For some time now, you have been thinking of adopting a puppy and have been convinced that the characteristics of the “chihuahua” match your needs perfectly.
Also, since this is such a small pet dog that you can hold it in your lap or in your purse, it will be easier to take it with you everywhere. You have inquired, and many have told you that the Chihuahua is not as demanding as many other breeds, so much so that a nice “sleeper,” will be able to replace daily “potty” outings, and a little walk now and then, will be more than enough to meet its motion needs.
In short, what more could one want? It is a dog that requires the commitment of a cat!
One wonders,“But if this is really the case, how come most of these little dogs, tend to bark, growl or bite indifferently at people, children, other dogs and often even the owners themselves?”
The fact is, that although the small size makes it easier for owners to manage on a daily basis, the basic needs of the dog as a species remain, and if they are not met, coexistence becomes difficult!
Let us therefore analyze some aspects, which it is essential to weigh well, “before” we have chosen and brought home our chihuahua:
- TIME TO DEVOTE TO HIM
A dog is a social animal, and as such, it is not enough for him to have a roof over his head and a bowl full of food available, even if that food is first-rate. He wants to be by your side and actively participate in your life. Taking him into your home, thinking that it is enough to be with him when he wakes up and in the evening, is sheer folly. If you cannot devote time to him, it is much wiser to opt for another animal species that has needs more in keeping with yours. In addition, it is good to remember that, daily walks, constitute a necessity for all dogs, including Chihuahuas and are closely related to the mental and physical well-being of the animal, which only in this way, can meet, in addition to physiological needs, social and exercise needs. Therefore, it is absurd to think that a simple “sleeper” can replace them. - EDUCATION.
In spite of its “mini” size, the Chihuahua is a dog with a lively, courageous temperament and brilliant intelligence, and while it likes to “enjoy” comfortable mattresses and warm blankets, it does not disdain nice walks and free runs at all. Because of its eternal puppy-like appearance, although around 8 months of age the dog is practically an adult, it is very often treated with overindulgence and cuddled like a spoiled child, when on the contrary it should be brought up with authoritative firmness. - IT IS NEVER A GOOD IDEA TO GIVE A DOG
Adopting a dog requires awareness and participation on the part of all family members, who will need to take an active part in its care and upbringing. If the choice is made to please your children, you should expect that much of the responsibility will fall on you.
Carla Beard
Sing To The Moon Dog Center