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BREED GUIDE

YOUR CHIHUAHUA PUPPY

Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs in the world, with some of the biggest personalities. They're bright, brave and loyal, often to one person in particular, and they need just as much training as a bigger dog. Because they're so small, they usually get far less of it.

A smooth-coated Chihuahua looking up on the grass

WHAT I'D START IN THE FIRST WEEKS

HANDLING

WARN BEFORE YOU LIFT

Say a word like "up" before you pick your puppy up, every time, and support their chest and back end. A dog who knows what's coming is far less likely to growl or snap.

TEETH

BRUSH FROM THE START

Dental disease is the most common health problem in the breed. Get your puppy used to having their mouth looked at and their teeth brushed from the first week.

CONFIDENCE

FOUR FEET ON THE FLOOR

Let your puppy walk, sniff and explore on their own four feet. Carrying them everywhere and letting strangers reach in makes many Chihuahuas more worried, not less.

Cover of The Modern Chihuahua Handbook by Renée Patience

MODERN BREED HANDBOOKS · NO. 39

THE MODERN CHIHUAHUA HANDBOOK

The Chihuahua explained, from smooth and long coats to teeth, kneecaps, being picked up, barking and one-person dogs, written by Renée. It's an instant download for €9.99.

WANT STEP-BY-STEP HELP?

 

Puppy Club walks you through the first weeks and months with any breed, one step at a time, with a roadmap for each stage so you always know what to work on next. Essentials is €99, one payment, and you keep it for life.

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