Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are such popular dogs because of their adorable size but also because of their endearing personalities. They almost always seem to be excited about something, and they delight in being cuddled, carried and doted on by their owners. Beware of over-indulging their every whim, however, because spoiled Chihuahuas can quickly turn into demanding princes and princesses. Chihuahuas love receiving attention from humans, and they often bond very closely to one person. They are affectionate and dependent dogs who prefer to spend as much time as possible around their owners. Despite their small size, they need lots of exercise and activity to stay both mentally and physically fit. Even if they resist playtime or walks, it’s important to make sure they stay healthy and active.

Although these busy little pooches can seem a tad hyperactive, all that hustling around is not without good reason. Chihuahuas are incredibly aware of their surroundings because they rely on their alertness to protect them from much larger threats. Because they’re always on the alert, they can appear tentative or high strung around strangers. Make sure to socialize them with other dogs and humans so that they understand their size and learn the difference between friend and foe. Socialization will also help them become used to new environments, which can be stressful for Chihuahuas.

Chihuahuas are found in two different coat types that are each equally well-bred and prized in the show ring. Long-coated Chihuahuas have soft, long coats that feel smooth to the touch. Some lie flat against the body, but others are curly coats that stand off slightly. The body hair is smooth and soft with a ruff at the neck. Long-coated Chihuahuas have plumed tails and longer, fringed hair around the ears, frilled hair underneath the stomach and feathered “socks” and “pants” on the feet and legs.

Smooth-coated Chihuahuas have a much more basic coat. It is smooth, shiny and close-fitting. Smooth-coated Chihuahuas also have a thicker ruff around the neck. They have furry little tails and thin hair that coats their faces and ears. Dogs with both coat types develop their large, bat-like prick ears as they age. They are found in most solid colors with a wide variety of markings. Colors like black, white, fawn, chocolate and silvery gray are popular, and many are seen in tri-color or merle and brindle patterns.


Chihuahuas’ distinct appearance comes predominantly from their very small size, but it is also defined by their unique head shapes. Chihuahuas have the largest brains, relative to their size, of any dog. Their heads, shaped like apples or like deer’s heads, surround and protect their large brains and make them look much different from other tiny breeds like Toy Fox Terriers or Miniature Pinschers.

Long-coated Chihuahuas need some extra attention when brushing. Brush carefully around the ears, feet and tail to remove any tangles and make sure that the hair does not collect dirt. Smooth-coated Chihuahuas can be brushed with a rubber brush or grooming mitt when they shed. Make sure to check the areas around their eyes and ears to keep them clean and free of infection. Trim the hair around these areas and around the foot pads if it is necessary for your Chihuahua to say comfortable. Chihuahuas shed periodically throughout the year, but they blow their coat more heavily twice a year. Comb your Chihuahua with a small flea comb to help keep shedding under control.

Bathing these tiny dogs is easy – just dunk them in the sink!