How to Help Your Dog Keep Out of Trouble at Home

Dogs have a way of winning our hearts with their soulful eyes and fun-loving antics. Sometimes in the course of their activities, though, even the best-behaved dogs can wreak havoc—and as little as Chihuahuas are, they can create surprisingly big masses! Read on for some tips that will help your dog avoid getting itself into trouble. 

​Restrict Explorations When He's Flying Solo

Even the most devoted pet owner must leave Fido home alone at times. When those days come along, it's critical to ensure your home offers a safe environment for your dog. As HomeAdvisor explains, this typically comes in the form of pet-proofing the environment. Taking extra steps like securing trash, picking up dirty laundry, and installing child gates to restrict your dog's access to certain areas is a great way to help him make good choices. Keep in mind Chihuahuas are small, so they can slip into tiny spaces like behind your washer and dryer!

Crate training is a great way to ensure your pooch doesn't get into trouble when left to his own devices. Crates help dogs feel secure thanks to their den-like structure, and dogs can stay out of harm's way when you're at the office or shopping for groceries. On top of that, if you have a repairman or grandchild present, the enclosure can keep your dog from feeling anxious. 

Another option is to hire a pet sitter when you can't be with your canine companion. Before hiring a pet sitter, Nationwide recommends asking for references and finding out if prospective candidates are insured. An easy way to look for sitters is through dog-sitting websites. You can research in-home sitters, kennels, and boarding facilities, all from the comforts of home. 

Doggy Gardening 101

Whether your dog spends a lot of time outside or just goes out for “business,” it's important to provide a safe place for explorations in your yard, just as it is inside the home. Take a look at your garden to see if there are any hazards, like thorny or toxic plants, and install barriers to keep your furry friend in appropriate areas. Cover pools and other bodies of water to prevent drowning, and clean up any loose soil that might tempt your dog to dig. 

Provide Appropriate Activities and Information

Just as we like to be entertained during our downtime, dogs need a positive place to expend energy. Chew toys, interactive games, and puzzles are all great ways to help your dog handle times when he's bored and stuck inside. Toys also provide a distraction when your dog is feeling stressed. It's a simple way to encourage mental stimulation so your dog stays happy and healthy. 

Along those same lines, your dog requires interaction with you on a routine basis. You provide information to your dog all the time, regarding appropriate and inappropriate behavior, and the important thing is to be intentional in your training. Cesar's Way says to teach your dog cues for basic commands, like sit, down, stay, and come. 

Don't forget to teach your dog to let go of items he shouldn't have as well! Those moments he snags a sock off the floor or an unsafe food, you'll have a clear way of communicating to your dog what you need him to do in that moment. 

Prepare for Quick Cleanups

All your planning, preparing, and training will not prevent the occasional mistake. Whether your dog is ill, scared, or just curious, accidents happen. The best thing you can do is to be ready when those accidents occur. Keep a tote handy with your favorite cleaning tools, and make sure you include products that will remove pet stains from carpet and upholstery. 

Chihuahuas have a way of winning our hearts, but left to their own devices, they also have a way of getting into trouble. Give your pooch some restrictions, activities, and training, take proactive measures, and be ready for the occasional mishap. Thanks to your caring and consideration, your little pooch will stay out of big masses!