Chihuahua

A Mesoamerican toy breed with probable roots in ancient Techichi-type dogs kept by the Toltec/Aztec peoples, the modern Chihuahua was developed in Mexico and popularized in North America in the late 19th–early 20th century. Selective breeding fixed a pocket-sized companion with a bold, watchful outlook. Today, Chihuahuas excel as loving companions and fun sport dogs (rally, agility at low jumps, tricks).

‍

A dainty, balanced toy with an apple-shaped head and bright, expressive eyes.

• Weight: Typically 2–6 lb (0.9–2.7 kg)
• Height: ~5–8 in (13–20 cm) at the shoulder
• Coat Type: Smooth Coat (short, close-lying) or Long Coat (soft, fine, with ear/tail/leg furnishings)
• Coat Colours: Any colour or pattern; markings vary
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Rounded “apple” skull, large mobile ears, fine bone, compact body, graceful prance, preference for warmth; some dogs retain a small open fontanel (“molera”)

‍

Low-maintenance overall; coat type dictates brushing routine—teeth are priority.

• Smooth Coat: Brush 1×/week with a rubber mitt; quick wipe-down between baths
• Long Coat: Brush/comb 2–3×/week (line-comb behind ears, armpits, breeches)
• Bathing: Every 3–6 weeks or as needed; fully dry Long Coat furnishings
• Teeth: Brush daily if possible (toy breeds are high-risk for periodontal disease)
• Nails/Ears: Trim nails every 2–3 weeks; clean ears weekly
• Seasonal Care: Sweaters/coats in Canadian winters; avoid prolonged sun on pale noses/ears
• Shedding: Smooth—low to moderate; Long—moderate, heavier seasonally

‍

Small body, decent motor—protect joints and trachea while staying active.

• Daily Duration: 30–45 minutes total (split short walks + indoor play/training)
• Great Activities: Trick training, scent games, fetch down hallways, low-jump agility, stroller breaks on long outings
• Suitability: Excellent for condos; use a harness (not collar) to protect the trachea

‍

Smart, sensitive, and eager to bond—keep sessions upbeat and tiny-dog friendly.

• Approach: Positive reinforcement; 3–8 minute sessions; gentle handling
• Focus Areas: House training with a schedule, mat/“place” for calm, quiet on cue (alert barkers), cooperative care (teeth/nails)
• Socialization: Early, kind exposure to people/dogs/surfaces; pair new sights with treats to prevent wariness
• Safety Skills: Harness acclimation, recall to a mat, “pick-up cue” before crowds or icy sidewalks

‍

Measure precisely—tiny dogs gain quickly.

• Food Type: High-quality toy/small-breed formula or balanced fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: ~¼–¾ cup/day total, split into two meals (adjust to weight/food)
• Puppies: Multiple small meals to avoid hypoglycemia
• Diet Advice: Keep BCS 4–5/9; count training treats; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/joints; fresh water always

‍

Choose transparency on size, dentition, and patellas—or consider rescue.

• Breeders: Seek CKC-affiliated preservation breeders who provide patella/eye results, discuss dentition, and offer lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Toy-breed/Chihuahua rescues often have adults/seniors—great for quieter homes
• Canadian Resources: CKC breeder directory; Chihuahua Club of Canada; local toy-breed, obedience, and trick clubs (ON/BC/QC/AB)

‍

Generally long-lived; dental and orthopedic care are key.

• Dental: Periodontal disease, retained baby teeth—daily brushing + vet dentals
• Orthopedic: Patellar luxation, Legg–Calvé–Perthes in some lines
• Respiratory/Neck: Tracheal collapse—use a harness, keep weight down
• Neuro/Developmental: Open fontanel (molera) in some; rare hydrocephalus—discuss with vet/breeder
• Cardiac: Mitral valve disease occurs in toy breeds—routine auscultation
• Eyes: Corneal injury/dry eye; watch for irritation in windy/cold weather
• Metabolic: Puppy hypoglycemia risk; manage with frequent meals
• Life Expectancy: 12–16+ years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Patellas, eyes (CAER); hips where available; share dentition/heart history in the line

‍

Are Chihuahuas good apartment dogs?
Yes—compact, people-focused, and satisfied with 30–45 minutes of daily activity.

Do Chihuahuas shed?
Yes. Smooth Coats: low–moderate. Long Coats: moderate with seasonal bursts—regular brushing helps.

Are Chihuahuas hypoallergenic?
No. They are not hypoallergenic.

How much exercise does a Chihuahua need?
About 30–45 minutes daily plus brain work (tricks, nose games).

Are Chihuahuas good with kids and other pets?
Best with gentle, dog-savvy kids; supervise due to fragility. Many live well with other pets after slow introductions.

Do Chihuahuas bark a lot?
They can be alert. Teach a reliable “quiet” and manage door/window triggers.

Smooth vs Long Coat—what’s different in grooming?
Smooth: weekly brush, lighter shed. Long: brush 2–3×/week, blow-dry after baths; expect more seasonal coat drop.

Are “teacup Chihuahuas” a thing?
“Teacup” is a marketing term, not a separate breed—extra-tiny dogs can carry higher health risks. Choose ethical breeders.

Do Chihuahuas have dental problems?
Often—crowded teeth lead to tartar. Daily brushing and periodic vet dentals are essential.

Should Chihuahuas wear collars?
Use a harness for walks to protect the trachea; keep ID on a lightweight collar or harness.

‍