Chihuahua: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care

Chihuahua temperament and personality

The AKC describes the Chihuahua as loyal and charming, with a terrier-like demeanor and a big-dog attitude. Many attach strongly to one favorite person and follow them from room to room. They are alert and quick to react, which makes them keen little watchdogs, and the AKC rates the breed five out of five for barking.

That confidence needs guidance. The AKC warns that without training, this clever dog will happily rule the household. Chihuahuas tend to be wary of strangers at first, so early, gentle meetings with new people, sounds and places help a puppy grow into a relaxed adult rather than a nervous, noisy one.

How big do Chihuahuas get?

The AKC breed standard sets a weight of no more than 6 pounds for both males and females, and the AKC lists a height of 5 to 8 inches at the shoulder. There is no separate standard by sex. The breed comes in two coat varieties, smooth and long, which are identical apart from the coat.

Pet Chihuahuas outside the show ring sometimes weigh more than 6 pounds, and that is not a health problem in itself. The real goal is a lean dog: you should be able to feel the ribs easily. Be wary of anyone selling teacup or micro Chihuahuas as a separate size, because the AKC recognizes no such variety.

Chihuahua lifespan and common health issues

The AKC gives a Chihuahua lifespan of 14 to 16 years, one of the longest of any breed. Good dental care matters for reaching it, because small mouths crowd teeth, and so does keeping the dog lean, since a few extra ounces are a large share of a tiny body.

The AKC lists heart problems such as patent ductus arteriosus and mitral valve disease, eye disease and patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), and notes that idiopathic epilepsy occurs in the breed. Its recommended screening is a patella evaluation, a cardiac exam and an eye exam. Ask a breeder for those results on both parents. VCA notes that a slipping kneecap often shows up as a dog that skips or holds up a back leg for a few steps, which is worth mentioning to your vet. A new heart murmur, coughing or fainting needs prompt attention.

Exercise needs

The AKC says Chihuahuas love to run and play and can usually get enough exercise in a very small space. Following their people around the house covers much of it, and short, slow walks keep them in good condition. This makes the breed a practical choice for apartment living.

Do not overdo it. The AKC advises that if your dog is panting and working hard to keep up, it is time to carry them home. Chihuahuas also lose heat quickly, so a sweater helps on cold days (see sweaters for small dogs), and hot pavement can burn small paws in summer.

Grooming and shedding

The two coats need slightly different care. According to the AKC, a smooth-coat Chihuahua needs only occasional brushing and baths, while a long-coat should be brushed at least once a week to prevent tangles and mats. The AKC rates shedding as two out of five, so expect some hair but not drifts of it.

Nails grow fast on a dog this light, so trim them regularly. The AKC stresses dental care, including tooth brushing, and checking the ears for wax or debris. Wipe around the large eyes if they collect discharge, and ask your vet about any redness or squinting.

Training a Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are bright and, according to the AKC, respond well to positive training. They also learn quickly how to get their own way, so consistency matters more than firmness. Decide the house rules early and stick to them; anything you would not accept from an adult dog should not be allowed in a puppy.

House training can take longer than with bigger dogs, partly because small accidents are easy to miss. A regular schedule, frequent trips outside and praise or a tiny treat for success work best. Many Chihuahuas go on to enjoy obedience and other canine sports.

Are Chihuahuas good with kids and other pets?

The AKC rates the Chihuahua one out of five for being good with young children and says the breed is too small for roughhousing with kids. A dropped or squeezed Chihuahua can be badly hurt, and a frightened one may snap. Homes with older, calm children are a much better fit.

With other dogs the AKC rating is three out of five. Many get on well with a household companion, especially another small dog, but they can be bossy with bigger dogs that could injure them by accident. Supervise play, and introduce new pets slowly.

What a Chihuahua needs at home

Think warmth, safety and small sizes. Useful kit includes a soft bed with raised sides or a cave bed, a sweater or coat for cold weather, a lightweight harness rather than a collar for walks, small food and water bowls, and a carrier for vet visits. A soft brush or comb, nail clippers and a dog toothbrush cover grooming.

Pet stairs or a ramp help protect knees when jumping on and off furniture, and baby gates keep a tiny dog away from stairs. Book a vet check soon after bringing your Chihuahua home and ask about vaccines, dental care and the kneecap check.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.