Chihuahua

These pint-sized nuggets are both cheerful sprinters and lazy lap dogs, with soulful eyes and a powerful voice to match. If Chihuahuas were human, they’d probably have their own podcast—they love the sound of their own voice and will likely express whatever they’re feeling. (But hey, if you were this adorable, you’d probably be shouting about it, too.)

One of the tiniest dog breeds, the Chihuahua (or “Chi” for short) has a head that’s either shaped like an apple (apple-head Chihuahuas) or a deer (deer-head Chihuahuas), expressive ears, a short and slightly pointed muzzle, and large eyes that practically burst with emotion. Dainty yet sturdy, they can have short or long hair in nearly any fur color you can think of.

Their feathered coats may be various shades of gold, from light to dark. As they age, some Golden Retrievers even develop a wise white-golden hue across their face.

1. Ears A Chihuahua's ears are large and upright when alert, with a little more space between them when relaxed. If their ears are down, it’s a sign that they’re being submissive or they’re scared.
2. Eyes Their eyes are round and usually dark, though some Chis may have lighter eyes.
3. Nose These adorable noses come in a range of colors; they’re either black or the same color as their coat, in blonds, reds, blues, and chocolates. In light-colored and white Chihuahuas, the nose might also be pink or tan.
4. Coat Length A Chihuahua has two coat types: smooth and long. Smooth Chihuahua coats are short and glossy with a ruff on the neck. Long-haired Chihuahua coats are flat or wavy, with a soft texture, an undercoat, “pants” on their hind legs, and a large ruff on the neck.
5. Coat Color Chis have nearly 30 coat colors and combinations, including black, blue and tan, chocolate, cream, fawn and white, red, and more. Their fur might be solid, marked, brindled, sable, or splashed.
6. Tail Chis with a short coat are more likely to have a furry tail. If their coat is long, it’ll be plumed with feathering.

Chihuahuas are little charmers with a knack for mischief and a sense of bravery that belies their tiny size. Playful pups that enjoy a good romp or game, they also love to snooze on laps and cuddle.

Chis bask in a lot of attention and are quite portable. But even though they’re easily carried, they still need to engage in normal dog behaviors, like sniffing, exploring the outdoors, and playing. In other words, don’t make it your default to pop them in a purse or a stroller—unless, of course, you’re somewhere busy that could hurt a tiny paw, like an airport or street festival.

Despite their tiny stature, these dogs are not afraid to tell you what they think, especially if they feel like they’re in danger. Socialize them by safely and slowly introducing them to new people and places from the get-go, and train them when they’re young so they don’t sound the alarm at everything.

Early training will also help this smallest of dog breeds become friendly and receptive to new people and animal friends.

It’s easy to think of these pups as low maintenance since they’re so tiny. But cute Chihuahuas require daily exercise, regular grooming, and early socialization and training. P opular culture has at times portrayed them more like accessories than dogs, but they have the same essential needs as dogs five times their size.

Grooming

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Grooming isn’t too intense for this breed, though long-haired Chihuahuas require a bit more care. Brushing and bathing: All Chis need brushing as well as a good, regular bath . One bath a month usually suffices, unless your pup has taken a roll in the mud. Your grooming routine varies by your Chi’s coat: For short-haired types, brushing your pup once a week is enough. For a long-haired Chihuahua, brush three times a week and trim their fur regularly, especially the legs and tail, so they don’t become matted. When grooming at home , don’t shave them (or let your groomer shave them) in warm weather. Their fur protects them from the sun and heat; removing too much can cause sunburn and contribute to heatstroke . For short-haired types, brushing your pup once a week is enough. For a long-haired Chihuahua, brush three times a week and trim their fur regularly, especially the legs and tail, so they don’t become matted. When grooming at home , don’t shave them (or let your groomer shave them) in warm weather. Their fur protects them from the sun and heat; removing too much can cause sunburn and contribute to heatstroke . Dental care: Brush your dog’s teeth daily and keep up with professional dental cleanings . If you adopt your Chi when they’re young, get them used to teeth brushing when they’re a puppy so they tolerate it well when older.

Training

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A Chihuahua’s smarts make them excellent students for training , which they should start as early as possible to be their best-behaved selves. Like teenagers, they might challenge the boundaries you set for them, but they’ll grow out of any rebellious phases with positive reinforcement —think Chihuahua-friendly treats , toys, and praise—to encourage the behaviors you’d like to see. Also teach your Chi basic cues, like sit and stay . Early socialization with other dogs and people will teach them to be more flexible, adaptable, and relaxed. Chihuahua dogs love the sound of their own voice, and they have no qualms about alerting you to everything they hear. Or think. Or feel. A certified dog trainer or behaviorist can work with you to reduce their noise sensitivity and minimize their fondness for barking . Still, if you do have a chatty Chi, you should be willing to accept them for the talkative pup that they are.

Diet

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Feed your Chihuahua a high-quality dog food that meets AAFCO standards . Your vet can offer advice on what to feed your dog. For dry dog food, look for a small kibble to fit your Chi’s tiny teeth. A special formula for Chihuahuas (like Royal Canin® Chihuahua dog food ) or for small-breed dogs in general might be the best food for Chihuahuas . It’s common for pet parents to overfeed Chihuahuas, so don’t overdo it, especially when it comes to treats. A 6-pound dog, for example, sound get about 180 calories per day. Treats can quickly add up in small dogs like the Chihuahua, and obesity in dogs can bring on a slew of health complications.

Exercise

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Even though they’re small, Chihuahuas still need regular exercise. Daily sprints are a must, whether it’s around the block or even a jaunt in the backyard. But strenuous exercise, like long-distance running, is not recommended for these minuscule pups. Many Chihuahuas do not get enough exercise because pet parents tend to carry them more than they should. Who can blame them? There’s nothing cuter than a fluffy Chihuahua in a carrier on Mom or Dad’s chest. However, Chis need time to run around on their own little four legs, too. Buy some interactive dog toys to encourage your pup to move and entertain themself.

Environment

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The compact Chihuahua does well living in a city. Though they get exercise simply by following their pet parents around the home (every step of yours is five or six for a Chi), they still need their outdoor steps too. Chihuahuas are also a good fit for a suburban or rural neighborhood—if you don’t leave them outside and unattended. Even with a fenced yard, the dogs are tiny enough to become prey for a passing hawk or eagle, so always keep an eye on your pup. Chihuahuas are best suited for adults or families with older children. Because they’re so small and delicate, it’s easy for young children to accidentally drop or hurt them during play.

A Chihuahua lifespan is an impressive 14–16 years, but they’re not without some health problems. Purchasing pet insurance may be a good idea when bringing home a Chihuahua puppy.

Be familiar with potential health problems so you can recognize and treat them quickly.

1. Bladder stones Small breeds could be more prone to bladder stones . Symptoms include smelly or bloody urine, inability to urinate, frequent urination, and accidents in the house; bring these to a vet’s attention immediately.
2. Epilepsy Seizures have various causes, but if there’s no underlying disorder, idiopathic epilepsy will likely be diagnosed. This is managed with lifelong daily meds.
3. Eye issues Those big, sparkling eyes make Chis more prone to problems, like keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye), glaucoma , cataracts , and corneal ulcers . Redness, cloudiness, squinting, bulging, or pain require immediate vet attention.
4. Heart trouble One study names heart disease as the leading cause of death for this tiny breed. Chihuahuas are also susceptible to mitral valve disease and patent ductus arteriosus . Your Chihuahua may need an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) for a diagnosis.
5. Hydrocephalus Due to their head shape, Chihuahuas are susceptible to hydrocephalus , or improperly fused skull bones that can lead to excess fluid around the brain, resulting in extra intracranial pressure. Symptoms include seizures, circling, and an improper gait; when caught early, medication can treat the condition.
6. Hypoglycemia Tiny dogs have very little fat storage, so their blood sugar bottoms out easily, making them prone to hypoglycemia , also known as low blood sugar. STo avoid hypoglycemia, offer your Chi multiple small meals throughout the day and ask your vet if a high-calorie supplement is a good idea for your pup.
7. Luxating patella Luxating patella occurs when the kneecaps slip or dislocate. Treatment may be joint supplements , medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
8. Dental disease Extremely common in Chihuahuas by the age of 2, periodontal disease begins with tartar buildup and leads to gum infections, abscesses , and tooth loss. If not treated, oral bacteria can get in the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. Daily brushing and regular dental checkups are key to prevention.
9. Portosystemic shunt (PSS) In PSS, the blood supply that’s supposed to go to the liver is shunted or diverted, causing toxin buildup. If your Chihuahua isn’t growing properly or has seizures, ask your vet about this condition.

Named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, these pups originated there and may have developed from the Techichi, a tiny dog kept by the Toltecs as early as the ninth century. In an ironic twist, the Techichi dog was mute—something their Chihuahua relative isdefinitelynot.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized Chihuahuas as a breed in 1904, but it wasn’t until nearly a decade later when they became popular.

Beginning in the 1990s, with a series of Taco Bell commercials, Chihuahuas cemented a place in popular culture. Celebrities, too, began to be seen with these pups. And while all the attention might have seemed like a good thing, it also meant that some people saw these dogs as just a cute accessory or fad and not the deserving, multifaceted pups they truly are.

A Chihuahua puppy from a breeder costs anywhere from $500 to $1,500. If you choose to purchase a puppy,pick a responsible breeder.

There are also many Chihuahuas in shelters waiting for the perfect forever family. If you’re looking to adopt a Chihuahua, reach out to Chihuahua rescue organizations, keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter, or searchChewy’s database of adoptable dogsin your area. Your perfect (and petite!) match is out there.