Did you know that the Chihuahua is one of the oldest dog breeds in the Americas and its ancestors were companions to ancient civilizations? It might seem hard to believe given their small size, but Chihuahuas were believed to guide the souls of the deceased on their journey into the afterlife. Fast forward to the present time, and these little dogs have made the journey from spiritual guides to celebrity handbag accessories. But, are Chihuahuas calm dogs? Let’s unravel this mystery!
First off, it’s important to remember that every dog is individual and presents a unique set of characters, just like humans! Hence, you might find Chihuahuas that are calm and collected and then some that are the ultimate livewires. However, whether you’ve got a calm Chihuahua or a bouncy one, there are a few characteristics that are hardwired into this breed’s DNA that you need to know about.
Typically, Chihuahuas are very alert and attentive. They’re always ready to defend their territory – even though that territory might only be the space of your lap! Due to their strong protective instinct, they often exhibit nervous or agitated behavior when they perceive a threat. This makes them great sentinels, alerting you to the presence of postmen, squirrels, or even a leaf blowing in the wind near your house.
However, their protective nature can also make them a tad overzealous. Sometimes, a Chihuahua might consider even a hug between two family members as a potential threat, causing the small hounds to spring into action. This can often be mistaken for a hyperactive streak, but in reality, they’re simply performing what they see as their duty.
It’s also worth noting that Chihuahuas are known for their boundless energy. They love to play and get quite excited when it’s their turn for a walk or playtime. Being so small, they expend their energy in quick bursts that can be exhausting to watch, often leaving their humans wondering, ‘How does such a tiny creature have the energy of a marathon runner?’
Most Chihuahuas, especially those who are well-socialized from a young age, can also be very affectionate, loving nothing more than spending quality time with their human companions. This might come as a surprise to those who solely equate a calm temperament with physical stillness. A Chihuahua’s version of calm might involve happily lounging on the sofa, observing your every move with bright, intelligent eyes.
So, while it might be a stretch to describe a Chihuahua as a calm dog outright, it’s easy to see why their energy and alertness coupled with their small size and intense loyalty make them such beloved pets.
If you’re considering adopting a Chihuahua and hoping for a docile companion, there are a few factors that can influence your future pet’s temperament. Good breeding, early and continued socialization, positive reinforcement training, and providing a consistent and comfortable environment can all enhance your Chihuahua’s temperament, inspiring calmness and reducing anxiety or overexcitement.
Remember, it’s not about changing your Chihuahua’s personality, but understanding and nurturing it. In fact, their spirited character is part of what makes Chihuahuas unique. With love, patience, and a bit of training, these tiny dogs can bring a dose of sunshine (and excitement) into anyone’s life.
In conclusion, while Chihuahuas are not typically categorized as “calm” dogs in the traditional sense, they are indeed capable of periods of mellow relaxation. They might not always display peace and tranquility like a Zen monk, but they also won’t be bouncing off the walls 24/7. At the end of the day, a well-cared-for and loved Chihuahua will no doubt be your favorite TV binge-watching buddy, enthusiastically playing along or contentedly curled up in your lap.
In fact, it might be far more accurate to describe Chihuahuas as impassioned, spirited, and full of heart – a whole lot of personality packed into a small, but spunky, package!
