Chihuahua Puppies

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The Loyal and Loving Chihuahua

Often likened behaviorally to terriers, the Chihuahua is a tiny but mighty breed that dates back to pre-Colombian times. Their range of colors and patterns match their capacity for training which tends to depend on the specific dog. Luckily, their charm and big-dog attitude are enough to please nearly any owner.


Chihuahua At a Glance

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Chihuahua At a Glance

  • Size: 9"-10", 4-10 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 15-20 years
  • Energy Level: medium
  • Coat: Can be either short or long
  • Shedding: moderate
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Toy
  • Common Nicknames: The Arizona Dog

Chihuahua Breed Guide

Learn More About Chihuahuas

  • Temperament

    Chihuahuas are very loyal and loving, and they thrive on constant companionship. This breed has a tendency to pick out one person in a family and claim them as their own, often being somewhat possessive and protective of that person. Chihuahuas do well with other dogs and pets, although they're somewhat partial to their own breed and can become clannish when living with other canines. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are very bold and confident. They are reserved around strangers, but become more friendly when properly introduced. Overall, if you're looking for a loyal and faithful companion that will be loving and close to your heart, this is the breed for you!

  • Health

    Chihuahuas are typically healthy, but there are some genetic issues that can affect them. Breeders should perform genetic health screenings to ensure that their puppies are as healthy as possible. These conditions can include heart problems, eye diseases, and patellar luxation.

  • Activity Level

    Being well equipped for apartment dwelling makes the Chihuahua a relatively easy to please breed when it comes to daily exercise. Whether you get busy playing indoors, or take a quick walk outside, this dog is one who requires minimal fitness upkeep. Dedicate about thirty minutes a day to daily movement!

  • Grooming

    Chihuahuas come in two coat varieties, smooth and long haired. Smooth-coat Chihuahuas only need occasional brushings to keep their coat shiny and healthy. Long-haired Chihuahuas should be brushed at least once a week to avoid matting and tangling.

  • Shedding

    You can expect your Chihuahua to shed moderately throughout the whole year, and heavier during the spring and the fall.

  • Appearance

    Terrier-like in its appearance, this adult dog typically weighs no more than 5 or 6 pounds! The round, domed head and wide set eyes are characteristic of this big personality breed. The Chihuahua comes in several color and pattern combinations, with long and short coats both being common.

  • History

    The Chihuahua's origins are a bit controversial. Some believe that the breed originated in China and was brought to Mexico by Spanish traders, where it was then crossed with small breeds native to the land. Another theory is that the Chihuahua was developed entirely in Central and South America, and descends from a native breed called the Techichi. Either way, the Chihuahua we know and recognize today was first seen in Mexico in the 1850s in the state of Chihuahua. Upon visiting Mexico, many Americans brought the little dogs home with them, and the Chihuahua's popularity in the United States grew. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1904, and during the following decades, the breed's popularity really took off. Today, Chihuahuas remained one of the most popular dog breeds.