Small Dog, Big Heart

I have never really been a fan of the little dog. Ankle biters, feeder dogs, psychotic rats are all descriptions I have used to describe small dogs. For me it has always been “real” dogs. I have owned Australian Shepherds, Doberman’s, German Shepherds, St. Bernard mix, Catahoula Leopard Dog and a Lab mix. My view of the little breeds changed when Quihi a Chihuahua came into my life and changed my opinion of the little dog forever.

I decided to get a small dog to help me in my career as a dog trainer. There are techniques that work great for large dogs but I knew I was missing techniques for the little dogs. I will be the first to say that this is completely the wrong reason to get another dog. I went down a long list of small dogs and chose the Chihuahua. I had heard they are hard to potty train, that they won’t heal, they are picky eaters, and have an attitude. At last, the perfect small dog for the experimenting dog trainer.

When I went and picked up my new little puppy, I didn’t know that I was in a whirl wind of events that would change my view of these little guys forever. First off, she was very sick with Coccidiosis. She also had some kind of stomach issue that would cause her to regurgitate clear liquid for hours. We spent the first four months of her life trying to figure out what was going on with her medically. She battled her illnesses and still gets exited when I tell her we are going to the vet.

I was worried about her at first with my big dogs. Little did I know that she would be such a part of their lives as well. Hondo protects her, as if she was a precious gem he is put in charge of. She sleeps curled up next to him.

She is the watchdogs, watchdog. All the large dogs in the house will be sleeping when Quihi sends out the alert. The large dogs will then lift their heads, listen, smell the air and decide if there is a reason to get up. She goes to pit bull meet ups and holds her head high as she trots with the big dogs. She will try any task I give her, if she likes it and believes it was her idea she will do it several times. If not…well just forget it, with time maybe but don’t hold your breath. I am amazed at how well she has trained us. A scratch on the arm means lift the covers I’m coming under. Sitting at the door making, a little chirping noise while you are getting ready to leave means I’m going with you.

I have seen her tell the big dog to back off and even saw her defend herself when a Patterdale Terrier mowed her down like a rabbit. She popped up and fought her ground. She also is the most loving dog I have ever seen. She is asleep in my lap as I type. She has never bitten, growled or even shown anything other than affection to anyone. When she doesn’t want you to touch her you can’t she simply walks away with this look like not now please.

Therefore, my view of the little dog has changed dramatically. They are smart, loving, fun little dogs with the heart of a large dog. They truly know the meaning of love and do so with all their might.