How to Leash Train a Chihuahua Puppy

With their huge liquid eyes, oversized pricked ears, and petite little muzzle, a Chihuahua puppy is hard to resist. Combine that with the Chihuahua's larger than life personality, and you've got a show stopper of a dog that weighs in with a small melon. It's no surprise that you want to show that charming little dog off to the world, and your Chihuahua seems like she's ready to take on anything. The way she spins in circles around you, however, you wonder if you'll ever be able to untangle yourself long enough to actually walk. You can train your Chihuahua puppy to have good leash manners, so you two can conquer the world together.

Chihuahuas, though a relatively healthy breed, are prone to injuries of the neck, back, and trachea if walked on a neck lead. For this reason, even very well trained chihuahuas should be walked on a harness. When fitting the harness to your Chihuahua, be certain that it will not put any pressure on her neck. Harnesses that fit around the front legs and the waist and are clipped at the shoulder blades are best. Be careful that your Chihuahua doesn't rub her delicate coat and skin against the harness. It is best if the harness is soft and well padded. It should be loose enough that you can easily slip two fingers under it at any point, but tight enough that your chihuahua won't be able to lift her paw through, something they are incredibly clever about doing. It is best to practice with a new harness in the house or yard before going out with your dog in it.

Your Chihuahua is likely to be skittish when you first put her new harness on. Let her adjust to it while rewarding her with plenty of yummy treats. She will soon acclimate to the new feeling. Watch her movements to see if any adjustments need to be made to the fit of the harness. Once she if very comfortable with the harness, attach a light leash. Most Chihuahuas are bothered by the tension from a flexi lead, so it is best to use a simple light leash at first. Whenever your Chihuahua pulls against the leash, reward her with a treat, so she is not frightened by the novel feeling of being restrained by the harness. Only when your Chihuahua puppy is very comfortable with the equipment you will be using should you begin training outdoors. Remember also that your puppy can't walk very far. Let her set the pace, and carry her after a little while even if she still seems willing. The big-hearted Chihuahua is sometimes quick to overdo herself.