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Chihuahua
Toy Breed
The Chihuahua is a popular little dog that has a personality much larger than its diminutive stature suggests. It demands affection from everyone and returns with kind, unconditional love.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Mexico
Weight
0.5-3kg / 1-8lbs (standards may vary)
Height
15-23cm / 6-9in (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.
Markings
All colours, and in all possible combinations. No markings.
Lifespan
Long, 15+ years
This swift, loyal dog is very protective of its owners and the areas they think of as their own. The Chihuahua is never happier than when around a caring environment where it is the centre of attention.
Temperament
The feisty Chihuahua is a loving animal that enjoys being loved and responds by showing complete loyalty and affection. It is an intelligent dog that becomes so attached to its owners if treated well that they have been known to be jealous. Due to its small size, it can't get away from trouble quickly, and as a result, has been known to snap when it feels threatened.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Chihuahua is a bold companion that is highly intelligent and with two types of coat, either a long silky coat or a short soft coat, the Chihuahua is sure to look magnificent.
- Makes an excellent loving companion
- A very intelligent dog that when trained well, will pick it up quickly
- Very little grooming needed, with no stripping or trimming
- Needs little exercise
- Good for apartment living, happy without a yard
- Good for novice owners
- If not trained well can remain dog aggressive
- Requires extensive early socialising if to live with children
- Not a working dog
- Hates the cold and will shiver
- Susceptible to eye and mouth problems as well as colds, stress and rheumatism