Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.
Your Pet, Our Passion.

Chihuahua (Smooth Coat)

The Chihuahua dog breed is rapidly becoming one of the most popular and is often depicted as the glamourous companion of celebrities. But there’s more than meets the eye beyond just cute looks, as the Chihuahua is highly intelligent and boasts a big personality. Plus, the Chihuahua lifespan extends to 18 years, one of the longest lifespans among dogs. 

Lifespan
10–18 years
Weight
1.8–2.7kg
Height
15–23cm
Colours
The Chihuahua has two coat types: short-haired and long-haired and comes in a variety of colours including solid colours such as: black; white; fawn; chocolate; grey or silver and tricolours such as: chocolate, black or blue with tan and white. They may also be spotted; brindle; merle as well as other markings
Size
Small
Kennel Club Group
Toy
The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Basic training required
  • Need to be aware of potential health issues
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Needs under an hour of walking a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Barks, alerts and may be physically protective/suspicious of visitors
  • Could have issues with unknown dogs but gets along with known dogs
  • May need additional training to live with other pets
  • May need additional supervision to live with children
  • Needs a small garden
  • Can happily live in the city
  • Can be left occasionally with training
This breed may encounter health problems

As with many small breeds, the Chihuahua can suffer from:
- Patellar luxation
- Legg-Perthes disease
- Tracheal collapse
- Hydrocephalus which is a condition where fluid builds up around the brain and can cause damage.
- Patent ductus arteriosus which is where dogs are built with an extra vessel which can cause problem.
- Mitral valve disease which is where the heart valves become diseased and don't work properly.
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) which is a painful condition where the tear gland stops working properly. 
- Dental problems including decay and tooth loss.

Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing: 
None but there are several recommended schemes that the Kennel Club recommends which can be found here

Chihuahua Appearance

The Chihuahua is a dainty, compact dog and the smallest of all dog breeds. They have a domed skull, short and pointed muzzles, and large ears that are pricked up. As for the Chihuahua colours, they range from light ones as white or fawn to darker ones as black or chocolate.  

Chihuahua Personality

The Chihuahua tends to bond closely with one or two people, with whom they will be curious, lively and intelligent, as well as deeply and constantly affectionate. However, without adequate socialisation, the breed will not take kindly to strangers and can appear nervous, yappy, and even snappy. Chihuahuas must be socialised as early as possible, or they will become anxious in new environments and will not get along with strangers, children, and other household pets. 

The Chihuahua dog breed will suit an owner who may have little space in their homes, but still want a lively, affectionate companion who will be able to come everywhere with them, as this is not a dog who is easily able to tolerate owner absences. 

Chihuahua Fun Facts

  • The Chihuahua is famous for being the smallest dog in the world. 
  • Their popularity has soared recently as the preferred and pampered pet of celebrities, and this has led to irresponsible breeding. 

  • Chihuahuas shiver a lot, but that doesn’t always mean they’re cold, they also do it when they’re excited or scared too! 

  • The current smallest dog living is a Chihuahua called Milly, standing at just 9.65cm tall! 

  • In terms of brain size in comparison to body, the Chihuahua has the biggest brain of all dog breeds. 

FAQs 

How long do Chihuahuas live? 

You'll be happy to know that these little guys usually have long lives ahead of them. The average Chihuahua lifespan is between 12-18 years. Many Chihuahuas live to see their 18th birthday, and some of them even get to the age of 20. Although their impressive longevity doesn't mean they won't develop health issues, owners can look forward to many years spent together with their loyal companion. 

Do Chihuahuas shed? 

Yes, Chihuahuas do shed their fur throughout the year, but in moderation. Shedding allows for a new, more protective fur to replace the old one, so it's an important part of a Chihuahua's health and wellbeing. Given their small size, shedding in Chihuahuas is unlikely to create extra demanding chores for their owners. But regular brushing is important in keeping their fur under control. 

Why do Chihuahuas bark so much? 

Chihuahuas are little balls of energy that need to be kept constantly busy. If boredom starts to take over, these dogs are not shy to let their owners know. So, if you're wondering why is your dog barking so much, it might just be their way of telling you they've got nothing on their schedule and are ready for that game of catch. 

How many Chihuahua types are there? 

Some Chihuahuas have lovely smooth coats. But there are also long-haired Chihuahuas boasting either a flat or a wavy coat. Both types are amazing companions, but prepare to spend a little extra time on dog grooming if your best friend belongs to the latter type of Chihuahua breeds.