Chihuahuas
During these hard times, if you need somebody to be there for you, click on this link to find a local Animal Shelter Near You.
During these hard times, if you need somebody to be there for you, click on this link to find a local Animal Shelter Near You.
Happy, Graceful, Sassy
5-8 inches
Less than 6 pounds
14-16 years
Any high-quality dog food will work, but make sure to cater to the dogs likes and needs to keep it healthy. Avoid giving too many treats or table scraps as Chihuahuas are more susceptible to be obese and obesity impacts them more than other breeads. Avoid larger foods and foods with bones due to their small size.
Trainable as they seek people's approval and enjoy getting rewarded with food for completing a certain task. However, they are typically independent so make sure you are in charge as early as possible. Teaching good habits early will prevent bad habits later in their lives.
Requires a moderate amount of exercise. However this exercise is not high intensity as it can be as simple as walking. Due to the breeds small size it is easy to get exercise. They can exercise in very small spaces. If they get tired during a walk you can always pick them up and take them home.
Grooming is low maintenance with this breed. If it has a smooth coat, it only occasionaly needs brushing and baths. If it is has a long haired coat, then it needs brused and a bath once a week. It needs it's nails trimmed reguarly though due to it's small size.
Make sure to get a genetic screening as Chihuahuas can be affected by heart problems, eye disease, loose kneecaps, and even Idiopathic epilepsy. Make sure to keep them warm as their small size leaves them vulnerable. Make sure kids are being kind too it as it is to small to be roughhoused with.
Chihuahuas are a national staple of Mexico and are typically refered to as "Purse Dogs" due to their size. They are typically pretty quick and move around with grace. These dogs also tend to be independent and tend to know exactly just how cute they are. They have an apple shaped head and fully erect ears. They come in all sorts of different colors with two different coats. They typicaly love to be played with but also love to lay next to it's owner or in it's owners lap.