By Breed
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They might be the smallest dog breed on the planet, but their personalities are larger than life! The Chihuahua temperament is eccentric and quirky with a famously spicy streak. Adored by many all over the world, this ancient dog breed is an energetic, playful companion that’s utterly devoted to its owners.
Affectionately known as Chis, these dogs are ready to take on the world and will happily stand their ground, no matter the size of their opponent. However, because they think they’re the size of a lion, Chihuahuas should be supervised around large breeds to ensure they don’t pick a fight with the wrong pooch.
Known for being bold and confident, the Chihuahua can often be seen displaying high levels of sass, strutting around with their heads and tails held high. They’re natural born divas (or divos), and thrive on being the centre of attention. In fact, they want to be the centre of their owner’s entire universe, gladly accompanying them on trips to the supermarket, office, and even the bathroom.
If these pint-sized pooches are overindulged though, they can become very demanding and develop Small Dog Syndrome. This causes behavioural issues such as stubbornness, entitlement, and even aggression. It’s important they know their place in the pack and that they’re not treated like the princes and princesses they believe themselves to be!
Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal, protective, and highly alert, making them excellent personal watchdogs. However, this does mean they’re wary of strangers and need time to warm up to new people. Once their trust is earned, Chihuahuas are affectionate and loving dogs that tend to form super strong bonds with one or two people.
It’s important to know that the temperament of the Chihuahua can vary greatly. Many believe Chis to be feisty and aggressive, earning them the moniker of ‘devil dog’. But some Chis can be sensitive, nervous and timid, or even mellow and eager to please. Whether they’re social or antisocial all depends on their bloodline.
As with all dogs though, early socialisation and consistent training is key to raising a confident and well-mannered pooch. So if you’re looking for a small dog that’s big on attitude, the Chihuahua could be the breed for you.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Playful and entertaining | Fragile frame |
| Devoted to owners | Difficult to housetrain |
| Highly adaptable to different environments | Prone to snapping and barking |
| Low-maintenance exercise needs | Stubborn streak |
| Long life span | Can be aggressive or territorial |
Yes, Chihuahuas can be a great addition to more mature families with older children and teens, but they do tend to be ‘one-man’ dogs. This could cause a divide in a large household. Being the devoted dogs they are, they’re loyal lap dogs that love a cuddle on the couch.
However, they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long, leading to destructive behaviours such as chewing on furniture, whining, or toileting inside the house. They need owners who are going to be present and give them the attention they crave. In the right environment, the Chihuahua’s spritely nature and funny antics are sure to keep the whole family entertained.
Not generally. These dinky dogs have a strong, feisty character, often barking and snapping if they feel threatened or displeased. They also demand respect for their boundaries which little ones might not understand.
Their fragile frame isn’t suitable for roughhousing either. Toddlers and young children could accidentally hurt a Chihuahua through no fault of their own, or end up being hurt themselves if a Chi snaps at them. This breed can also be stubborn and won’t take orders from anyone it sees as beneath them.
Chihuahuas are better suited to a household with older children (over 10 years old) and teenagers who can respect boundaries, play gently and are generally more assertive.
You should always teach children how to properly interact with dogs, regardless of breed. This includes no pulling, smacking, poking, or disturbing them while they’re eating and sleeping. Great care should also be taken when introducing dogs and children, making sure to never leave little ones unsupervised no matter how well-trained your pooch is.
Yes, if socialised and trained well from puppyhood, Chihuahuas can get along nicely with other dogs. They can even live with cats if they’ve been raised together from a young age. However, caution should be taken around big dogs. In a Chi’s mind, they’re the size of a lion, and have no qualms in challenging large breeds. This could put them at risk, especially if the other dog isn’t so forgiving. Large dogs can also harm a Chihuahua accidentally by treading on their paws or playing too rough.
Introducing new animals into the pack should always be managed carefully. Remember, every Chihuahua is unique, so monitor their body language, provide space and reward good behaviour.
We all want our dogs to live long, happy, healthy lives, so it’s important you know how to look after a Chihuahua properly. From tasty nutritious meals to exercise, training and grooming, we’ve got it covered.
When fully grown, these little guys and gals need up to 30 minutes of physical exercise a day, ideally split into two 15 minute walks. It’s highly recommended to use a harness to protect their delicate windpipes.
Although they’re known to be lap dogs that love a snoozy snuggle on the sofa, Chihuahuas are also a lively, intelligent breed that likes to keep busy. Offer them lots of mentally enriching games and puzzles to do indoors so their brains get a good workout too.
Staying active with short, daily walkies will keep these dogs happy, healthy, and prevent them from packing on the pounds. This is a common problem in Chis as many owners wrongly assume they don’t need regular exercise, and find it hard to say no if they beg for treats.
As they hate to be left alone and have low exercise needs, they’re an ideal companion for people who spend a lot of time at home.
Chihuahuas are a highly intelligent dog breed, but they have a stubborn, independent streak and like to do things at their own pace. Also, like most toy dogs with tiny digestive systems, it can take Chis a while to become fully housetrained. However, with consistent training, bags full of patience and a can-do attitude, training a Chihuahua can be a rewarding experience.
Unleash their potential with some fun Chihuahua training tips.
1. Be positive. Always use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviour with lots of praise and tasty treats. This itsy bitsy breed should be given equally tiny treats when training, so consider using these healthy treats. Chis are quite sensitive and can be defensive if corrected harshly, so a gentle approach works best.
2. Prevent Small Dog Syndrome. Don’t let them get away with unwanted behaviour because they’re cute! This often happens with small, adorable pooches, and can cause them to develop behavioural issues, including aggression.
3. Prioritise potty training. Chis need consistency when it comes to housetraining, so be sure to establish a routine for feeding times, potty breaks and playtime to help them understand what's expected of them. A covered potty area is also recommended because these wee little dogs are known to dislike the rain!
4. Socialise from the start. Socialisation is crucial for the Chihuahua dog breed. Without it, they can become little terrors in later life. Expose them to new people, children, dogs, animals, smells, and situations from an early age to help them become calm and confident canines.
5. Keep the barking at bay. Chihuahuas are natural watchdogs who are notorious for being yappy. They’ll bark at anything they perceive as a threat, including sounds and strangers. It’s important to desensitise your Chi to triggers by gradually exposing them to stuff that makes them bark. You should also teach them the ‘quiet’ command, remembering to only reward them when they’re silent.
6. Keep training sessions short. Chihuahuas can get overwhelmed or tired easily, so do short 10 minute bursts a few times a day to ensure they stay focused.
7. Establish who’s boss. The smart and confident Chihuahua is a strong-willed dog that may try to push the boundaries and dominate. Ensure to set clear rules and consistently enforce them. This will help your Chi understand what's expected of them and reduce any unwanted behaviour.
8. Keep them active. Despite their size, Chis are lively, energetic dogs, so engage them in mini agility and obedience training to give their brains and bodies a good workout.
9. Be patient with their separation anxiety. While they should never be left alone for hours on end, you can help them be more comfortable with their own company by gradually increasing the amount of time you're away from home. Start with small increments (e.g., 5-10 minutes) and make sure they have a toy or puzzle to keep them busy.
There are two types of Chihuahua; smooth-haired and long-haired, but both coats are very low maintenance. Chis shed lightly throughout the year, but more so in spring and autumn. Although they’re wash-and-go dogs that require little coat maintenance, these attention-loving dogs generally appreciate one-on-one grooming time with their owner.
There are 39 Chihuahua colours and patterns, 30 of which are officially accepted by the Kennel Club. Popular colours include black, red, fawn, chocolate, cream, blue, gold, and silver! Merle Chihuahuas are deemed ‘unacceptable’ because this colouration comes with an increased risk of hearing and vision impairments.
Properly looked after, cared for and loved, the Chihuahua lifespan is between 10 and 18 years. However, like many beautiful purebreds, there are some specific health problems for the dainty Chi.
Healthy Chihuahuas should be seen by a vet at least once a year, with senior dogs (seven years and older) needing more frequent visits. Monitor your pooch regularly and ensure they’re getting what they need for a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Feeding your Chihuahua a well-balanced diet that’s tailored to their size and medical needs is an essential part of being a responsible dog owner. From helping their joints stay healthy to maintaining a good weight, the food you give them is so im-paw-tant!
The amount you feed your Chihuahua will depend on a number of factors, such as whether they’re a puppy or an adult, if you’re using dry food, wet food or a mix, their activity levels and whether they’ve been neutered or spayed.
As Chihuahuas have high metabolism and lack of fat stores, it’s encouraged to feed them small amounts frequently throughout the day. A good suggestion for adult Chihuahuas is 3 times a day, ensuring they’re well fuelled for all their activities.
The best food for a Chihuahua is one that’s been developed with their medical needs in mind. Dog food made especially for small breeds is also recommended as the size of the kibble is smaller – perfect for their tiny teeth!
You'll find a handy feeding calculator at the bottom of every product page here at Pooch & Mutt, helping you identify how much of our health-led recipes are right for the age, size and weight of your dog. Take our quick quiz to find your pooch’s perfect food!
Feed a balanced diet
Their disposition to become hypoglycemic means Chihuahuas need a high-quality, vet- recommended dog food that meets their nutritional needs. You should also consider adding natural supplements to their diet such as Salmon Oil, which helps to boost your pet’s physical and mental health.
Protect their joints
To help keep the patella luxation at bay, don’t over exercise your Chihuahua or allow them to jump up and down from furniture. Also, consider adding Joint Supplements to their diet as an extra preventative measure.
Protect their skull
Many Chihuahuas have an open molera – or a soft spot – on the skull, which can close up or remain throughout their life. Take measures, especially when they’re a pup, to prevent objects from falling off shelves as this can cause damage to their precious heads.
Use a harness
Walking your Chihuahua using just a collar can lead to tracheal collapse, so always use a harness to protect their delicate windpipes.
Monitor weight
A healthy Chihuahua weighs anywhere between 1.8kg and 2.7kg. A portion of their daily calories should be allotted to yummy dental treats and chews to help keep their teeth nice and healthy, such as these Dental Probiotic Meaty Treats.
Monitor blood sugar levels
As Chis are prone to Hypoglycemia, create a plan with your vet to manage their blood sugar levels.
Help them stay warm
Being a Mexican breed that adapted to warmer climates, modern day Chihuahuas often get chilly. Provide blankets, jumpers, and coats to keep them cosy in cold weather.
Say no to table scraps
Their sweet faces can be hard to resist, but it’s important you don’t overfeed your Chi. Extra weight on these pooches can impact their quality of life, make it difficult for them to move and put pressure on their joints. For chubby Chihuahuas, consider this Slim & Slender Dry Food that’s good for weight management.
Look after their eyes
Regular eye tests can detect early signs of cataracts or glaucoma, and a balanced diet rich in omega-3s (found in fish) can help support eye health.
Take them to the vet
It might not be their favourite place in the world, but regular check-ups with a vet can help identify potential health issues early on.
Always speak to your vet about the best course of action in treating health problems in your dog.
The standard Chihuahua size is very small, weighing only 1.8–2.7 kg and measuring just 15–22 cm in height. However, Teacup Chihuahuas are even smaller. They’re not a separate breed, but the term is used to describe a Chi smaller than the breed standard. They’re the result of two naturally small Chis mating, but some breeders have resorted to using unethical practices – such as breeding runts or malnourishment – in order to produce the Teacup Chihuahuas.
Take a look at the Chihuahua’s dream home.
| Type of owner? | Individuals, couples, and families with older children, that spend more time at home or can take their Chi out and about with them. They also need to dedicate time to training and playtime. |
| Outdoor space? | A back garden isn’t essential but they need daily walks. Housetraining can also be a problem so they will need access to a safe place to do their business outside. |
| Adaptability? | They’re highly adaptable to different living environments and can comfortably live in flats, but they’re a very vocal breed with a yappy bark. |
| Multi-pet home? | They can live with other dogs and cats if socialised well from a young age, but extra caution should be taken around large breeds. |
The unconditional love of a Chihuahua is priceless, but there are costs to consider if you plan to own one.
The price of a Chihuahua can cost anywhere between £400 and £1,000. The price you pay will depend on the breeder or private seller, and the pedigree of the dog. The average monthly total cost for owning a Chihuahua is around £50.
Set up costs
Primary vaccines in the UK cost between £40-£70 on average, but this depends where you live and the vets you choose. You’ll also need equipment such as a lead, collar, harness, dog tag (this is a legal requirement), bedding, food bowls, toys, and a crate if you’re crate training. If you decide to neuter your pup, the cost of the operation ranges from £110 to £300, and is usually done between six and 12 months old. Spaying costs can be higher and you should always talk to your vet about the best time to have this procedure done.
Ongoing costs
When it comes to food, these pooches need a high-quality dog food packed with vitamins and natural ingredients. This can cost around £20 to £30 per month. On top of this, you’ll also have booster vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and regular accessories like poop bags to buy.
Insurance costs
As this breed is prone to a few health problems, it’s highly recommended to purchase pet insurance for your Chihuahua should anything happen. The exact cost of insurance is based on your location, your dog’s age, breed, medical history and the type of cover you choose. Pet insurance prices vary wildly so always compare to get the right protection. (The average annual cost to insure a Chihuahua without any pre-existing conditions is around £270. This might sound a lot but you can’t put a price on peace of mind.)
Get to know the Chihuahua even more with these titbits and tales about the world’s smallest dog!
This tiny titan has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years, but the Chihuahua’s exact origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery.
Many believe they hail from Mexico, due to local folklore and the discovery of dog burials dating back to 300 BC. In ancient times, the Toltec civilization kept tiny dogs called Techichi, which resemble today's Chihuahuas. They were sacred dogs to the Aztec people and were believed to have special powers, including being able to guide their deceased owners’ spirits to the afterlife.
Others believe Spanish traders brought small, hairless dogs over to Mexico from China, which were bred to native dogs to produce the modern day Chihuahua. A third theory suggests they actually originated in Malta.
While they may or may not be indigenous to Mexico, the Chihuahua we’re familiar with today was first discovered in the state of Chihuahua in the 1850s, which is how they got their namesake. These pint-sized pups were sold to tourists, quickly making their way over to US states like Texas and Arizona.
In 1904, the American Kennel Club recognised the breed, and Midget was the first modern Chihuahua to be registered. After which, these pocket rockets became popular pets and found global fame for their big eyes, big ears and even bigger personalities.
Before you bring a new furry friend into your life, you need to know you’re getting it from a reputable source. To help you navigate this decision, here are some essential tips for buying or adopting a Chihuahua.
1. Research the breed. Chihuahuas can’t be left alone for too long and fair better in a child-free home or household with older children, so you need to make sure your lifestyle is suited.
2. Ask potential breeders for references from previous customers, veterinarians, or other breeders. This will help you get an idea of their reputation and the health of their dogs.
3. Beware of scammers. A genuine seller will never ask for money upfront before seeing the dogs, and will always offer for you to see them in person before making a commitment. Also be wary if the price is significantly cheaper than other listings.
4. Always visit the breeder in person to see the mother with her Chihuahua puppies and to check the environment. A responsible breeder or seller will never release the pups before they’re eight weeks old.
5. Watch out for people who breed multiple breeds at once. This is a sign they might not have the expertise on Chihuahuas and don’t prioritise their dogs’ health.
6. A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee for your puppy, including paperwork about their lineage, vaccinations and microchipping.
When adopting a Chihuahua, research the shelter to ensure they’re a reputable rescue organisation, and meet with their adoption specialist to discuss your lifestyle, needs and dog ownership experience. Chihuahuas in shelters may have complex medical conditions or be quite senior, so you’ll need to ensure you have the time, love and dedication to give them a happy fur-ever home.
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