Back to Breeds

Small breed

Chihuahua Puppies

Tiny companion with a big heart

  • Great with kids
  • Lap dog
  • Sticks by your side
  • Alert watchdog
  • Adult weight 2–6 lbs
  • Height 6–9 in
  • Lifespan 12–20 years
  • Exercise 30 min a day
Small, tan Chihuahua with large ears, standing alert and confident 3 available now

Available Chihuahua Puppies

About the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua, with its spirited personality and petite size, is a breed that has captured the hearts of many. Originating from Mexico, these little companions have a rich history that traces back to ancient civilizations, where they were cherished as lively and loving pets. Today, Chihuahuas are beloved everywhere, making them ideal for families and individuals alike. Their affectionate nature means they thrive on human interaction, forming strong bonds with their owners and often becoming a delightful lap warmer.

Read more about the Chihuahua Show less

With a moderate energy level, Chihuahuas are perfectly suited for apartment living, as they are quite adaptable and enjoy curling up in cozy corners just as much as they love a good romp in the park. While they may be small, their personalities are anything but, often characterized by a bold and confident demeanor. When properly socialized, they can coexist well with children, other dogs, and even cats, making them versatile family members who can fit into various lifestyles. Just remember, they can be quite vocal, so expect some spirited barking when they’re excited or alerting you to the world around them.

Grooming a Chihuahua is a breeze, requiring just a monthly brushing to keep their coat looking its best. Although they shed moderately, the maintenance for this breed is generally manageable. Their intelligence makes them relatively easy to train, especially when positive reinforcement is utilized. With their affectionate nature, they are eager to please and respond well to commands, especially if treats are involved. For families seeking a small dog with a big heart, the Chihuahua is a fantastic choice that will bring joy and companionship into any home, whether in Furrylicious® or beyond.

Chihuahua breed profile

Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.

Temperament

  • Affection Devoted
  • Playfulness Very playful
  • With strangers Warms up
  • Territorial Territorial
  • Prey drive Low

Family & other pets

  • Young children With supervision
  • Older children Good
  • Other dogs Usually fine
  • Cats With introductions

Energy & exercise

  • Energy High
  • Mental stimulation High

Training

  • Trainability Willing learner
  • Intelligence Bright
  • Stubbornness Stubborn

Care & upkeep

  • Shedding Light
  • Drooling None to speak of
  • Barking Vocal

Home life

  • Apartment living Well suited
  • Time alone A few hours
  • Cold weather Needs a coat
  • Warm weather Comfortable

A good match for

  • First-time owners Good first dog
  • Senior owners Good
  • Running partner Not suited
  • Hiking Not suited
  • Therapy work Unlikely
  • Guarding Low

Living with a Chihuahua

Temperament & Family Fit

Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities packed into small bodies. They tend to bond closely with their families, showing affection and loyalty like no other breed. While they can be a bit bossy, they often adapt well within a household that includes young kids and even other pets.

Energy & Exercise

Though Chihuahuas are small, their energy levels can be surprisingly high. They enjoy short bursts of playtime and appreciate daily walks to keep their spirits high. Living in an apartment? No problem, as they can thrive in small spaces with the right amount of exercise.

Care & Grooming

Caring for a Chihuahua is relatively easy, with monthly grooming being sufficient to keep their coat looking great. They shed a moderate amount, making them manageable for most households. Just be sure to keep an eye on their dental health, as small breeds can be prone to dental issues.

Training Notes

Training a Chihuahua can be an enjoyable experience, as they are quite smart and eager to please. However, their rebellious streak can sometimes show, so consistency is key. With patience and positive reinforcement, you will find that these little furballs can learn new tricks and manners quite well.

Caring for a Chihuahua

Grooming
Monthly brushing
Grooming cost
Low
Monthly food
Low
Outdoor space
Manages without a yard
Allergy friendly
Not considered hypoallergenic

Chihuahua Video

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Chihuahuas good for families with young kids?

Chihuahuas can be good companions for families with young children, but it's important to supervise their interactions. They tend to be affectionate and love to be part of family activities. However, their small size means they can be easily injured, so teaching kids how to handle them gently is key.

How much exercise do Chihuahuas need?

Chihuahuas have a moderate energy level and enjoy short walks and playtime, but they do not require extensive exercise. A few short walks each day and some indoor play can keep them happy and healthy. Their playful nature makes it easy to incorporate fun activities into your daily routine.

Do Chihuahuas get along with other pets?

Chihuahuas can get along with other dogs and cats, but their individual personalities play a big role in this. They are generally social and can adapt well to living with other animals, especially when introduced properly. Gradual introductions and positive reinforcement can help them bond.

Are Chihuahuas suitable for apartment living?

Yes, Chihuahuas are excellent apartment dogs due to their small size and adaptability. They don't need a lot of space and can thrive in various living situations. Just make sure to provide them with regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy.

How often do Chihuahuas need grooming?

Chihuahuas have a relatively low grooming frequency, typically requiring grooming only once a month. Regular brushing can help minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy. Plus, their grooming sessions can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your furry friend.

Similar Breeds