How can I toilet train my chihuahua? Will my rescue dog stop being scared of walks?
OUR vet David Grant works his animal magic.
Q I AM struggling to house-train my rescue 15-month-old chihuahua cross. He is also petrified of going for a walk. Can you help?
A THESE are well-known behavioural problems which are likely to be related. Concentrate on the refusal to go for a walk first because if you get that under control the toilet training should be easier.
Also, I strongly suggest the help of a qualified animal behaviourist, as recommended by your vet.
It is money well spent as they will get to the bottom of your dog’s problem. In the meantime be patient, rewarding good behaviour and never scolding or punishing the behaviour you are trying to alter.
Before he came to you, your dog probably spent most of his life indoors so it is not surprising that he is scared of going outside.
Shocking moment dogs are rescued from sweltering car
Do not pick him up and take him out, instead walk him inside the house with the lead and give him treats when he walks with you.
Very gradually you can introduce him to just outside the door, then a bit of the garden and further afield.
Always reward him with his favourite treats so he associates the walk with pleasure.
Similar principles apply to toilet training. Gradually extend the time outside until he gets the message and reward him when he does without making a fuss if any unwanted behaviour continues.
The situation should improve over time.
● David Grant MBE was a vet at the RSPCA Harmsworth Hospital for Animals. Write to him at Express Yourself, 10 Lower Thames Street, London EC3R 6EN. Unfortunately he is unable to enter into individual correspondence.