Have you ever said to yourself, “why in the world does my Chihuahua do that?” Any Chi parent will tell you that these little dogs come with some unique behavior quirks that make them both endearing and, at times, a little challenging. While every Chihuahua is different, many owners notice some common patterns in their pups.
Let’s take a look at five of the most common Chihuahua quirks—and what you can do about them.
1. The “Big Dog” Attitude
Chihuahuas are famous for having what’s often called a “Napoleon Complex.” They don’t seem to realize they weigh under 10 pounds, and will often bark, posture, or even challenge dogs 10 times their size.
Personally, I don’t like this “label” for Chihuahuas, because in actuality, they DO know their size and all that barking, posturing, and challenging is fear, not “big dog attitude”. It is their way of “scaring” off what they perceive as a threat.
WHY IT HAPPENS:
It also comes from a combination of bold temperament, loyalty, and sometimes a lack of early socialization, as well as fear.
WHAT TO DO:
Positive socialization from puppyhood and calm, consistent training can help your Chi learn that they don’t need to pick fights to feel safe. Confidence-building exercises are also great for keeping this quirk in check.
2. Velcro-Dog Syndrome
Many Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their chosen human. They’ll follow you from room to room, jump in your lap at every opportunity, and may even panic when you leave.
WHY IT HAPPENS:
This breed bonds deeply with their people, and their small size makes them feel safer sticking close by. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to separation anxiety.
CALM & CONFIDENT: OVERCOMING SEPARATION ANXIETY IN CHIHUAHUAS
WHAT TO DO:
Teach your Chihuahua independence with short training sessions where they learn to be alone for a few minutes at a time. Interactive toys, snuffle mats, and calm departures/arrivals can also ease the stress.
3. Blanket Burrowing
If you’ve ever wondered where your Chihuahua went, check under the blankets! Most Chihuahuas absolutely love to burrow into covers, laundry piles, or even your sweater.
WHY IT HAPPENS:
This instinct comes from their desert-dwelling ancestors, who sought warmth and security in small, enclosed spaces.
WHAT TO DO:
Embrace it! Provide cozy dog blankets, heated beds, or a little cave-style bed so your Chi can burrow safely without accidentally getting stuck somewhere they shouldn’t.
4. Selective Hearing
Chihuahuas are smart, but they can also be stubborn. Many owners notice that their Chi seems to have “selective hearing”— obeying commands when it suits them, and suddenly ignoring you when they’d rather do something else. It’s kind of like having a human teenager. 🤣
WHY IT HAPPENS:
This quirk often stems from their independent streak and high intelligence. They like to think for themselves!
WHAT TO DO:
Use positive reinforcement and keep training sessions short and fun. Consistency is key—if you let them “get away with it” once, they’ll quickly learn that listening is optional.
5. Quirky Vocal Habits
From yapping at the mailman to whining for attention, Chihuahuas are a vocal breed. Some develop unique little sounds—like “grumbles,” chirps, or even dramatic sighs—that make their personalities shine.
WHY IT HAPPENS:
Barking and vocalizing are part of their alert nature and their way of communicating with you.
WHAT TO DO:
While you can’t (and shouldn’t) eliminate barking completely, you can teach a “quiet” command, reward calm behavior, and make sure your Chi gets enough exercise and mental stimulation to reduce excess noise.
Final Thoughts
Chihuahuas may be quirky, but that’s exactly what makes them such lovable companions. Their big personalities wrapped in tiny packages bring joy, laughter, and sometimes a little chaos into our lives. With patience, training, and a sense of humor, these quirks can turn into some of the most memorable and heartwarming traits of your furry best friend.
2 thoughts on “5 Common Behavior “Quirks” and What To Do About Them.”
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I love my little Chi/Terrier mix Coconut. Loves playing with her large breed cousin dogs. I’m her person but she also likes all her human pack. She was a rescue. Bringing her home was one of the best decisions of my life. I appreciate her barking. It’s part of her job to alert me to what’s in the neighborhood. I’ve had dogs all my life and Coco is the best.