Chihuahua Crossing Forum Closed

Well, I think Karen gave some good advice there, not much to add really!  lol  As she said, if Pixie's nails are light in colour it should be fairly easy.  But if you're too worried you might hurt her again it'd be best to get your Vet or someone whose experienced to show you. 

It is actually better to wear their nails down by walking them on a hard surface, like tarmack as this is more natural and helps the quick (that vein in teh middle of teh nail) to recede back into the paw.

Good luck sweetie!  

Oh dear, it sounds like Pixie is becoming a little madam!  You need to nip that in the bud now sweetie before it eskilated.  Well, I would if it was my dog, if you dont want to, just ignore me!  lol  If you let a dog they will become very overly pampered and stubborn; especially little dogs.  Now the nail thing is common and I wouldn't worry so much about that, but the walking I would do something about.  This sort of thing can be a slippery slope and soon, if you're not careful, you can end up with a very difficult dog on your hands. 

I hope you dont mind my saying all that, it's just your last post worried me a bit. 

x 

Wow, that sounds nasty!    I really think you need to get in there quick! 

Have you ever heard of Clicker Training?  It might be what Pixie needs and I think you'll like the technique.  It's positive, gentle training with no hands on force and plenty of praise and rewards.  I have a small booklet on it scanned into my computer that I can email you if you'd like?  It's best to go to a dog class if you can, but this booklet might be able to give you an idea of whether or not you like the sound of it. 

Alternatively you could just put it on and ignore her; tough love is sometimes the way to go.  Although that might be rather horrible for you both! 

Just let me know if you want that booklet! 

x

I can't quote for some reason, but this is about Pixie and a leash. Find the lightest nylon leash you can get in a very plain color. Hook her to it and just let her drag it around. Don't hold it, don't pick her up, don't even make a fuss. She may spaz on you at first, but if she wants tog et where she is going, she will drag the leash along. After a couple days, you should be able to pick UP the leash without her freaking out. Then throw a treat if you are alone, or have someone else call her, and walk with her holding the leash. Still, don't put tension on the leash. She will eventually get used to walking on a leash this way and you can go from there.

I've fostered a LOT of dogs, and some of them that were strays were older dogs that had never even seen a leash. This is how we always do it here, it was recommended to me by a trainer. It has always worked well for us. And if hse is a wild child, PLEASE use a harness not a collar. They have delicate tracheas anyway, and the harness will keep them from choking themselves. Good luck!