Chihuahuas For Dummies

Keep up to date with the latest info on raising, training, and living with your Chihuahua

Chihuahuas For Dummies is your guide to discovering whether a Chihuahua is the right addition to your family and to caring for these little dogs once they’re under your roof. This fun book answers your most pressing questions about the breed’s needs and temperament, plus offers loads of friendly advice on everything a Chihuahua owner should know. You’ll also find fun facts and trivia, amusing and informative anecdotes, and tips on how to have a great time with your Chihuahua. This down-to-earth For Dummies reference is the only book you'll need to help you have the best possible experience with these very affectionate and adorable doggos.

• Understand the Chihuahua’s characteristics and body language
• Keep your dog healthy and happy with diet, exercise, and socialization
• Deal with bad behavior like biting, barking, and jumping
• Train your Chihuahua in the basics—sit, stay, heel, and come

This is the book for anyone planning to adopt a Chihuahua and needing all the facts, plus current Chihuahua owners who need advice on training or are thinking of adding another member to their current fur family.

Introduction 1

Part 1: Is a Chihuahua Your Canine Compadre? 7

Chapter 1: Sharing Your Digs with a Dog: A Big Decision 9

Chapter 2: What’s Behind That Unique Chihuahua Look? 21

Chapter 3: Perusing the Particulars of Chihuahua Charm 35

Part 2: Fitting a Compact Canine into Your Life 49

Chapter 4: Choosing Your Ideal Chihuahua 51

Chapter 5: Welcome Home, Little Amigo 75

Chapter 6: What’s on the Chi Menu? 97

Chapter 7: Grooming the Body Beautiful 117

Chapter 8: Chirobics: For Fitness and Fun 133

Part 3: Positive Training for Your Petite Pal 143

Chapter 9: Socializing Your Chihuahua 145

Chapter 10: Establishing Good Behavior and Manners 163

Chapter 11: Being Your Chihuahua’s Mentor 183

Chapter 12: Teaching Your Chi Tricks, Canine Sports, and Ringside Skills 201

Part 4: Chihuahua Care and Concerns 229

Chapter 13: Visiting the Vet 231

Chapter 14: Debugging the Dog 253

Chapter 15: Dealing with Sickness, Injury, and Other Considerations 265

Part 5: The Part of Tens 287

Chapter 16: Ten Questions to Ask Chihuahua Breeders 289

Chapter 17: Ten Fascinating Facts About Chihuahuas 295

Chapter 18: Ten (Or So) Famous Chihuahuas 301

Index 307

Kim Campbell Thornton has been writing about dogs, cats, wildlife and marine life since 1985 and is a recipient of multiple awards for her articles and books. She is content manager for Fear Free Pets, an Elite Fear Free Certified Professional, and is the co-author of Birds For Dummies, 2nd Edition.

The small breed that makes a big impression

Do you have room in your heart (and your home) for a tiny dog with a huge heart? Chihuahuas For Dummies will help you decide, with loads of information on what these little dogs are like to live with. You’ll get guidance on all the right questions to ask breeders. Then, get all the basics you need to feed, groom, train, care for, and enjoy your pet. If you’re a current Chihuahua parent, you’ll love the expert advice on dealing with illness, injury, and unwanted behavior. Say hi to your cutest new amigo.

Inside…

• Learn all about the Chihuahua breed
• Choose the right dog for you
• Understand Chihuahua behavior and needs
• Feed, groom, and excersize your dog
• Teach puppies good manners
• Socialize your Chihuahua
• Tackle medical care and prevent health problems
• Discover fun facts, trivia, & stories