Introduction

Looking for a pint-sized dog with a larger-than-life personality? Chihuahuas perfectly fit the bill. Affectionately known as “Chis” by devoted owners, these tiny pups form deep, loving bonds with their family members and thrive as loyal companions and snug lap dogs.

Historical records indicate that 16th-century conquistadors discovered numerous small dogs in the region now called Chihuahua, Mexico. These charming canines gained widespread popularity as household pets in the early 1900s, and in 1904, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Chihuahua breed.

Weighing in at just around 6 pounds and standing only 5 to 8 inches tall, Chihuahuas come in two coat varieties—luxurious long-haired and sleek short-haired—with distinctive skull shapes known as “apple head” and “deer head.”

Caring for a Chihuahua

Chihuahuas make wonderful family pets thanks to their unwavering loyalty, affectionate nature, and constant desire to stay close to their human companions. Their petite size makes them easy to bring along on trips or errands, though they can be spirited and quick to bark at strangers or other dogs.

Despite their small stature, these dogs possess plenty of energy and require ample playtime and exercise. Daily walks paired with indoor games help keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated. When anxious, Chis may bark loudly and forget just how tiny they are, so it’s crucial for caregivers to supervise closely around other animals and unfamiliar people.

Chihuahuas shed at an average rate. Grooming needs differ depending on whether your Chi sports a short or long coat, but overall, upkeep is fairly simple. The most important part of your grooming routine will be dedicated dental care—daily teeth brushing is essential to prevent dental diseases.

Chihuahua Health Issues

Chihuahuas boast one of the longest lifespans among dog breeds, often living 14 to 16 years.

While generally healthy, they can be prone to several breed-specific health concerns.

Obesity

Weight gain can sneak up unnoticed, especially in long-haired Chihuahuas, often stemming from poor diet and insufficient exercise. Obesity in dogs can increase risks for diabetes, joint problems, and heart and respiratory illnesses.

Luxating Patellas

This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, causing discomfort, limping, and if chronic, arthritis. You might notice your dog occasionally skipping or lifting a back leg while walking.

The kneecap often slips back into position naturally or with gentle massage, but severe cases may require surgery. Preventative measures include a balanced diet, regular exercise, joint supplements, and physical therapy to slow progression.

Periodontal Disease

Due to their tiny mouths, Chihuahuas are prone to dental crowding, leading to tartar buildup and plaque. Many also retain baby teeth, further overcrowding their mouths.

Routine teeth brushing, professional dental cleanings, and removal of any lingering baby teeth are crucial to maintain oral health.

Collapsing Trachea

In this condition, the windpipe collapses due to weakened cartilage, likely influenced by genetics. Symptoms include a distinctive “goose-honk” cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, worsening with age.

Mild cases often require only monitoring, while more severe cases may involve weight management, minimizing environmental allergens, cough suppressants, or possibly surgery.

To protect their delicate trachea, it’s best to use a harness instead of a collar when walking your Chi.

Heart Disease

Heart complications are a leading cause of death in senior Chihuahuas, commonly from chronic degenerative mitral valve disease—a condition weakening the heart’s left valve and causing backward blood flow, enlarging the heart and leading to congestive failure.

Congenital heart defects such as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), where a blood vessel fails to close after birth, also affect some Chis. Signs of heart disease include:

• Persistent coughing
• Reduced exercise tolerance
• Weakness
• Fainting
• Difficulty breathing

Veterinarians often detect heart murmurs early on, signaling further investigation. PDA usually requires surgery, while degenerative valve disease often needs lifelong medication and cardiology monitoring.

Hydrocephalus

This congenital brain condition leads to fluid buildup, causing seizures, confusion, bulging eyes, weakness, and unsteady walking. Mild cases are medically managed; severe ones may need surgical intervention.

Eye Problems

Chihuahuas’ signature large, expressive eyes can be affected by inherited issues like glaucoma, chronic dry eye, and cataracts. Symptoms include:

• Red or bulging eyes
• Discharge
• Frequent rubbing due to pain
• Vision loss

Because eye conditions can be painful, prompt veterinary care is essential if you notice any abnormalities.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

A degenerative hip disorder typically diagnosed in Chihuahua puppies aged 6 to 9 months, caused by reduced blood flow to the hip bone’s ball, resulting in tissue death, pain, and possible fractures.

Surgical removal of the femoral head can relieve pain and restore mobility, greatly improving quality of life.

Reproductive Issues

Female Chihuahuas’ small pelvises can pose difficulties during delivery due to large-headed puppies, making cesarean sections a common, sometimes scheduled, necessity.

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar is common in this tiny breed, especially puppies, managed through a proper diet and frequent feedings. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, poor appetite, weakness, collapse, or seizures. Severe episodes require emergency intravenous glucose treatment.

What To Feed a Chihuahua

Because Chihuahuas are susceptible to obesity, a balanced diet paired with regular exercise is crucial. If your adult Chi gains weight, switching to a calorie-controlled diet is advised. Otherwise, a twice-daily feeding of a balanced adult small-breed formula is recommended.

Dry kibble is preferred to help combat periodontal disease since its abrasive texture aids in removing plaque. Be mindful of treat portions—calories can quickly accumulate in these petite pups.

How To Feed a Chihuahua

Puppies benefit from frequent small meals—three to four daily—tailored by your veterinarian to prevent hypoglycemia. Feeding options rich in fats, protein, and complex carbs help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Elevating food bowls can assist older Chihuahuas with collapsing tracheas by helping keep their airways open during mealtime.

How Much Should You Feed a Chihuahua?

Veterinarians can calculate precise daily caloric needs to prevent weight problems. Opt for small-breed-specific foods designed for easy chewing, with detailed serving size guidelines.

Regularly monitoring your pup’s body condition and muscle tone will help you adjust portions to keep them at a healthy weight.

Nutritional Tips for Chihuahuas

Supplements like omega fatty acids support heart, brain, skin, and joint health. Dental chews and oral supplements may also be recommended to reduce periodontal disease risks.

Chihuahua Personality and Temperament

Chihuahuas oscillate between devoted lap dogs and lively bundles of sass. The breed standard describes them as having a “saucy expression,” reflecting their spirited nature.

They are affectionate, playful, and energetic, often believing they’re much bigger than their small size suggests. Their personalities range from bold and curious to shy and reserved, though they are typically intelligent and deeply loving with their families.

Chis may display social anxiety when meeting strangers, often barking to alert their humans.

With proper introductions, they do well with children and other pets, but their delicate size requires vigilant supervision during play to avoid injury.

Chihuahua Behavior

Their small size makes Chihuahuas easy to accompany wherever you go, which can be both a blessing and a challenge. This frequent carrying sometimes leads to separation anxiety.

Providing a secure area at home, like a cozy crate, along with ample toys, helps reduce stress and boredom.

As energetic dogs, Chihuahuas need regular exercise and engaging playtime to maintain physical and mental wellness.

Chihuahua Training

Highly intelligent and eager to please, Chihuahuas are generally quick learners. However, their strong-willed streak demands a patient trainer who practices positive reinforcement techniques.

House training can be especially challenging, so using tasty rewards is encouraged—just watch the calorie intake!

Socializing your puppy early with various people, animals, and environments sets the foundation for a confident, well-adjusted adult.

Fun Activities for Chihuahuas

• Leisurely walks
• Being carried on outings
• Interactive indoor games

Chihuahua Grooming Guide

Grooming a Chihuahua is straightforward but keep in mind their vulnerability to cold due to their tiny size. Many Chis enjoy cozy sweaters, soft blankets, and warm coats to maintain comfortable body temperature.

Coat Care

Chihuahuas sport either short or long coats that come in colors including black, white, and brown.

Short-haired Chis benefit from weekly brushing to manage moderate shedding. Long-haired varieties require brushing two to three times per week and regular undercoat de-shedding. Baths may be needed monthly, based on activity levels outside.

Eye Care

They often experience watery eyes, so gently wiping away discharge once or twice weekly helps. Long-haired dogs sometimes require professional trims around their eyes to prevent irritation from stray hairs.

Ear Care

With their naturally upright ears that allow good airflow, Chihuahuas are less prone to ear infections than floppy-eared breeds. Regular ear cleaning is typically not necessary unless advised by your vet.

Dental Care

Daily tooth brushing is crucial in preventing the dental problems that Chihuahuas are prone to.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Before bringing a Chihuahua home, consider your household environment. Young children, larger dogs, and a busy lifestyle may pose challenges. Larger animals might unintentionally harm such small dogs.

Overall, Chihuahuas thrive in families seeking a spirited yet affectionate companion.

How long do Chihuahuas live?

Chihuahuas typically enjoy lifespans of 14 to 16 years.

How much does a Chihuahua cost?

Puppy prices generally range from $800 to $2,000 depending on the breeder. Adoption through rescues and shelters is also an option.

How much does a Chihuahua weigh?

Adult Chihuahuas usually weigh around 6 pounds or less.

Why do Chihuahuas shake?

Shaking can result from many causes, from harmless reasons like cold to more concerning issues like hydrocephalus or hypoglycemia, which may also cause seizures.

Should you buy a teacup Chihuahua?

Avoid breeders who market “teacup” Chihuahuas. These extremely small dogs often face significant health issues due to selective breeding for size over well-being. Regular Chihuahuas are already remarkably tiny and healthier.