Chihuahua Hour

Why do some Chihuahuas seem to snap at people?

This is a subject that shouldn't be taken too lightly of course, since you don't want anyone to be injured in this way.  Fortunately, not only do such incidents rarely occur but they are also rarely a character trait of the Chi.  At this point you may be wondering where I get my facts from - well let me correct that statement - there is no reason for it to become one.

If a snapping incident does occur, it's likely that at least some blame is to be shared with the owner.  Oh really, you say!  OK, I know it sounds like Chi's can't put a paw wrong but just bare with me for a moment.

Owners can forget that Chi's prefer a tranquil, protected and calm environment, and if their Chi is suddenly presented with a stranger thrusting a limb towards them (possibly while being held), they are inclined to be on the defensive.  This is not always the case as you may have observed, and is likely to be different if she has had the time to evaluate the situation.

Some of the snapping circumstances then are as follows.

• When your Chi was expecting an opportunity to sleep, but her routine has been interrupted and she then is feeling excessively irritable (she can cope with most routine disruptions though)
• When she feels in danger (as discussed above)
• When she feels her owner is being threatened (she will often look upwards to her owner for approval of her gallantry at these times)
• When there is a threat of dispossessing her of her food or treat
• When there is excessive noise and / or worrying activity around her

Socialising your Chi may help to overcome some of the "snappy" situations - see our article on "Will a small dog require less exercise?".  It should be emphasised that Chi's are very pleasant natured dogs despite the list above, and do not wish to harm anyone under normal circumstances.  If you're that small you have to try to look scary - right?

This page was last modified on Thursday, May 20, 2010

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