Table of Contents
Chihuahua Information
The Chihuahua, also known as the Chihuahueño in Spanish, hails from Mexico and takes its name from the state of Chihuahua. Among the tiniest of dog breeds, these little companions are often cherished as pets or admired in dog shows. Despite their small stature, they carry a lively and spirited presence.
History
DNA research suggests that native American dogs first crossed into North America from Siberia about 10,000 years ago. For nearly 9,000 years, these early dogs were isolated until European settlers arrived. These pre-contact dogs had a distinctive genetic makeup, which has mostly disappeared over time. However, a 2020 study of ancient dog genomes revealed that traces of this ancestral lineage persist—approximately 4% in Chihuahuas and 3% in Xoloitzcuintlis.
Historical records from the colonial era describe small, nearly hairless dogs around the early 1800s. Some even suggest that sixteenth-century conquistadors encountered them in abundance in the region now known as Chihuahua. In a letter dated 1520, Hernán Cortés mentioned that the Aztecs bred and sold these tiny dogs as a food source.
Characteristics
Chihuahuas are recognized as the smallest dog breed by some kennel clubs. Their breed standards, set by registries, highlight the “apple-head” or “apple-dome” skull shape, characterized by large, round eyes and prominent, erect ears on a dramatically rounded head. The muzzle meets the skull at a sharply defined angle, almost 90 degrees. While “deer” type Chihuahuas, with flatter heads, more spaced-out eyes, larger ears, and longer legs, are still recognized, their divergence from the apple-head standard is considered a fault in competitions.
Breed standards generally don’t specify height, only weight and overall proportions. Typically, Chihuahuas stand between 6 and 9 inches (15-23 cm), although some can grow as tall as 12 to 15 inches (30-38 cm). For show purposes, both British and American standards limit their weight to no more than 5.9 pounds (2.7 kg). The British standard prefers a range of 4 to 6 pounds (1.8-2.7 kg) and previously favored smaller dogs in competition, though this clause was removed in 2009. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale, which governs breed standards globally, suggests an ideal weight between 1.5 and 3.0 kg (3.3-6.6 pounds), though smaller dogs are also allowed in competitions.
Pet Chihuahuas, especially those bred as companions, often exceed these weights, some reaching over 10 pounds (4.5 kg) due to larger bone structures or being overweight. These heavier Chihuahuas may not meet the standards for conformation shows, but they can still be purebred. Chihuahuas don’t consistently breed true to size, meaning puppies from the same litter can vary greatly in size. Larger females are often preferred for breeding to reduce the risk of dystocia, a complication during labor. Despite this, some breeders strive to produce smaller “teacup” Chihuahuas, as they tend to fetch higher prices.
The merle coat pattern, which has a mottled appearance, has been disqualified by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale due to health concerns linked to the gene responsible for the pattern. In 2007, The Kennel Club followed suit, first halting the registration of merle-colored puppies, and later officially amending the breed standard to exclude merle Chihuahuas from competition.
Health
Chihuahuas are genetically predisposed to several neurological diseases, including atlantoaxial instability, ceroid lipofuscinosis, congenital deafness, hydrocephalus, muscular dystrophy, necrotizing meningoencephalitis, and neuroaxonal dystrophy. Additionally, they have a mild susceptibility to congenital heart disease. However, a 2001 radiographic study on canine periodontal disease found that Chihuahuas had the lowest incidence among the six breeds examined.
One of the more significant health concerns for the breed is a predisposition to medial patellar luxation, a condition affecting the knee joint.
In terms of life expectancy, studies have shown varying results. A 2018 study in Japan found that Chihuahuas had an average lifespan of 11.8 years, while crossbreeds lived longer at 15.1 years, with an overall average of 13.7 years. A 2022 UK study using veterinary data showed a lower average life expectancy for Chihuahuas at 7.91 years compared to 11.82 years for crossbreeds. However, a 2024 UK study showed a life expectancy of 11.8 years for Chihuahuas, compared to 12.7 years for purebreds and 12 years for crossbreeds. Meanwhile, a 2024 Italian study reported an average lifespan of 8.5 years for the breed, with a general average of 10 years for dogs overall.
Chihuahua females (bitches) are also at a higher risk of experiencing dystocia, a complication during labor, with one UK study showing they are more than 10.4 times more likely to face this issue compared to other breeds.
Behavior and Training Tips for Chihuahuas
Chihuahua Personality and Temperament
Chihuahuas can be either devoted lap dogs, lively bundles of energy, or a mix of both. In fact, the official breed standard describes them as having a “saucy expression.”
These loyal and playful dogs often have a big attitude despite their small size. Some are bold and curious, while others may be shy or timid, but they are generally affectionate and loving with their family. Chihuahuas can experience social anxiety when meeting new people or animals and tend to bark when introduced to strangers.
When properly introduced in a controlled setting, Chihuahuas can do well with children and other pets. However, due to their tiny size, it’s important to supervise interactions with children to prevent accidental injuries.
Chihuahua Behavior
The Chihuahua’s petite size makes them easy to take along wherever you go, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. Because they are frequently carried around and taken to various places, Chihuahuas can develop separation anxiety quite easily.
To help mitigate this stress, it’s beneficial to create a safe space for your Chihuahua at home, such as a cozy dog crate, and provide them with plenty of interactive toys.
Despite their small stature, Chihuahuas are energetic dogs that need ample playtime and activity. Daily exercise, including walks and indoor play, is essential for maintaining their physical and mental well-being.
Chihuahua Training
Chihuahuas are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and desire to please their owners. However, their strong-willed nature can sometimes complicate training, requiring a patient trainer who employs positive reinforcement techniques.
This determined temperament can also make house training more challenging compared to other breeds. Using food rewards is highly effective and is often met with enthusiasm, but be cautious about their calorie intake!
When bringing home a Chihuahua puppy, it’s essential to start socializing them right away. Introduce them to new people, animals, and various situations to help your little dog grow into a calm and confident adult throughout their life.
Chihuahua Grooming
Grooming Chihuahuas is relatively straightforward. However, their small size makes them prone to getting cold, so they often enjoy wearing doggy sweaters, being wrapped in warm blankets, or donning coats to help regulate their body temperature.
Coat Care
Chihuahuas can have either short or long coats, available in various colors such as black, white, and brown. Short-haired Chihuahuas require brushing about once a week to manage their moderate shedding. In contrast, long-haired Chihuahuas need more frequent grooming—approximately two to three times a week—and regular de-shedding of their undercoat. Depending on their outdoor activity levels, they may benefit from a bath once or twice a month.
Eye Care
Chihuahuas have large eyes that can become teary, so it’s advisable to wipe them once or twice a week to remove any excess tearing or discharge. For long-haired Chihuahuas, professional grooming may be necessary to trim the hair around their eyes, which can lead to irritation if left unchecked.
Ear Care
The Chihuahua’s ears are pricked, allowing oxygen to flow in easily, which reduces their likelihood of developing moisture-related ear infections compared to floppy-eared breeds. Consequently, you may not need to clean their ears very often, if at all.
Dental Care
The most critical aspect of a Chihuahua’s grooming routine is dental care. Their teeth should be brushed daily to help prevent dental disease and maintain good oral hygiene.
References
- FCI-Standard N° 218: Chihuahueño (Chihuahua). Fédération Cynologique Internationale. Accessed October 2022.
- Kim Dennis-Bryan (2020 [2012]). The Complete Dog Breed Book, second edition. London: Dorling Kindersley. ISBN 9780241412732.
- “Official Standard of the Chihuahua” (PDF). akc.org. The American Kennel Club. October 1, 2008. p. 2. Retrieved June 19, 2024. Color: Any color – Solid, marked, or splashed.
- “CHIHUAHUEÑO” (PDF). fci.be. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale. October 4, 2019. p. 5. Retrieved June 19, 2024. Colour: All colors in all possible shades and combinations are admitted, except merle color.
- “The 25 Smallest Dog Breeds”. American Kennel Club. Retrieved January 26, 2021.
- Ní Leathlobhair, Máire; et al. (July 6, 2018). “The evolutionary history of dogs in the Americas”. Science, 361 (6397): 81–85. Bibcode:2018Sci…361…81N. doi:10.1126/science.aao4776. PMC 7116273. PMID 29976825. S2CID 206663458.
- Bergström, Anders; et al. (2020). “Origins and genetic legacy of prehistoric dogs”. Science, 370 (6516): 557–564. doi:10.1126/science.aba9572. PMC 7116352. PMID 33122379. S2CID 225956269.
- Pedro Baptista Pino y Juan Lopez Cancelada. Exposición sucinta y sencilla de la Provincia del Nuevo México y otros escritos. Ed. Jesús Paniagua Pérez. Valladolid: Junta de Castilla / León: Universidad de León, 2007, p. 244: “Even in the desert, the tiny dogs could be found, hunting rats, mice, and lizards.” The footnote refers to starving Conquistadors reportedly hunting and stewing the dogs (Universidad Veracruzana, Arquivo Viejo, XXVI.2711).
- “Hernán Cortés: From Second Letter to Charles V, 1520”. Fordham University. Archived from the original on August 23, 2014. Retrieved March 25, 2014.
- Coile, C. (2013). Chihuahuas: Everything about purchase, care, nutrition, behavior, and training. Hauppauge, NY: Barron’s Educational Series, p. 7: “Only in 1904 did the American Kennel Club (AKC) register its first Chihuahua; a total of five were registered that year.”
FAQ’s about chihuahua
1. What is the origin of the Chihuahua breed?
The Chihuahua is believed to have originated in Mexico, where it was likely bred from the Techichi, a companion dog of the ancient Toltec civilization. The breed was discovered in the Mexican state of Chihuahua in the mid-1800s, from which it gets its name.
2. How big do Chihuahuas get?
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds, typically weighing between 2 to 6 pounds (0.9 to 2.7 kg). They stand about 5 to 8 inches (12.7 to 20 cm) tall at the shoulder.
3. What is the lifespan of a Chihuahua?
Chihuahuas have a relatively long lifespan for dogs, typically living between 12 to 20 years, with proper care.
4. Do Chihuahuas get along well with children?
Chihuahuas can be good with older, gentle children, but they may not be ideal for families with young, energetic kids. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured during rough play and may become defensive.
5. Are Chihuahuas easy to train?
Chihuahuas are intelligent, but they can be stubborn. Early training and socialization are important, and using positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise is often effective.
6. Do Chihuahuas shed a lot?
Chihuahuas shed moderately. They come in two coat types: smooth and long-haired. Smooth-coated Chihuahuas shed a bit more, but regular grooming can help manage shedding.
7. What kind of exercise does a Chihuahua need?
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are energetic and require regular exercise. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient to keep them healthy and happy.
8. Are Chihuahuas good for apartment living?
Yes, Chihuahuas adapt well to apartment living due to their small size. They don’t require a large space but do need daily mental and physical stimulation.
9. What health issues are common in Chihuahuas?
Chihuahuas are prone to certain health issues, such as heart problems, patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap), dental issues, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Regular vet check-ups are important to maintain their health.
10. Do Chihuahuas bark a lot?
Yes, Chihuahuas are known to be vocal and may bark frequently, especially if they feel threatened or are not properly socialized. Training can help reduce excessive barking.
