Ringo,
That was a great reference......it seems so cruel to want to be "in charge" of such a tiny and adorable little puppy, but the alpha thing must be settled quickly and firmly.
When I got my chihuahua 6 months ago she was showered with attention and sat, walked, played with whatever she wanted. It did not take long before the growling and snapping started and the final straw was when she BIT (!!!!!) me when I attempted to put a t-shirt on her...(I'm not one to dress up my dogs....it was sooo cold and she is nearly hairless on her belly)....
Well, I was so discouraged and thinking I had a typical chihuahua...snappy and mean!
Fortunately, I found a show on TV called "The Dog Whisperer" with Cesear Millan.....and the first show I watched was that horrible chihuahua....in MINUTES he had shown that dog who was the boss and it was remarkable!!!!! My hubby was even imrpessed!!! Now, Apple CANNOT jump into anyone's lap unless she is invited. She lays on the couch...(under a heating pad)...but she automatically moves from MY PLACE if she sees me coming....I can put on the collar or harness with no problems....She NEVER SNAPS at anyone!!! Even the grandkids ...who can get out of hand at times...I can sit and cut her toenails and give her a bath easily...she does not like it but she allows it. I never did try any more clothes...I had bought the cutest coat but just because she gets soooooo cold!
I take her to the outlet mall (when the weather is warm) and she walks well on a leash/harness....does not do as well with the collar.
All that said to say this....be firm and CONSISTANT...EVERY TIME....they are just like kids....and will try and try to win! Then everybody loses! |