Things You'll Need:
- Spray bottle filled with water Treats
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Step 1
Establish yourself as the pack leader. As pack animals, dogs respect and respond to hierarchy. In all things, you need to let your dog know that you are in charge. Reprimand in a firm voice when, for instance, your dog pulls on its leash. Chihuahuas are small dogs, so it takes very little effort to show your dog that you are stronger.
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Step 2
When your dog barks inappropriately, quickly issue a firm "quiet," a good command word to stop this behavior. In other training your dog will learn "no" as a word meaning that whatever it is doing is entirely forbidden. Over time your Chihuahua will learn that "quiet" means barking at that moment is not acceptable.
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Step 3
Squirt your dog with jet of water from the spray bottle at the same time you say "quiet." If the dog begins to bark again, repeat the procedure.
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Step 4
Use your hand to clamp the Chihuahua's mouth shut if it does not get deterred by your voice or the water. Still use the word "quiet" as you do this so that the dog will learn the meaning of the word.
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Step 5
When your dog barks at a time that is appropriate, such as a stranger approaching your home, give it a treat. Dogs are very smart and the Chihuahua will quickly learn when it should and shouldn't bark.
