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Chihuahua breed profile

Training and intelligence
Chihuahuas are clever dogs, but it depends on the amount of effort the owner is prepared to put in. This breed can often suffer from small dog syndrome - people will tolerate bad bahaviour from them that would simply be intolerable and impractical in a bigger dog.

Temperament
Chihuahuas have a confidence way beyond their tiny stature. They are cheeky and brave, and nothing and no one is too big a task or opponent for them. They may be best kept on lead as they have been known to run up to and provoke much larger dogs - and the Chihuahua unfortunately comes off owrse in any ensuing interaction.

Attitude towards strange dogs and people
Chihuahuas are not keen on strangers of any kind. Socialisation is a must to prevent them being over protective of their people, or antagonistic to other dogs. The Chihuahua does not think of itself as small and conducts itself accordingly.

Grooming and shedding
There are two coat types in the Chihuahua breed, smooth and long. The longer obviously needs more grooming than the smooth, but grooming of either is not excessive. They shed little.

Exercise
The Chihuahua does need exercise, although they have bursts of energy. Some of their energy could be used in learning tricks, which this clever dog should be quick and agle enough to pick up well.

Need for company
They do like to be with their people, but Chihuahuas will tolerate being left for short amounts if brought up to it.

General
Like many toy breeds, Chihuahuas can suffer from a collapsing trachea, so it is better to have them on a harness than a lead. They tend to bond with one or two people. Because of their size they may be too fragile to live happily with young children. They like the company of other Chihuahuas.

Sharing

282 - dog life hacks and stay positive for your dog's sake

In this podcast we hear from behaviourist Bethany Bell on why aversive, harsh methods appear to work, while wreaking havoc on your dog and your relationship with them. Behaviourist Jennifer Billot has the dog life hacks that will save you time, make your training more effective, and make life more fun for your dog. DogCast Radio is the podcast your dog wants you to listen to!

189 - The Dog Healers and War Dogs Remembered

In this episode you can hear Mark Winik talk about his debut novel, The Dog Healers, and listen to Julia Robertson explain why she founded the charity War Dogs remembered. Plus there's the DogCast Radio News, and what Mischief the German Spitz puppy has been up to.

188 - Service Dogs UK and Roxie the Doxie Finds Her Forever Home

In this episode you can hear about Service Dogs UK, a fantastic charity which trains assistance dogs to support veterans of any service - military personnel, police, firefighters, paramedics and the coastguard - who develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder due to their job. Also, listen to Dr Jody A Dean, a clinical psychologist talk about how her book, Roxie the Doxie finds her Forever Home, is helping children understand and talk about adoption and other family issues. Plus the DogCast Radio News and some thoughts on the alpha dog myth.

187 - Muffins Halo and Chorley Fun Dog Show

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186 - Maxwell Muir on wolves

In this episode you can hear trainer, behaviourist, writer, broadcaster and wolf expert Maxwell Muir talk about what wolves mean to him personally, their plight in a modern world, and his hopes for their future. Plus we have the DogCast Radio News.