Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the world's smallest dog breed but carry themselves with the confidence of a Great Dane. They are fiercely devoted to their primary person and can be suspicious of strangers and other dogs. Despite their tiny size, they are bold, alert watchdogs. Chihuahuas thrive in apartments and are ideal for people who want a devoted, low-exercise companion.

Chihuahuas need only 20–30 minutes of exercise daily. Short walks and indoor play sessions are sufficient. They are sensitive to cold and should wear a coat in temperatures below 50°F.

Smooth-coated Chihuahuas need only weekly brushing. Long-coated Chihuahuas need brushing 2–3 times weekly. Both need regular dental care — dental disease is the number one health issue in Chihuahuas. Trim nails monthly.

Coat type: Smooth or long coat

Chihuahuas are generally healthy and long-lived — often reaching 14–16 years. Dental disease is the primary concern and is largely preventable with daily dental care. Their small size makes them fragile; they can be injured by falls or rough handling.

The Chihuahua is the oldest breed in the Americas and the smallest dog breed in the world. They are believed to descend from the Techichi, a small companion dog kept by the ancient Toltec civilization in Mexico as early as the 9th century. The Aztecs also kept Techichis, believing they guided the souls of the dead to the underworld. The modern Chihuahua was discovered in the Mexican state of Chihuahua in the mid-1800s and brought to the US, where the AKC recognized the breed in 1904.

• 1

  The Chihuahua is the world's smallest dog breed and the oldest breed in the Americas.

• 2

  Their ancestors, the Techichi, were kept by the Toltec civilization over 1,000 years ago and were believed to guide souls to the afterlife.

• 3

  Chihuahuas have the largest brain-to-body-size ratio of any dog breed.

• 4

  Despite their tiny size, they are one of the longest-lived breeds — many reach 15–20 years.

• 5

  They are one of the most commonly surrendered breeds to shelters, often because owners underestimate their bold, stubborn personality.

Owning a Chihuahua is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.

* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.

Chihuahuas are consistently one of the most popular small breeds in the US, particularly in urban areas. They are also one of the most surrendered breeds to shelters — their feisty temperament and tendency to bond intensely with one person can make them challenging in multi-person households. Rescue organizations advocate strongly for breed education before adoption.

Products marked with SmartPaws Recommended are ones we've independently reviewed and recommend across the site. All Amazon links include our affiliate tag — purchases support SmartPaws at no extra cost to you.