Chihuahua Question
 

Hello,
I have a 6 month old female Chihuahua that I got about a month and 1/2 ago. She is a little angel! The only problem that I am having with her is she is very "mean" to my 10 yr old cat.
If my cat jumps up on the bed or couch when she is sitting there with me she growls and viciously barks at my cat until he runs away. I tell her NO! and have tried putting her in the bathroom on a "time-out" to show her that is wrong. Is there anything else I can do? I feel so bad for my cat!
Angelina

Spunky little devil, isn't she?:p

For now, I would gate off the bedroom so that cat has a place of security where he knows he can get away from the dog.

Put your dog on a leash, and get a few treats she really loves.

As soon as she goes towards the cat, or shows aggression to him, give her a little leash correction and say "NO CAT!" The second she stops barking and turns to look at you, praise her and give her the treat.

You want to teach her that it's much more profitable to leave the cat alone.
Barking at the cat = correction
Ignoring the cat = praise and treats

Since dogs only do what works for them, she should catch on!

I totally agree with luckrecue's approach to desensitising the dog to the cat. I also just wanted to point out for you that there is no point in putting the dog on a time out as you mentioned as the dog has no clue why she is being isolated therefore this approach wont solve anything. Often this type of isolation can lead to further behavioural problems. Good luck.

Thank you
 

I just wanted to say thank you Lucky Rescue and CanadianK9info.
I will try what you suggested. I will post after a bit and let you know how it's coming along.
Thanks again,
Angie
:)