Chihuahuas are known for their feisty and independent nature, which can make training them a challenge. However, teaching your Chihuahua to come when called is an essential behavior that can improve their safety and strengthen your bond. In this article, we’ll discuss effective techniques for training your Chihuahua to come when called, including positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience.
We’ll also address common mistakes to avoid, such as punishment-based training methods, which can harm your Chihuahua’s trust and confidence. With the right approach, you can successfully teach your Chihuahua to come when called and enjoy a closer relationship with your furry friend.
Note: For a complete training, we highly recommend this SpiritDog Online Training Course “Coming When Called”.
1. Start with a Strong Foundation
Before you begin training your chihuahua to come when called, it’s crucial to establish a strong bond with your pet. Spend time playing with your dog, engaging in activities they enjoy, and providing positive reinforcement through praise and treats. Building trust and a strong connection with your chihuahua will make them more likely to respond positively to your commands.
2. Choose a Distinct Command Word
Select a specific word or phrase for the recall command, such as “come” or “here.” Ensure that the command is distinct from other commands you use and that all family members use the same word consistently. Consistency is critical to avoid confusing your chihuahua and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.
3. Begin Training Your Chihuahua in a Controlled Environment
Start training your chihuahua to come when called in a controlled, distraction-free environment like your home or a fenced yard. In the early stages of training, it’s essential to minimize distractions to help your dog focus on learning the new command. As your dog becomes more reliable in responding to the recall command, gradually introduce distractions and practice in various environments.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement with Your Chihuahua
When training your chihuahua to come when called, always use positive reinforcement techniques. Reward your pup with praise, treats, or playtime when they respond to your recall command. This will help create a positive association with the command and motivate your dog to respond consistently. Remember to be patient and consistent in your training, as it may take time for your dog to master the recall command.
If you’re using treats, these are currently the most popular training treats on Amazon.
5. Gradually Increase Distance and Distractions
As your chihuahua becomes more reliable in responding to the recall command in a controlled environment, begin to increase the distance between you and your dog during training sessions. Practice calling your dog from various distances and gradually introduce distractions, such as other dogs, people, or toys. This will help your dog learn to respond to the command even in challenging situations.
Related: Looking for the fastest way to train your chihuahua to come when called? Try this video course.
6. Make Yourself Interesting and Rewarding to Your Chihuahua
To encourage your chihuahua to come when called, make yourself more appealing and rewarding to your dog. Use an enthusiastic, high-pitched voice when calling your dog, and reward them with a treat or praise when they respond. You can also try running away from your dog when calling them, as this can entice your dog to chase after you and respond to the recall command.
7. Never Punish Your Chihuahua for Coming When Called
It’s essential to avoid punishing your chihuahua if they do not immediately respond to the recall command or if they come to you slowly. Punishing your dog can create a negative association with the command and make them less likely to respond in the future. Instead, be patient and continue to practice and reinforce the command using positive reinforcement techniques.
8. Practice the Recall Command Regularly with Your Chihuahua
Consistent practice is crucial for training your chihuahua to come when called. Incorporate recall training into your dog’s daily routine, and practice the command in various environments and situations. This will help reinforce the behavior and make it more reliable over time.
9. Use a Long Training Leash on Your Chihuahua
When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your chihuahua while they learn to respond to the recall command. This will help you avoid losing control of your dog and provide a safety measure as you gradually increase the distance and distractions during training sessions.
This is the most popular long training leash on Amazon.
10. Be Patient and Persistent with Your Chihuahua
Training your chihuahua to come when called takes time, patience, and persistence. Some dogs may learn the command quickly, while others may require more time and consistent practice. Be patient with your dog and maintain a positive attitude during training sessions. Remember that every dog is unique, and the key to success is consistent practice and positive reinforcement.
11. Use a Professional Online Chihuahua Training Course
While this article provides many helpful tips for training your chihuahua, you can increase your chances of success by enlisting the help of a professional online dog trainer. We love the SpiritDog online courses, since its includes unlimited questions with a real dog trainer.
You can check out their Teach Your Chihuahua to Come Online Course Here
Teaching your Chihuahua to come when called is a vital skill that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. It’s important to remember that each dog has their unique personality and learning style, so it may take time to see progress. By using the techniques discussed in this article, such as making training sessions fun, rewarding your Chihuahua with praise and treats, and avoiding punishment-based methods, you can help your furry friend master this essential behavior. With a little effort and persistence, you’ll be able to enjoy a stronger bond with your Chihuahua and greater peace of mind knowing that they will come when called.
More Frequently Asked Questions For Training Your Chihuahua
1. How do I teach my Chihuahua to stop barking excessively?
Chihuahuas are known for their vocal nature, and while some barking is normal, excessive barking can become a nuisance. To teach your Chihuahua to stop barking excessively, you’ll need to identify the cause of the barking and address it directly. Some common reasons for excessive barking in Chihuahuas include boredom, fear, territorial behavior, and separation anxiety.
One effective method for stopping excessive barking is to redirect your Chihuahua’s attention to a positive activity. For example, if your Chihuahua barks at people passing by your window, you can redirect their attention by providing a toy or treat. Over time, your Chihuahua will learn that barking is not necessary to get your attention, and they will start to look forward to the positive reinforcement instead.
Another approach is to desensitize your Chihuahua to the trigger that is causing the barking. For example, if your Chihuahua barks at other dogs while on walks, you can gradually introduce them to other dogs in a controlled environment while providing positive reinforcement for calm behavior. This will help your Chihuahua learn that other dogs are not a threat and reduce their barking over time.
2. How do I stop my Chihuahua from biting or nipping?
Chihuahuas are known for their small size, but they can have a big attitude and may nip or bite when they feel threatened or scared. It’s important to address this behavior early on to prevent it from becoming a habit.
One effective approach to stop biting or nipping is to use a positive reinforcement training method. When your Chihuahua bites or nips, make a high-pitched sound to let them know that it hurts and immediately stop playing with them. Then, offer them a toy or treat to redirect their attention to a positive activity. Over time, your Chihuahua will learn that biting or nipping is not acceptable behavior, and they will start to seek positive reinforcement instead.
Another approach is to provide your Chihuahua with plenty of socialization and exposure to new experiences. This will help them feel more comfortable and less likely to feel threatened or scared, which can lead to biting or nipping behavior. If your Chihuahua continues to exhibit biting or nipping behavior, it’s important to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
3. How do I teach my Chihuahua to walk on a leash?
Teaching your Chihuahua to walk on a leash is an essential skill that will allow you to take them on walks and provide exercise and mental stimulation. However, Chihuahuas can be stubborn and may resist leash training, so it’s important to approach it with patience and consistency.
Start by introducing your Chihuahua to the leash and collar in a positive environment, such as inside your home. Allow them to sniff and explore the leash and collar, and offer them a treat to create a positive association. Gradually increase the amount of time your Chihuahua spends wearing the leash and collar until they are comfortable with it.
Next, attach the leash to your Chihuahua’s collar and allow them to drag it around while supervised. This will help your Chihuahua get used to the weight and feel of the leash.
When your Chihuahua is comfortable with the leash, start practicing walking on a leash in a quiet, distraction-free environment. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to reward your Chihuahua.
4. What’s the best online course for teaching a chihuahua to come when called?
At iHeartDogs, we recommend the SpiritDog online course “Coming When Called.” The course includes unlimited questions with a real dog trainer.
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