Chihuahua

also known as Csivava, Chihuahueño

Pros Summary


The Chihuahua is a small breed of dog that originated in Mexico. They are known for their energetic and playful personalities, as well as their loyalty and affectionate nature towards their owners. Chihuahuas are small in size, typically weighing less than 6 pounds, and have a short, smooth coat that can come in a variety of colors and patterns. They are also known for their large, round eyes and delicate, alert expression. Chihuahuas are generally good with children and can make great family pets, but they may be reserved or protective towards strangers. They are also intelligent and can be trained to do various tricks and tasks. It is important to provide regular exercise and socialization for Chihuahuas to keep them happy and healthy.

Breed Information


Type

Is Chihuahua a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Chihuahuas originally used for?

Ceremonial, Companion

Lifespan

How Long Do Chihuahuas Live? What is average life expectancy for a Chihuahua? How long can Chihuahuas live?

14-18 years

The average Chihuahua lifespan is somewhere between 14-18 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Chihuahua Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Chihuahua?

What is the average height of a Chihuahua? How big is a Purebred Chihuahua height? Chihuahua dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 6-9 inches (15.2 - 22.9 cm) 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) 7.5 inches (19.1 cm) 7.5 inches (19.1 cm)
Female 6-9 inches (15.2 - 22.9 cm) 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) 7.5 inches (19.1 cm) 7.5 inches (19.1 cm)
What is the average weight of a Chihuahua? How much should Chihuahuas weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 3-6 pounds (1 - 3 kg) 2.0 pounds (1 kg) 3.5 pounds (2 kg) 4.5 pounds (2 kg)
Female 3-6 pounds (1 - 3 kg) 2.0 pounds (1 kg) 3.5 pounds (2 kg) 4.5 pounds (2 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Chihuahuas get fat easily?

The Chihuahua is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Chihuahuas Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the Chihuahua is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is a Chihuahua personality? What are Chihuahua dogs best known for?

Alert
Devoted
Intelligent
Courageous
Lively
Quick

Shedding Level

Are Chihuahuas heavy shedders? How Much Does a Chihuahua Shed?

Chihuahua will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Chihuahua dog?

The Chihuahua dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Chihuahuas come from?

Mexico

Ancestry

What are Chihuahuas descended from?

Techichi Dog

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Chihuahua breed?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Chihuahuas first bred? How old is the Chihuahua breed?

100 AD

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Chihuahua?

Toy (AKC:1904)
Companion Breeds (UKC)

Chihuahua Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Chihuahua eyes?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Chihuahua nose be naturally?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Chihuahua coat be naturally?

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Blue
White

Coat Length

How long is a Chihuahuas coat?

The coat of a Chihuahua falls in the medium length category.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Chihuahua Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Chihuahua?

Straight

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Chihuahua have in a litter? How many puppies can a Chihuahua have in her first litter?

14-18 puppies per pregnancy

A Chihuahua can have a litter of 14-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Chihuahuas are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Chihuahua Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Chihuahuas have a lot of health problems?

The Chihuahua breed is commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Chihuahua?

Patellar Luxation

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Chihuahuas?

Pulmonic Stenosis
Hydrocephalus
Tracheal Collapse
Heart Murmur
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Molera

Occasional Diagnoses

Hypoglycemia

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Chihuahua breed?

Cardiac
Knee
Eyes
Skeletal
Physical Examination

Chihuahua Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Chihuahuas have a lot of energy?

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Chihuahuas may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Do Chihuahuas need socialization? How social are Chihuahuas?

Chihuahua have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Chihuahuas get?

The Chihuahua is a breed that requires minimal physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Chihuahua have? Do Chihuahuas sleep a lot?

The Chihuahua breed is known for its moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Chihuahua drool a lot?

The Chihuahua is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Chihuahua dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Do Chihuahuas exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Mouthiness

Are Chihuahuas mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Chihuahua running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Chihuahua dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Chihuahuas enjoy doing? How do I keep my Chihuahua busy?

Barking, Running, Sleeping, Sniffing, Marking, Walking, Walk, Eating Snacks, Brushing, Wlking, Dog watching, Fetch, Nap, Run, Chase, Jump, Treats, Socialize, Play, Tracking, Kissing, Other dogs, Bark, Sleep, Smelling, Playing, Napping, Cuddling, Go on Vacation, Snuggle

Activity Level

What is the energy level of a Chihuahua? How much energy does a Chihuahua have?

Medium

Chihuahuas are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should a Chihuahua walk each week? How many miles should a Chihuahua walk every week?

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Chihuahua, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much a Chihuahua should exercise a day? How much activity does a Chihuahua need?

30 minutes

In general most Chihuahuas usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Chihuahua?

The Chihuahua is a breed of dog that does not require extensive grooming.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Chihuahua?

Weekly

Chihuahua should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Chihuahuas?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does a Chihuahua eat?

1 cups

For an average 3-6 pound (1 - 3 kg) Chihuahua feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does a Chihuahua Cost Daily?

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Chihuahua is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does a Chihuahua Cost Per Month?

$28 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Chihuahua is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Chihuahua Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Chihuahua?

The Chihuahua have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Chihuahuas lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Chihuahua dog?

This dog breed is particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. It can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, and unfamiliar people or animals. This dog is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are Chihuahua dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Chihuahua do well in apartments? Are Chihuahuas good indoor dogs?

Chihuahuas are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Are Chihuahuas good with kids? Are Chihuahuas good around children?

Chihuahua dogs are not kid-friendly.

Senior-friendly

Are Chihuahuas good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Chihuahuas good with cats? How friendly Chihuahuas are toward cats?

Chihuahuas are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Dog Friendly

Do Chihuahua dogs get along with other dogs? Are Chihuahuas OK with other dogs?

Chihuahuas are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Chihuahua dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Chihuahuas friendly with strangers?

Chihuahuas are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish. Early socialisation is key.

Playfulness

Do Chihuahuas like to play? Are Chihuahuas playful?

Chihuahuas have an average level of playfulness. The Chihuahuas, like other dogs, like to play. But they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

Are Chihuahua easily trained?

Chihuahua dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.