Small, but mighty! The Mexican Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. The size of the Chihuahua is between 15 and 35 centimeters shoulder height. With a maximum of three kilos, the weight of the Chihuahua is also handy. However, Chihuahuas are by no means suitable for being carried in the handbag: The mini dog wants action, as befits its bright nature!

Mysterious origin

The origin of the Chihuahua lies in the fog of the past. The breeding of very small dogs as sacrificial and edible animals is said to have already existed among the Toltecs, a Central American high culture with a heyday between the tenth and twelfth centuries. Another theory suspects the origin in the older Aztec culture or even in ancient Egypt. Much later, descendants of the Mexican indigenous population sold small puppies to tourists in the province of Chihuahua. This is how the tiny dog came to the USA and started its career there, since 1905 even as a recognized pedigree dog. A distinction is made between the long-legged Derry and the stronger Cobby type. Both types occur as long-haired and short-haired variants.

What does a Chihuahua look like?

The Chihuahua is a compact, small dog that has an apple-shaped head with large, expressive eyes. Its ears are large, erect with a wide base. When fully grown, the Chihuahua reaches a shoulder height of 15 to 25 centimeters (in some cases up to 35 centimeters) and a weight of between 1.5 and three kilograms. Nowadays, the Chihuahua is available in the fur variants longhair and shorthair, with the short-haired Chihuahua being the original form. Unlike the short-haired variant, long-haired Chihuahuas have longer hair, especially on the chest, ears, legs, tail and backs. The coat of the long-haired Chihuahuas can be smooth or slightly wavy. Apart from the length of the coat, there are also two body types in the Chihuahua. The so-called cobby type is characterized by a compact, strong stature, while the derry type has longer legs.

According to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), all coat colours in all shades and combinations are allowed for the Chihuahua, with the exception of merle. Possible colour variants include, for example, cream, chocolate or red.

Character of the Chihuahua: Is a Chihuahua a yapper?

The Chihuahua has very diverse character traits. The little bundle of temperament is playful and cuddly towards its humans. The Chihuahua skilfully knows how to push itself to the fore when it does not feel sufficiently noticed. The character of the Chihuahua is sociable and enterprising. It has a strong pack behavior and feels comfortable with other dogs at its side. Typical of the character is a certain overestimation of one’s own abilities, which he shows in his behavior towards other dogs, according to the motto: If you are small, you still have guts! In addition, the Chihuahua is an intelligent dog and wants to be mentally challenged accordingly.

However, there are differences in character: While long-haired Chihuahuas are rather gentle and agreeable, the short-haired Chihuahuas often behave energetically and try to take over the leadership position. The different traits can be explained by the fact that Chihuahuas were probably mated with dwarf Spitz and Papillons in the past to create Chihuahuas with longer coats. Nevertheless, it is not the length of the coat that determines the character of a Chihuahua. Each specimen has its own individual character and so a short-haired Chihuahua can also be gentler and more balanced in its species than a long-haired Chihuahua.

Many people believe that Chihuahuas are little yappers. With the right upbringing, however, you will make a significant contribution to ensuring that your Chihuahua does not become a yapper.

ProfileChihuahua

Is a Chihuahua difficult to train?

Like any other dog breed, the Chihuahua has special characteristics that must be taken into account when training. Good dog training contributes to a pleasant and relaxed coexistence between you and your Chihuahua and should start when your Chihuahua is still a puppy. It is important that you behave consistently when training your dog and practice regularly with him so that he can optimally internalize what he has learned and react as you have rehearsed together, even when distracted. After all,
your dog will have contact with other dogs and people, including children, in the course of his life. He will accompany you in everyday life, for example to shopping, restaurants or on vacation. But you certainly want to be able to leave him alone at home without having to worry about him or the home furnishings. Therefore, it is important that you can rely on your Chihuahua and that he is not afraid of other people, animals, loud noises, unknown situations or the like. It is also important that he does not react aggressively in everyday situations and can always rely on you as the leader of the pack.

nickpo/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

How do I keep a Chihuahua?

As tiny as the Chihuahua is, it is a normal dog that you have to take seriously as such. The small four-legged friend does not differ from larger conspecifics in its behaviors and needs. Nevertheless, its petiteness requires a certain sensitivity: Make sure that the little one is not harmed by too tight grips or unintentional kicks in crowds. A chest harness is also preferable to a collar to prevent injuries. The Chihuahua needs attention: If he doesn’t get enough, he reacts jealously. His lively nature makes the little bundle of energy the ideal companion if you can offer him plenty of exercise and an exciting dog entertainment program. City dwellers still benefit from the small format. Chihuahuas also feel comfortable in an apartment – provided that exercise and play are not neglected. The Chihuahua is almost tireless outdoors, willing to learn and, despite its size, also well suited for agility sports.

How long can you leave a Chihuahua alone?

Especially at the beginning, many dogs react stressed when they are left alone. Therefore, you should practice being alone with your Chihuahua at an early age. If an adult Chihuahua is used to being alone, you can leave him alone at home for a few hours. However, make sure that he can keep himself busy if necessary, for example by offering him a chewing stick or something similar or by making sure that someone checks on him in between and goes outside with him. To check what your Chihuahua is doing in your absence or how he is doing, you can keep an eye on him when he is out and about, for example with a camera.
But even if your Chihuahua is used to being alone, you should not leave him unattended for too long. If your Chihuahua regularly has to stay alone for six hours or more, it is advisable to look for a dog sitter.

Caring for the Chihuahua

A Chihuahua enjoys the full grooming program. You should brush his silky coat regularly and take this opportunity to give your dog wellness. A soft baby brush is ideal for the delicate coat. In the cold season, the best way to protect your Chihuahua from the cold and wet is with a dog coat. Also pay attention to the eyes, which tend to tear. Ideally, the veterinarian of your choice has experience with small dogs. The Chihuahua tends to have problems with the big eyes and tartar. Offer him dental care chews regularly.

How old do Chihuahuas get?

The life expectancy of a Chihuahua is about 16 years and is usually higher the larger the animal. Particularly inadmissible breeding variants such as mini Chihuahuas often have to deal with health problems that can affect their life expectancy.

Buying a Chihuahua: What should you consider?

If you are thinking about buying a Chihuahua puppy, contact a reputable Chihuahua breeder in advance. Make sure that he treats his dogs responsibly and is competent to answer any questions you may have about the breed. However, you also have the option of taking over a Chihuahua from private individuals who have to give up their four-legged friend for personal or health reasons. You can also purchase a Chihuahua or Chihuahua mix through an animal shelter or animal welfare organization.

There is an even smaller version of the already small Chihuahua – the so-called mini Chihuahua or Teacup Chihuahua. These are smaller and lighter than the “original”. However, reputable breeders do not breed with such small Chihuahuas, as this is associated with an increased risk of hereditary diseases. As a result, these dogs may expect a painful life or an early death. The Mini Chihuahua is therefore not an official dog breed. What’s more, according to the breeding regulations of the Association for the German Canine Society (VDH), the breeding of so-called Teacup dogs is prohibited. For example, it stipulates that only dogs that weigh at least two kilograms may be bred. Teacup dogs, however, often weigh less. It is therefore not advisable to buy a deliberately small-bred mini Chihuahua.

How much does a Chihuahua cost?

How much a Chihuahua costs cannot be said in general. The price depends not least on whether you get your dog from a breeder or through animal welfare. Basically, a dog from a reputable breeder can cost 1,000 euros and more, while for a dog from the shelter you only pay a nominal fee, which is on average about 200 to 300 euros. It is always important that you get your four-legged friend from a reputable source.

You should also check out these small dog breeds:

• Bichon Frisé: Lovable fuzzy from the Canary Islands
• Bolonka Zwetna: Charming sunshine with a lot of power.
• Bolognese: From the lapdog of the nobility to the cheerful family companion.
• Chinese Crested Dog: Cheerful mini sleuth with an extravagant look.
• Japan Chin: Adorable companion dog in handbag format.
• Lion: Mini lion with heart and charm.
• Pekingese: Charming companion dog with an idiosyncratic character.
• Pomsky: The lovable miniature husky from America.
• Shih Tzu: The fuzzy temple dog from the “roof of the world”.
• Miniature Poodle: Shrewd clown with many talents.