Dog breed · Toy
Chihuahua
The smallest recognised breed, fiercely loyal to its chosen person and much braver than its size suggests.
AI-generated editorial illustration of the subject; not a photograph of a specific animal, product or case.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Toy
- Origin
- Mexico
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 1.5–3 kg (3–6 lb)
- Height
- 15–23 cm
- Lifespan
- 14–17 years
- Coat
- Smooth or long
- Temperament
- BoldDevotedAlertOpinionated
History
Traced to the Techichi dogs of Mexico and named after the state of Chihuahua.
Appearance
Apple-shaped head, large eyes and upright ears, in nearly every colour.
Exercise and activity
Twenty to thirty minutes of walking plus indoor play.
Care and grooming
Daily tooth brushing, warm clothing in cold weather and careful handling by children.
Health considerations
- Dental disease
- Patellar luxation
- Hydrocephalus
- Tracheal collapse
- Hypoglycaemia in puppies
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Chihuahua
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Twenty to thirty minutes of walking plus indoor play. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Dental disease, Patellar luxation, Hydrocephalus, Tracheal collapse, Hypoglycaemia in puppies), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice