Chihuahua Puppies: Everything You Need to Know

Tiny, mighty, and previously part of the Aztec empire, Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world. These pint-sized dogs have been humans companions for several centuries and counting. Their roots boast a rich history in Latin America, and it’s showcased in their proud personality. Due to their thin coats, Chihuahuas thrive in warmer climates and are a great hypoallergenic option for dog lovers who are allergic to dog hair.

Interestingly, Chihuahuas have a hidden history. It’s hard to trace back exactly where the Chihuahua came from before the 12th century. Part of the Aztec empire, they were celebrated as one of Montezuma’s fabled treasures. It was said that this powerful tribe helped breed the smaller version of Chihuahua we see today.

When the Spanish conquistadors destroyed the Aztec civilisation in the 1500s, the small-but-fierce Chihuahua lived in remote villages on the outskirts of settlements. Several centuries later in the 1800s, these tiny dogs were re-discovered in the state of Chihuahua, thus giving them their namesake.

Chihuahua puppy facts

Chihuahuas are a “handbag dog” with personality. Before celebrities like Paris Hilton carried these dainty pups around, Marilyn Monroe adored her Chihuahua Josefa (sometimes called Choo Choo). There are many pictures of Marilyn playing with her excited puppy. Even at just a few ounces, Chihuahua puppies capture the hearts of many.

Size	Small. 12-20cm (5 – 8 inches) long and no more than 3kg (6 pounds).
Breed Characteristics	Known for their “apple” shaped head, they have large, orb-like eyes that express a wide range of emotions. From white to tiger-like stripes, to tannish brown and beyond, Chihuahuas have seemingly no end to colour and pattern variations in their fur. They come in two different coats: smooth-coat and long-haired.
Temperament	At attention, a Chihuahua seems to know everything that is going on in a household. When raised in the right conditions, they are highly confident, and can certainly “rule the roost.” With a quick and steady gait, they are graceful in their movements, especially when going in for an afternoon nap on their favourite human’s lap. Yes, they may sport a big attitude, but as long as you train them with diligence, they are all bark and no bite. And if you can’t be around as much as you’d like to be, you can find a local sitter on Rover.com who offers dog boarding and can give your dog all the attention they deserve while you’re gone.
Grooming and Health Needs	Each different type of Chihuahua coat requires different grooming practices. The smooth and short-coated Chihuahua is lower maintenance and needs only a sporadic brushing and periodic baths to keep their coats shiny. The longer-coated Chihuahuas look and feel best with a weekly brushing to get rid of tangles or matting. In general, Chihuahuas are a healthy breed but sometimes may suffer from genetic anomalies related to the heart. It’s recommended that you give your new Chihuahua a cardiac exam, ophthalmologist evaluation, and a patella evaluation. Please note that idiopathic epilepsy has been known to occur in this breed as well.
Training	A Chihuahua responds well to positive training. However, even a Chihuahua puppy knows how cute they are, so you must establish that it is you who are in charge, and not the other way around. Owners relate a Chihuahua’s temperament to that of a terrier, so firm-yet-loving guidance is needed. Chihuahuas would likely excel in dog sports and obedience training.
Energy Level	Though a Chihuahua sometimes has excess energy, due to their size, they are able to expel it often indoors. Running around their humans from room to room, or short walks around the block will expend more than enough of their energy. If you find that your Chihuahua is working too hard, pick them up immediately and carry them until they stop panting.
Life Span	Chihuahuas live between 14 – 16 years on average.

Who is the best human for a Chihuahua?

Great for the city life, Chihuahuas are ideal urban dogs due to their size and energy level. Though they sometimes have a “Napoleon-like” attitude, taking them for a quick walk can tucker them out fairly easily. If you’d like a Chihuahua as a family pet, they should only be in households with slightly older children who know how to handle small animals.

Due to their Latin American roots, they are equipped for warmer climates but have been known to wear a doggy jumper or two in colder climates. Lastly, having the patience necessary to train a Chihuahua is essential towards a lifetime of good dog behaviour.

Getting a Chihuahua puppy

Whether to adopt or to work with a breeder for your new Chihuahua puppy is a personal choice that requires research. Thankfully, there are many resources out there to help you find a rescue or breeder that offers healthy, ethically-sourced Chihuahua puppies.

As for rescues and adoption, Chihuahuas are such a well-known breed that many purebred and mixed Chihuahuas are available in shelters. Knowing what you’re in for when you get a Chihuahua puppy is an important step in being a responsible pet owner. Whether you find a responsible breeder or are planning on adopting, it’s up to you to be prepared for an energetic and friendly addition to your household.

Adopting Chihuahua puppies

It may be surprising to know, but adopting a Chihuahua puppy is possible. Most breed rescues report that a majority of their rescue dogs come from individual owner surrender, with the most common reasons being a change in lifestyle or the breed not being right for them. This means that there may be many dogs and puppies out there that are looking for a new forever home.

The main difference between a breeder and a rescue is that a rescue may not always have young puppies to choose from. The benefit, however, is that most are mandated to only adopt out dogs that have been microchipped and spayed/neutered. This means you may end up with a dog that’s already been housebroken and doesn’t need these common medical procedures. You may also find a Chihuahua mix that has all the traits you want from the breed, but with a little extra thrown in.

Finding a Chihuahua rescue can be as simple as searching the internet. The Kennel Club also has an excellent list of Chihuahua rescues on their site.

Finding a Chihuahua breeder

The first step is to do your research. Sadly, there are many puppy mills posing as reputable breeders along with ample online scams. Be aware, and contact different online forums for conversations about getting your future furry family member. Avoid looking for a puppy on Craigslist, as scams are common there.

Be sure to ask questions, make arrangements to meet the parent dogs or mother, and follow your gut. If something seems wrong at a breeder you visit, or the Chihuahua puppy seems too good to be true, there’s likely something going on. The Kennel Club also offers resources for finding a breeder, with fairly strict guidelines on who they let participate.