Origin
Mexico
Lifespan
12–20 years
Weight
1–3 kg
Height
15–23 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Fawn · Black · White · Chocolate · Cream · Gold · Mixed colors
Chihuahua
About This Breed
The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog and is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Chihuahuas are devoted and loyal to their owners. They are lively, alert dogs that are courageous despite their tiny size. They can be aloof with strangers but extremely devoted to their owners. Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities and the 'Chihuahua attitude'. They come in two coat types: smooth and long-haired. They are often called 'pocket dogs'.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Chihuahua
Origin
| Origin | Mexico |
| Group | Toy |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 1–3 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–20 years |
| Height | 15–23 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Fawn · Black · White · Chocolate · Cream · Gold · Mixed colors |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Devoted · Alert · Courageous · Lively · Quick |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Usually sheds relatively little. Low shedding does not mean an animal cannot cause allergies.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
May be more comfortable in a quiet home. Give it space away from children.
Introductions to other pets may take time. Provide separate spaces.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
Looking for a small dog breed with a big personality? Chihuahuas are just that. Affectionally called “Chis” by their fans, Chihuahua dogs are loving with those they trust and tend to bond closely with their families. They are excellent companions and even better lap dogs. Documents suggest that conquistadors in the 16th century found many small dogs in the Mexican state now known as Chihuahua. They became more well known as house pets around the early 20th century, and The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Chihuahua dog breed in 1904.
Care Guide
Chihuahuas make great family pets because they are loyal, loving, and always want to be by their human’s side. Their small size makes them easy to take with you on trips and errands, though they can be feisty and bark at other people and dogs. Though small in stature, Chihuahuas are high-energy dogs and require lots of playtime and activity. Daily exercise with walks and indoor playtime helps maintain their physical and mental health. When they feel nervous, they will bark—and sometimes forget how truly tiny they are. It’s vital for Chihuahua parents to monitor their dog closely whenever they’re around other animals and unfamiliar people. Chihuahuas are average shedders. While grooming specifics depend on whether you have a short-haired or long-haired Chihuahua, their coat care is relatively low-maintenance. The biggest part of your care routine will be their teeth, which need to be brushed daily to prevent dental disease.