The guide to owning a Chihuahua.

The Chihuahua dog breed is often associated with ancient cultures and a dash of modern movie star glamour.

These companion dog sweethearts are named for the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where they were popularised and eventually introduced to dog lovers worldwide.

Many historians suggest that these pups descend from small pre-Columbian dogs revered by ancient societies. Others say Spanish settlers refined the breed in the region we now call modern-day Mexico.

Whichever theory you prefer, there’s no arguing that the Chihuahua’s lineage is filled with legends. Whether you’re walking your Chihuahua dog down the street or showing them off to friends, there’s a touch of history in every wag of that tiny tail.

Interestingly, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognised these pint-sized canines as early as 1904. Over the decades, they’ve won hearts across the globe as a lap dog for people craving loyal companionship.

They’ve also become style icons, popping up in media, adverts, and even high-end handbags.

Don’t let that star power fool you, though. Chihuahuas are known for being bright, brave, and sometimes a tad stubborn—a combination that ensures they remain unforgettable pets.

Chihuahuas come in a range of colours as large as their personality. Don’t let the Chihuahua’s small size fool you; from merle coats to glossy chocolate browns, these dogs can dazzle with fur patterns that reflect centuries of careful breeding.

The most common colours of Chihuahua are:

Black
Brown
Cream
Fawn
Red

1. Smooth coat (Short-Haired Chihuahuas)

This is the classic look many people associate with the breed.
Short-haired coats lie close to the body, giving a neat and sleek appearance. These Chihuahuas require minimal grooming, yet their fine fur still needs the occasional brush.

2. Long coat (Long-Haired Chihuahua)

A long-coated Chihuahua looks downright regal with its feathery ears and flowing fringe. Their fur is soft, often slightly wavy, and requires more frequent brushing—at least two to three times per week—to prevent tangles.

Fans of the long coat love how it accentuates the dog’s expression and makes them look particularly cuddly.

Whatever coat you choose, you’ll discover your preference is a reflection of style rather than needing a specific function.

Both coat varieties are suitable for being your beloved companion dog. For bathing and grooming tips, you can also explore our broader guide to keeping pups fresh in our how to bathe a dog article.

One phrase you’ll hear often is: “Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are known for having massive attitudes.” Indeed, many Chihuahuas make it abundantly clear they are the boss!

They tend to bond closely with their favourite person, showering them with loyalty and affection. Don’t be surprised if your Chi stationed on the sofa claims that space as theirs alone.

Chihuahuas are small but they are hardly pushovers. They can be wary of strangers and may bark to let you know someone’s at the door.

They’re also protective of their domain, which can be great for owners who love a tiny watchdog.

Just remember, a Chihuahua meeting new people or larger dogs might need extra reassurance.

Yes, absolutely—but with a few caveats. Chihuahuas need a stable home environment and do best with children who understand how to handle them gently.

Because of their delicate size and sometimes feisty temperament, they pair best with older, calmer children who can respect the dog’s personal space.

If you’re wondering if they get on with bigger canines, they can, though you’ll want supervised introductions in a controlled environment.

Yes, Chihuahuas can generally get along well with cats, especially if they are properly introduced and socialised together; however, individual personalities of both the cat and dog will determine how well they coexist, with some Chihuahuas potentially exhibiting prey drive towards smaller animals like cats, depending on their upbringing.

Chihuahuas come in both smooth coat and long coat varieties. Grooming needs differ slightly, but in general:

Smooth coat: Brush at least once a week. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove loose fur and maintain that glossy look.

Long-haired Chihuahua: Brush two to three times per week to avoid knots. A cosy grooming session also doubles as bonding time.

Despite their small size, they do shed, but not excessively compared to some larger breeds.

Look for a gentle dog shampoo and keep baths short. Over-bathing can lead to dry skin, so once every month or two is usually sufficient, unless they’re exceptionally mucky from rolling around.

If you need more details, have a peek at our dog shampoos for itchy skin roundup if your Chi happens to have dryness or allergies. We explore which products are safe for small, sensitive pups.

Because Chihuahuas should be fed a balanced, complete dog food, portion control is key. As Chihuahuas are small, they don’t eat huge amounts, but they do require high-quality nutrition.

Many puppies should be fed more frequently—around three to four times a day—before gradually moving to adult portions.

For mature Chihuahuas, they should generally be fed twice daily or in smaller meals throughout the day, ensuring they maintain steady energy levels.

Always monitor weight. Chihuahuas are generally healthy, but they can gain weight if overindulged in treats.

Watch for tummy upsets if you switch foods. Always transition gradually over several days to prevent digestive issues.

Maintaining a healthy weight also helps with longevity. A Chihuahua carrying even an extra pound is at higher risk for joint and heart issues.

Like any dog, Chihuahuas thrive on a balanced canine diet. They should not eat chocolate, onions, or other potentially toxic human foods.

If you’re ever unsure, you can check resources such as 'can dogs eat strawberries?' or 'can dogs eat radishes?' for general guidance on safe fruit and veg.

Whenever in doubt, speak to your vet before introducing new morsels.

Given that Chihuahuas can be fragile due to their size, and prone to certain health concerns like patellar luxation or dental issues, having comprehensive insurance can be a literal lifesaver.

Vet bills can pile up quickly, and the last thing you want is to compromise on medical care for your best friend.

At Waggel, we’re passionate about helping dog lovers protect their pets.

Although we’ve developed guides for other popular breeds—like our Labrador breed guide or our Jack Russell Terrier breed guide—Chihuahuas also deserve that top-notch safety net.

Having the right coverage gives you peace of mind when faced with sudden accidents or congenital conditions you might not anticipate.

Plus, if you’re hoping to join a community of dog owners who share experiences about training, care, and practical advice for small canines, you’ll find no shortage of resources in our blog.

From exploring dog cough remedies to understanding worming treatments, we’ve gathered a bounty of tips in one easy place.