Chihuahuas

dog
Type
Toy
Temperament
Loyal, alert & spunky
Average Weight
dog weight
3 - 6 lbs
Grooming
Minimal
Average Lifespan
10 - 18 years
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Chihuahuas may be small, but they’ve got LARGE personalities! Here’s all you need to know about these affectionate and spunky puppies.

Did you know that Chihuahuas are the smallest of all the dog breeds? They’re also one of the oldest! But don’t let their pint-sized bodies fool you—these pups are full of life.

Chihuahuas’ origins are somewhat mysterious, but it’s believed these pooches descended from the Techichi, a companion breed beloved by the Toltec civilization in Mexico. Known for their energy, intelligence, and playful temperament, Chihuahuas are one of the most beloved dog breeds around. Their fun loving and doting nature make them great companions for life!

Why We Love the Chihuahua Breed

  • Chihuahuas are very intelligent pups. They’re fast learners!
  • Due to their small size, Chihuahuas are great for apartment dwellers since they don’t need a lot of room to burn off their energy.
  • Their small size also makes them natural burrowers, which means they love to cuddle with their humans! They are notorious lap loungers.
  • Chihuahuas are companion dogs—they love nothing more than to be around their family all day.  
  • Chihuahuas are very intelligent pups. They’re fast learners!
  • Due to their small size, Chihuahuas are great for apartment dwellers since they don’t need a lot of room to burn off their energy.
  • Their small size also makes them natural burrowers, which means they love to cuddle with their humans! They are notorious lap loungers.
  • Chihuahuas are companion dogs—they love nothing more than to be around their family all day.  

Things to Consider

  • Chihuahuas are very loyal. They may be wary of or bark at strangers, so early socialization is a must!
  • Due to their small size, Chihuahuas are best suited for families with older children who are more likely to watch where they’re going when indoors – a small misstep could really hurt one of these little buddies!
  • Chihuahuas can get cold very easily since they’re so small. Be on the look out for shivering.
  • Chihuahuas love to eat, and with such a small frame it’s easy to overfeed them accidentally. Make sure you figure out exactly how much your Chihuahua needs based on their size and age.
  • Chihuahuas are very loyal. They may be wary of or bark at strangers, so early socialization is a must!
  • Due to their small size, Chihuahuas are best suited for families with older children who are more likely to watch where they’re going when indoors – a small misstep could really hurt one of these little buddies!
  • Chihuahuas can get cold very easily since they’re so small. Be on the look out for shivering.
  • Chihuahuas love to eat, and with such a small frame it’s easy to overfeed them accidentally. Make sure you figure out exactly how much your Chihuahua needs based on their size and age.

Why Rescue?

Chihuahuas, with all of their spunk and charm, are incredibly popular pups in the United States. Unfortunately, this popularity means the Chihuahua breed suffers from overbreeding. Many Chihuahuas face the horrors of puppy mills, which not only forces these precious pups to live in despicable conditions, but can also exacerbate health issues in the breed such as slipped stifles, rheumatism, and colds. Help this wonderful breed avoid this grim fate. If you’re looking to adopt a Chihuahua, check out a rescue instead! 

Chihuahua Rescues

Whether you’re looking for a Chihuahua puppy or a full-grown companion, there are plenty of rescues that can’t wait to meet you. Here are just a few: 

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