Why Do Chihuahuas Growl & Bite?

While the importance of appropriate puppy training applies to all breeds, its role in raising a Chihuahua is quite different from a larger dog. As the Puppy Place notes, a Chihuahua is a little dog with a big attitude. A Chihuahua is a dichotomy -- wriggly and defiant with a short attention span, but also a fragile and sensitive critter, says the Pet Place. If not carefully guided, this type of cute puppy can easily become a spoiled brat.

Because they are so small -- most Chihuahuas tip the scale well below 6 pounds -- we as humans tend to treat them differently than larger dogs. The Dog Breed Info Center points out that humans tend to tolerate inappropriate behaviors such as jumping, growling, excessive barking, begging and blatant disobedience of known commands in smaller dogs because it is "cute." In reality, it is the dog asserting his dominance and will over that of the human who should be controlling the relationship. It is like the canine version of small man syndrome -- someone feeling like they constantly have to defend their existence by claiming their place in their environs.

Aside from being more tolerant of inappropriate behavior from the dog, human companions often cross the line in their relationship with the dog. Dog Breed Info Center tells us that many small dogs -- Chihuahuas included -- are often treated "like a baby" instead of a dog. Their status as lap dogs often earns them an undeserved level of protection from life's reality. We let them sleep in our beds -- often taking over the spot where our head should be on the pillow. When a smaller dog gets upset, human companions tend to cuddle the dog. For a human, a cuddle is a great comforter. For a dog, a cuddle signals weakness, according to the Dog Breed Info Center. As you -- the human -- are supposed to be the leader, the dog perceiving you as weak only brings on further instability for him.

Growling for a canine is akin to a snake's rattle -- it serves as a warning. In the case of dog, that growling can mean a variety of things, from being threatened by the presence of strangers, being concerned for the safety of his human companion or not feeling well and simply wanting to be left alone. Biting for dogs is a defense mechanism. Chihuahuas resort to biting -- particularly nipping at heels of other animals and humans -- because it is a tender spot they can reach.