Training a Chihuahua: what works and what to expect

Chihuahuas are smart and learn tricks quickly, but they have a reputation for doing things on their own terms. Tiny, soft rewards and sessions of 3 to 5 minutes work best. Treat the dog as you would a large breed: teach sit, come, leave it and a calm greeting, rather than scooping it up whenever something happens.

House training is the most common struggle. A tiny bladder, a dislike of cold wet grass and the ease of hiding a small accident behind furniture all slow progress. Take the puppy out every 1 to 2 hours, straight after meals and naps, and reward heavily outside. For barking, teach a quiet cue and reward silence, instead of shouting, which a Chihuahua tends to hear as joining in.