Don’t let their tiny size fool you — Chihuahuas have outsized personalities. Bold, spirited, and fiercely loyal, they often act like they’re the biggest dog in the room. This self-confidence, while endearing, can come with a stubborn streak that adds some spice to training sessions. 

Because of their strong attachment to their humans, Chihuahuas often thrive on attention and affection. But their small size can also make them prone to anxiety and overprotectiveness, especially if not properly socialised. With the right approach, training a Chihuahua can be both a joyful bonding experience and a critical part of helping them feel safe in the world. 

Read more: Chihuahua breed insights: care, personality & expert tips 

Chihuahua temperament and trainability 

Chihuahuas are intelligent and quick learners — especially when there's something in it for them. However, their sass and independence can sometimes make progress slow, particularly if they sense inconsistency or aren't in the mood. 

One common challenge with Chihuahuas is house training. Their tiny bladders mean more frequent bathroom breaks, and their aversion to cold or wet weather can make outdoor potty training tricky. They’re also known for barking or being possessive, especially if not trained early to feel safe around strangers and other pets. 

Still, don’t be discouraged. With consistent training, positive reinforcement, and a generous dose of patience, your Chihuahua can be both well-mannered and full of charm. 

Health considerations that can affect training 

Though small, Chihuahuas are prone to a few health issues that can influence their ability or motivation to train, including: 

Delicate limbs and joint issues: Chihuahuas have small, slender limbs that can be quite fragile, especially during puppyhood. Your puppy’s growth plates — the soft areas of cartilage at the ends of their bones — are responsible for bone development. Because these plates are still forming, and because Chihuahuas have such delicate limbs, they’re more vulnerable to injury. It’s important to protect them from strenuous or high-impact activities until their growth plates have fully hardened. 

Chihuahuas can also be prone to patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place instead of staying in its groove. Over time, this can lead to joint inflammation and arthritis. 

Diets containing bone- and joint-loving ingredients like green-lipped mussel and omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA from fish oil) can support your pup’s musculoskeletal health. Lyka’s Mussel Munchies are great treats with health benefits – ideal for training and providing nourishment for your dog’s bones and joints.  

Dental disease: Dental disease can be a common problem causing inflammation pain, and even tooth loss. Discomfort in the mouth may affect your pup’s mood or motivation to learn. Keep your dog’s teeth sparkling white with regular brushing with dog-friendly toothpaste. Diets and treats containing kelp (Ascophyllum nodosum) can also help to reduce plaque and tartar that lead to gum disease if left untreated. Lyka meals all contain kelp and so do Turkey Dental Jerky treats. 

Read more: Gum disease in dogs: how to spot, treat, and prevent it (with pictures)

If your Chihuahua is unusually unresponsive or irritable, it may be worth a trip to the vet. 

How real food fuels your Chihuahua’s focus 

Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced, and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information. 

Chihuahuas benefit from: 

• Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, which have a low glycaemic load and help release energy slowly. 

• Essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA (omega-3s from fish, mussels, or fish oil) support brain health and development, memory, and learning. 

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like blueberries and shiitake mushrooms to support immunity, skin health, and overall wellbeing. 

“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.”  

– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)   

Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience. 
 

All Lyka meals are formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to provide complete and balanced nutrition for learning, growth, and everyday health.  

Read more: What do Chihuahuas eat? Breed-specific nutrition tips 
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training 

Exercise first for improved focus 

Though they’re not long-distance athletes, Chihuahuas still need daily movement to burn off energy and stay mentally stimulated. A short play session or a gentle indoor fetch game before training can help your Chihuahua settle down and concentrate better. 

Go for: 

• Light walks or quick zoomies indoors. 

• Puzzle toys or play sessions that stimulate both body and brain. 

Avoid overexertion as Chihuahuas can tire quickly. 

Training tips for Chihuahuas 

Training a Chihuahua is an opportunity to bond and build trust — but patience and a sense of humour go a long way. 

Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best: 

Positive reinforcement 

This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction, teaches your pup how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship.  

Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your Chihuahua, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat.  

Find their favourite motivator  

Discovering your pup’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Chihuahua motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you?  

Train at the right time  

Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered.

Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue.  

Stay consistent  

Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues.  

Be playful and engaging  

Dogs are sensitive souls that can pick up your mood. Keep your sessions fun and your positive energy will be contagious.  

Watch their body language  

If your Chihuahua starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another time. 

Training your Chihuahua puppy 

Chihuahua puppies are curious, affectionate, and often hilariously stubborn. House training and socialisation should be top priorities. 

What works? 

• A regular toilet routine 

• Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime 

• Early and controlled socialisation with people, dogs, sounds, places and situations 

Chihuahuas are sensitive to harsh corrections, so stick with force-free methods that build trust and confidence. 

Training your adult Chihuahua 

Just because your Chihuahua’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced. 

This might look like: 

• Reinforcing polite greetings at the door 

• Learning new tricks or games 

• Adjusting to life changes, like moving house 

• Training for mobility support, like using a ramp in senior years 

Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning their brains adapt and change, making them lifelong learners. Keep training light and engaging and always celebrate progress — no matter how small. 

When to call in a Trainer or Behaviourist 

Not sure if your Chihuahua’s quirks are just stubbornness — or something deeper? 

A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like: 

• Reactivity 

• Anxiety or phobias 

• Aggression 

• Resource guarding 

They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change. 

“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.”   

- Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist 

New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together 

Training your Chihuahua is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating house training with a stubborn puppy or teaching your senior dog new routines, every small win is a step toward a calmer, more connected life together. 

And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Chihuahua’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential. 

Lyka nourishes hundreds of Chihuahuas across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.