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Things Chihuahuas Hate

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Picture this: you’ve just brought home the tiniest, sassiest little ball of fur that we humans affectionately call a Chihuahua.

growling chihuahua being held

As you’re getting to know your new best bud, you notice some peculiar behaviors. Little Chi-Chi doesn’t seem to dig the vacuum cleaner as much as you thought he would. Or maybe he’s not as thrilled with that new harness as you were when you spotted it on sale.

Well, my friend, welcome to the wild world of Chihuahuas! These pint-sized pups have a big personality, and with it comes a list of likes and dislikes as long as a Great Dane’s tail. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. Let’s dive into the things Chihuahuas can’t stand, shall we?

Loud Noises

Thunderstorms

You might enjoy the rumble of a thunderstorm, but your Chihuahua doesn’t. These little guys are known to be sensitive to loud noises, and a crack of thunder can send them scurrying under the nearest piece of furniture.

Fireworks

Fireworks are another no-no. The booms, bangs, and whistles are all a bit too much for your Chihuahua’s delicate ears. Trust me, New Year’s Eve ot 4th of July inside with a cozy blanket is much more their speed.

Check out this post on how to help your chihuahua handle the loud noises.

Vacuum Cleaners

Vacuum cleaners – the mortal enemy of many a Chihuahua. The noise, the movement, the threatening way it sucks up all their shed fur (how dare it!) – it’s just too much to handle. So, don’t be surprised if your Chihuahua retreats to a safe distance whenever it’s cleaning day.

Cold Weather

tri colored chihuahua in blue sweater

Temperature Drops

Chihuahuas are pretty much solar-powered pups. They absolutely loathe the cold. So if you’re living in a place where temperature drops are common, invest in some good quality doggy sweaters. Your Chihuahua will thank you.

Wet Surfaces

Speaking of cold, wet surfaces are a big nope. Chihuahuas aren’t exactly fans of wading through puddles or wet grass. They’re more of a sunbathing kind of breed.

Physical Discomfort

Poorly-Fitting Harnesses

Remember when we talked about that on-sale harness? Yeah, if it doesn’t fit just right, it’s a no-go. Chihuahuas hate being uncomfortable, and a too-tight or too-loose harness is a sure ticket to Discomfort City.

Invasive Touches

Like humans, Chihuahuas value their personal space. Abrupt or invasive touches, especially from unfamiliar people, can stress them out. Always approach your Chihuahua gently, and remember to teach others how to respect their boundaries.

Strangers and New Environments

little girl with chihuahua

Young Children

Look, kids are great, but they can be a bit… much, especially for a small pup like a Chihuahua. The noise, the unpredictable movements, the grabby hands—it can all be overwhelming.

Unfamiliar People

Meeting new people can be stressful for a Chihuahua. They’re a breed known for their loyalty, which means they sometimes take a while to warm up to strangers.

New Spaces

New environments can also be a source of stress. Moving to a new home or even visiting a new park can be a big deal for your little buddy. Take it slow and let them adjust at their own pace.

Food-Related Issues

Unappealing Flavors

Chihuahuas, despite their size, can be picky eaters. They might turn their nose up at certain flavors, so it might take some trial and error to find the meals they love.

Other Pets and Animals

chihuahua in dog bed with cat beside it

Unfamiliar Dogs

Just because they’re dogs doesn’t mean they automatically love all other dogs. In fact, Chihuahuas can be a bit wary of unfamiliar dogs, especially if they’re much larger.

Cats

Cats are another story. Some Chihuahuas get along fabulously with felines, while others… not so much. It really depends on the individual dogs and cats.

Other Things Chihuahuas Hate

anxious fawn chihuahua laying on pink blanket

Inconsistent Schedules

Chihuahuas, like most dogs, thrive on routine. They like knowing when it’s time for meals, walks, playtime, and bed. Keeping a consistent schedule helps reduce stress and anxiety for your Chihuahua. So, try to avoid frequent changes to your daily routine that might confuse or upset your furry friend.

Lack of Mental Stimulation

Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are intelligent and energetic dogs. They love playing with toys, learning new tricks, and going on adventures with their humans.

They can get bored if they don’t have enough mental and physical stimulation, leading to destructive behaviors like chewing or excessive barking. Make sure to provide them with plenty of toys and engage them in regular play sessions to keep their minds sharp and bodies active.

Too Much Alone Time

Chihuahuas are extremely social and form strong bonds with their human families. They hate being left alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety, which can manifest in behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, and even depression.

If you have to leave them alone for an extended period, consider hiring a pet sitter or asking a friend or family member to keep them company.

paw print graphic

And there you have it, a snapshot into the world of Chihuahuas and all their adorable quirks. Remember, every pup is unique, so your Chihuahua might not hate everything on this list. The key is to spend quality time with your little friend, get to know them, and respect their individual likes and dislikes. Happy bonding!

Please be sure to leave a comment and tell me what your chihuahua hates.

Cathy signature with cartoon chihuahua
blond woman holding white chihuahua

Cathy Bendzunas

Pet Blogger

I have had dogs all my life. I have been a pet groomer, worked in a pet hotel, and a kennel, and have bred and showed dogs.

Olivia Crutchfield

Friday 8th of September 2023

Ps: here name is Pebbles

Olivia Crutchfield

Friday 8th of September 2023

We just got this little 4 lb girl, one year old , she’s hiding in her taxi and won’t come out, I feel so bad, she had a family and they left her cause they had to move, we are just leaving her be overnight, we have 2 other dogs and a cat, and I think they scared her on top of being in a new place but, any suggestions , my heart ❤️ is braking for her,

Cathy Bendzunas

Saturday 9th of September 2023

Just give her time. She will eventually venture out as she gets used to things.

Wednesday 26th of July 2023

Everything is correct fir Baby. But she has attitude. If I leave her too long when I come home and take her our of her playpen she grabs my pant legend won't let go. If I leave the room or go onto another room and she can't go she grabs me and u have to drag her around.She is growling at me the whole time. Help how can I stop her sometimes it pinches my skin. If I act like I am gonna hit her she holds on tighter.

Cathy Bendzunas

Wednesday 26th of July 2023

Use a firm but gentle command such as "No" or "Stop" when your Chihuahua starts to exhibit negative behavior. Be consistent with your command and use it every time they begin to act out.

If the problem persists, you might want to consider taking your Chihuahua to obedience classes or hiring a professional dog trainer. A professional can provide additional insight into why your dog is behaving this way and can provide personalized strategies to help change their behavior.

Shirley

Tuesday 18th of July 2023

I have a hard time finding a dry food my Chihuahua will eat. Do you have any suggestion?

Cathy Bendzunas

Tuesday 18th of July 2023

Try adding some warm bone beef broth to it and that may make it more appetizing. We also have an article on foods that may help: https://ilovemychi.com/best-commercial-foods-for-chihuahuas/

Sunday 16th of July 2023

Every time I read something about a typical Chihuahua trait or behavior, I realize how unique my Yoda is! Except for not liking to be separated from me, nothing else on the list applies to my little Yoda. In fact, he's the opposite in a couple of the things listed; he has no issues with cold weather (maybe because he's from Russia?)), but he doesn't like to spend much time in the heat (and we're in Miami now!). He is also the complete opposite of a picky eater; he's like Mikey (from those old Life cereal commercials), he'll eat anything!))) He looks like a Chi and I have the papers saying he's 100 percent Chi, but he sure doesn't act like a Chi and I love him for that even more!!

Monday 17th of July 2023

I call Yoda my little vacuum cleaner too! Lol

Cathy Bendzunas

Sunday 16th of July 2023

Lucy isn't usually picky either although there are a few things sge will stick her nose up at. Lucas is a doggy vacuum cleaner. He eats everything but then he's half chihuahua and came from a hoarding situation where food was scarce.