CHIHUAHUA

Breed Group: Toy

For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club

Average height: 12 - 20 cms (5 - 8 in)

Average Weight: 1 - 3 kgs (3 - 6 lbs)

Coat Length: Short

Life Span: 12 - 20 years

Colours: any color (solid, marked, or slashed)

HISTORY

This alert and amusing 'purse dog' is one of the oldest breeds of the Americas, descended from ancient pre-Columbian kingdoms. Chihuahuas were originally used for companionship, religious ceremonies, and food. Chihuahuas are terrier-like and are excellent ratters. They are still used as ratters in some rural parts of Mexico.

L.E.G.S.

Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.

Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.

Shedding

minimal <> considerable

Grooming

minimal <> likely to need professional grooming

Barking

relatively quiet <> very vocal

Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock

low<>high

Response to strangers

happy to greet everyone <> very wary

Affectionate with family

not at all<>very cuddly

Playful

serious<>very playful

Focus on handler (bond)

independent thinker<>very biddable

Excitable/Impulsive

very calm<>easily aroused

Motivated

laid back<>obsessive

Easy to care for

suitable for inexperienced<>challenging

Exercise needs

minimal<>hours daily

Off-lead exercise needs

happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom

Enrichment needs

basic<>needs challenges

WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR CHIHUAHUA

They are expressive and attentive
Their big eyes will peer into your soul and they speak an entire language with their ears
They love to cuddle and be close to you
Their small size make them easy to travel with and they are happy to come along

WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH

They tend to bark at strangers, noises, and to announce their presence. Their bark is bigger than they are
While loving and affectionate with you, they may be wary and defensive with strangers

YOUR CHIHUAHUA PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS

Chihuahua puppies are curious, playful, and full of energy. Their tiny size means they're fragile, so it's essential to handle them with care. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted adults. Their intelligence shines through even in puppyhood, so start training early, focusing on positive reinforcement.

YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:

Difficulty in house-training
Their perception of strangers at home and in public
Protectiveness of their person (also known as lap guarding)
Difficulty with small children
Excessive barking

YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY

They are initially mistrustful and are quick to sound the alarm
Treat them respectfully, and they are a lively, expressive, fun companion
Regular play sessions to engage their active minds

UPBRINGING

They tend to pick their favorite person in the household and attach strongly to them. Watch that they don't 'guard' their person from others in the home. They do well with other small dogs, especially other Chihuahuas. They can also thrive in a home with large dogs if they are careful not to step on them. Because of their small stature, they can be defensive of their space. Everyone must be careful not to step on or accidentally kick them as they can be seriously injured by careless feet. House-training may be difficult if they are not supervised closely during the training process however If you are vigilant, they are quite capable of being well house-trained. They are small enough to slip behind furniture where you can't see them go. Barking at visitors, delivery persons, and noises is typical, and their bark is loud for such a small dog. They are fine with respectful children but do not appreciate being grabbed, picked up, or held awkwardly and don't like rough play, so they may not be the most 'fun' or interactive breed for children.

LIFESTYLE

They are content to be home bodies and their exercise needs can be met in a small apartment.

INTERESTS & HOBBIES

They are 'terrier like', so they can enjoy hunting for lizards in the yard. They do enjoy some outdoor exploration, but are also content to snuggle with you on the sofa and watch television.

EDUCATION

Training requires patience and finesse. They will shut down with forceful methods. With positive training methods, they can learn useful skills and cute tricks.