10 Things You Should Know About the Chihuahua

November 6, 2019

One of the best dog breeds for families as well as single people is the Chihuahua. Sassy yet charming, Chihuahuas are tiny little dogs packed with tons of personality. They’re considered to be one of the most popular dog breeds, and there are many reasons for it! With that perky little walk and graceful aura, Chihuahuas are emotive and regal, seeking to always be at the center of your attention. Once they gaze at you with those beautiful, twinkling eyes–ay, caramba! It’ll be all over for you!

If you own a Chihuahua or are interested in the breed, you may be surprised to find out how much there is to know about these little cuties. Before you buy Chihuahuas near you, check out these 10 things you should know about Chihuahuas.

1. Their Namesake: Chihuahua, Mexico

The Chihuahua breed gets their name from Mexico’s largest state, Chihuahua, where they were first spotted in the 1800s. Despite this, however, their origins still remain shrouded in mystery. 

These little dogs didn’t have an official name back then so most individuals would name them after places they’d been seen in. Eventually, this breed became universally known as the Chihuahua.

2. They’re Likely Descendants of the Techichi Ancestral Dog Breed

Chihuahuas are thought to be descendants of an ancient dog breed called the Techichi. These wild dogs were captured and domesticated during the Toltec civilization in Mexico. 

Toltecs kept these dogs as pets or used them for their ceremonial practices as far back as the 9th century AD. The Techichi was far larger and quieter than the average Chihuahua but still shared the same physical characteristics. 

3. They’re Very Brave, Despite Their Small Size

If you want a puppy that remains puppy-sized even when it’s a fully grown dog, then look no further than the Chihuahua. But don’t let the small package fool this. This breed is feisty and fearless! Chihuahuas make up for their small size with a fierce and bold personality. This helps them stand out as alert and brave dogs—nothing ever seems to scare them! One of the most loyal dog breeds is the Chihuahua.

Your Chihuahua will always show you his affectionate, loving side, but with others Chihuahuas can be cautious. It’s an act of love since Chihuahuas are protective of their favorite person.

4. They’re Incredibly Smart and Trainable

Chihuahua puppies are one of the smartest dogs in the world. They have naturally high intelligence, and they quickly catch on to basic commands, complex dog commands, and learning the house rules. This also makes them easy to live with long-term, as your Chihuahua will loyally aim to please you by living by your established rules. During the puppy training process, as long as positive reinforcement tactics are used, your Chihuahua will know the ropes as quickly as a few months into training. Chihuahuas are super loyal to their families so they will do anything to please their owners.

If you bring home a Petland Miami Chihuahua puppy, you can count on our 6 Week Free Puppy Training Program. This puppy training course is a great way to bond with your new puppy since our professional dog trainers will train you how to train your puppy. Best of all, other new puppy parents and their puppies will be training in the same facility as you and your puppy Chihuahua, which is a great extra opportunity for socialization!

5. They Have a Soft Spot on Their Heads

Never poke a Chihuahua on the head. Why? Chihuahuas are like human babies. They are born with a soft spot on their heads called a molera. While this spot eventually closes in human babies, many Chihuahuas have it their entire lives. If your Chihuahua has a molera, don’t worry too much about it. You will just need to handle your puppy with more care and caution.

6. They Like Being with Their Own Breed

When socialized properly, Chihuahuas are delightful dogs that can get along well with other dogs and even cats. However, at heart these pooches are clannish, which means that Chihuahuas would rather spend time and socialize with other Chihuahuas. If you ever want to get your Chihuahua a furry companion, another Chihuahua is the way to go!

7. They Have a Long Lifespan

How long do Chihuahuas live? You’ll be surprised by the answer! Let’s just say, you won’t have to worry about losing your furry friend any time soon. Chihuahuas can live as long as 20 years! These fur-babies have one of the longest lifespans among canines. As long as you feed your Chihuahua a healthy diet, give them exercise, regular vet visits, and love, you will have a longtime furry companion by your side. 

8. There Are Two Kinds of Chihuahuas

Although Chihuahuas look alike, there are some that look a little different from the pack. That’s because there are two types of Chihuahuas: long-coated and short-coated. Otherwise referred to as long-haired Chihuahuas and short-haired Chihuahuas.  

Long-coated Chihuahuas have long, wavy, and silky fur that needs to be brushed regularly to avoid matting. Short-coated Chihuahuas have a fine, rough coat with an inner layer that does not require extensive grooming. Both varieties come with various different coat colors and combinations. 

9. They’re An Extremely Popular Dog Breed

Chihuahuas are considered one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. You may remember the famous Taco Bell commercials that aired in the late 90s in which an adorable Chihuahua said, “I want Taco Bell!” 

Gidget, the Chihuahua who starred in these Taco Bell ads, is credited for helping revive interest in the dog breed. In the early 2000s, these furry cuties were often shown off as the favorite pets of celebrities like Paris Hilton, Hilary Duff, and Madonna. 

10. They’re the Smallest Dog Breed in the World

Growing only to become between 5 and 8 inches tall and weighing roughly 6 pounds, Chihuahuas take home the trophy for being the tiniest dog breed in existence. Yet Chihuahuas are not considered “toy sized.” They’re also relatively thin, making it easy for them to be carried in small purses, bags, and dog strollers. Don’t let their size fool you, though. Chihuahuas are far from lazy. On the contrary, they’re actually very energetic and perky. 

With the right owners, Chihuahuas can be endearing and friendly lifelong companions. It’s important for fur-parents interested in this breed to learn all about what Chihuahuas need to be happy. We encourage you to research Chihuahua exercise requirements, Chihuahua dietary needs, and Chihuahua personality and temperament before you buy a Chihuahua locally. These little pooches are adorable, but they can be highly demanding. Owners must be willing to handle these dogs so that they can live fulfilling lives while under their care. Once you decide that a Chihuahua is your furry soulmate, we guarantee you will have a fur-ever friend. 

If you would like to learn whether your puppy is healthy, check out our 6 Signs Your Puppy is Healthy for our tips!