Chihuahua
Complete Breed Guide
"I put the sauce in saucy!"
Quick Facts About Chihuahuas
Toy
2–6 lbs
5–8"
No
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Overview
Don't underestimate the Chihuahua. Devoted, clever, and armed with ninja-like agility and boundless bravado, these tiny dogs live life at full volume and their bravery occasionally writes checks their size can't cash.
Though small in stature, Chihuahuas should not be underestimated. These cute, graceful pint-sized pups are cherished for their adorable big eyes, enormous upright ears, and the loyal devotion they bestow on their owners. When well-socialized as a puppy, they’re happy to have other pets and older children as roomies. Famous for their big-hearted bravery, Chihuahuas love the indoors and usually get all the exercise they need from chasing their owners around the house or brisk strolls to the neighborhood fro-yo shop.
Temperament and Behavior
Chihuahuas are intelligent, graceful, and sometimes too brave for their own good. They usually bond with only one person and become highly devoted, frequently kissing the owner's face (with or without approval). The Chihuahua is suspicious of strangers, and may attempt to defend their owner, usually with little effect. These little rascals are tenacious, proud, and very energetic.
Coat & Grooming
Chihuahuas can have a long or short coat and come in a wide variety of colors, including sand, chocolate, silver, chestnut, and even blue. A plethora of patterns including sable and masks are also a possibility. It’s this very variety of possibilities makes classification so difficult.
Lifestyle & Living Conditions
Chihuahuas can usually live with other dogs and cats without problem. They get along particularly well with other Chihuahuas. Socializing the Chihuahua as a puppy is essential to prevent overt aggressiveness and avoiding World War III with other pets in your house. Small children may regard Chihuahuas as a toy, and their teasing can cause them to snap or bite. So you probably do not want to leave the Chihuahua with children under the age of 12, unless they are well-taught or supervised.
Exercise & Activity
Chihuahuas can usually get all the exercise they need by running around indoors. If the dog becomes a little chubby, put on the Tai Bo DVD and get down! Actually, these dogs should be allowed to walk everywhere until the desired weight is reached. Sometimes they can be taken outside for play, but they are not very outdoorsy.
Health Considerations
Patellar luxation, heart disease (mitral valve disease), collapsed trachea, hydrocephalus, dental issues, hypoglycemia.
Medical References
- AKC – Chihuahua
- Chihuahua Club of America
- OFA
- VCA Animal Hospitals – Mitral Valve Disease & HypoglycemiaCA Animal Hospitals – Mitral Valve Disease & Hypoglycemia
Breed descriptions and health information are provided for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a licensed veterinarian. Individual dogs may vary in temperament and health.
Characteristics at-a-glance
Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.
Chihuahua FAQs
Common questions about the Chihuahua breed, answered by our editorial team.
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