A lot of you know I lost my chihuahua suddenly several months back. Now a friend of mine has a 4 year old chihuahua that she wants to give me. I've been dog sitting some weekends for the past couple of months. My questions is, can you still train a dog that is 4 years old? She has some actions that we do not like and would drive us crazy. Such as whining and begging for food whenever she sees anyone eating. Also whenever I leave her to go outside (even with my DH in the house with her) she will howl and whine. Do you think we could break her of this? Thanks!
Yes............it's more about training US than it is the dog. Granted, my dog was a wee pup when we got her, but I've seen him work miracles on older dogs on the show. I've done so much better with this one than my last dog, she is truly a pleasure to be around most of the time. But the things you are talking about with this dog shouldn't be a big deal. You will have to set your expectations from the beginning about the begging, etc. The separation anxiety will probably be harder to cure, but can be done. My dog doesn't bark or whine when she sees us outside the window or when we are working in the garage. She just sits and watches until we get done. She knows we are coming back, so it's no biggie. She did bark once over the weekend while we were going in and out, but that was it.
PM Zookeeper!! She specializes in dog obedience training and problem behavior correction -she really knows her stuff!! She comes to your home and works with you and your dog on the particular issues that need help.
Make sure you are ready for another one, i still have a hard time letting myself get as close to our pets as i was to Mayan.
Oh I'll be sure Kaci. I really didn't think I would be ready but after having her on the weekends, I miss her during the week. I actually cried last Sunday when I took her back home. I have a doggie car seat that Sissy HATED. Well Angel rides right in there like she's a queen. LOL She's a sweet little doggie and I really miss having one around to love on. Time will tell if all the pieces fall into place or not.
Thanks Jean. If I do end up getting the dog I will probably have to PM her. I've ordered the book kdc was telling me about...hopefully that will give me a good start if things work out where I can get her for sure.
Bren, consistency, consistency, consistency. You knew that already tho. you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. I'm happy for you if it's what you want. btw, is that the *person* you referred me to on FB??? :lol:
