppy are the following:
Doorbell ringing
Telephone ringing
TV and radio
Any music playing
Computer noises
Video games
Vacuum cleaner
Sound from a hair dryer, blender, or fan
Noise from a washing machine or dish washer
Any noise from your childrens toys
Thunderstorms
Any noise from electric grooming tools, if your dog may need grooming in the future
After your veterinarian says it is safe for you to take the puppy out into the real world, you can safely introduce the puppy to walks in your the neighborhood. Your walks together can be so enjoyable for you and your puppy.
In summary, if you are patient and consistent with socializing and training your Chihuahua puppy, he will likely be happier and feel comfortable throughout his life. Always remember that praise and positive reinforcement are so important with socialization and training.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Teaching Your Chihuahua How to Lie Down
The Chihuahua is an intelligent dog. Be consistent when training your Chihuahua. Remember to keep your Chihuahua's attention and have some fun during training. Reward your Chihuahua when he demonstrates the desired behavior that you are teaching him. Positive reinforcement or a reward, such as nice praise or a favorite treat can be very helpful when teaching good behavior or new commands to your Chihuahua.
You may want to watch this Video Training Puppy to Lie Down | DailyPuppy.com , a puppy training video which shows how to teach a puppy to lie down on command. The dog expert works with a Corgi in the video and she demonstrates how to use positive reinforcement while teaching the Corgi how to lie down. She used a little piece of cheese, but appropriate dog treats may be used as a reward.
It may be helpful to try to maintain a regular daily routine or schedule so that it will be easier for your Chihuahua to understand what is expected of him. Hopefully, you will both enjoy your quality time together when you are teaching him new commands and having some fun together!
You may want to watch this Video Training Puppy to Lie Down | DailyPuppy.com , a puppy training video which shows how to teach a puppy to lie down on command. The dog expert works with a Corgi in the video and she demonstrates how to use positive reinforcement while teaching the Corgi how to lie down. She used a little piece of cheese, but appropriate dog treats may be used as a reward.
It may be helpful to try to maintain a regular daily routine or schedule so that it will be easier for your Chihuahua to understand what is expected of him. Hopefully, you will both enjoy your quality time together when you are teaching him new commands and having some fun together!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Where Are You Going to Find the Right Dog for You and Your Family?
There are so many important things to think about when deciding to add a new puppy to your family. You may have been doing a lot of research about many different breeds. Now, you might have come to the conclusion that the time is right for you to get a puppy. Where are you planning to get your new puppy? Now, these are some example questions you may want to think about as a potential dog owner.
1. Do you have the necessary time that is needed to care for a puppy each day? Will anyone routinely be at home during the daytime hours to care for the puppy?
2. Do you have children or other pets?
3. Do you have general knowledge about the breed you are interested in?
4. Do you enjoy grooming or do you plan on hiring a professional on a routine basis, if it is necessary?
5, Do you have a good, reputable veterinarian to continue regular health exams and future vaccinations for your new dog?
You may want to read this helpful article Finding the Dog That Was Made For You.
1. Do you have the necessary time that is needed to care for a puppy each day? Will anyone routinely be at home during the daytime hours to care for the puppy?
2. Do you have children or other pets?
3. Do you have general knowledge about the breed you are interested in?
4. Do you enjoy grooming or do you plan on hiring a professional on a routine basis, if it is necessary?
5, Do you have a good, reputable veterinarian to continue regular health exams and future vaccinations for your new dog?
You may want to read this helpful article Finding the Dog That Was Made For You.
Teaching Your Chihuahua How to Sit
Positive reinforcement or a reward, such as nice praise or a favorite treat can be very helpful when teaching good behavior or new commands to your Chihuahua. The Chihuahua is an intelligent dog. Be consistent when training your Chihuahua. Remember to keep your Chihuahua's attention and have some fun during training. Reward your Chihuahua when he demonstrates the desired behavior that you are teaching him.
You may want to watch this Video on Teaching Puppy to Sit | DailyPuppy.com, a puppy training video which shows a nice demonstration on how to teach a puppy to sit on command. The dog expert works with a boxer puppy in the video and she shows how to reward good behavior with treats while teaching the puppy how to sit.
In general, it may be helpful to try to maintain a regular daily routine or schedule so that it will be easier for your Chihuahua to understand what is expected of him. Hopefully, you will both enjoy your quality time together when you are teaching him new commands and having some fun together!
You may want to watch this Video on Teaching Puppy to Sit | DailyPuppy.com, a puppy training video which shows a nice demonstration on how to teach a puppy to sit on command. The dog expert works with a boxer puppy in the video and she shows how to reward good behavior with treats while teaching the puppy how to sit.
In general, it may be helpful to try to maintain a regular daily routine or schedule so that it will be easier for your Chihuahua to understand what is expected of him. Hopefully, you will both enjoy your quality time together when you are teaching him new commands and having some fun together!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Adopting A Chihuahua From an Animal Shelter
Animal shelters can be filled with animals that may become cherished pets for my many families. Animal shelters help match the animals to new responsible owners. Most shelters have both dogs and cats, of various ages. Some of the animals in the shelters may be purebred. Maybe, you may happen to find a nice Chihuahua, if that is the breed you are looking for at this time. Many animals in the shelters may have good behavior and habits. Shelter animals are in need of new homes with owners that want to care for them and bring them into their family.
The staff that work in the shelters are usually very dedicated and they help find good homes for a variety of animals. There are several reasons listed below why animals may be in a shelter.
Possibly their original owners were not able or uninterested in caring for them anymore.
Their previous owner could no longer financially afford the basic maintenance required for the dog.
There may have been a change in the household: children may not have gotten along with the dog, or maybe there was just a new baby born in the family; or there was a divorce, or a death or major illness in the family.
Possibly the family needed to move and they were not allowed to have a dog in their new apartment complex or townhouse due to rules and regulations.
Change in lifestyle: employment and career changes may have included more traveling away from home or a major shift change or lots of overtime hours in their work schedule. Or the family realized they just did not have the necessary time required for a dog.
Medical reasons: someone in the family developed allergies to the dog or experienced a major, chronic health condition and was no longer able to properly care for their pet.
Possibly the dog had some behavioral problems.
The dog could have experienced some training problems, such as house training issues.
Possibly the dog was a homeless stray dog or unfortunately he may have come from an abusive situation.
Some shelters may provide an evaluation, which includes a history of animal health and behavior at their prior home, and a veterinary exam and screening. If you get a pet from the shelter, it would be helpful if you could obtain a written copy of the evaluation and any veterinary health records to keep, if at all possible.
Before you go to the shelter or anywhere to get a dog, there are some important things to think about when deciding if you should get a dog.
1. Did you do any research on the the type of dog or breed that you would be interested in? When you see all of the animals in need of good homes at the shelter, it may seem a little overwhelming. You should decide on some characteristics you are looking for in a dog, such as the size of the dog, the temperament, age, male or female, and any grooming needs.
2. Do you have enough time available each day to be able to properly care for a dog? Do you have enough patience and motivation for training your dog and helping him get the proper exercise, healthy diet, and any necessary grooming?
3. Are you ready and committed to take care of a dog and have him with your family for many years to come?
4. If there are children in your family are they old enough to understand about the proper treatment and responsibility of safely caring for a dog?
5. Are you able to afford the veterinary health checks and proper food for a healthy and nutritious diet for your dog?
6. Do you have a safe and comfortable place to keep your dog when you are temporarily not at home for a few hours, such as when you might be at your place of employment, or doing your grocery shopping, or doing necessary errands?
7. Do you know what dog or puppy supplies that you might need to bring a new puppy or adult dog into your home to keep him comfortable, healthy and safe?
If you definitely know that you want to adopt a dog from the shelter, then here are a few things you may want to consider when choosing a dog.
The age of the puppy or adult dog.
Does the dog have a nice temperament?
Is the dog successfully house trained?
Has the dog been spayed or neutered?
Does the dog have any pre-existing or ongoing health problems?
Is the dog up-to-date with his vaccinations?
Does the dog get along well with children and other dogs?
Does the dog have any pre-existing behavior problems, such as aggressiveness?
How much prior training did the dog have in their previous home?
Does the dog look properly nourished?
Next, I will list a few steps that may be part of the adoption process.
Filling out an application
Choosing your pet
Signing a contract (the adoption contract may possibly have provisions such as the following: you will provide good housing, nutrition and health care for your new pet, and also you will return the animal to the shelter if you can no longer take care of him.)
Paying a fee (generally less expensive than buying a pet from a breeder or pet store)
It can be a very rewarding experience to adopt a dog from a shelter. People are so glad they could save a life of an animal by providing them a good, safe home with lots of love. Remember that animals in shelters have had some stress. They may deeply miss their owner who had to give them up and their previous home environment. They more than likely will welcome your patience, affection, guidance and love. Hopefully, you will choose a dog that fits your lifestyle. And maybe you could even find a nice Chihuahua in the shelter.
If you are bringing a new dog home you may be thinking about some specific items that you may be shopping for to make the transition easy for you and your dog in his new home. For example, your dog will need an appropriate place to play and sleep and he will also need some items for daily maintenance. The following list includes specific items that some people may think about and consider when getting a new dog.
Feeding and Water dishes
Appropriate dog food and treats
Dog brushes and combs
Appropriate dog collar and leashes
Possibly a dog pen
Safe dog toys
Safe and comfortable dog bed and dog blanket
Dog shampoo
Dog nametag or ID
When you bring your dog home, allow him some time to get familiar with his new home. You can also work on housetraining, if needed.
If your dog is quiet and shy, just allow for some extra time for him to adjust to his new life. If you take good care of him and show him positive attention and love, he will probably be very devoted to you forever!
The staff that work in the shelters are usually very dedicated and they help find good homes for a variety of animals. There are several reasons listed below why animals may be in a shelter.
Possibly their original owners were not able or uninterested in caring for them anymore.
Their previous owner could no longer financially afford the basic maintenance required for the dog.
There may have been a change in the household: children may not have gotten along with the dog, or maybe there was just a new baby born in the family; or there was a divorce, or a death or major illness in the family.
Possibly the family needed to move and they were not allowed to have a dog in their new apartment complex or townhouse due to rules and regulations.
Change in lifestyle: employment and career changes may have included more traveling away from home or a major shift change or lots of overtime hours in their work schedule. Or the family realized they just did not have the necessary time required for a dog.
Medical reasons: someone in the family developed allergies to the dog or experienced a major, chronic health condition and was no longer able to properly care for their pet.
Possibly the dog had some behavioral problems.
The dog could have experienced some training problems, such as house training issues.
Possibly the dog was a homeless stray dog or unfortunately he may have come from an abusive situation.
Some shelters may provide an evaluation, which includes a history of animal health and behavior at their prior home, and a veterinary exam and screening. If you get a pet from the shelter, it would be helpful if you could obtain a written copy of the evaluation and any veterinary health records to keep, if at all possible.
Before you go to the shelter or anywhere to get a dog, there are some important things to think about when deciding if you should get a dog.
1. Did you do any research on the the type of dog or breed that you would be interested in? When you see all of the animals in need of good homes at the shelter, it may seem a little overwhelming. You should decide on some characteristics you are looking for in a dog, such as the size of the dog, the temperament, age, male or female, and any grooming needs.
2. Do you have enough time available each day to be able to properly care for a dog? Do you have enough patience and motivation for training your dog and helping him get the proper exercise, healthy diet, and any necessary grooming?
3. Are you ready and committed to take care of a dog and have him with your family for many years to come?
4. If there are children in your family are they old enough to understand about the proper treatment and responsibility of safely caring for a dog?
5. Are you able to afford the veterinary health checks and proper food for a healthy and nutritious diet for your dog?
6. Do you have a safe and comfortable place to keep your dog when you are temporarily not at home for a few hours, such as when you might be at your place of employment, or doing your grocery shopping, or doing necessary errands?
7. Do you know what dog or puppy supplies that you might need to bring a new puppy or adult dog into your home to keep him comfortable, healthy and safe?
If you definitely know that you want to adopt a dog from the shelter, then here are a few things you may want to consider when choosing a dog.
The age of the puppy or adult dog.
Does the dog have a nice temperament?
Is the dog successfully house trained?
Has the dog been spayed or neutered?
Does the dog have any pre-existing or ongoing health problems?
Is the dog up-to-date with his vaccinations?
Does the dog get along well with children and other dogs?
Does the dog have any pre-existing behavior problems, such as aggressiveness?
How much prior training did the dog have in their previous home?
Does the dog look properly nourished?
Next, I will list a few steps that may be part of the adoption process.
Filling out an application
Choosing your pet
Signing a contract (the adoption contract may possibly have provisions such as the following: you will provide good housing, nutrition and health care for your new pet, and also you will return the animal to the shelter if you can no longer take care of him.)
Paying a fee (generally less expensive than buying a pet from a breeder or pet store)
It can be a very rewarding experience to adopt a dog from a shelter. People are so glad they could save a life of an animal by providing them a good, safe home with lots of love. Remember that animals in shelters have had some stress. They may deeply miss their owner who had to give them up and their previous home environment. They more than likely will welcome your patience, affection, guidance and love. Hopefully, you will choose a dog that fits your lifestyle. And maybe you could even find a nice Chihuahua in the shelter.
If you are bringing a new dog home you may be thinking about some specific items that you may be shopping for to make the transition easy for you and your dog in his new home. For example, your dog will need an appropriate place to play and sleep and he will also need some items for daily maintenance. The following list includes specific items that some people may think about and consider when getting a new dog.
Feeding and Water dishes
Appropriate dog food and treats
Dog brushes and combs
Appropriate dog collar and leashes
Possibly a dog pen
Safe dog toys
Safe and comfortable dog bed and dog blanket
Dog shampoo
Dog nametag or ID
When you bring your dog home, allow him some time to get familiar with his new home. You can also work on housetraining, if needed.
If your dog is quiet and shy, just allow for some extra time for him to adjust to his new life. If you take good care of him and show him positive attention and love, he will probably be very devoted to you forever!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Why Do Dogs Bark and How To Help Prevent or Control Excessive Barking
It's only natural, dogs bark to communicate with humans and other animals. It is important for your Chihuahua to understand when to bark and when to be quiet. Dogs will bark for several different reasons. It's their way of communicating and expressing themselves. Listed below are some common reasons why dogs bark.
To Get Attention: They may start young as puppies with a little crying or whining sound to communicate with their mom and family litter. Puppies or grown dogs may whine when they want something like food, or when they are frustrated or scared, or just when they want some attention. It is common for a new Chihuahua puppy to whine at night because they may be lonely or scared. Sometimes we may not realize it at first, but we may actually reward the puppy for whining by giving the puppy the attention he wants. It may be helpful not to reward a puppy or grown dog that may be whining just for attention, but when he is quiet and relaxed you may wish to reward him with nice praise or a favorite treat. It is important to remember that teaching your Chihuahua puppy appropriate behavior from the start is easier than changing undesirable behavior later on.
Socializing the Chihuahua puppy is very important. You may want to introduce the puppy to situations that may cause anxiety later on. It is helpful for puppies to learn how to cope with their environment in a healthy and positive way. Positive influence in the early weeks of the puppy's life can be very beneficial.
You can go slow and gradually introduce your Chihuahua puppy to a variety of items and sounds that are routinely around the house so they become a little familiar to them. Some sounds that may be new to your puppy are the following: doorbell ringing, telephone ringing, sound of the TV, or any music playing, and also the noise from a vacuum cleaner.
Barks from Playful Happiness or Happy Excitement: The dog or puppy may be so happy about playing outside or going for a nice walk or ride in a car, or he may be excited because he sees one of his favorite relatives or friends of the family coming over to visit.
Barking when He Hears Other Dogs Bark: Your Chihuahua may be barking to respond to other dogs he hears barking in the neighborhood.
Warning Bark: The dog may bark if he sees a stranger approaching the house. Dogs often bark at mail carriers, joggers, or people riding bikes on the street by the house.
Bored Barkers: It is important to routinely provide enough appropriate exercise and attention for your dog. Dogs who are bored need something to do besides barking.
Separation Anxiety: You may need to understand that chances are you are probably the most important thing in your dogs life. You may now begin to realize that when a Chihuahua that is routinely used to constant human companionship and attention is left alone, the dog can experience some anxiety about where their owner might be going. Your dog may not understand why he cannot go with you and he may worry about whether or not you will be coming back home to be with him. Your dog may bark, whine, cry or howl when he is experiencing separation anxiety.
Some ideas that may possibly help minor separation anxiety:
Don't be very dramatic when you are leaving or returning to your home. When you return back home you can calmly pet your dog and reassure him.
When you have to leave your Chihuahua in the house, you can let him have something of yours like a piece of clothing that smells like you.
You can make a reassuring habit of using a certain word that you routinely use every time you leave that tells your dog you will be coming back home.
Possibly, if the dog could hear the sound of a radio or television, it may be calming.
Sometimes having their safe and appropriate dog toys available for them will be a little distraction for them and help to keep them busy.
Ideas To Help Prevent Excessive Barking:
1. Try to have the dog get enough routine daily attention.
2. The dog should get adequate appropriate exercise.
3. Try the methods listed above to help separation anxiety.
4. Try not to give positive reinforcement to the dog or puppy when he is only barking or whining just for attention. You can reward the quiet, relaxed behavior instead.
To Get Attention: They may start young as puppies with a little crying or whining sound to communicate with their mom and family litter. Puppies or grown dogs may whine when they want something like food, or when they are frustrated or scared, or just when they want some attention. It is common for a new Chihuahua puppy to whine at night because they may be lonely or scared. Sometimes we may not realize it at first, but we may actually reward the puppy for whining by giving the puppy the attention he wants. It may be helpful not to reward a puppy or grown dog that may be whining just for attention, but when he is quiet and relaxed you may wish to reward him with nice praise or a favorite treat. It is important to remember that teaching your Chihuahua puppy appropriate behavior from the start is easier than changing undesirable behavior later on.
Socializing the Chihuahua puppy is very important. You may want to introduce the puppy to situations that may cause anxiety later on. It is helpful for puppies to learn how to cope with their environment in a healthy and positive way. Positive influence in the early weeks of the puppy's life can be very beneficial.
You can go slow and gradually introduce your Chihuahua puppy to a variety of items and sounds that are routinely around the house so they become a little familiar to them. Some sounds that may be new to your puppy are the following: doorbell ringing, telephone ringing, sound of the TV, or any music playing, and also the noise from a vacuum cleaner.
Barks from Playful Happiness or Happy Excitement: The dog or puppy may be so happy about playing outside or going for a nice walk or ride in a car, or he may be excited because he sees one of his favorite relatives or friends of the family coming over to visit.
Barking when He Hears Other Dogs Bark: Your Chihuahua may be barking to respond to other dogs he hears barking in the neighborhood.
Warning Bark: The dog may bark if he sees a stranger approaching the house. Dogs often bark at mail carriers, joggers, or people riding bikes on the street by the house.
Bored Barkers: It is important to routinely provide enough appropriate exercise and attention for your dog. Dogs who are bored need something to do besides barking.
Separation Anxiety: You may need to understand that chances are you are probably the most important thing in your dogs life. You may now begin to realize that when a Chihuahua that is routinely used to constant human companionship and attention is left alone, the dog can experience some anxiety about where their owner might be going. Your dog may not understand why he cannot go with you and he may worry about whether or not you will be coming back home to be with him. Your dog may bark, whine, cry or howl when he is experiencing separation anxiety.
Some ideas that may possibly help minor separation anxiety:
Don't be very dramatic when you are leaving or returning to your home. When you return back home you can calmly pet your dog and reassure him.
When you have to leave your Chihuahua in the house, you can let him have something of yours like a piece of clothing that smells like you.
You can make a reassuring habit of using a certain word that you routinely use every time you leave that tells your dog you will be coming back home.
Possibly, if the dog could hear the sound of a radio or television, it may be calming.
Sometimes having their safe and appropriate dog toys available for them will be a little distraction for them and help to keep them busy.
Ideas To Help Prevent Excessive Barking:
1. Try to have the dog get enough routine daily attention.
2. The dog should get adequate appropriate exercise.
3. Try the methods listed above to help separation anxiety.
4. Try not to give positive reinforcement to the dog or puppy when he is only barking or whining just for attention. You can reward the quiet, relaxed behavior instead.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Puppy Proofing Your Home for Your New Chihuahua
Puppies are usually very curious and they may have lots of energy. When someone first brings a new puppy home the puppy may want to start checking out many things throughout the house. You will be interested in puppy proofing your home to keep your Chihuahua puppy safe. You will want to make sure there is nothing within his reach that could harm him.
You can consult your veterinarian about all of the specific things that can be done to puppy proof the inside and outside of a house. There are so many great ideas to help keep a new puppy healthy and safe and protect him from anything that would be potentially harmful.
I will write down a few tips that I read about relating to puppy proofing the inside of the home. It may be helpful to try to think about a puppy's view of a house from what he can see at his eye level.
You may want to keep all breakable items out of your puppy's reach.
Plants: Some specific plants inside and outside of the house may be potentially harmful to the puppy. Consult your veterinarian for a complete list of plants that are dangerous or toxic to dogs.
Medications can be kept in a very safe area where the puppy definitely does not have access.
Cleaning supplies can be kept in high cabinets where the puppy definitely does not have access or childproof safety latches may be used to safely secure cabinets.
Household wastebaskets may be placed in an area that the puppy cannot access.
Electrical cords: I read that people who are trying to puppy proof their house can unplug, remove or safely cover any electrical cords that would be around the puppy's area. Electrical outlets may also be covered when they are not in use.
Bathroom: Toilet lids can be kept down. Bathroom trash cans may be put up high where the puppy cannot access them.
Any possible drawstrings or cords used for draperies or blinds in the home may be tied up high enough so the puppy cannot access them.
Precaution may be taken regarding a rocking chair or chair recliner. A puppy could happen to have his tail near that area or even try to crawl under the area. Take proper safety precautions.
Laundry baskets and clothing can be kept off the floor and out of reach from the puppy.
Small objects can be kept out of reach so the puppy does not have access. Some examples of small objects are the following:
Many childrens toys have small pieces and parts
Crayons, pens, pencils, rubber bands, paper clips, tacks, staples
Jewelry, hair barrettes
String, ribbons, yarn
Buttons, sewing needles, pins
Coins
Safe gates made for dogs may be used across stairs and other areas where the puppy isn't allowed.
There are certain human foods that can cause problems for pets. Consult your veterinarian for the specific list of human foods that can cause problems or be potentially harmful to your puppy.
It is also very important to make sure the outside of your home is safe. Hopefully, you can puppy proof your backyard before your puppy goes outside. You will want to be with your Chihuahua puppy when he is outside, so you can supervise him.
If you have any fencing in your yard, you can check to make sure there are no holes through which your puppy could squeeze through and sneak out of the yard. Check to see if all of the gates are securely closed and that your Chihuahua puppy would not be able to crawl underneath the gate.
Some plants and trees outside may be toxic to dogs. Many bulb plants can also be poisonous. Some mulch can be toxic to dogs. Again, you can ask the veterinarian for a complete list of plants and trees that are dangerous or toxic to dogs. You will want to keep your Chihuahua puppy off of freshly treated lawns.
Keep all gasoline, auto supplies, insecticides, fertilizers for your lawn, oil, or any paint in securely closed containers out of reach from your puppy. Also, keep antifreeze out of reach from your puppy.
Swimming pools or hot tubs should be properly covered or fenced off.
For a safety measure, keep your Chihuahua puppy away from any barbecue grills during outdoor cooking.
Garbage should be kept in closed containers that have secure lids.
It is so important to keep your puppy healthy and safe.
You can consult your veterinarian about all of the specific things that can be done to puppy proof the inside and outside of a house. There are so many great ideas to help keep a new puppy healthy and safe and protect him from anything that would be potentially harmful.
I will write down a few tips that I read about relating to puppy proofing the inside of the home. It may be helpful to try to think about a puppy's view of a house from what he can see at his eye level.
You may want to keep all breakable items out of your puppy's reach.
Plants: Some specific plants inside and outside of the house may be potentially harmful to the puppy. Consult your veterinarian for a complete list of plants that are dangerous or toxic to dogs.
Medications can be kept in a very safe area where the puppy definitely does not have access.
Cleaning supplies can be kept in high cabinets where the puppy definitely does not have access or childproof safety latches may be used to safely secure cabinets.
Household wastebaskets may be placed in an area that the puppy cannot access.
Electrical cords: I read that people who are trying to puppy proof their house can unplug, remove or safely cover any electrical cords that would be around the puppy's area. Electrical outlets may also be covered when they are not in use.
Bathroom: Toilet lids can be kept down. Bathroom trash cans may be put up high where the puppy cannot access them.
Any possible drawstrings or cords used for draperies or blinds in the home may be tied up high enough so the puppy cannot access them.
Precaution may be taken regarding a rocking chair or chair recliner. A puppy could happen to have his tail near that area or even try to crawl under the area. Take proper safety precautions.
Laundry baskets and clothing can be kept off the floor and out of reach from the puppy.
Small objects can be kept out of reach so the puppy does not have access. Some examples of small objects are the following:
Many childrens toys have small pieces and parts
Crayons, pens, pencils, rubber bands, paper clips, tacks, staples
Jewelry, hair barrettes
String, ribbons, yarn
Buttons, sewing needles, pins
Coins
Safe gates made for dogs may be used across stairs and other areas where the puppy isn't allowed.
There are certain human foods that can cause problems for pets. Consult your veterinarian for the specific list of human foods that can cause problems or be potentially harmful to your puppy.
It is also very important to make sure the outside of your home is safe. Hopefully, you can puppy proof your backyard before your puppy goes outside. You will want to be with your Chihuahua puppy when he is outside, so you can supervise him.
If you have any fencing in your yard, you can check to make sure there are no holes through which your puppy could squeeze through and sneak out of the yard. Check to see if all of the gates are securely closed and that your Chihuahua puppy would not be able to crawl underneath the gate.
Some plants and trees outside may be toxic to dogs. Many bulb plants can also be poisonous. Some mulch can be toxic to dogs. Again, you can ask the veterinarian for a complete list of plants and trees that are dangerous or toxic to dogs. You will want to keep your Chihuahua puppy off of freshly treated lawns.
Keep all gasoline, auto supplies, insecticides, fertilizers for your lawn, oil, or any paint in securely closed containers out of reach from your puppy. Also, keep antifreeze out of reach from your puppy.
Swimming pools or hot tubs should be properly covered or fenced off.
For a safety measure, keep your Chihuahua puppy away from any barbecue grills during outdoor cooking.
Garbage should be kept in closed containers that have secure lids.
It is so important to keep your puppy healthy and safe.
Separation Anxiety and the Chihuahua
Dogs of all ages can experience separation anxiety when separated from their owner. Young dogs and even older dogs that might have some hearing or sight problems may feel anxious when their owners are away from them. You may need to understand that chances are you are probably the most important thing in your dogs life. You may now begin to realize that when a dog that is routinely used to constant human companionship and attention is left alone, the dog can experience some anxiety about where their owner might be going. Your dog may not understand why he cannot go with you and he may worry about whether or not you will be coming back home to be with him.
What behavior may your dog display if he is experiencing separation anxiety?
The most common behaviors associated with separation anxiety include the following:
Barking, whining, crying or howling
Destructive chewing or digging
Inappropriate elimination (urination or defecation), even if the dog was otherwise successfully house trained
Scratching at doors or windows
Excessive licking of hair, circling the room or pacing
Loss of appetite, depression or inactivity
The dog may have an over attachment to his owner. The dog may get too dependent on their owner.
An example: Your dog makes a daily habit of following you from room to room whenever you are at home together. My dad used to have a very cute, long haired, male chihuahua and he would follow my dad everywhere that he would go in the house all day long. If my dad was in the kitchen cooking, or folding laundry, or watching television his chihuahua would be right with him. He would constantly be right by my dad's side almost every minute of each day, if possible. When my dad had to go out of the house to do a few errands, his chihuahua would always give him a dramatic, overwhelming greeting as soon as he would return home.
What are some other characteristics or factors regarding separation anxiety?
The behavior occurs mostly when your dog is left alone in the home and his problem behavior usually starts soon after you leave him in the house.
The behavior may occur whether your dog is left alone for just a little while or long periods of time.
Your dog may display a reaction of depression or anxiety when he realizes that you are getting ready to leave the house. Actions like picking up your car keys or purse, turning off the TV, or putting on your coat can trigger the anxiety behavior.
But it is very important to realize that any destructive type of behavior or house soiling that may possibly occur with separation anxiety are part of a dog's panic reaction. Your dog is not trying to punish you for leaving him home alone.
What are some things that can precipitate separation anxiety in your dog?
A dog that is routinely used to constant human companionship and attention is left alone for the first time.
A dog that may have suffered a traumatic event in their mind, such as time spent away from home at a veterinary hospital, dog shelter or boarding kennel.
Anxiety may develop if there is a significant change in the family's routine or the death of a family member or other pet.
Some other situations that may precipitate anxiety for your dog are if one of your dog's favorite family members leave the home and go away to college or get married, or if your work schedule changes dramatically, or if the whole family moves to another home or a new town. Dogs are actually creatures of habit and any changes may bring about some anxiety.
Some ideas that may possibly help minor separation anxiety:
Don't be very dramatic when you are leaving or returning to your home. When you return back home you can calmly pet your dog and reassure him.
When you have to leave your dog in the house, you can let him have something of yours like a piece of clothing that smells like you.
You can make a reassuring habit of using a certain word that you routinely use every time you leave that tells your dog you will be coming back home.
Possibly, if the dog could hear the sound of a radio or television, it may be calming.
Sometimes having their safe and appropriate dog toys available for them will be a little distraction for them and help to keep them busy.
What behavior may your dog display if he is experiencing separation anxiety?
The most common behaviors associated with separation anxiety include the following:
Barking, whining, crying or howling
Destructive chewing or digging
Inappropriate elimination (urination or defecation), even if the dog was otherwise successfully house trained
Scratching at doors or windows
Excessive licking of hair, circling the room or pacing
Loss of appetite, depression or inactivity
The dog may have an over attachment to his owner. The dog may get too dependent on their owner.
An example: Your dog makes a daily habit of following you from room to room whenever you are at home together. My dad used to have a very cute, long haired, male chihuahua and he would follow my dad everywhere that he would go in the house all day long. If my dad was in the kitchen cooking, or folding laundry, or watching television his chihuahua would be right with him. He would constantly be right by my dad's side almost every minute of each day, if possible. When my dad had to go out of the house to do a few errands, his chihuahua would always give him a dramatic, overwhelming greeting as soon as he would return home.
What are some other characteristics or factors regarding separation anxiety?
The behavior occurs mostly when your dog is left alone in the home and his problem behavior usually starts soon after you leave him in the house.
The behavior may occur whether your dog is left alone for just a little while or long periods of time.
Your dog may display a reaction of depression or anxiety when he realizes that you are getting ready to leave the house. Actions like picking up your car keys or purse, turning off the TV, or putting on your coat can trigger the anxiety behavior.
But it is very important to realize that any destructive type of behavior or house soiling that may possibly occur with separation anxiety are part of a dog's panic reaction. Your dog is not trying to punish you for leaving him home alone.
What are some things that can precipitate separation anxiety in your dog?
A dog that is routinely used to constant human companionship and attention is left alone for the first time.
A dog that may have suffered a traumatic event in their mind, such as time spent away from home at a veterinary hospital, dog shelter or boarding kennel.
Anxiety may develop if there is a significant change in the family's routine or the death of a family member or other pet.
Some other situations that may precipitate anxiety for your dog are if one of your dog's favorite family members leave the home and go away to college or get married, or if your work schedule changes dramatically, or if the whole family moves to another home or a new town. Dogs are actually creatures of habit and any changes may bring about some anxiety.
Some ideas that may possibly help minor separation anxiety:
Don't be very dramatic when you are leaving or returning to your home. When you return back home you can calmly pet your dog and reassure him.
When you have to leave your dog in the house, you can let him have something of yours like a piece of clothing that smells like you.
You can make a reassuring habit of using a certain word that you routinely use every time you leave that tells your dog you will be coming back home.
Possibly, if the dog could hear the sound of a radio or television, it may be calming.
Sometimes having their safe and appropriate dog toys available for them will be a little distraction for them and help to keep them busy.
How to Get A New Chihuahua Puppy To Sleep Through the Night
This may be a very exciting time if you are bringing home a new puppy or new adult dog into your family! You may have decided already on exactly what dog supplies you want to have on hand, like feeding dishes, appropriate puppy or dog food and treats, collar and leash, and maybe a very nice dog bed.
If you are bringing home a new Chihuahua puppy or a new adult Chihuahua dog into your family, you may need some patience and planning to come up with a daily routine for your puppy to help him sleep throughout the night, so that you will both feel rested and happy! Every dog needs their own safe and comfortable place to sleep.
You may wish to have the puppy's bed in a quiet, safe place in the house. A peaceful and comfortable corner or section of the room may be nice. Maybe you will choose a nice, safe, cozy dog bed for the Chihuahua puppy. You probably will want to pick a special sleeping area for the puppy where there is not much noise that would disturb him.
The puppy may feel a little more confident and secure if he can still see the people in the house from his sleeping area. Just knowing that you are there may help him to stay relaxed and calm. Most puppies in a new home environment may feel somewhat anxious and have a difficult time at first trying to quiet themselves down to sleep for the night. A new puppy may whine to get your attention. Everything may seem so new to your puppy in the beginning until he gets a little used to his new home. He may miss his mom and family litter in the beginning.
The puppy may enjoy having a favorite, safe dog toy or dog blanket with him for a feeling of familiarity and security. Dogs sometimes instinctively circle around their sleeping place where they are going to sleep. If you want the puppy in his bed at a certain time, you can begin a daily routine schedule and try to have him go to bed around the same time every night, so he gets used to this habit. But, if the Chihuahua puppy leaves his bed, you can nicely put him back in his bed, so he gets the idea and learns to get comfortable in his special sleeping space.
When the puppy gets accustomed to where his bed is, you may tell him to go into his own bed when you want him to go to sleep at night. Dogs like to know what is expected of them. Hopefully, he will soon learn a nice bedtime routine.
So the Chihuahua puppy can sleep good at night you may want to allow for adequate and appropriate exercise for the puppy throughout the day. You can plan a routine schedule for meal times for the puppy. Dogs usually respond well to a nice schedule. It may be helpful to get into the habit of some calm, quiet time before the actual bedtime. The puppy may need to go outside to eliminate immediately before bedtime. Providing background sounds, such as a very soft background sound of a TV or radio may calm the puppy down and relax him at night.
A puppy may need to eliminate in the middle of the night. If the puppy needs to go out during the night, he may whine, pace or bark. You can take him outside in a safe manner to eliminate and bring him right back to his sleep area to go back to sleep. He should learn to understand that it is time for sleep and not time to play during the night. The Chihuahua puppy will learn that his owner is a good leader and he will feel loved and protected. Hopefully, with a few helpful ideas you and your puppy will get sufficient sleep every night and be happy!
If you are bringing home a new Chihuahua puppy or a new adult Chihuahua dog into your family, you may need some patience and planning to come up with a daily routine for your puppy to help him sleep throughout the night, so that you will both feel rested and happy! Every dog needs their own safe and comfortable place to sleep.
You may wish to have the puppy's bed in a quiet, safe place in the house. A peaceful and comfortable corner or section of the room may be nice. Maybe you will choose a nice, safe, cozy dog bed for the Chihuahua puppy. You probably will want to pick a special sleeping area for the puppy where there is not much noise that would disturb him.
The puppy may feel a little more confident and secure if he can still see the people in the house from his sleeping area. Just knowing that you are there may help him to stay relaxed and calm. Most puppies in a new home environment may feel somewhat anxious and have a difficult time at first trying to quiet themselves down to sleep for the night. A new puppy may whine to get your attention. Everything may seem so new to your puppy in the beginning until he gets a little used to his new home. He may miss his mom and family litter in the beginning.
The puppy may enjoy having a favorite, safe dog toy or dog blanket with him for a feeling of familiarity and security. Dogs sometimes instinctively circle around their sleeping place where they are going to sleep. If you want the puppy in his bed at a certain time, you can begin a daily routine schedule and try to have him go to bed around the same time every night, so he gets used to this habit. But, if the Chihuahua puppy leaves his bed, you can nicely put him back in his bed, so he gets the idea and learns to get comfortable in his special sleeping space.
When the puppy gets accustomed to where his bed is, you may tell him to go into his own bed when you want him to go to sleep at night. Dogs like to know what is expected of them. Hopefully, he will soon learn a nice bedtime routine.
So the Chihuahua puppy can sleep good at night you may want to allow for adequate and appropriate exercise for the puppy throughout the day. You can plan a routine schedule for meal times for the puppy. Dogs usually respond well to a nice schedule. It may be helpful to get into the habit of some calm, quiet time before the actual bedtime. The puppy may need to go outside to eliminate immediately before bedtime. Providing background sounds, such as a very soft background sound of a TV or radio may calm the puppy down and relax him at night.
A puppy may need to eliminate in the middle of the night. If the puppy needs to go out during the night, he may whine, pace or bark. You can take him outside in a safe manner to eliminate and bring him right back to his sleep area to go back to sleep. He should learn to understand that it is time for sleep and not time to play during the night. The Chihuahua puppy will learn that his owner is a good leader and he will feel loved and protected. Hopefully, with a few helpful ideas you and your puppy will get sufficient sleep every night and be happy!
Dog Supplies and the Chihuahua
If you are bringing a new puppy home you may be thinking about some specific items that you may be shopping for to make the transition easy for you and your puppy in his new home. For example, your puppy will need an appropriate place to play and sleep and he will also need some items for daily maintenance. The following list includes specific items that some people may think about and consider when getting a new Chihuahua puppy.
Feeding and Water dishes
Appropriate dog food and treats for puppies
Dog brushes and combs
Appropriate dog collar and leashes
Possibly a dog pen
Safe and appropriate dog toys (recommended for puppies)
Safe and comfortable dog bed and dog blanket
Dog shampoo
Dog nametag or ID
Feeding and Water dishes
Appropriate dog food and treats for puppies
Dog brushes and combs
Appropriate dog collar and leashes
Possibly a dog pen
Safe and appropriate dog toys (recommended for puppies)
Safe and comfortable dog bed and dog blanket
Dog shampoo
Dog nametag or ID
Housetraining Your Chihuahua Puppy
One of the first things you will want to teach your new puppy when you bring him home is housetraining. This is the start of your bond with you and your puppy and it is good to make it a positive, stress free experience for both of you. Housetraining your Chihuahua puppy requires patience, consistency and commitment. It may take a few weeks to successfully housetrain your puppy. Your puppy will learn to get used to a routine schedule for eating, playing, and going outside to eliminate.
To begin the housetraining you may want to take your Chihuahua puppy outside at least every two hours during the day. You may take him outside after every meal or drink, or after he wakes up from a nap. Always remember to take your puppy out when he wakes up in the morning and also after playing, and before going to bed at night.
Choose an area outside and try to take your puppy close to that same spot each time, so he becomes very familiar with it. When you are going through this housetraining process, it is really helpful if you praise and reward your Chihuahua puppy when he eliminates outside. Praise him verbally and you may also want to give him a treat. This is a type of positive reinforcement for your puppy. He will learn that going to the bathroom outside is what is expected of him. Also, feeding your puppy at the same times each day is helpful to keep a good routine.
During the night, some puppies can sleep for several hours without having to eliminate. Your Chihuahua puppy may wake you up during the night. If that happens you may quietly take him out to eliminate, and then help him get back to his bed.
During the day when you are with your puppy, you can learn to watch for signs that your puppy needs to eliminate. Some signs may be restlessness, sniffing around, barking, going to the door, or trying to squat. When you see these signs you may quickly take your puppy outside to his bathroom spot. If he eliminates, you can praise him and reward him with a treat. Hopefully some of these housetraining tips are helpful!
To begin the housetraining you may want to take your Chihuahua puppy outside at least every two hours during the day. You may take him outside after every meal or drink, or after he wakes up from a nap. Always remember to take your puppy out when he wakes up in the morning and also after playing, and before going to bed at night.
Choose an area outside and try to take your puppy close to that same spot each time, so he becomes very familiar with it. When you are going through this housetraining process, it is really helpful if you praise and reward your Chihuahua puppy when he eliminates outside. Praise him verbally and you may also want to give him a treat. This is a type of positive reinforcement for your puppy. He will learn that going to the bathroom outside is what is expected of him. Also, feeding your puppy at the same times each day is helpful to keep a good routine.
During the night, some puppies can sleep for several hours without having to eliminate. Your Chihuahua puppy may wake you up during the night. If that happens you may quietly take him out to eliminate, and then help him get back to his bed.
During the day when you are with your puppy, you can learn to watch for signs that your puppy needs to eliminate. Some signs may be restlessness, sniffing around, barking, going to the door, or trying to squat. When you see these signs you may quickly take your puppy outside to his bathroom spot. If he eliminates, you can praise him and reward him with a treat. Hopefully some of these housetraining tips are helpful!
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