Top Breeds: The Chihuahua

Learn all about what makes the Chihuahua one of the most popular dog breeds.

The Chihuahua is a popular dog breed that has a personality much larger than its miniature stature suggests. Oftentimes the Chihuahua demands affection from everyone, but in return it provides a kind and unconditional love. As a swift, loyal dog, the Chihuahua is very protective of its owners and the areas it claims as their own. The Chihuahua is never happier than when around a caring environment, especially when it is the center of attention.

Chihuahua Breed Story

The Chihuahua is named after the state in Mexico where it is thought to have originated. How it came to be is not known as fact, but the most likely explanation for the origins of the Chihuahua come from the native Mexicans called the Toltecs. The Toltecs had a small dog that they used in religious ceremonies as well as a companion, called the Techichi. There was also another small dog found in the mountains called the Perro Chihuahueno. The descriptions of these two dogs sound very similar to the Chihuahua that we know today.
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Chihuahua Temperament

The feisty Chihuahua is a loving animal that enjoys being loved, and responds by showing complete loyalty and affection. As an intelligent dog, this breed becomes so attached to its owners if treated well that they have been known to be jealous. Due to its small size, the Chihuahua can’t get away from trouble quickly, and as a result, has been known to snap when it feels threatened.
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For Official Standards:

Official Standards

Dog Photos

The Chihuahua

Chihuahua Standards

• Country of origin: Mexico
• Height approximately (at withers/shoulder): 15-23cm / 6-9in (standards may vary)
• Weight approximately: 0.5-3kg / 1-8lbs (standards may vary)
• Coat: Two distinct types: Smooth-haired, short lying close all over the body, glossy and soft to touch. Longhaired, longer fine and silky coat that is smooth or slightly wavy, with some feathering on the ears.
• Color: All colors, and in all possible combinations.
• Markings: No markings
• Lifespan: Long, 15+ years

Good to Know - Chihuahua

+ A very intelligent dog that when trained well, will pick it up quickly
+ Very little grooming needed, with no stripping or trimming
+ Good for apartment living, happy without a yard
- Requires extensive early socializing if to live with children
- Not a working dog
- Hates the cold and will shiver"