Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog and are descendants of the Techichi, a small, silent dog used by the Toltec civilization in Mexico for companionship and warmth. The breed was first recognized by the Mexican government in 1898. In 1923, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Chihuahua, and it has been one of the most popular breeds in America ever since.
While they make excellent companion animals, their small size also makes them one of the most aggressive dog breeds. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why chihuahuas can be so mean, and offer some tips on how to control them.
Territorial Aggression
One of the main reasons why chihuahuas can be so mean is because they are very territorial animals. They see their homes as their domain and will protect themselves fiercely from anyone or anything they perceive as a threat. This territorial behavior can manifest itself in many ways, such as barking excessively at strangers, growling when someone comes near their food or toys, or even biting if they feel threatened. If you have a chihuahua that is displaying territorial aggression, it’s important to seek professional help from a certified animal behaviorist or trainer who can help you modify your pet’s behavior.
Fear Aggression
Another common reason for aggression in chihuahuas is fear. Due to their small size, chihuahuas can often feel vulnerable and afraid, leading them to lash out at anything they perceive as a threat. Common signs of fear aggression include cowering, trembling, growling, baring teeth, and snapping. If your chihuahua is exhibiting any of these behaviors, it’s important to consult with a professional to help desensitize them to their fears.
Possessive Aggression
Possessive aggression is another type of aggression that can be seen in chihuahuas (and other dogs). This happens when a dog feels that something (or someone) is a threat to something they value highly, such as food or toys. Possessive aggression can manifest itself in many ways, such as growling when someone comes near their food bowl or snapping at someone who tries to take away their favorite toy.
If your chihuahua is displaying possessive aggression towards you or anyone else, it’s important to seek professional help so that you can learn how to properly address this behavior.
So, how can you control a chihuahua’s aggression? The first step is to understand why your chihuahua is acting aggressively. Once you know the trigger, you can work on desensitizing your chihuahua to that trigger through positive reinforcement training.
For example, if your chihuahua becomes aggressive when someone tries to pet it, you can start by having the person approach slowly and then give your chihuahua a treat when it remains calm. With time and patience, you should be able to help your chihuahua overcome its aggression.
While chihuahuas can be loving and loyal companions, they can also be aggressive little dogs. If you’re thinking about getting a chihuahua (or if you already have one), it’s important to be aware of the potential for aggression and take steps to prevent it or address it if it does occur. Remember, if you’re ever unsure about how to handle your pet’s behavior, always consult with a professional!
