Chihuahuas are renowned for their stubborn mentality. Although once they get comfortable with the owner, they are courteous and tender dogs. This dog breed is not the most pleasant one when it comes to getting along with other dogs. This inherent nature can be modeled with proper socialization from the puppy phase and systematic training.
If you are a Chihuahua owner and thinking about bringing home another canine companion, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will compare your dog’s chemistry with some popular dog breeds. This section will follow some tested training techniques to help the dog gel better with other dogs.
Sounds interesting? Then let’s move ahead without any further waiting.
CHIHUAHUAS AND SMALL DOG BREEDS
Being a miniature breed themselves, Chihuahuas generally don’t face many problems mingling with other toy breeds. This section will analyze how well they bond with some of the small dogs.
Chihuahua vs. Chihuahua
We will start with one of the most straightforward partners. The new Chihuahua has no issues befriending dogs of their breed. Two chihuahuas get along well in no time, and there is a sense of familial bond or treatment associated with a family member on display.
As a dog owner, you are in for a fun show leaving your Chihuahua with another Chihuahua alone in a room. You will probably see each of them jumping in excitement, inviting the other dog to play; it will be a jolly ride and a fantastic sight. In short, they are best friends and keep each other company.
Chihuahua vs. Pitbull
Unlike the previous combo, these two dog breeds are not suited for each other. The Pitbull’s muscular physique and serious demeanor can intimidate the tinier Chihuahua. They will snap, and due to the apparent difference in physical strength, this situation could lead to Chihuahuas getting injured.
The bottom line is, do not bring a Pitbull home if you already own a Chi.
Chihuahua vs. Yorkie
The similarity in physical traits makes these two breeds a viable option for companionship. Both of them can share a loving and fun relationship with some minor training activities.
Adult supervision is advisable in the initial introductory stage. But in a couple of weeks, they should be good at sharing a common space at home or a dog park.
Chihuahua vs. Shih Tzu
This and their high-pitched voice can be annoying to the Shih Tzu. These breeds are not generally the best of friends, and we recommend you think twice before bringing them under the same roof.
We have witnessed rare cases of an amicable bond formation between them at our dog training center. Human supervision is crucial to prevent unwanted duels and injuries.
Chihuahua vs. Pomeranian
The average Chi and Pomeranian have a natural sense of attitude and pride. When these two breeds are brought together, a clash of personalities will likely occur.
Without human supervision or being unleashed, the air seems tense, and things end in confrontation rather than bonding.
Chihuahua vs. French Bulldog
Their inclination towards playing games and energetic nature help them be decent playmates. This combination is worth trying, provided you have the time and interest to engage the dogs in regular gaming sessions at home or outside.
So far, we have seen the Chihuahua’s chemistry with similar-sized pooches. What if the other dog is a large-sized breed? Let’s check that out in the upcoming section.
CHIHUAHUAS AND LARGE DOG BREEDS
Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas have a superiority complex and tend to be bossy. Being around a giant dog is not a comfortable experience for them. There are certain exceptions, though. Things can get cozier if the big dog is submissive and lets the Chihuahua be the Alpha dog.
Before adopting a large-sized canine breed, we recommend you perform a basic background check.
Check their history with dogs and other animals. Do not go ahead with dog ownership if they are aggressive and tend to be violent towards other smaller animals.
Once the background check is satisfactory, the following approach would be to perform a supervised introduction in a neutral area. They can get uneasy at home territory due to their bossiness. Observe for any signs of discomfort or anger/fear in either party.
Consider owning the second only if these prerequisites are adequately met.
Chihuahua vs. Labrador
This combination is mostly a neutral one. Do not expect them to be BFFs, but the air will be calm enough in each other’s presence. Both these breeds will end up minding their own business without causing a hindrance or grabbing the unwanted attention of the other.
Chihuahua vs. German Shepherd
We advise a strict “NO” for this pair. Most Chihuahuas do not get along with German Shepherds, and the latter’s stature, energy level, and intellect will drive the smaller breed to crazy levels of irritation and intimidation.
Chihuahua vs. Golden Retriever
The Goldens are generally easy-going, with a calm attitude in some of them. The bonding of this pair is downright average. Their chemistry won’t be magical, but they’re independent enough not to cause chaos.
You never know how your untrained Chi would react to another dog. Therefore, as a responsible pet parent, ensure you engage your dog in professional training routines to chisel away their personality traits’ rough edges.
We will address this aspect in the following section.
METHODS TO MAKE YOUR CHIHUAHUA GET ALONG WITH OTHER DOGS
Obedience Training From A Young Age
We had mentioned this point in the introductory part of this article too. Behavioral modeling via obedience training is a game-changer for a Chihuahua dog to befriend other animals.
Seeking the guidance of a professional dog trainer can help improve the quality of results. When trained from a young age, Chis is well-behaved when interacting with other dogs.
If you notice the pup growling and snarling at other animals, do not let it slide. Some owners think it’s cute when a toy breed displays aggression, which is not the right mindset needed. Train them to calm down with proper reinforcements like tasty treats.
Physical and Cognitive Stimulation
Do not restrict your Chihuahua to a mere showpiece. Ensure they get adequate physical activity through a short duration of outdoor games and walks. Being a small breed, get prior approval from your veterinarian regarding the extent of exercise for the dog. The last thing you need is to grill and exhaust them by overdoing the workout.
Take time out to play dog puzzles with your Chi. This activity will help them remain mentally active and stimulated. Being bored and lonely makes their behavior unpredictable, and they tend to snap at other dogs/animals.
Research on the New Dog
Ensure the doggy companion you are about to bring home is suited for bonding with Chihuahuas. We recommend you perform sufficient research and assess the pros and cons of the dog’s genetic traits and the history of violent behavior before adopting.
