Why Are Chihuahuas So Hyper?

The Chihuahua breed is a proud, small dog that brings a lot of personality variety to its owners. Typically it has earned a reputation as a more hyper yip dog but the fact is, depending on its genetic disposition and environment, the Chihuahua is a diverse animal that can be as laid back as it is hyper.

  1. Temperament

    • A Chihuahua is a smart animal who likes to be the center of attention. It also tends to have a strong preference toward one particular owner and will become jealous and possessive in regards to him. These traits are common to the breed, along with its tendency to be friendly with its owners and stand-offish or even mean to strangers. Much of its hyper behavior passes down from its lineage and long-haired Chihuahuas tend to be more mellow than their short-haired counterparts.

    Training

    • Such undesirable hyper behavior, like jumping and barking, can actually be curbed in the training process. The type of training a Chihuahua responds best to has emphasis on positive reinforcement and affection. It can be a bit stubborn to train, although with the proper guidance, will be eager to please and therefore eager to learn. As a result, much of the dog's hyper behavior can be curtailed, depending on what bad habits you allow to continue.

    Environment

    • Despite its tendency to be a more hyper animal, the Chihuahua does respond to its environment. Training plays a huge part in how its behavior is cultivated, but it also responds to the family dynamic. Not only will it gravitate toward one particular member over another, it will defend that favored owner against other members of the family. Small children can bring out the worst in the Chihuahua. Families with small children are not recommended for Chihuahuas because of its tendency to bite when it feels threatened or annoyed.

    Considerations

    • Because of the dog's notorious lack of patience with small children, families with smaller children should teach the child to be as gentle and patient as the dog itself. Children should not tease the animal, especially if one of the parents happens to be the Chihuahua's favorite person. Any jealous behavior can result in possible bites. Additionally, though it may be known as an energetic dog, the Chihuahua doesn't require a lot of exercise.