Hey guys, I was just wondering if anyone has any suggestions as to how to get chihuahuas to be more comfortable with new people, or more specifically, how to teach them to be nice to children.
I know this sounds strange, but I want to try to get my chi more used to and accepting to children. I do not have any children right now, but some years down the line I would like some. I want to be sure that when I do have children, that my chihuahua will be accepting of them. I cant be one of those people who gets rid of their pets for their kids! I would die if I had to get rid of her!
Anyone have a suggestions as to what I can do now to make her more comfortable when kids are around? Just the other day I was babysitting for the first time in my apartment with her there, and I swear the sweet dog that she normally is was replaced by a meanie! I am afraid she would have bitten the child if I wasnt being careful.
I know kids are loud, but this made me very uncomfortable. I hope someone can offer some suggestions. She is normally a very easy going chi, and loves attention from people once she gets to know them.
I don't have any children myself.. so I don't have much to offer you in the way of advice. However, I do believe that you will get some helpful feedback from other forum members. I just had to say how cute that pic is!!! Too funny!
socialize with children from the get go.... My chi does wonderful with my kids and just about anyone who she meets... but we have done this from day one. I guess my point is.... If you teach them from the start kids are okay you have a better chance of having a children loving chi....
I also have kids and my chi is so great with them. It may be more difficult to train them because she didn't grow up with them but i am sure if you give it time she will learn that kids are ok. Good luck.
Yeah, I did the same as Brenda, but I dont have children yet. Socialisation is the key. How old is your Chi? Do you know any children who could come and have some supervised play time with you?
She is about 11 months old. I am hoping its not too late! I babysit sometimes, and she never had a problem until recently when they were in my apartment with us. I usually go to their houses, so it was really an issue of them being in her territory. I guess I will just keep trying until she learns to deal with it! Thanks!
thats not too late..... just have the children be patient and calm til she gets use to them... perhaps let them give her a treat so she learns that they are good
Brenda gave you a good idea with the children being gentle and calm, make sure you're there to supervise to begin with. Give the children your Chi's favourite treat so they can dispense them throughout play time. Do this as much and as frequently as possible and your Chi should get used to children in no time!
Dogs are unconditional LOVE!
