Ask Linda

A. First, he probably has never had the training he needed, but you can correct that as he learns trust from you and feels secure in his new home and family. Patience is the most important tool you have to work with him; next is consistency. He probably has to learn a new name as well. Sometimes if they do not respond to their given/new name, try changing it to one he likes better and respond to, then stick to it. Call him by it often until he is used to hearing it. However, repeatedly changing his name will not help. Please, do not yell at him or call him in a harsh tone if you want him to come to you. Second, start by standing only a few steps away from him with a treat, then call him. Start off with small steps in training and stick with it. Third, having him on a leash will help in your commands; just don’t yank the leash when calling him; a light tug is best if needed. Then, when he responds to your command, reward him with a very “special treat” he really likes (just one or two pieces) or praise him with lots of positive attention. Remember only one training command until he has that down perfectly before starting a new one.

A. I’m writing to thank you on behalf of my son, Chris. About eight months ago, my family rescued an adult chihuahua mix. We fell in love right away, but Odin has a lot of anxiety. Even after obedience classes, Odin was still wreaking havoc in our home. It was extremely stressful, and I wasn’t sure if we’d be able to keep him, but my son was determined. Chris came across your web page, www.chihuahuasweelove.com/home, and we can’t express how grateful we are for all the information and resources you’ve provided.

He’s actually managed to get Odin under control, thanks in part to the tips and resources from your site. Turns out, what Odin needed was several weeks of constant supervision and training, not weekly group classes. We also got a lot of use from this helpful online guide on pet-proofing your home, and I desperately wish I’d read something like this sooner.

This experience has also inspired Chris to become a veterinarian someday, and I think your validation would encourage him to continue working toward that goal!

Thank you again,