Chihuahua

The Chihuahua sports a big attitude in a petite body. One of the most widely-recognized “purse dogs,” this toy breed rules homes and hearts with his loyalty, charm and confidence. 

Temperament of the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is often described as having a terrier-like attitude. Alert and confident with an air of self-importance, Chihuahuas are often described as tiny Napoleons. But it’s not all sass with this tiny dog. His loyalty and charm make him an ideal lap dog who loves to spend quality time with his family. 

Breed Characteristics

Charming, sassy and graceful, this delightful diva packs a big personality into a portable, diminutive frame. A favorite of city dwellers and celebrities, this popular “purse dog” is up for adventures with their people – so long as it isn’t too cold outside and there isn’t too much exercise involved.  

Though he loves spending time with his owner, he does require training. Without it, this king will try to reign over the entire household. 

Chihuahuas make excellent city pets, as they need little exercise and enjoy spending time on their owners’ laps. They are too small for the rough play of small kids, but are loyal and adaptable with many types of people, as long as they get quality time and affection. 

How Long Do Chihuahuas Live? 

This breed typically lives between 14 to 16 years. 

Colours

Chihuahuas come in a broad range of colors. In fact, the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) standard is any colour, solid, marked or splashed. 

Do Chihuahuas Shed?

The Chihuahua comes in two different varieties: smooth coat and long coat. Both types are medium shedders, with heavier shedding twice per year and moderate shedding during the rest of the year.   

Common Health Conditions

Chihuahuas are a generally healthy breed. They can suffer from some genetic issues, however, including heart problems, eye disease, epilepsy and loose kneecaps. When adopting a Chihuahua, it’s important to go to a reputable breeder. Additionally, as with all dogs, regular vet check-ups are recommended. 

Best Dog Food For Chihuahuas

When choosing a dog food for your Chihuahua, keep his size in mind and select a formula that will maintain his ideal body condition.  

Dog foods for Toy Breeds include:  

• Purina Pro Plan FOCUS Adult Small Breed Dog Food 

• Purina Pro Plan FOCUS Adult Small Breed Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dog Food

• Purina Pro Plan SAVOR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food

• Purina Pro Plan BRIGHT MIND Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food  

Best Dog Food For Chihuahua Puppies

Puppies of all breeds have specific nutritional needs, and Chihuahuas are no exception. Look for a puppy food with DHA to nourish brain and vision development. Formulas with antioxidants are also a good choice to support his developing immune system. 

Puppy food to consider for your Chihuahua puppy:  

• Purina Puppy Chow Complete with Real Chicken 

• Purina ONE SmartBlend Healthy Puppy Food

• Purina Pro Plan FOCUS Small Breed Puppy Food

History of the Breed

Dog trading was common across ancient cultures around the world, so it’s no surprise dogs like Chihuahuas are found on many different continents. It’s believed they descended from a larger breed called the Techichi, however. The Techichi was bred by the Toltec civilization in Mexico. When the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs in the 12th century, they refined the breed to create the lighter, smaller Chihuahua we know today.  

In the mid-1800s, Americans began to take interest in the breed and named it after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where it was commonly found. In 1908, the AKC registered the first Chihuahua, a male named Beppie, solidifying the Chihuahua’s transition into North American hearts and minds. 

Facts 

• The Chihuahua ranks #30 in popularity out of the 194 dog breeds recognized by the AKC.  
• The Chihuahuas are a minor-league baseball team located in El Paso, Texas. 
• The breed has been featured prominently in in movies like “Legally Blonde” and “Beverly Hills Chihuahua.”  
• Chihuahuas (or at least Chihuahua-like ancestors) were depicted in ancient Mexican paintings.  
• A Chihuahua starred in the ubiquitous “Yo Quiero Taco Bell” TV commercials of the late 1990s.