Kiwi, A Happy Tail!

Let me tell you about Kiwi, the 9 year old Chihuahua who recently became a Happy Dog in my Happy Home, joining Abraham, a 60 lb Aussie and Oden, a 30 lb Portuguese Podengo. She was being given away for free on a highway exit and I felt compelled to take her for her wellbeing.

I’ve heard negative stories over the years about this breed, so I was not planning on keeping her. I was going to take her to a rescue to find a home. After she was in my home for a couple of days, it was clear that these stories were just myths, and I happily changed my mind. My experience with Kiwi emphatically debunks these myths.

MYTH: Small dogs can not be house trained. FALSE

Was Kiwi house trained at first? No, but with a little patience and education, Kiwi now lets me know when she needs to go outside.

MYTH: Chihuahuas are big yappers. FALSE

Well, Kiwi does bark, but with instruction – and a few treats – she has learned to curb her barking to appropriate times. Keep in mind that all dogs can bark, the key is to train them not to.

MYTH: Chihuahuas are not good with people. FALSE

From the moment Kiwi entered my home, she has been quite the social butterfly. She wants to have attention from anyone and everyone that comes in, even if she has never met them!

MYTH: Chihuahuas are not good with other animals. FALSE

I have 2 other dogs at home, one of which should be pretty scary to an 8 lb. dog. Kiwi does not hesitate to lay right next to them, play with them, or even climb upon them. They have come to be a very close-knit pack and Kiwi has put herself right in the middle.

MYTH: Chihuahuas are only pocket dogs. FALSE

Kiwi is one of the most energetic dogs I have ever owned. She loves to run, she play bows with the other dogs so fast it’s hard for them to keep up, and she is so rambunctious. It’s funny to watch her zip around the house at warp speed!

Bottom line, there are many myths surrounding breed specific behaviors in dogs. Don’t be fooled by these myths. Talk with trainers, dog experts, read some of the many sources available on-line before you decide which dog to choose. With appropriate training you will bring out the best in your dog as I have learned with Kiwi.

Kiwi is definitely a Happy Dog in a Happy Home.

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– Tomi