If you have a Chihuahua, then you know that they are the neediest dogs in the world. They will follow their owners around all day long and not leave them alone for one second of the day. Even if other people are in the room with them or toys scattered around to play with. It can be very frustrating because it seems like they don’t get any enjoyment out of playing with themselves! But Why are Chihuahuas so needy?
Chihuahuas are so needy for many different reasons. One is that they have empathetic hearing, their owner’s voice becomes a focal point, and if their owner leaves or starts talking to other people, it feels like abandonment to the Chihuahua. Being so needed could also mean that they are dealing with separation anxiety which you can solve by training your Chihuahua how to spend time alone at home instead of submissively following you around all day long.
In this post, we’re going to talk about why Chihuahuas act so needy and what you can do about it.
Are Chihuahuas Needy?
Chihuahuas are a popular breed of dog and for a good reason. They’re cute and fun to be around, but if you have them as pets, do not think they will leave you alone when it comes time to take care of yourself.
Chihuahuas may be tiny in size but can develop some tremendous personality traits, and depending on the dog, some can be very needy.
There are several reasons why Chihuahuas may act needy around their owner or others they’re close to. One reason is that they have a lot of health issues as a breed.
Many Chihuahuas suffer from everything from collapsed tracheas to heart problems. So, they may cling to their owner as a way of seeking comfort. Chihuahuas are aggressive, so make sure to fulfill their need.
Another reason is that Chihuahuas are bred from hunting dogs and have an instinctive need to be close to their pack or family. Unfortunately, this can also make them needy around their owners.
Why Are Chihuahuas So Needy?
First thing first, Chihuahuas won’t act needy unless something goes wrong. Hence, do not go around calling them needy when all they are doing is asking for a slight hint of love. Chihuahuas will attack you if you don’t understand their need or help them.
Health Issues
Sometimes, Chihuahuas become clingy because their health is not up to the mark. Of course, when they are sick, it’s only natural for them to seek more attention and love from their owners.
But on the other hand, they might be suffering from an illness like diabetes or epilepsy that causes daily discomfort and a lack of energy, making it challenging to be active and playful.
Instinctive Behavior
Chihuahuas have a powerful instinct to protect their owners from any threat, real or perceived. That’s why they get so clingy when you are going out. They might think something terrible will happen if you leave the house without taking them along with you.
History Of Abuse
Some Chihuahuas were badly treated in the past, which has impacted their personality, making them shy away from strangers or people they don’t know very well.
They become clingy because it helps them feel safe and secure with you, which they want most of all. It could also be the result of a bad experience.
Lack Of Exercise
If you are not giving your Chihuahuas enough exercise, that is one reason they will act needy all day long. When these dogs do not expend their energy in any way possible, it builds up and makes them anxious, leading them to cling to their owners.
For Attention
Just like humans, Chihuahuas also need attention and love from time to time. If you are not giving them the required amount of affection, they will start looking for it somewhere else by acting clingy or needy, which can sometimes be annoying. Therefore, it would help to give your dogs some individualized attention for at least 15 minutes every day.
Separation Anxiety
Another reason why Chihuahuas can be needy is because of separation anxiety. When their owners leave them alone, they start feeling anxious and scared, making them cling to anyone around them, hoping they will feel better.
Insufficient Diet
If your Chihuahuas are not getting the right kind of food, then they might start becoming clingy as a way to get your attention.
Dogs need balanced and nutritious diets to stay healthy and active. When they are not getting what they need, they will resort to different measures like excessive barking or clinging to their owners for help.
Negative Reinforcement
Sometimes, Chihuahuas become clingy because they know that it will get them what they want the most attention. If you are constantly giving in to their demands and petting them or feeding them every time they act needy, you are only reinforcing this behavior, which is unsuitable for either of you.
Are Chihuahuas Clingy?
Now that you know some of why Chihuahuas can be clingy, it’s time to find out if this is expected behavior. Unfortunately, there isn’t anyone who answers that question because every dog is different and will exhibit different levels of clinginess.
What To Do For Chihuahuas To Make Them Less Needy?
If you have trouble dealing with a clingy Chihuahua, then here are some tips that might help.
- Please don’t give in to their demands and only pet them or feed them when they are good.
- Try to give them as much individualized attention as possible.
- Take them out for regular walks or runs so that they can let off some steam and expend their energy.
- Ensure that your dogs are getting the right kinds of food. It’s essential to keep a watch on their diet.
- Spend time with them every day and make sure that they know that you love them.
- If all else fails, then consider getting them some professional help.
Conclusion
Although Chihuahuas can be needy at times, it’s important to remember that they are just trying to communicate their needs with us in the best way possible. If you are patient and understanding, your Chihuahuas will likely start to act less needy over time. If your Chihuahuas exhibit signs of separation anxiety or inadequate diet, then promptly address those issues. In addition, make sure that you are providing enough exercise and attention for your Chihuahuas. By doing so, you will help them to feel more secure and happy.
Suppose your Chihuahuas are still exhibiting signs of neediness after you have provided them with enough time, exercise, attention, proper diet/feeding schedule, a secure environment to live in (not too crowded), etc. In that case, you should consider taking them to a vet for evaluation.
