The Chihuahua is the smallest of the popular companion breeds, with a big personality, strong loyalty to its favourite people and plenty of opinions. Owners most often struggle with barking, house training, fearfulness or snappiness with strangers, and protecting a tiny dog from cold and rough handling.
Chihuahua at a glance
- Size: toy; very small and light, with a fragile frame.
- Energy level: moderate; lively indoors and happy with short walks and play.
- Shedding level: low to moderate in smooth coats; moderate in long coats.
- Barking tendency: moderate to high; many are alert and vocal.
- Good for first-time owners: yes, with consistent training and careful socialisation.
- Time alone tolerance: low to moderate; many bond closely with one person.
Common Chihuahua problems and solutions
Why does my Chihuahua bark so much?
Chihuahuas are alert and often bark to warn, to ask for attention or because they feel unsure. Reward quiet moments, reduce window watching and build confidence with calm training. Our guide on why dogs bark at everything explains how to tackle each type of barking.
Why is my Chihuahua so hard to potty train?
Tiny bladders, cold weather and accidents that are easy to miss make house training slower for many toy breeds. Keep a strict schedule, go out with your dog, reward right away and clean accidents with an enzyme cleaner. Some owners also use an indoor potty area during winter or bad weather, which can be a practical choice for a very small dog as long as you use it consistently. See why a puppy keeps peeing in the house for more help.
Why does my Chihuahua growl or snap at strangers?
Small dogs often feel vulnerable when big hands reach for them. Let your dog choose whether to approach, have visitors toss treats instead of reaching, and avoid picking your dog up to “make friends”. Gentle, gradual socialisation helps most Chihuahuas become more relaxed with new people, and growling should never be punished because it is an important warning signal.
Why does my Chihuahua shake?
Shivering can come from cold, excitement or nervousness, since tiny dogs lose heat quickly. Use a sweater or coat in cold weather, keep walks short in winter and provide warm bedding away from drafts. Many Chihuahuas love to burrow under a blanket. If shaking seems unusual or comes with other signs, talk to your vet.
Why is my Chihuahua so attached to one person?
Many Chihuahuas bond strongly with one person and may guard them from others. Have other family members feed, walk and play with the dog too, and reward calm behaviour when people approach. If your dog becomes distressed when that person leaves, read why your dog follows you everywhere.
Do Chihuahuas need exercise?
Yes, even small dogs need daily walks and play for fitness and mental health. Two short walks plus indoor games usually suit an adult Chihuahua. Use a harness to protect the neck and choose quiet routes when your dog is still building confidence. Sniffing games, hide-and-seek with treats and short trick sessions are great indoor exercise on cold or rainy days.
Why does my Chihuahua bark at the door?
Doorbells and knocks are classic triggers. Teach a “go to your bed” cue, reward quiet and practise with friends ringing the bell on purpose. Our guide on dogs that won’t stop barking at the door breaks it into easy steps.
Why does my Chihuahua bark at night?
Night barking often comes from hearing noises, feeling alone or needing a potty break. Offer a last outing before bed, keep the sleeping area cosy and close to you, and add white noise. Read how to stop dog barking at night for a full routine.
Why does my Chihuahua bark when I leave?
Barking after you go is often a sign of stress about being alone. Practise very short absences, give a food puzzle as you leave and keep arrivals low-key. See why dogs bark when you leave for a gentle step-by-step plan.
Why is my Chihuahua reactive to big dogs on walks?
A small dog may bark or lunge at bigger dogs because it feels unsafe. Keep distance, reward calm looks and never force greetings. Our guide to the reactive dog on walks explains how to build confidence gradually.
Why won’t my Chihuahua eat?
Some Chihuahuas are picky, while others skip meals when stressed. Keep mealtimes regular, use a quiet feeding spot and limit extra treats between meals. Very small dogs should not go long without food, so read why a dog refuses to eat and talk to your vet promptly if your dog stops eating.
How do I keep my Chihuahua safe at home?
Tiny dogs can be hurt by falls, jumps from furniture or being stepped on. Use ramps or steps for sofas and beds, teach children to sit on the floor to cuddle, and supervise around larger pets. A playpen or gated area is useful when you cannot watch.
Training tips for a Chihuahua
- Train like a big dog. Teach sit, down, stay and recall just as you would with a larger breed; small dogs benefit from manners too.
- Use tiny treats. Very small rewards keep motivation high without overfeeding.
- Build confidence. Reward brave, curious behaviour and let your dog approach new things at its own pace.
- Reward quiet. Mark and treat calm moments when your dog notices a sound but stays silent.
- Practise handling. Gently touch paws, ears and mouth with treats so grooming and vet visits are easier.
- Teach alone time gradually. Start with seconds and build up slowly with a chew or puzzle.
- Join a small-dog class. A reward-based class with dogs of a similar size offers safe socialisation and builds confidence around other dogs.
Health questions owners ask
Do Chihuahuas have dental problems?
Dental issues are commonly discussed in small breeds because teeth are crowded in a tiny mouth. Brush regularly if your dog accepts it, offer suitable chews and ask your vet about dental checkups.
Are Chihuahuas prone to knee problems?
Kneecap issues are discussed in many toy breeds. Watch for skipping or holding up a back leg and talk to your vet if you notice it.
Can Chihuahuas get low blood sugar?
Very small puppies can be more sensitive to skipped meals. Feed on a regular schedule and talk to your vet right away if your puppy seems weak, wobbly or unusually sleepy.
Why is my Chihuahua scratching so much?
Itching can come from allergies, dry skin or parasites. Read why dogs scratch so much and talk to your vet for a proper check.
Is a Chihuahua right for you?
Is a Chihuahua good for apartments?
Yes, size-wise it is ideal, though barking needs attention so neighbours stay happy. Early quiet training makes a big difference, and a covered window or white noise can reduce hallway triggers.
Are Chihuahuas good with kids?
They usually do best with older, gentle children. Toddlers can accidentally hurt a tiny dog, and a frightened dog may snap, so supervision is essential. Teach kids to let the dog come to them and to sit on the floor for cuddles instead of carrying it.
Do Chihuahuas get along with other pets?
Many enjoy the company of other small dogs or cats. Supervise with larger dogs, since rough play can injure a tiny body, and give your Chihuahua a raised or gated spot where it can retreat.
Is a Chihuahua good for first-time owners?
Yes, for owners who commit to training and socialisation. You could also compare with the Yorkshire Terrier or the Pomeranian.
Related guides
- Barking problems and solutions
- Potty training help
- Separation anxiety help
- House-trained dog having accidents
- Dog barking at neighbours
- Potty training supplies
Share your Chihuahua experience
Do you live with a Chihuahua? Share your training tips and questions in our dog owners community, or explore more dog breed guides.