How to Make a Chihuahua Stop Barking When I am Sleeping

Chihuahuas are small dogs that have big personalities. They're dominant by nature and often bark for attention or because they're bored. To prevent barking, you must first establish yourself as the pack leader so that your dog knows you're in control. Chihuahuas are clever and can be trained out of old habits. You must never shout at your Chihuahua or punish bad behavior because this can escalate the problem. Instead, the key to stopping your Chihuahua's inappropriate barking is to completely ignore bad behavior and reward good behavior with attention and treats.

Things You'll Need

  • Treats
  • Dog toys
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Ascertain why your Chihuahua is barking. Two of the most common reasons for nighttime barking are because your dog is scared or wants attention. Loud noises can frighten small dogs and they will bark to protect themselves and you. However, if your Chihuahua starts barking the moment you leave the room, this is likely to be a cry for attention.

    • 2

      Teach your Chihuahua the word "quiet." Say the word firmly whenever he barks during the day for attention or because of boredom. Ignore your dog if he continues to bark and reward him with attention and treats only when he stops. Continue to practice this command until your Chihuahua understands what the word "quiet" means and responds to it.

    • 3

      Exercise your Chihuahua before going to bed. Take him on a long walk and tire him out. He's more likely to go to sleep quickly if he's tired.

    • 4

      Make your dog feel safer by securing the room he sleeps in. Draw the curtains or blinds so that he can't see outside. Place his bed in a dark corner, and keep a piece of your clothing in the bed to encourage him to lie down and feel reassured.

    • 5

      Keep a box of his toys in the room so that your dog can occupy himself if he wakes. Chihuahuas need a lot of stimulation, so choose intellectual toys that will stop him from getting bored and barking. Select dog puzzles and other toys that make your dog work for his reward.

    • 6

      Turn on the radio if your Chihuahua doesn't like being left alone. The sound might help him feel more secure and can soothe him.

    • 7

      Speak the command "quiet" firmly to your dog before going to sleep.

    • 8

      Ignore his barking during the night. This might be difficult, but acknowledging your dog will only enforce the bad behavior. Your dog will eventually realize his barking isn't drawing your attention and stop.

    • 9

      Continue to ignore your Chihuahua if he resumes barking the next morning. Don't acknowledge him when you wake until he stops. Give him lots of praise when he's quiet to enforce the idea that he will be rewarded for being silent.