The Chihuahua, the world’s smallest dog breed, gets its name from the Mexican state of Chihuahua. These tiny pups have a long history in Mexico, with evidence of their existence dating back to 100 AD. They can come in two different head shapes, either “apple heads” or “deer heads,” and can have long or short hair. Currently, Chihuahuas with apple heads are becoming more popular. They come in various colors and patterns, but their appearance doesn’t define the breed.
Chihuahuas are known for their friendly nature and their desire to be a loyal companion. However, without proper training, they may take it upon themselves to act as guard dogs or protectors. They are not recommended for households with young children due to their spunky and protective nature, as they can easily snap. Chihuahuas tend to form a strong bond with one specific person in the family and prefer to live with other Chihuahuas rather than other dog breeds.
Below, we look at Chihuahua dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Chihuahua, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Chihuahuas!
| Dog Breed | Chihuahua |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 3-6 lbs (average) |
| Height | 6-9″ (average) |
| Location | Mexico |
| Ancestry | Techichi Dog |
| Date of Origin | 100 AD |
| Group | Ceremonial, Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 14-18 years |
| Price | $600 – $800 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
This small canine is called the Chihuahua and it originates from the Chihuahua state in Mexico. Both folklore and archaeological evidence have shown that these dogs and their ancestors had a significant role in Mexican culture. They are descendants of the Techichi, a native Mesoamerican dog that may have existed as early as 300 BC. There are even ancient toys and pots depicting Chihuahua-like dogs dating back to 100 AD. The Techichi was a small, quiet dog that was sometimes used in sacrificial ceremonies in the Toltec religion. It was believed that this tiny dog could guide the soul to the underworld, so every Aztec family would keep one. These dogs were cherished and even sacrificed and buried with deceased family members.
The modern Chihuahua was relatively rare until the early 20th century when it gained popularity. It was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904, and its popularity has since skyrocketed. One factor that contributed to its rise in popularity was when Xavier Cugat, a famous musician, made his Chihuahua a constant companion in public appearances. This caught the attention of the American public, and the breed’s popularity continues to grow today. Chihuahuas have even appeared in commercials, like the famous Taco Bell ad where a Chihuahua exclaimed, “Yo Quiero Taco Bell!” They have become particularly popular in Los Angeles, California, where they frequently make appearances at brunches and in celebrity photos. Tinker Bell, Paris Hilton’s Chihuahua, is a well-known canine celebrity who has spent enough time in the limelight to even get a sunburn on her little nose.
🐕 Chihuahua Appearance
The Chihuahua is a small, beautiful breed with an alluring, quick walk that displays the breed’s feeling of self-importance. Erect, perky ears lie above a round head with expressive eyes in this feisty breed, which is aware of how cute it is. The teeth come together in a level or scissors bite as the nose tips slightly. The slope of the neck meets the shoulders is graceful and flowing. Despite having tiny, cushioned paws on its front legs, this little dog boasts powerful hindquarters. Its tail is not very lengthy. They come in two varieties: long coats or smooth coats. The breed’s smooth coat variation has a velvety texture, while the long coat, which is similarly soft, can be flat or slightly wavy and typically has an undercoat. The lengthy coat also features feathering on the feet and legs, and the neck occasionally sports a sizable ruff. Any color may be found in any variety’s coat, which can also be solid, pied (mainly white), marked, or splashed (fawn and white, for instance).
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Black, Brown, Red, Cream, Blue, White |
⚡ Fun Fact: Chihuahua dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Chihuahua
Since they are so devoted to their owners and have a sassy nature, chihuahuas are among the most popular toy breeds. While often shy around strangers and prone to jealousy, this breed gets along well with other dogs and domestic animals. Early socialization is important to prevent canine aggression toward other canines and apprehension around strangers. They have a reputation for being fickle. They are best suited for homes with older, obedient children since they might become irritable when kids taunt them. This is a devoted dog with above-average intellect who will pick things up quickly if you utilize a kind, encouraging training method. Some owners choose to just paper train this breed since they may find some of them difficult to housebreak. These adorable canines have a medium activity level and little exercise requirements; many like being carried around by their owners.
🤝 Are Chihuahuas Friendly or Aggressive?
Chihuahua dogs are known for being very friendly and sociable, making them a great choice for those seeking a companion. However, when it comes to strangers, they tend to be only moderately friendly. It’s important to note that Chihuahuas may not be the best fit for families with young children, as they are not particularly kid-friendly. Additionally, Chihuahuas are known to get along well with cats and are generally average in terms of friendliness towards other dogs. Finally, while Chihuahuas can make wonderful pets, they may not be the best choice for elderly individuals looking for a companion.
This breed is known for being:
- Alert
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Quick
- Devoted
- Lively
🐩 Chihuahua Care & Maintenance
The silky Chihuahua’s coat is simple to care for. Once a week brushing or moist cloth cleaning of the coat is sufficient. The long-coated kind may also be easily cared for; a soft bristle brush should be used many times each week and works best. Both varieties—short and long coated—are not hypoallergenic. You can bathe your dog once every two months or so, but make sure the ears are kept dry. This breed’s eyes, ears, and teeth are particularly susceptible to illness, thus they should be kept meticulously clean. The nails need to be regularly clipped. This breed is thought to shed less than typical. When out and about, this energetic dog should be leashed since he likes walking and exploring. On cool days, a sweater is a smart choice if you are easily chilled. As long as you can give them enough exercise, this breed is excellent for apartment living. To stay in shape, they can walk for 20 to 30 minutes each day. Additionally, they can burn a lot of calories via their traditional shivering. For this delicate breed, a body harness is advised rather than a collar, especially because tracheal collapse might be a worry. This energetic dog need 1/8 to 1/4 cup of premium food twice day. Want some assistance finding the ideal food? See our list of the top dog foods for Chihuahuas! Chihuahuas frequently get patellar luxation and cardiac murmurs. To prevent exorbitant veterinarian care costs, get pet health insurance right now. You may compare policies from renowned firms like Figo and Spot using our tool for pet insurance. With only a few clicks, find your pet’s “pawfect” plan!
Chihuahua dogs are known for shedding very little to no hair at all. This makes them a great option for those who are concerned about their furniture or car getting covered in dog hair. If you have a Chihuahua puppy, you can be confident that you won’t have to constantly clean up after them in terms of shedding. Additionally, Chihuahuas only require a bath every 3-4 weeks, making grooming maintenance relatively easy compared to other dog breeds.
🍖 Food: We recommend 1 cups daily, costing you about $0.75 – $1.00 daily, or approximately $20.00 – $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Chihuahua dogs exercise need is very minimal. If you live a lazy life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 6 miles per week, which equates to about 30 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Chihuahua dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
❤️🩹 Chihuahua Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Chihuahua Dog Breed can be:
- Patellar Luxation
While minor concerns include:
- Pulmonic Stenosis
- Hydrocephalus
- Tracheal Collapse
- Heart Murmur
- Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
- Molera
🤧 Important: Is Chihuahua hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Chihuahua.
⚡ Chihuahua Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Chihuahua a great choice for families with young children?
The Chihuahua is not a great choice for families with young children because they can be sassy, protective, and have a hair-trigger tendency to snap, making them unsuitable for small children.
Is the Chihuahua breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Chihuahua breed is considered suitable for apartment living due to their small size and low exercise needs.
How much exercise does a Chihuahua require compared to other breeds?
Chihuahuas require less exercise compared to many other breeds. They have a low energy level and are often content with minimal exercise, making them suitable for individuals or families with limited exercise capabilities or space.
Is the Chihuahua breed known for being good with other pets?
The Chihuahua breed can be good with other pets if properly socialized from an early age. However, as with any breed, individual temperament may vary.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Chihuahua?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Chihuahua include the Maltese, Pomeranian, and Yorkshire Terrier.
What are the common health issues that Chihuahuas are prone to?
Common health issues that Chihuahuas are prone to include dental problems, patellar luxation, heart murmurs, and hydrocephalus.
Are Chihuahuas known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Chihuahuas can be both easy and difficult to train. With a gentle, positive training approach, they can be quick learners. However, some individuals may exhibit stubbornness and be difficult to housebreak.
Are Chihuahuas more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Chihuahuas can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if not properly trained and socialized. They are known to form strong bonds with their owners and may become anxious when left alone for long periods.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Chihuahua that are suitable for people with allergies?
Other dog breeds similar to the Chihuahua that are suitable for people with allergies include the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Shih Tzu, as they have hypoallergenic coats.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Chihuahua are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller sizes of dogs similar to the Chihuahua, such as the Teacup Chihuahua or the Toy Fox Terrier, may be the best options.
Is the Chihuahua breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Chihuahua breed can be good with children, but they are generally not recommended for children with special needs due to their sassy and protective nature.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Chihuahua?
The grooming needs of a Chihuahua are relatively low compared to many other breeds. They have both long and short hair varieties, but their coats are generally easy to maintain with regular brushing. They are moderate shedders.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Chihuahua dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
