Chihuahua picture
Chihuahua

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Overview

The Chihuahua is graceful, small and compact; it is slightly longer than it is tall. It has a saucy expression and an alert, terrier-like attitude. It should move out at a swift pace with good reach and drive. Its coat can be smooth, with soft, glossy hair or long, with soft straight or wavy hair and fringed ears.

The saucy Chihuahua has earned its place as a favored toy dog because of its intense devotion to a single person. It is reserved with strangers but good with other household dogs and pets. Some try to be protective, but they are not very effective. Some may be quite bold; others may be timid. It is often temperamental. Some bark.

Size Small
Height 6-9 inches (15-23 cm)
Weight 2-6 pounds (1-3 kg)
Lifespan 14-18 years
Colors Black Black & Tan Chocolate Cream Fawn Red
Origin Mexico
Classification Purebred
Good Lapcat
Good In Apartments

They are good little dogs for apartment life. The Chihuahua likes warm weather and dislikes the cold. They need space just like any other dog. Because they are small does not mean they can be kept in a very small area.

Good With Children

Not Good with Kids: In isolation, this dog breed might not be the best option for kids. However, to mitigate the risks, have the puppy grow up with kids and provide it with plenty of pleasant and relaxed experiences with them. This breed is also friendly toward other pets and shy toward strangers.

Good With Dogs

Good With Cats

Exercise Needs

Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures about, these are active little dogs that need a daily walk. Play can take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display a wide array of behavior problems, as well as neurotic issues. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard.

Trainability

Moderately Easy Training: Although they are usually not trained because of their small size, Chihuahuas are eager to learn. The Chihuahua may require patience and effort to housebreak; for this reason they are sometimes only paper trained.

Affectionate

Playfulness

Grooming Requirements

Low Maintenance: They really need very little grooming due to their short hair. The Long Coat Chihuahua also needs occasional brushing but still requires minimal grooming. Their small nails should be trimmed regularly to avoid overgrowth and cracking. Their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris which can result in an infection. Providing hard bones and chew toys will help strengthen gums and remove tartar. Teeth should be brushed regularly.

Shedding

Minimal Shedding: This dog will shed a negligible amount. Recommended for owners who do not want to deal with dog hair in their cars and homes.

Vocalization/Barking

Frequent

Chihuahua Pictures