How to Train a Chihuahua for Show

These are all behaviors Sassy had to learn, but they are generally not hard to teach. You just need to get your Chi accustomed to what is expected and practice it, so she is comfortable with performing. Most handlers, including owners of show Chihuahuas, use clicker training and positive reinforcement to teach their dogs show behaviors. If your dog is prepared for what is expected of her at a show she will show off her natural attributes better, giving her all the advantages at show time to put her in the winners' circle.

Your show Chihuahua needs to stand still for grooming, be calm around other dogs and people, stand still with her legs together, and allow a judge to handle and manipulate her. Your Chi will need to be able to circle the show ring in a line with other competitors, and by himself, at a smart trot at your left heel. 

This may sound straightforward, but it's not as easy as it sounds. For example, when "gaiting", you want your dog to move out with a spring in his step and carrying his head and tail high. Your Chi will be required to keep up with your left leg, and move in line with other dogs, and by himself, with lots of distractions present.  

Standing still and being examined by a judge will also require your Chi to be calm when a stranger handles him and other, strange and sometimes excited dogs, are moving about in close proximity. Your dog will be required to stand in the correct position to be examined which is called "stacking".  There are two types of stacking, hand stacking and free stacking.  In free stacking, your dog positions himself in the correct position to have conformation judged. In hand stacking, your Chi will allow you to manipulate him into position to be judged and examined.  Many owners use clicker training and positive reinforcement to lure and shape appropriate show behavior so their Chi learns what is expected of him. Practicing around other people and at informal shows can also give your little dog experience with the sights and sounds of a show so he will not be startled or taken by surprise on show day.