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Chihuahua Dogs
Breed Rating (6 Reviews)
| Appearance | |
| Friendliness | |
| Hardiness | |
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History
The exact origin of the Chihuahua is unknown. One theory states that the dog is from China and was brought over to the USA by traders, other theories state that the dog has its origins in Central and South America. In 1850 a few dogs were found in Chihuahua, Mexico, which were later brought to the U.S. The breed wasn’t all that popular at first, as the dogs weren’t much use as work or utility dogs. Later on it was found out that they make great companions, and ever since this breed has been a fan favourite and it is still ranked in the top 20 breeds in the USA.
Behaviour
Fondly referred to as miniature terriers because of a feisty personality that makes up for it’s tiny size, Chihuahuas are confident and loyal dogs, if sometimes a little temperamental. They bark a lot, probably due to their size, as they need to let people know where they are - curled up under a blanket or hidden away, they are in constant danger of being sat or trodden on! These dogs enjoy being cuddled and held. One problem with the Chihuahua is that they form very strong bonds with usually only one person, the main carer normally, and will go to great lengths to protect this person from any “threats”. They aren’t the easiest to train, but it is important to stop the dog from getting too fixated on their owner, as this will result in the stereotypical “evil/aggressive chihuahua” trait that they are often known for. Chihuahuas do need some exercise, but due to their small size a run around the garden or a game of fetch will do the trick. Their size makes them the ideal dog for small houses and flats.
The confidence in these dogs is unmatched and they will rarely be intimidated by anything, this includes larger dogs, so care should be taken when out on walks or when introducing them to an unknown canine-friend. This being said, they are generally ok with children and will get on fine with other household pets. They distrust strangers and will be wary when around them. They shiver when excited, frightened or cold and will need a coat in Winter (if you can even get them to leave the house when it’s cold, they aren’t a big fan of old jack frost). As a breed they rarely suffer any serious health conditions.
Chihuahuas come in short- and long-coated varieties.
Temperament
Chihuahuas have a loving personality, but will often get overly attached to one person and act timidly around others.
These dogs make up for their small size with their personality. Care should be taken when choosing a chihuahua puppy and always make sure to meet the parents as temperament is often handed down from generation to generation and, especially with these dogs, can be hard to change.
Health Problems
Although not all that susceptible to disease, health problems that may affect Chihuahuas include patella luxation (dislocation of the knee cap), hydrocephalus (build up of fluid around the brain), heart problems and hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 12 - 20 years
- Weight: 4 - 10 pounds
- Height: 6 - 9"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Short
- Grooming Requirements: Once a week
- Town or Country: Either
- Minimum Home Size: Flat
- Minimum Garden Size: No Garden
- Breed Type: Toy Dog
- Size: Small
- Energy Level: High
- Exercise Required: Up to 30 Minutes
Chihuahua Pictures
Latest Reviews For Chihuahua (5 of 6)
2 yrs. - Valerie,
The cutest Chi. I ever owned, loves to chase chickens & squirels. loves to nap on your lap @ neck... could'n ask for a better best friend
- Charlene,
I’ve had Chihuahuas most of my life. I finally got my own Chihuahua at 60. My little guy is the best thing he’s also my support animal. He keeps me going keeps me walking.
So adorable!!! - Bernadette,
I love Chi's!!!
A lot within a little package - Jenni,
I have 2 female chihuahuas. One is 3 1/2 pounds with red and white short hair named Poppy & the other is 9 pounds with blue short hair named Dolly. Poppy is affectionate with everyone and loves to be cuddled. She will make soft yipping sounds if other dogs bark but doesn’t leave the room she is in. Dolly is a grump and is standoffish with everyone. She tolerates pets when she comes up to you but doesn’t cuddle and hates to be picked up. Dolly will bark loudly and race to the living room if other dogs bark but she doesn’t initiate the barking. She loves playing with and destroying toys. Poppy loves going for rides while Dolly only likes going the short distance to my son’s house. Since they are only a month apart in age they were both socialized the same but definitely have different personalities. Both are “extra” though. Very dramatic, insistent when they want attention, playful and feisty with each other & my other dogs that are way bigger. These small dogs rule over the big dogs and will even take toys & treats from them if I don’t watch closely! When they get dressed, even just putting their coats on, they act like little Divas with their heads up & proud. Delightful darlings but not for everyone.
Love, love, love my Chihuahua babies! - Marsha,
They can be lazy or run you crazy with demands for pets and love! I love when mine know I'm feeling down or poorly and will snuggle up like they know what's on my mind. It never fails to bring me out of my mood and brighten my day! I lost my husband last September of 2022 and they both have rallied around me like they know when I'm lonely or down. I think they know what I'm talking about when I talk to them. They are so intuitive!