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Your Chihuahua Information Center

Welcome to Your One-Stop Chihuahua Information Center

The spry, intelligent, and loyal Chihuahua is a highly adaptable dog breed that requires a loving household in order to thrive. As the smallest dog in the toy group, he is lively and playful yet can be nervous or shy without socialization.
We encourage owners and potential owners to learn all that they can, in order to provide a safe, happy, and healthy home.
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New Right Now:

Top Chihuahua Boredom Busting Tips - If your Chi is bored off their bottom, have a look at these 12 tips to keep a Chi puppy or adult dog entertained.

Chihuahua Bad Breath - Updated - This covers top common causes, less common but serious health issues, and exact steps to keep the breath smelling nice and fresh.

Chihuahua Care Tips During the Coronavirus Pandemic - Routinely updated - Answers to all of your FAQ and the 7 things you can do for your Chi's health & happiness during this time. 

Recent Articles:

Chihuahua Dos and Don'ts - A super helpful list of the top 5 most important dos and top most vital 5 don'ts for the Chihuahua breed. How many are you following? 

Snacks, Training Treats, and Chews for Chihuahuas - Updated - This article is now organized by category and is updated with new picks for super-healthy options, including tasty rawhide alternatives for Chi that love to work their jaws. 
Chihuahua Rescue Dogs Care and Info - See interesting stats and facts, top 10 issues seen with adopted Chi, helpful care tips, advice from those that have an adopted Chihuahua, and some amazingly adorable photos.
Chihuahua Feeding Guidelines - Updated - The FDA released a new alert regarding grain-free dog food. See our summary of this and an updated list of top recommended foods. 
Homemade Food for Chihuahuas - There are some excellent benefits to preparing meals at home for your Chi. See the top reasons to make the switch, foods to include, and a recipe cookbook.
Chihuahua Biting Issues - Updated - If your Chi nips or bites at you and you aren't sure how to react, this helpful guide gives you all of the steps. 
Chihuahua Destructive Chewing - Updated - Effective ways to stop a Chihuahua from ripping things apart and chewing up items in the house. 
Chihuahua Life Span - Updated - This article has been re-written to narrow down the leading causes of death for this breed and offer the top 6 steps to help your Chihuahua live a long life. 
Taking a Chihuahua Out in Extreme Weather - Is it a struggle to get your Chihuahua to go potty outside when it's raining? Do you have a plan for the upcoming winter? This new article covers how to prepare, how to help your Chi tolerate inclement weather, and which sorts of conditions require an alternative house training method.
Chihuahua Paw Care - A must read that covers everything from color and anatomy to the most commonly seen paw problems along with exact steps to resolve them.
Teaching a Chihuahua to Play with You - If your Chihuahua has no interest in playing, see the reasons behind this and the 7 steps you can take to get your Chi up, interacting, and enjoying a session of playtime. 
When a Chihuahua Forgets Housebreaking Lessons - If your Chi is suddenly peeing or poo'ing all over the house or is missing the pee pads, learn exactly how to get your little guy or gal back on track.  
When a Chihuahua Eats Things Off the Ground - If your Chihuahua is constantly mouthing and trying to eat things from the ground outside or the floors in the house, learn why dogs do this and exact steps to resolve this common problem. 
Chihuahua Bad Breath - If a lot of stink is coming out of that cute little mouth, see top tips to remedy bad breath asap.
Chihuahua Shivering -  This is very common with this breed but may not be what you think. See why Chihuahuas shake and tremble, and what to do.
When a Chihuahua is Clingy - Updated - Cuddling and staying close is normal for this breed, but some Chihuahuas are so clingy, that's it's not healthy. See how to build self-esteem and encourage a bit more independence.
5 Steps to Stop a Chihuahua from Eating Poop- If your Chihuahua is eating feces, his own or that of another dog, this is a behavior that you will want to address right away. These 5 steps will nip it in the bud. 
When a Chihuahua Dislikes the Car - If your Chihuahua gets motion sickness or does not tolerate the car well, these tips can turn things around. 

Statistical Information

Pronounced: Chee-wah-wah
Nickname: Chi
Family: Companion
Breed Group: Toy
Varieties:   Coat: 2- long and smooth (short)
                   Head: 2- apple (only the apple type fits the conformation standards) and deer (unofficial) See: Apple head VS Deer head
Area of Origin: Mexico (now proven true due to DNA testing) 
Date of Origin: Discovered in Mexico in 1850
Ancestor: Mexican Techichi dog
Date of Recognition: 1904
Height: 6-9 inches (15.2-22.9 cm)
Weight: 2-6 lbs. (.9 kg-2.7 kg)
Additional Size Notes:
AKC - No official minimum weight, this dog should not weigh more than 6 lbs (2.7 kg)
UK - 6 lbs (2.7 kg) with 4 -6 lbs. (1.8 - 2.7 kg) preferred
FCI (EUROPE) - 3.3 to 6.61 lbs. (1.5 to 3 kg)
CKC (Canadian Kennel Club): 1-6 lbs. (.5-3 kg), 2-4 lbs. (1-2 kg) are preferred.  
Life Expectancy:14-18 years See: Life Span
Average Litter Size: 1-3
Well-Known Bloodlines: Davishall, Ouachitah, Dartan, Hurd, Heatherly, Schroeder, Pittore, Collin-Dells, Stonehill, Jo-El, Maximillion, Misty Meadows
Breed Qualities: Loyal, energetic, playful, closely bonds with humans, alert, moderate shedder
Popularity: Consistently in the top 12 most owned breeds, U.S.,Canada and UK
Intelligence: #67
Maturity Rate: Adult at 1 year mark

Popular Sections

Feeding Your Chihuahua - Offering your puppy or dog a properly balanced diet. Includes a list of the best foods, how often to offer meals, and feeding tips. 
Chihuahua Barking - Excessive barking is a common behavior issue seen with this small toy breed. Read this helpful article that teaches you exactly how to handle different types of barking; for both puppies and adults. 
Chihuahua Allergies - Of the health issues reported with the Chihuahua breed, allergies is one of the most common. Read about environmental, contact, and food allergies, along with signs, diagnosing, and treatment including steps you can take from home to reduce allergy symptoms. 
Housebreaking a Chihuahua - While house training can be a bit challenging, our helpful guideline shows you how to set yourself and your Chi up for success. These tips work for both young puppies and adults that need to be reminded of the rules.  
Chihuahua Territorial Marking - Though this involves urinating inside the house, this is a separate issue than potty training. Read the top reasons that dogs do this and exactly how to respond to stop this behavior. 
Chihuahua Health - Both daily care and breed specific issues for all owners to be aware of. Leads to other detailed articles within the site. 

Grooming Advice

Though this is considered a low maintenance breed, there are still several grooming tasks that need to be done on a regular basis. 
Chihuahua in a bathtub
Chihuahua Grooming - A great overview of each task that should be done for both puppies and adults. This covers baths, brushing, touch-up cleanings and more.  
The Best Shampoo for Chihuahuas - The type of product that you use will have affect both skin and coat. Includes both regular and specialty shampoos, conditioners, and coat sprays. 
Chihuahua Body Odor - If your puppy or dog smells odd even after baths, these steps will help you identify the cause and get your little guy or gal smelling nice and fresh. 
Chihuahua Tear Stains - This refers to discoloration around or under the eyes. In some cases, hairs have a crisp texture. If your Chihuahua has tear stains, learn what causes this can how to resolve it. 

Behaviors

If there is one thing for sure, Chihuahuas have lots of personality. And, while this breed can be loving, loyal, and amusing, there may be a few hiccups that need to be addressed. 
Chihuahua dog sleeping with a toy
Separation Anxiety - This refers to a severe reaction to being left home alone and is common with Chihuahuas. It can make leaving for work or school very difficult and stressful for both of you. Learn some great strategies to help your puppy or dog feel safe and calm while you're away. 
Hyper Behavior - Chihuahuas tend to have lots of energy and sometimes it's hard for them to contain it. Read what is considered normal and steps to take if your Chi is bounding off the walls. 
Shy Behavior - A Chihuahua can be naturally reserved and that's okay because each dog will have their own distinct personality. However, shyness is affecting your Chi's ability to interact with the world around them, there are some things you can do to help. 
Moody Behavior - Dogs can have good and bad days just like humans; however, if there are periods of severe lethargy, decreased appetite, refusal to play, and other signs that are out of the ordinary, it's wise to take a closer look at what may be happening. 
Read about all Chihuahua Behaviors which gives an overview of what to expect. 

Chihuahua Color Information

This breed can be found in many different colors, both solids and parti's. Also, with a variety of markings. The following are some of the more popular colors:
  • Cream: This creamy color is one shade darker than white. 
  • White: Pure solid white is rare, but a beautiful possibility for this breed.
  • Blue: This is a diluted black; skin pigmentation is blue (eye rims, lips, nose, paw pads) 
  • Red: A dark orange and a rare color with this breed. 
  • Chocolate: A rich, medium brown. 
  • Merle: Acceptable in the US; a pattern of color with streaks or splotches over the coat.
  • Brindle: This is a pattern of striping that may vary in density and width. 
  • Sable: This refers to dark tipped hairs; sable may be present on any base color. 
Read more: Colors

Care Tips

The Chihuahua is the smallest of all toys breeds and requires special care in many aspects. 
Chihuahua all dressed up
Chihuahua Care Tips - This is a great place to start and covers a list of everything you can do to keep your Chihuahua safe, happy, and healthy. 
Summer Care - Challenges during this season include making sure your Chi gets enough exercise despite the heat, avoiding the perils of hot sidewalks, and the skin and coat protection from strong UV rays. Includes advice for helping a Chihuahua stay cool and comfortable no matter how hot and sunny it is. 
Winter Care - This is also a season in which it can be difficult to maintain a Chihuahua's regular exercise schedule. Other common issues include paw and nose problems related to cold arid air and staying warm despite how low the temperature drops. 
Dental Care - The Chihuahua breed is very prone to periodontal disease and tooth decay. Keep your Chi's gums and teeth in good shape will include veterinary dental checkups and at-home care. 
Hair Loss and Shedding - This breed is a moderate shedder; most shed lightly throughout the year with sometimes heavier sheds twice per year as the seasons change. In some cases, there can be moderate to severe coat loss that is associated with other issues such as skin problems or alopecia. 

Puppy Care

Your Chihuahua puppy will be maturing fast, becoming an adult at the one year mark. So, you will want to savor this phase. During this time, the focus should be on providing a safe home, lots of interaction, and attention to common issues like teething. 
Chihuahua puppy, black and tan
Chihuahua Puppy Care - A detailed overview of everything you'll want to do to raise your Chihuahua to be safe, happy, and healthy. Great tips for preparing your house and getting on a good schedule of care. 
Teething Puppies - This phase generally starts at the age of 4 months and lasts until 8 months old or, in some cases, up to one year. During this time, 28 milk teeth fall out to make way for 42 permanent adult teeth. Teething can cause discomfort and intense itching that can lead to destructive chewing. So, it is important to be prepared by limiting access to non-toy objects and supplying your pup with approved chew toys. 
Chihuahua Puppy Vaccinations - Puppies should not be allowed into public spaces until all puppy shots have been given. Learn about the typical schedule to expect and possible side effects to be aware of. 

Holidays

Each holiday that you spend with your Chihuahua is a great opportunity for close bonding and having fun. And some occasions do come along with challenges. From birthdays, to Christmas, New Year's to Halloween, you're sure to find interesting info on the Chihuahua Holidays page.

Interesting Facts

  • Chihuahua’s brains are the largest of any breed, when compared to the size of their bodies. 
  • In 1997, a Chi named Gidget starred as the Taco Bell dog in global television commercials, thus causing this breed's popularity to soar. 
  • Not all Chihuahuas shake, but many do and it is considered to be a common trait, though not due to the widespread myth that this is caused by having a high metabolic rate. Actual reasons for trembling include excitability, nervousness or feeling chilled. 
  • This breed is loved in Hollywood. Some celebrity Chihuahua owners include Jamie Lee Curtis, George Lopez, Hillary Duff, and the late, great Marilyn Monroe.
  • Many Chihuahuas have a molera. This is a soft spot on the skull where the bones have not fused together (similar to human babies). Back in 1933, the AKC breed standard required a molera. Now, the Chihuahua Club of America (the parent club that writes the standard for the AKC) tells us that it may or may not be present (no favor is given to either in the show ring).
  • A Chihuahua is an adult at the age of 1 year old. While there is no official age that the Chi becomes a senior, most are declared to be seniors by the age of 10. With a rather long lifespan, this breed can live 14 to 18 years.

The Interesting Origin of the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is named for the Mexican state of ‘Chihuahua’ that borders Texas, Arizona and New Mexico in the USA. Though it has long been theorized that the Chihuahua’s ancestors were from Chihuahua (the Mexican state), this has been confirmed by DNA analysis. 

The Chihuahua's ancestor was the Mexican Techichi dog and now we know this to be fact. Any sources that debate a Mexican origin for the Chihuahua are offering out-of-date information. 

In 2013, the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden released their findings regarding the ancestry of certain dog breeds. They compared mitochondrial DNA from Asian and European dogs, ancient archaeological samples from the Americas and certain American dog breeds. 

Among the breeds that that they tested was the Chihuahua since its origins have long been debated. They proved that the Chihuahua does share a DNA type unique to the Mexican pre-Columbian samples, thus cementing the breed’s origins to be connected to the Techichi, a small desert canine that dates back to Mayan times. 

Crossbreeding the Techichi may have been done by the Toltec civilization with a dog that populated the mountains of Chihuahua, called the Perro Chihuahueno. 

Further development occurred when Spanish conquerors reached the New World, though it is debated which breeds were used; most likely it was a terrier-type dog.

The Chihuahua was officially recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1904, with a Chihuahua named Midget being the very first to be registered. At that time, the club was only 22 years old (having been founded in 1882). And, in 1904 only 52 breeds had been recognized thus far. 

Popularity

The Chihuahua’s popularity took a while to form. This is because in the early 1900’s most people that owned dogs owned working dogs or guard dogs, not household pets. People living on farms used dogs to pull carts and herd livestock. Others owned dogs to chase away wild animals or possible intruders. 

Things began to change in the 1960’s when ‘dog ownership’ moved more into ‘pet ownership’. In 1964 the Chihuahua soared to popularity, becoming the 12th most registered breed. In this year, there were 161 recognized breeds. 

Since that time, the Chihuahua has held its place in the top 35. Ranking was #22 in 2013, #24 in 2014, #28 in 2015, #30 in 2016, and #32 in 2017. One of the reasons for moving a bit further back is that nearly every year new breeds are recognized, thus there is more competition to be ranked high. 

For 48 years since its inception into the AKC, both long and shorthaired Chihuahuas were categorized the same. In 1952, The Chihuahua Club of America, which writes the breed standard for the Chihuahua, voted to split the Chihuahua into two varieties. The same standard is used; however the two varieties are long coat and smooth coat (short haired).
You May Also Like:

What's the difference between male and female Chihuahuas? Take a look at what to expect with each gender.
My Chihuahua Eats Grass - This is a very common behavior but can have negative consequences. Learn what causes this and how to resolve this. 
Are Chihuahuas Better One-Person or Family Dogs - There are challenges to both types of living situations. Read the most common hiccups and how to resolve them for a peaceful, happy household.
Best Carry Bags for Chihuahuas - If you're always on the go with your little Chihuahua, a carry bag or sling can make things much easier. 

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