Chihuahua
Little, vivacious, and stylish in a sweater Yes, Chihuahuas are the topic of discussion. This well-liked companion dog is energetic, devoted (sometimes fiercely), and incredibly cute. It’s also unlikely that you’ll encounter a Chihuahua that doesn’t know how to play up their cuteness to get what they want, just like other small dogs. With the help of this comprehensive breed profile, you can learn more about Chihuahuas and determine if they’re the ideal breed of dog for you.

Chihuahua Dog Breed Facts & Information
Chihuahuas are known for their petite stature, pointed ears, and large, expressive eyes. The majority of people are acquainted with the short-haired Chihuahua, a dog whose silky coat appears incapable of providing enough warmth for the animal. But there are Chihuahuas with long hair as well. Nevertheless, in cold weather, all Chihuahua dogs require a little extra warmth, which is why adorable sweaters were created.
There are two different sorts of Chihuahua bodies among both long-haired and short-haired breeds: apple head and deer head. The Chihuahua apple head breed is smaller, has a round head, and close-set eyes. With a large pair of eyes and a flat topped skull, the deer head Chihuahua is taller.
Have you heard of a Chihuahua with no hair? Despite having a Chihuahua-like appearance, these canines are a a distinct breed called Xoloitzcuintli.

You may also be familiar with Chihuahua toy and teacup variations. These are smaller versions of the same breed, not officially recognized breeds. Teacup Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs ever, weighing in at less than five pounds. Dealing with so-called teacup breeders is not a good option because these extra-tiny puppies frequently have health issues because of their unusual size.
The color spectrum of Chihuahuas is incredibly diverse, ranging from white to black, brown, chocolate, fawn, red, cream, and mixed. Additionally, they may have a unique coloration termed merle, which is a foundation coloring that has lighter splotches scattered throughout.
Chihuahuas require less upkeep when it comes to grooming. Brushing short hair once a week Chihuahuas (especially the longer-haired breeds) and one bath per month ought to be sufficient. It is recommended to trim nails every few months. To remove discharge from the eyes, use a warm, damp washcloth.
Ideal Environment for a Chihuahua
Despite their tendency to be lap dogs and their love of cuddles, Chihuahuas still require regular exercise. Playtime and daily walks are part of that.
Chihuahuas require a quiet household setting due to their small stature and delicate nature; ideally, little children should not live there since they may cause anxiety in the dog or inadvertently injure it.
Chihuahuas are highly adaptive and make wonderful pets in even small city flats, despite their particular needs. They will be content practically anyplace if you dress them for the upcoming cold weather.
Attributes
Size
Weight
2-6 lbs.
2-6 lbs.
Height
7 in.
(at withers)
9 in.
Coat
Length
short/long
Color
Any color
Care
Exercise
<20 minutes/day
Energy level
Very energetic
Longevity
14-18 yrs.
Needs
High
Ideal Human for a Chihuahua

On many levels, the ideal Chihuahua owner will have an abundance of time for their beloved pet. It will take more time for pet parents to socialize and train their animals. Chihuahuas also dislike being left alone; this, together with a diet low in movement and play, will make any underlying aggression or anxiety worse.
Think about crating your pet if you must leave the house for brief periods of time. To maximize their time for connecting and caring for their pet, the ideal Chihuahua parent works from home or part-time. Nevertheless, getting the assistance of a dependable daycare center or pet sitter can save your life. Because of their diminutive size, Chihuahuas do best in in-home daycare.
Chihuahua Training
Positive reinforcement—rather than scolding—is the greatest method for training a lively, bright dog like a Chihuahua. They also require regular, consistent obedience training. Some people believe that it’s preferable to advise a Chihuahua to perform a task rather than to give it to them outright. Although Chihuahuas appreciate praise and rewards, they only tolerate brief training sessions and will seek diversity. Try training them on an empty stomach to acquire an advantage, and realize that it will take time but will be worthwhile in the end.
Housebreaking a Chihuahua can be famously challenging for the reasons we’ve already discussed. Due to their small size and cunning nature, chihuahuas are likely to relieve themselves in covert locations unless you are extremely watchful.
To stop the carpet from becoming a preferred location for urination,Make frequent excursions outside to relieve the dog, and use a crate or gates to keep them out of the forbidden places. Make sure to give them lots of praise and gifts when they behave as you like!
Chihuahua Grooming

The grooming requirements for your chihuahua will change based on how long or short their hair is. Generally speaking, chihuahuas only need the odd bath to stay clean. When it comes to brushing, short-haired chihuahuas just require infrequent brushing to maintain the health of their coat. Brushing your long-haired chihuahua at least once a week will help prevent tangles, and before taking a bath, make sure all of the fur is detangled. Regular nail cutting and tooth brushing are necessary for both varieties of Chihuahuas. The AKC also advises routinely inspecting and cleaning the ears of chihuahuas.
Chihuahua Health
Chihuahuas are more likely than other little canines to experience certain health issues because of their small stature. Compared to other dogs, chihuahuas will require more dental care. The correct dog food, dental chews, and daily brushing will all be beneficial. Additionally, tracheal collapse is more common in Chihuahuas. Invest in a high-quality harness that will fit your Chihuahua securely and relieve pressure on its neck.
Additionally, luxating patella (a condition in which the kneecap tends to slip out of its natural place), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), eye infections, and (less frequently) hydrocephalus and heart issues are among the health conditions that Chihuahuas are vulnerable to. Just in case, a lot of pet owners choose to purchase pet health insurance.
- Whipping
- Practicing intolerance
- Deficiency
- Collide
- elevated effort and rate of breathing
- breathing difficulties
- Red eyes.
- swollen eyes
- ocular discharge
- rubbing painstakingly at the eyes
- Lack of vision
Chihuahua History

The Chihuahua dog breed, named for the Mexican state of Chihuahua, originated in Mexico. The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted official recognition to the first Chihuahuas in the US in 1904, but the breed has a long history. This dog is believed to be descended from the Techichi, a companion dog from the 9th century Toltec culture; nevertheless, dog toys dating back to 100 AD have been discovered that include dogs that resemble Chihuahuas.
Getting a Chihuahua

It’s easy to get a Chihuahua, but you need plan beforehand. A Chihuahua puppy is a wonderful addition to any household, but it takes a lot of effort to teach basic obedience, socialize the puppy with other people and dogs, and teach vital life skills like sleeping through the night and using the outside restroom.
It can be simple to find an adult or puppy Chihuahua online, but be wary of online frauds and puppy factories. Finding a trustworthy breeder can be accomplished in a number of ways; it’s wise to inquire about, pay a visit before making a commitment, and follow your instincts.
Cost of a Chihuahua
When getting ready to add a chihuahua to their household, pet parents should be informed of all the associated costs. As to the findings of Rover’s Cost of Pet Parenthood Survey, approximately thirty-three percent of pet parents who own Chihuahuas said they had budgeted between $250 and $500 for their dog’s first expenses. However, 40% of respondents claimed the real expenses were more and 42% claimed the real upfront costs matched their budget. In general, 82% of pet owners spend less than $100 on their Chihuahua each month.
Chihuahua Rescues

Adopting a rescue dog is another way to find a Chihuahua; 61% of owners obtained their dog through this method. In contrast to puppies, rescue animals typically arrive fully immunized, spayed, and neutered. Since individual owners relinquish their pets frequently, Chihuahua rescues are generally well-socialized and knowledgeable of basic instructions. If not, it still leaves room for you to collaborate with them. For further information on how to assist a traumatized dog feel safe and welcome, or on how to train a dog that hasn’t had any structure, get in touch with a reputable dog trainer.
Chihuahua Breeders

Find a trustworthy Chihuahua breeder in your area by using the AKC search engine. Breeders must adhere to strict guidelines. Make careful to inquire about any health concerns in the dog’s family history and talk about any potential genetic testing you may wish to undertake when you visit.
FAQs
Are chihuahua dogs friendly?
Chihuahuas, the tiniest canines in the world, are wonderful companions. If you begin training them early on, they will form a close bond with their owners and be intelligent and easy to train. They like to be the center of their owner’s attention, thus they might be prickly with strangers.
Is a chihuahua a good dog to get?
Chihuahuas are brave, little dogs that make great city companions. Although Chihuahuas are too small to play rough with children and require extra care in the winter, they may adapt as long as they spend a lot of time in their favorite lap.
Are Chihuahuas cute dogs?
There are numerous reasons why they are regarded as one of the most well-liked dog breeds! Chihuahuas are expressive and majestic dogs that aspire to be the focus of attention at all times with their lively little walks and elegant demeanor. When those stunning, sparkling eyes are fixed on you—ay, caramba!