Chihuahuas may be tiny in size, but they’re packed with a personality that is sure to make their owner’s life and home more interesting. This is one of my favorite dog breeds, and I am also planning to own one, so I gather information from many of my friends who own this dog breed. I know that many people will be very interested to know about this breed, so I decided to write a detailed blog post about it based on the actual experiences of pet owners.
The Charm of Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas are also very intelligent dogs who make great competitors in various canine sports. If that isn’t enough, these dogs are also included among the top 10 watchdogs because of their big personalities. Their size often leads people to underestimate them, but their personality is anything but small. These dogs are known for their alertness, gracefulness, and loudness, which might remind you of a terrier’s personality. They have erect ears, expressive eyes, and coats that come in many colors. Chihuahuas are charming and confident, making them lovable companions.
Historical Background
Chihuahuas are often seen as the quintessential small dog, but their history is rich and interesting. They have originated from Mexico and their breed goes as far back as the 5th century, to the times of the Mayan civilization. The short-haired Chihuahuas, also known as smooth coat Chihuahuas, have been a part of Mexican culture for centuries. They are some of the smallest types of Chihuahuas with a very fine, smooth coat and an apple-domed skull.
The long-haired Chihuahuas, or rough coat Chihuahuas, have a longer, wavier coat and require regular grooming. They also have a rich history and were mentioned in a letter written by Christopher Columbus to the King of Spain. This breed gained popularity in America and was known as a Texas dog or an Arizona dog.
Long-Haired or Rough Coat Chihuahuas:
They have a longer coat that can take up to 24 months to fully develop. Their coats can be slightly wavy or flat and come in various colors, including fawn to black. Long-haired Chihuahuas weigh between 1.8 and 2.7 kilograms and also measure between 15 to 23 centimeters.
Some other types
Chihuahuas are classified into several types based on their coat and head shapes:
Short-Haired or Smooth Coat Chihuahuas: These Chihuahuas are likely the most common type you’ll see. They have short hair and are known for their streamlined appearance. They typically weigh between 1 and 3 kilograms and measure between 15 to 23 centimeters at the withers.
Apple Head Chihuahuas: These Chihuahuas have rounded, apple-shaped heads with a slightly shorter muzzle. They are recognized for their unique head shape and have a soft spot in their skull called a molera.
Deer Head Chihuahuas: These have heads that are more deer-like with slightly longer heads and no slope on their noses. They can grow slightly larger than apple head Chihuahuas and may be more stubborn and dominant.
Teacup Chihuahuas: Known for their extremely small size, Teacup Chihuahuas are said to fit into a teacup. They weigh less than five pounds and are no taller than nine inches.
Pear-Headed Chihuahuas: These are generally an undesirable type and occur when an apple-headed Chihuahua and a deer-headed Chihuahua breed. They have a skull that resembles a pear, with a wider apple-like top that narrows before flaring into a wider muzzle.
Fawn Chihuahuas: This term is used to describe Chihuahuas with a fawn-colored coat, which can range from brown to reddish brown. They may also have markings of different colors.
Personality and Care
Chihuahuas are lively, curious, and overly affectionate. They are capable of forming great bonds with people but can be nervous and shy around strangers. They have a feisty, confident, and courageous personality, making them alert and protective watchdogs.
They require careful handling due to their fragility. Chihuahuas are prone to injuries from falls or rough play and need to be supervised around larger animals or young children. They also require specific care, such as keeping them warm in colder weather with sweaters or coats, as they have difficulty maintaining their body temperature.
Training and Grooming
Chihuahuas need gentle training due to their nervous nature. They should be trained with patience and positive reinforcement rather than punishment. Regular grooming is necessary, especially for long-haired Chihuahuas who need brushing at least once a week. Short-haired Chihuahuas require occasional brushing. Both types need regular dental care, nail trimming, and checks for skin, eyes, and ears.
Considerations for Potential Owners
Owning a Chihuahua comes with its set of challenges. They are not recommended for homes with other dog breeds or young children due to their delicate nature and potential for injury. They also have a tendency to bark frequently, making them less suitable for noise-restricted environments. Their long lifespan, ranging from 12 to 20 years, requires a long-term commitment.
10 Reasons You Should Avoid Getting a Chihuahua
Do not get a chihuahua if you cannot give them extra care.
Due to their small size, chihuahuas are inherently delicate, requiring extra caution. Even a minor fall, such as from a couch, can lead to severe injuries, so you need to keep a close watch on them and assist them when necessary. When in public, ensure they stay away from larger dogs or animals to avoid potential attacks.
Chihuahuas are not recommended for homes with other dog breeds.
While it is feasible for a chihuahua to live with another dog breed, it is not advisable as the larger dog may accidentally injure the tiny chihuahua during play. Chihuahuas are better off living with other chihuahuas. Additionally, if you have cats, think twice about getting a chihuahua, as their large, protruding eyes can be vulnerable to injury from cat claws during play.
Do not get a chihuahua if you live in a noisy environment.
Chihuahuas are among the top 10 watchdog breeds for a reason—they are very vocal when they sense something unusual or when someone approaches your home. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they may bark excessively. They are smart enough to learn the “quiet” command, and providing them with toys can help keep them occupied, though it won’t completely stop them from barking. Therefore, chihuahuas are not suitable for homes with noise restrictions or for families living close to their neighbors.
Do not get a chihuahua if you cannot maintain their health.
Like other purebred dogs, chihuahuas are prone to specific health issues such as patellar luxation, mitral valve disease, hypoglycemia, allergies, and epilepsy. Their small legs and knees make them fragile, so be cautious when they want to sit on the couch with you. They also have a weak skeletal system, so high-impact exercises should be avoided. We recommend checking local shelters before purchasing from a breeder, as chihuahuas’ popularity sometimes leads to neglect. If you decide to buy, choose a responsible breeder who screens for breed-specific health issues to ensure you get a healthy dog and minimize veterinary visits. Regular vet check-ups will still be necessary.
Do not get a chihuahua if you cannot keep them warm.
Chihuahuas lack the ability to regulate their body temperature and prefer warm climates over cold ones. In winter, you need to keep them warm with jackets, sweaters, or thick clothing. If you have a fireplace, providing a cozy spot for them will help keep them comfortable.
Do not get a chihuahua if you cannot dedicate time to grooming them.
Chihuahuas come in two coat types: smooth and long-haired. The smooth coat requires occasional brushing, while the long-haired variety needs weekly brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Bathing should be done as needed, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. Additionally, brush their teeth frequently to avoid bacteria buildup and check their skin, eyes, and ears for any signs of issues. While chihuahuas have minimal grooming needs compared to other breeds, if grooming seems overwhelming, reconsider getting a dog.
Do not get a chihuahua if you cannot provide gentle training.
Chihuahuas are often nervous and should be trained with kindness. Avoid punishing them, as harsh treatment can lead to excessive barking and behavioral problems. Instead, use rewards and praise to encourage good behavior. Chihuahuas are intelligent, so they will learn commands quickly if training sessions are kept short and engaging.
Do not get a chihuahua if you want a dog that shows equal affection to all family members.
Although chihuahuas will respect everyone in their pack, they often show more affection to one particular family member. If you want a dog that is affectionate toward everyone, you might want to choose a different breed. Chihuahuas can also be reserved around strangers and may act aggressively if they feel threatened, so supervision is important when they are outside.
Do not get a chihuahua if you live with young children.
Chihuahuas are prone to injury from rough handling, making them unsuitable for homes with young children who may not handle them gently. While they may get along with toddlers, rough play can lead to injuries and defensive behavior. Always supervise interactions between young children and chihuahuas to prevent harm.
Do not get a chihuahua if you are not ready for a long-term commitment.
Smaller breeds like chihuahuas often have longer lifespans, typically ranging from 12 to 20 years. Adopting a chihuahua means committing to a long-term companion who will need daily love and care. Include them in family activities and travel with them when possible. Their small size makes them easy to transport in a car, but ensure that your destination is pet-friendly.
Final Words
Chihuahuas may be small in stature, but they are large in personality and charm. They offer a unique blend of traits that can make them excellent pets for the right owner. Their rich history, diverse physical characteristics, and vibrant personalities make them stand out in the world of dog breeds. If you can handle their specific needs and quirks, a Chihuahua could be a wonderful addition to your home.
FAQ: Why Long-Haired Chihuahuas Make Great Pets
Q: Are long-haired Chihuahuas good pets for people who live in apartments?
A: Yes. Long-haired Chihuahuas are small and can adapt well to apartment living.
Q: Do long-haired Chihuahuas require a lot of grooming?
A: Yes. Long-haired Chihuahuas need regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles in their coat.
Q: Can long-haired Chihuahuas get along well with children?
A: Yes. Long-haired Chihuahuas can be affectionate and gentle with children, but they should still be supervised.
Q: Are long-haired Chihuahuas prone to health problems?
A: Yes. Like all Chihuahuas, long-haired ones can have health issues such as patellar luxation and dental problems.
Q: Do long-haired Chihuahuas need a lot of exercise?
A: No. Long-haired Chihuahuas don’t require extensive exercise and can get their needed activity with short walks and playtime.
Q: Is it difficult to train long-haired Chihuahuas?
A: No. Long-haired Chihuahuas are intelligent and can be trained easily with positive reinforcement methods.
Q: Can long-haired Chihuahuas tolerate cold weather?
A: No. Long-haired Chihuahuas may need extra warmth, such as dog sweaters, in cold weather because they can be sensitive to the cold.
Q: Are long-haired Chihuahuas a good choice for first-time dog owners?
A: Yes. Long-haired Chihuahuas are relatively easy to care for and make good pets for first-time owners.
Q: Do long-haired Chihuahuas need to be socialized from a young age?
A: Yes. Socialization from a young age is important for long-haired Chihuahuas to help them become well-adjusted pets.
Q: Are long-haired Chihuahuas high-maintenance pets?
A: No. While they do need regular grooming, their maintenance is manageable and they do not require excessive care.
