60 Amazing Facts About Chihuahuas That You Didn’t Know

60 Amazing Facts About Chihuahuas

Small in size but big in personality, the Chihuahua is truly one of a kind. They are energetic, affectionate, playful and fiercely loyal to their family. But even if you’re familiar with the breed, there are probably some things you don’t know about them. Check out the following 60 amazing Chihuahua facts.

#1) Chihuahuas are Named After Chihuahua, Mexico

The Chihuahua receives its namesake from the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. Also known as “The Big State” and “The Great State,” Chihuahua is Mexico’s largest state with an area of 95,543 square miles (247,455 square km). In the late 1800s, American travelers visiting the region encountered merchants selling Chihuahuas, some of which were brought back to the U.S.

#2) Chihuahuas Were Once Called ‘Arizona’ and ‘Texas’ Dogs

Prior to being universally known as Chihuahuas, people named the small dogs after the region in which they were found. This resulted in the Chihuahua being called the “Arizona dog,” “Texas dog” and the “Chihuahua dog.”

#3) Long Coat and Smooth Coat are the Only Official Varieties

Long-coat and smooth-coat Chihuahua

The American Kennel Club (AKC) and other reputable canine organizations only recognize two official varieties of the Chihuahua: the long coat and smooth coat (short hair). Smooth-coat Chihuahuas have shorter hair — between 1/2 and 3/4 inches long (12.7 to 19.05 mm) — either with or without an undercoat.

Long-coat Chihuahuas typically have softer, longer hair — between 1 and 1 1/2 inches long (25.4 to 38.1 mm) — and they too may or may not have an undercoat. Other than the nuances in coat structure, long-coat and smooth-coat Chihuahuas are genetically the same.

#4) The AKC Didn’t Separate Long-Coat and Smooth-Coat Chihuahuas Until 1952

Long-coat and smooth-coat Chihuahuas have been around for centuries, but it wasn’t until 1952 when the AKC separated the two varieties. Previously, long-coat and smooth-coat Chihuahuas were shown together. In 1952, however, the AKC separated the breed into two official varieties based on their coat.

#5) The Chihuahua is the World’s Smallest Breed

With an average weight of just 2 to 6 pounds (1 to 3 kg) and height of 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) when fully grown, the Chihuahua is the world’s smallest dog breed. Chihuahuas are smaller than Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Toy Poodles, Papillons, Pugs and Shih Tzus. The breed’s small size makes them an attractive choice for families living in apartments and small homes.

#6) Midget, the First AKC Chihuahua, was Registered in 1904

In 1904, Hamilton Raynor of El Paso, Texas registered the first Chihuahua with the American Kennel Club (AKC), a long-coat male named Midget. This was the first time the AKC officially recognized the Chihuahua, marking a new era for the breed. Raynor also registered several other Chihuahuas with the AKC, including Bonito, Chiquita, Nellie and Tiny Tinkle Twinkle (try saying that name three times fast).

#7) The Chihuahua Club of America was Founded in 1923

In 1923, the Chihuahua Club of America (CCA) — an official parent company of the AKC — was founded to promote responsible breeding and provide educational resources on the Chihuahua. During that same year, the CCA adopted the Chihuahua’s first breed standards.

#8) Chihuahuas Have a ‘Clannish’ Nature

The Chihuahua is the only breed to exhibit a “clannish” nature, meaning they prefer the company of other Chihuahuas over other breeds.

#9) Chihuahuas Were Originally Bred to be Smaller

During the breed’s early days, the AKC encouraged selective breeding to produce smaller Chihuahuas. The original AKC standards state Chihuahuas should weigh “Two to six pounds. The more diminutive, the more desirable.” The AKC later revised its breed standards, no longer giving preference to smaller Chihuahuas.

#10) Chihuahuas are Born with a Molera or ‘Soft Spot’

Chihuahua puppies molera

While not exclusive to the breed, most Chihuahuas are born with an opening in their skull. Known as a molera or “soft spot,” it’s found in approximately 80% to 90% of all newborn Chihuahuas. Normally, the molera closes as the pup matures, though some Chis live their entire lives with this cranial opening.

#11) The Chihuahua is a Descendant of a Mexican Companion Dog

As explained in The History of the Chihuahua, mitochondrial DNA analyses link the modern-day Chihuahua to a small-framed companion dog of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica called the Techichi.

The Maya, Toltec and Aztec civilizations viewed Techichis as being guardians of the afterlife, believing they would help their deceased owners cross over to the afterlife.

#12) The Chihuahua May Have European or Asian Origins

Since mitochondrial DNA is only passed down from the mother (not the father), DNA analysis alone doesn’t reveal the whole story behind the Chihuahua’s origins. Some breed experts theorize that the Mexican Techichi was crossed with either the Chinese Crested or Maltese “pocket dog” to produce the Chihuahua.

#13) It was Believed that Chihuahuas Could Cure Asthma

Centuries-old folklore suggests Chihuahuas can cure respiratory ailments, such as asthma and allergies, by absorbing the condition from their owners. If a Chihuahua was placed next to a person with asthma, it was believed the Chihuahua would take his or her asthma. While there’s no evidence supporting this theory, many people kept Chihuahuas around for this very reason.

#14) Chihuahuas are Light Shedders

With the exception of certain hairless breeds, all dogs shed. The Chihuahua, however, is considered one of the lightest shedders in the canine kingdom. According to a survey of 249 veterinary professionals conducted by VetStreet, Chihuahuas rank #7 among breeds that shed the least amount of hair. Surprisingly, however, many owners find smooth-coat Chihuahuas shed more than long-coats.

#15) Chihuahuas Have Saved Lives

Don’t let their small size fool you; Chihuahuas are quite capable of scaring away predators and protecting their families. In 2007, a ferocious five-pound Chihuahua named Zoey protected her owner’s 1-year-old grandson from a rattlesnake by jumping in front of the serpent. Zoey was bitten, though later recovered after receiving medical treatment.

In 2008, a four-pound Chihuahua named Honey saved her owner’s 8-year-old granddaughter from a vicious attack by a much larger dog. And there are numerous cases in which Chihuahuas have alerted their owner during fire and medical emergencies, making this breed a true life-saver.

#16) The ‘El Paso Chihuahuas’ is a Minor League Baseball Team

In an effort to differentiate its brand from the San Diego Padres, the minor league baseball team the El Paso Padres held a naming contest in 2013. After receiving more than 5,000 submissions, the team chose the “El Paso Chihuahuas” as its new name. Not surprisingly, the team’s new logo is a growling Chihuahua wearing a spiked collar.

#17) Chihuahua Means ‘Between Two Waters’

The name “Chihuahua” derives from a Nahuatl word, meaning “between two waters.” Historians believe the name is older than the Spanish Conquest of Mexico, which began in 1519.

#18) Chihuahuas are Celebrated on Cinco De Mayo

Because of their Mexican origins, cities throughout the U.S. celebrate Chihuahuas on Cinco De Mayo by hosting events such as costume contests, owner-dog lookalike contests, running of the Chihuahuas, and parades. Some veterinary clinics and animal shelters also offer free spay/neuter services for Chihuahuas during this time of year.

#19) Arizona’s State Dog is the Chihuahua, Unofficially

Pennsylvania has the Great Dane, Massachusetts has the Boston terrier, and North Carolina has the Plott Hound. While unofficial, New Mexico’s state dog is the Chihuahua.

#20) Packs of Wild Chihuahuas Were Common Throughout the Southwestern U.S.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, packs of wild Chihuahuas were a common sight throughout the southwestern U.S. Hamilton Raynor — the man who registered the first AKC Chihuahua — actually spent several years capturing the small dogs, which he used to start a kennel.

#21) Wild Chihuahuas are Still Seen in the U.S.

Even today, you can still find wild Chihuahuas roaming in certain parts of the U.S. In 2014, thousands of wild Chihuahuas were sighted in a Phoenix, Arizona neighborhood, prompting animal control workers to step in and catch the small dogs.

This wasn’t a one-time occurrence, either. Several neighbors in the San Francisco Bay Area experienced a similar problem, as large packs of wild Chihuahuas roamed the streets.

#22) The Chihuahua has One of the Longest Lifespans

Living 15 to 20 years on average, the Chihuahua has one of the longest lifespans of any dog breed. Of course, smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger ones, but another key factor contributing to the Chihuahua’s longevity is the relatively few health problems to which the breed is predisposed.

#23) The Chihuahua has Never Won Best in Show

Best in Show Chihuahuas

Held annually in New York City, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is a conformation show in which purebred dogs are judged based on how well they conform to their respective breed’s standards. Since its first show in 1877, however, the Chihuahua has never won Best in Show — and it’s only won Best in Group (Toy) once.

The Chihuahua isn’t the only breed to have never won Best in Show. Others include the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Great Dane, dachshund, Shih Tzu, Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie), and Miniature Schnauzer.

#24) The World’s Smallest Dog, by Height, is a Chihuahua

A female Chihuahua named Miracle Milly holds the title of being the world’s smallest living dog by height. Born December 1, 2011, Milly is a 1-pound (0.5 kg) apple-head Chihuahua owned by Vanesa Semler of Dorado, Puerto Rico. When officials from the Guinness World Records measured her on February 21, 2013, she stood just 3.8 inches (9.65 cm) tall. That’s one miracle-sized Chihuahua!

To get an idea of just how petite she is, when she was first born she received milk from an eyedropper,” said Semler when talking about Miracle Milly.

#25) The World’s Smallest Dog, by Length, is Also a Chihuahua

Miracle Milly may hold the title of being the world’s smallest dog by height, but another Chihuahua is the world’s smallest dog by length. Born on New Year’s Eve 2003, Heaven Sent Brandy is a long-coat female Chihuahua that measures just 6 inches (15.2 cm) from the tip of her nose to the back of her tail. In 2005, Guinness World Records awarded Brandy with the title of being the world’s smallest dog by length.

#26) Chihuahuas Have a Natural Instinct to Burrow

Whether it’s bed linens, blankets, towels, pillows or dirty clothes, Chihuahuas burrow under just about anything. Scientists believe this instinctual behavior was passed down to the Chihuahua from its Techichi ancestors. When Techichi roamed Central and North America, they likely burrowed in the sand and vegetation for warmth and protection from predators.

#27) Chihuahuas Were Gifted in Bouquets of Flowers

What’s better than receiving a Chihuahua as a gift? Receiving the pint-sized canine in a bouquet of flowers. In the late 1800s and early 1900s Mexico, it wasn’t uncommon for the groom to give his bride a bouquet of flowers with a Chihuahua inside.

#28) The Chihuahuas is One of the Oldest Breeds Recognized by the AKC

First recognized in 1903, the Chihuahua is one of the AKC’s oldest official dog breeds. Since then, the AKC has added dozens more to its list, including the Affenpinscher, Alaskan Malamute, Belgian Sheepdog, Bearded Collie, Brussels Griffon, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, Lhasa Apso and many others.

#29) Wild Chihuahuas Used to Climb Trees

While most Chihuahuas today prefer lounging in their owner’s lap, these small dogs were once adept tree-climbers. They’ve been said to climb trees and near-vertical hills with the grace of a squirrel, presumably for warmth and protection from predators.

#30) Chihuahuas are Often Described as ‘Apple Head’ or ‘Deer Head’

Chihuahuas are typically described as “apple head” or “deer head,” depending on their facial characteristics. Apple-head Chihuahuas have a round head with a 90-degree “stop” where the muzzle meets the forehead, while deer heads have a longer and more angular head, similar to a deer’s head.

#31) The Chihuahua has One of the Largest Varieties of Coat Colors

From black and fawn to red and blue, Chihuahuas have a wide variety of coat colors. In fact, the AKC currently recognizes 30 different coat colors and color combinations for the breed. And even if a Chihuahua has a different coat color that’s not mentioned by the AKC, he can still compete in the show ring for conformation titles.

#32) Solid White is the Rarest Coat Color in Chihuahuas

Chihuahu with solid white coat

Of all the coat colors in which Chihuahuas are found, solid white — without other markings — is the rarest.

#33) All Small Dogs in Northern Mexico and Southern U.S. Were Once Called Chihuahuas

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, all small dogs found around the Mexico-U.S. border were called Chihuahuas. This led many people to believe that the Mexican hairless Xoloitzcuintli was actually a Chihuahua.

#34) Two Smooth-Coat Chihuahuas Can Produce a Long-Coat Pup

Because the long-coat gene is recessive, two smooth-coat Chihuahuas can produce a long-coat pup. Two long-coat Chihuahuas, however, cannot produce a smooth-coat pup.

#35) Chihuahuas Have Been Featured in Artwork

Two Venetian ladies with a Chihuahua

Some of the earliest depictions of Chihuahua were discovered on pots and sculptures dating back to 300 BC. The small dog later appeared in paintings such as The Trials and Calling of Moses (1482) by Sandro Botticelli, and Two Venetian Ladies (1490) by Vittore Carpaccio.

#36) The Chihuahua has the Largest Brain-to-Body Ratio of any Breed

Ironically, the world’s smallest dog has the biggest brain. Research shows that Chihuahuas have the largest brain-to-body weight ratio of all dog breeds.

#37) Chihuahuas are Excellent Watch Dogs

With a strong sense of hearing and a constant state of alertness, Chihuahuas make excellent watch dogs. If your Chihuahua hears another person or animal snooping around your home, he’ll bark loudly to get your attention.

#38) Papillons or Pomeranians Crossed with Smooth-Coat Chihuahuas to Produce Long Coats

Pomeranian

It’s believed that long-coat Chihuahuas were developed entirely in the U.S. by crossing the smooth coat with the Papillon or Pomeranian.

#39) Chihuahuas are Popular Among Celebrities

Countless celebrities throughout history have owned Chihuahuas. The 19th-century Italian-French opera singer Adelina Patti owned a small Chihuahua named Benito, whom she received as a gift from Mexico’s President Porfirio Diaz. Patti brought Benito on several tours, introducing the small and lovable dog to many people for the first time. The Spanish-American bandleader Xavier Cugat owned several Chihuahuas, one of whom became the subject of a 1979 children’s book titled “Pepito the Little Dancing Dog: The Story of Xavier Cugat’s Chihuahua.”

Other celebrities who’ve owned or currently own a Chihuahua include Adrian Brody, Anne Heche, Ashton Kutcher, Billie Holiday, Cesar Millan, Christina Ricci, Demi Moore, Enrico Caruso, George Lopez, Hilary Duff, Jayne Mansfield, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Katharine McPhee, Lupe Velez, Madonna, Marilyn Monroe, Mickey Rourke, Paula Abdul, Reese Witherspoon, Sandra Bullock, Scarlett Johansson and Sharon Osbourne.

#40) There’s No Such Thing as a ‘Teacup’ Chihuahua

While many breeders tout their Chihuahuas being “teacups,” neither the AKC nor any other reputable canine organization recognizes teacup Chihuahuas. Breeders use the term to make their Chihuahuas appear more valuable to prospective buyers.

#41) The First CKC Chihuahua was Registered in 1928

In 1929 — more than two decades the AKC received its first Chihuahua registration — the breed was finally registered with the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC).

#42) ‘Chico’ is the Most Popular Name for Chihuahuas

Chico Chihuahua

What’s your Chihuahua’s name? According to a study of 3.2 million small dog names, “Chico” is the most popular moniker for Chihuahuas. This is appropriate considering that Chico comes from the Spanish language meaning small boy.

#43) Taco Bell Made Chihuahuas Popular

The Tex-Mex restaurant chain Taco Bell helped popularized the breed in the 1990s by launching a series of TV commercials featuring a talking Chihuahua named Gidget. During her career, Gidget starred in several commercials in which she spoke catchphrases like “¡Yo quiero Taco Bell!” “Drop the chalupa!” and “Viva Gorditas!” For many Americans, this $500 million advertising campaign was the first time they had ever seen a Chihuahua.

#44) ‘Chihuahua’ is One of the Most Frequently Misspelled Words

If you have trouble spelling the word “Chihuahua,” you aren’t alone. According to a 2017 Google Trends map, “Chihuahua” ranked as the single most difficult word for users in Arkansas and South Carolina to spell.

#45) Chihuahuas are Prone to Reverse Sneezing

While common among many toy breeds, Chihuahuas are particularly prone to a medical condition in which air is pulled through the nose. Known as reverse sneezing, the Chihuahua will extend his head and neck while making wheezing sounds during an episode.

#46) Japan’s Police Force has a Search-and-Rescue Chihuahua

In 2010, a six-pound long-coat Chihuahua named Momo became an official police dog for the Nara Police Department in Japan. Momo’s small size allows her to crawl through tight spaces and dense rubble during search-and-rescue missions.

#47) Chihuahuas Can Be Destructive

Although small in size, Chihuahuas can cause big damage. According to a study conducted by the UK insurance firm PayingTooMuch, Chihuahuas cause more property damage throughout their lives than any other breed. Researchers found the average Chihuahua causes about $1,300 of damage by ripping, chewing, staining, scratching and digging.

Of course, this could be because many owners neglect to train their Chihuahuas, or maybe it’s because the Chihuahuas has one of the longest lifespans.

#48) Chihuahuas are Prone to Patellar Luxation

Another common medical condition in Chihuahuas is patellar luxation, which is characterized by the kneecap (patella) slipping out of its groove socket in the femur.

#49) Chihuahuas Have Been Featured in Movies and TV Shows

One of the Chihuahua’s first appearances on the big screen occurred in the 1955 animated movie Lady and Trump. Since then, the lovable dog has appeared in dozens of movies and TV shows, including The Ren & Stimpy Show, Oliver & Company, Phineas and Ferb, Legally Blonde, Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde, Beverley Hills Chihuahua, Beverley Hills Chihuahua 2, Beverley Hills Chihuahua 3: Viva La Fiesta!, and more.

#50) Chihuahuas Have More Cesarean Sections Than Any Other Breed

Because of the pup’s large head and the dam’s narrow birth canal, Chihuahuas are delivered via cesarean section more than any other breed.

#51) A Chihuahua in the U.K. has a $19,000 Wardrobe

Think your Chihuahua is pampered? A woman in the U.K. has reportedly spent more than $19,000 on her Chihuahua’s wardrobe. Owned by professional dog groomer Sian Butler, Lily, a fawn-colored smooth-coat Chihuahua, owns hundreds of Dior and Chanel-inspired dresses.

#52) Many Chihuahuas Have ‘Small Dog Syndrome’

Many Chihuahuas and other toy breeds experience small dog syndrome, a behavioral condition that refers to unwanted actions associated with the dog’s size. When confronted with larger dogs, animals and people, for instance, Chihuahuas will stand their ground by barking or growling. It’s believed these actions are performed in an effort to compensate for the Chihuahua’s small size.

#53) The Top 3 Leading Causes of Death are Heart Disease, Trauma and Infection

According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Georgia College Veterinary, the top 3 leading causes of death in Chihuahuas are heart disease, physical trauma and infection.

#54) Chihuahuas Have a High Risk of Adverse Reaction to Vaccination

Chihuahua adverse reaction to vaccination

While vaccination is an important preventative measure to protect Chihuahuas from potentially fatal diseases, owners should use caution to avoid unnecessary vaccination. According to a study conducted by researchers from Purdue University, Chihuahuas have a greater risk of adverse reaction to vaccination than other dogs, presumably because of their small size.

#55) The Largest Litter of Chihuahua Pups is 10

The average litter size for Chihuahuas is 2 to 5 pups, but one dam blew these numbers away to set a new record. Owned by Dawn and Bill Slater of Cumbria, U.K., Coco gave birth to 10 Chihuahua pups in 2011. That’s the largest recorded litter of purebred Chihuahuas.

#56) Chihuahuas are Natural Retrievers

Whether it’s a stick, tennis ball or plush toy, Chihuahuas will retrieve just about anything you throw. You can even use the breed’s terrier-like qualities to keep your Chihuahua from running away — if your Chihuahua won’t come back, try tossing a ball, which he should chase to retrieve.

#57) 200 Costume-Wearing Chihuahuas Once Gathered to Set a World Record

Can you imagine seeing hundreds of Chihuahuas dressed in costumes together? Well, that’s what happened at Daytona Beach in 2015. To celebrate Cinco de Mayo, 209 costume-wearing Chihuahuas gathered to set a new world record for the largest gathering of Chihuahuas in costumes.

#58) Chihuahuas are Known to Shake and Shiver

While all dogs may shake and shiver, this behavior is particularly common among Chihuahuas. Common reasons for shaking and shivering include low body temperature, anxiety, excitability and various health ailments.

#59) A Chihuahua Was the First Dog to Dine at the House of Commons

According to the British Chihuahua Club, the first dog to have dined at the British House of Commons is believed to have been a Chihuahua. The lucky pup, Rozavel Miguel, sported a green jersey and diamond-encrusted collar for the annual British Mexican Society dinner in 1952.

#60) Chihuahuas Have Been Known to Nurse Orphaned Kittens

Chihuahua nursing kitten

Who says dogs and cats don’t get along? It’s an unorthodox relationship to say the least, but Chihuahuas have been known to nurse abandoned and orphaned kittens. In 2015, a 6-year-old Chihuahua named Lucy helped care for 2 abandoned kittens at an animal shelter in New York.

Have any other amazing facts about Chihuahuas that you would like to share? Let us know in the comments section below!

Comments

    • Lyn
    • April 23, 2023
    Reply

    I’ve rehomed a 5yo boy who’s original owner passed away. He’s been with me about a month and seems to be settling in pretty good. Gets along with my cats, doesn’t seem to mind being on a lead for outside time, he’s learning to trust me. But I’m stumped on something, I can’t get him to play. I know he needs to release some energy, but he refuses to play. No fetch, no chase, no Kong with treat inside, etc.

    • Kristie
    • March 17, 2023
    Reply

    My little Jade is 2 years old now and an absolute pleasure we want more due to the fact that I can’t have children anymore and we love dogs so much we are considering a heard of chichis! Jade is the funniest little dog I have ever owned, what she lacks in size she has made up in personality. She cries(like actually has tears) if she doesn’t get what she wants and we have 2 Saint Bernard/mastiff puppies that are 14 weeks and weigh 47 lbs and she is the best of friends with them (and the boss) they play so well together it’s adorable. I have never loved a breed of dog so much get one it will be the best thing u do an absolute joy! Sincerely Kris

    • Kimberley
    • November 4, 2022
    Reply

    I have a 13 yo Chihuahua. I wasn’t particularly fond of Chihuahuas until I was adopted by one. He had been kept outdoors tethered on a porch for the first 2 years of his life before he chewed through his tether and escaped. He was a fear biter, and basically feral when I first brought him home. I couldn’t allow anybody to get near him, because he would lunge and bite without provocation.

    After 2 obedience classes, one specifically for “shy,” fear-biters, he started to chill out and his personality began to emerge. He is now the most affectionate, intelligent, sensitive little dog imaginable. He’s such a quick learner! He has naturally become the best emotional support dog imaginable to my 97 yo mom, and to me as I care for her. I shudder to think I almost didn’t take him because he was so unpredictable and “vicious.” After all, the first thing he did when I first met him was launch himself off the floor to bite me! I wasn’t sure I was qualified to take him on, but I’m very glad I did.

    • Diane
    • September 29, 2022
    Reply

    Chihuahuas are like Lay’s potato chips,You can’t just have one

    • Anita Laverman
    • September 10, 2022
    Reply

    I forget which year but a chihuahua from the Rozavel kennels in England was best of breed and BEST IN SHOW. I wrote an article about her in “de Hondenwereld”; must have been in the early eighties. I was one of the first breeders in the Netherlands (1966) but stopped when chi’s became too small to be healthy.

    • myra
    • June 7, 2022
    Reply

    I don’t know if anyone out there has had or has this problem. My husband and I adopted a Chi-Rat Terrier mix. She became house-broken in a few weeks. She sleeps under the covers with my husband. Unfortunately she has this habit of waking at 4:00 a.m. to be walked. We give her last walk at 10:45 pm. Please help.
    Thank you.

      • Kris
      • October 6, 2022
      Reply

      They have small bladders they are very small dogs. I leave a pee pad in the master bath just at night. Then they just go down the steps next to the bed and potty during the day they use a doggy door.

      • Susan deMartino
      • October 23, 2022
      Reply

      Mine wakes up at 2 am everyday!

      • Carissa
      • January 10, 2023
      Reply

      Had a same breed female she woke up more x 12pm, 2am, 4, am, 6am it was like this for 4 months. Ask the vet. Think its a weak bladder. Also she over ate and never drank enough water during the day.

    • Karen McKellar
    • December 8, 2021
    Reply

    When we picked up our female, fawn coloured chihuahua at the breeder, we were told she was not suitable for breeding or showing because her proportions were not quite right, although she looked fine to us. My husband named her Button because she really was “cute as a button”. Well, she is now 7 pounds with a very long back, but just as cute as ever.

    • Angie with Ms Molly
    • September 11, 2021
    Reply

    I’ve always had terriers of one kind or another, my last little terrier passed away two years ago so I was looking for another little companion. I looked for months for a terrier and could never find one (I always go to rescues) and then up popped this little Chi, something about her struck me so I drove over an hour to see her, it was love at first sight. She has been a true joy to both my hubby and me. Now I want to learn as much as I can about this little bundle of joy and your website has been a great help.

    • Barbara
    • April 3, 2021
    Reply

    I rescued a deerhead fawn chi from a kill shelter…she was only 3 months old. Pure breed…but her bite is misaligned. I always had large dogs…but somehow I ended up with Bambi. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE her. I live alone so she’s not very friendly to others. She doesn’t allow anyone else to touch her. However, she’s perfect at the vets office….guess she’s just overly protective of our home💖💖💖

    • Nezha
    • March 31, 2021
    Reply

    I have 9 Brown Chihuahuas and 6 white Chihuahuas.

    • Lynne
    • December 9, 2020
    Reply

    I have two chi chi’s! Reading these facts about them made my day! 🐕🐕

      • Lisa Shea Henig
      • March 13, 2022
      Reply

      We have a drop eared grizzle colored Chihuahua who had been kept outside in a cage, bred over and over till rescued at 4yrs. Francie denies knowing human language unless a treat or walk is involved. Sweetest smartest little guard dog, lap dog, now 8years old. Always had large dogs before, but now considering more Chihuahuas like her.

      • Vicki Cox
      • March 26, 2023
      Reply

      Maybe try a litter box for night time and train her to use it.

      • Natalie
      • August 10, 2023
      Reply

      awwww how wonderful to learn about beautiful chihuahuas. I only have one chihuahua, a beautiful black and white long-haired chihuahua. We are looking to buy a second one. Is anyone selling their dog? x

    • Lauryn
    • October 2, 2020
    Reply

    I’ve never been a Chi person per se, but I did adopt a Chi – she was the runt of the litter and her mother was brutal to her, so she came to us at just 4 weeks. We hand-raised her. Charlotte is now 7 months old and I must say she has the most interesting personality. She’s quite tiny with green eyes and honey blonde. She’s inquisitive, very, very alert, protective, quite bossy (she’s best friends with our, Shorkie, who we have had for over 4 years), a slave to vanilla ice cream as a treat, loves boiled chicken, rice, and carrots and is quite demanding. She sleeps with us, HATES baths and getting her nails done. We own a second home which we travel to quite often and I will say is the best traveling dog we’ve ever owned. We take a good many trips and she’s thrilled to go. My husband didn’t want a second dog because of time constraints but then, Charlotte happened. She has bonded to him so much so that she sits on the wrap around porch waiting for the sound of his diesel truck engine to come up the drive daily. She literally crawls on her belly to him to greet him at the gates. Indeed, it’s true. You don’t own a Chi. They own you!

    • Stephanie Lucas
    • September 7, 2020
    Reply

    Very nice, well written article. As a breeder of AKC chihuahuas (both long and smooth coat)…I can find no flaw.
    Stephanie Lucas
    Lucas Chihuahuas

    • Angel
    • August 12, 2020
    Reply

    I have a boy chihuahua named monster and a girl chihuahua named me and they both howl together and ever since they were puppies I howl with them and it’s amazing because we howl the words I love you and they say it to a t I even have video its so beautiful..

      • Casey Summerlin
      • January 16, 2021
      Reply

      That is soo funny because me and my chihuahua Bella call everyone we know on their birthday and Bella howls happy bday and says I LOVE YOU. It must just be a chihuahua thing!!!

    • Alishia Michelle Skaggs
    • May 9, 2020
    Reply

    Toby loved music So much he learned to sing back up on cue to Led Zeppelin whole lortab love…My chihuahua Toby had separation anxiety so bad I had to leave music playing while I went to work so he would not cry and disturb neighbors in my apartment building. Well the only DVD music that looped automatically was the royal Albert Hall live recording. Appearently Toby practiced while I was at work. One day I was in shower and I started belting out Whole lotta Love. He came in on the Harmony on cue and in time every time. No Joke. I was not surprised though he sang when my fiance and I would practice. He knew what he was doing. Oh yeah . he also ran up and down my 🎹 and knew what he was doing. Of course it took five years and the piano playing was terrible, but he just was a ham and I thought it was amazing. A dog cognitive to know he was making music??? Yup! He was one of a kind. He was a deer head chihuahua jack Russel coat. He also thought he could talk. I have no idea what he was saying. But he would not let you get a word in the first 5 to 15 minutes when we visited my best friend. Like i said it was not barking he. Didn’t form any real words but hey you could tell he was saying something that was obviously important to him. Tragically he was ran over June 3 2019 at 2:30 however his passing Saved another life. I rescued Taco three weeks later from a Puppy mill on the brink of death from starvation and internal bleeding kennel cough and severe dehydration. Thank you Toby for 5 excellent years of companionship buddy. P.s. Taco can’t hold a tune in a bucket but he is approximately 1 year and few months in age . Hence, Taco does sit on my lap when I play piano and will sit like a gentleman at band practice. Very sweet and kind to everyone…well almost everyone. He good judge of character let’s say. Chihuahua’s are excellent security guards!

    • Eddie A. Smith
    • March 24, 2020
    Reply

    I have a chihuahua that is 10 lb 4 oz short hair, apple head having long legs, small stomach, long tail. Vet says it is full bred This one is female and loves cold weather, runs like there is no stopping full of energy and sniffs the ground everywhere. Looks like a full chihauhua but like there are unusually small ones could that be the same for unsually large ones as well? Her name is Messy and she took up with us at 6 weeks of age. Loves everybody and very friendly. This is our second one, both very friendly.

    • Alison
    • February 11, 2020
    Reply

    I have a lovely little Chi called Max. He is 8 months old and he’s such a little treasure. He makes me laugh how he eats his food by running up and stealing a bit then running back. I am sure he is going to bring me plenty of joy for years to come.

      • Marie
      • February 4, 2022
      Reply

      We have Danny, a long coat and Gracie a smooth coat since July and we are madly in love, but they love doing their business on our carpet…grrrrr

    • Louise Lordi
    • December 29, 2019
    Reply

    Luv all the info on Chihuahuas. Very interesting!

    • Talissa
    • September 3, 2019
    Reply

    My 6lb applehead name is Titus hes such a good listener. Doesnt need a leash on walks and hes super quiet and friendly

    • Kay Webb
    • August 31, 2019
    Reply

    I was near death when I got my first Chihuahua. I was born with Asthma. I was weak, couldn’t breathe and all six doctors gave me just months to live. A couple of them said I would not see my eighth birthday. One doctor suggested a Chihuahua. He had people say they helped people with asthma. My parents bought me a puppy, and she went straight and laid on my chest. I got better! THEY WORK AND ONLY NEED LOVE♡ I HAVE MADE IT PAST 50 YEARS OLD AND I THINK CHIHUAHUA’S WERE TO REASON. Even now when my chihuahua is not with me, I have to use an inhaler a lot!!

    At $165.00 for a small inhaler, it’s unreal but when my dog is with me I don’t need it much. Chihuahuas Saved my life. I still have asthma and allergies, but my Chihuahua makes breathing easier and life bearable. If anyone else has had the same experience with Chihuahuas please SPEAK UP THEY DESERVE TO HAVE HISTORY RECOGNIZE THEM FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO ASTHMA VICTIMS.
    SPEAK UP LET PEOPLE KNOW. Chihuahuas deserve a pat on the head and a well done🤗

    • Kathy
    • August 1, 2019
    Reply

    I rescued my one and only Chi. 🐕His name is Snickers and it fits him perfectly❤. He was abused during the first year of his life. 😢 But when my son and I rescued him after the death of my purebred rotty. It was a big adjustment for all. He learned he can trust us that we would never hurt him. And we learned how to enjoy a precious little pup.🐕 Now my little Snickers is a happy, loving, smiling, comical, spoiled treasure! ❤

      • Donald
      • June 25, 2021
      Reply

      I have 6 chihuahuas. 5 are 6 years old, one is 18 years old. They love to stay with their human pack member. When I let them out, they will stand at the door and wait for me. The 18 year old is hard of hearing and will be a sleep. I will have to go and get her. The others will stand by the door and wait for us. At 100° they will lay in the sun and when we go in, head for the blankets to get covered up. We have parrots and they know that they are pack members but the outside birds are not and will try to catch them, also rabbits and squirrels.

      We have poison snakes and the dogs stopped my wife from going down the deck. They saw the snake at the bottom of the steps but my wife did not. She would have stepped on it. They cornered one by our fence next to the woods but kept their distance so as not to get bitten. Just alerting me to take care of it. Not trained in any of this, just that smart. Our newest one, a stray that we could never find the owner, so we kept her. I call the dogs in Korean, German, Spanish, and English. She learned it in a week.

      On my cell phone I have different music for each, outside, and eating time, she learned the difference of each song in a few days. One song plays, time to eat, they go to the kitchen, the other song plays, if I am napping they get me to take them outside, or at other times will bark at me if they have to go. I say what, and they run to the back door, not taught just that smart.

    • nanc y
    • July 2, 2019
    Reply

    my 15 yr old chihuahua has started walking backwards. we do not know what that means?

      • Jerry & Lisa Hill
      • May 7, 2022
      Reply

      Lisa and I got our sweet Maggie 12 years ago. Maggie is the most sweetest little dog I have ever seen she barks very little and goes everywhere we go. When Maggie was around 8 years old a hawk tried to take her it broke both her rear legs and had stitches in her back. The vet told us we should put her down because of how much it would cost to fix her. That’s was not going to happen. To make a long story short my wife found a Dr. in Commerce, Ga. who said he could fix her and how much it would cost. We did it it was somewhat successful but we were told she wouldn’t use her rear legs any more….she is running and loving life but slowing down she is 12 years now and we feel blessed to have her.

    • Helane Zeiger
    • June 25, 2019
    Reply

    Today my 5 year old chihuahua, Mole, proved that chis can climb up and down steep hills. I inadvertently threw a chuck-it ring down a steep wooded incline. I thought we had lost the ring. But Mole, climbed down the hill, retrieved it and almost on her belly, carried the ring back to me!

    • vikki
    • June 10, 2019
    Reply

    love these facts i have a 7 year old chi named tiny princess betty (betty)we could not deiced on a name my mom wanted betty I wanted princess and my sister wanted tiny so we compromised. she is so cute and loves to snuggle. my chi is not sassy at all she is very quiet and she has always been this way but that is good because we d have another dog.

    • McKenzie
    • March 1, 2019
    Reply

    i loved this article so much and it really helped me learn about chihuahuas and i love them and they are adorable

    • Connie
    • January 13, 2019
    Reply

    I have had many different kind of breeds of dogs. But once my husband got me a Chi I was hooked to
    this breed. And will not have any other type of dog. They are the very best. In every aspect. Smart, funny, fun, loving, just a whole package. And the best thing is they live a long time. Anywhere from 14 to 20yrs. I have a New one named Cisco, great Christmas present. He has brightened up my life once again. After the loss of my 14 yr old chi past

    • Elizabeth Kasner
    • November 23, 2018
    Reply

    I have adopted a 10 week old cross Chi., any hints on how to train her?. Thank you.

    • Elizabeth Kasner
    • November 23, 2018
    Reply

    I have just got a rescue Chihuahua, 9 weeks old. She sleeps o.k. through the night, but is a nightmare in the day, will only sleep if being held, Runs around like a nut case, she is wearing me out, I have played for up to three hours non-stop, and she is still going strong, any ideas please?, really need your help, thank you.

    • Suzanne D Horvath
    • July 8, 2018
    Reply

    My chihuahua has chinchilla type fur. It’s very soft. Like a puppies fur. He is 3 years old. Is this type of coat odd?

      • Karren Crow
      • November 21, 2022
      Reply

      My chi has very soft fur. Softest I have ever touched. Don’t know if that’s normal. He’s my best friend. 3 1/2 lbs. And knows he’s soo bad.

        • Natalie
        • August 10, 2023
        Reply

        awwww how can you blame him. Yes It’s normal. He is a happy, healthy long haired chihuahua

    • Libby Bar-Kochba
    • June 13, 2018
    Reply

    I am Mom to a fawn 6# deerhead boy named Jesse. He is the best dog I have ever known and a true companion and warrior. He hears things other dogs miss, and is a natural guard dog. Chihuahuas are fascinating because there is a lot of dog in a small package. It is important not to let people grab at them because they do not like this. People are naturally drawn to them because they are small and gorgeous, but they are very protective, and may even bite if they feel someone is reaching out to their Mom or Dad. This article was just lovely.

    • Marcella
    • June 2, 2018
    Reply

    I just added a 6 week old chi pup to my fam. Her name is lizzy and because she is so small i worried what my 50 lb american bulldog would have to say about it! They are like sisters after only a few days! Welcome to your forever home lizzy we love you!

    • debbie
    • May 22, 2018
    Reply

    i have an applehead male ,cant get him to eat that much, hes so picky,i have even spent 20 on food just for chiuahuas, no luck

      • Kim
      • August 24, 2018
      Reply

      Hello,
      I have a Jack Russell which is a year-and-a-half-old and I have a 8 week old Chihuahua which I got for my friend, and I cooked vegetables which I eat a lot of and I put liver with their dog food… And they eat it all… She even whines in the morning for breakfast and dinner when I come home after work.. I have had her less than 2 weeks..they are my spoiled babies! They both like broccoli, string beans, corn tortillas… Just experiment I would say! Hope that helped a little… Take care of your baby…

      Kim

      • Tim
      • February 3, 2019
      Reply

      Hi I had that same problem with my boy bruce. My wife figured it out now we go buy 3 pounds of chicken boil that then chop carrots string green beans and salmon and he eats it every morning super fast

    • Holly
    • April 14, 2018
    Reply

    I love Chihuahuas to death and are BEGGING my parents to get me one! These facts are DEFINITELY going to help! (I think). Anyways, I want a fawn apple head smooth coat Chi that I’ll call Fawn!

      • Alishia M
      • May 9, 2020
      Reply

      Dear Holly, it took me 3 weeks but I found my baby at Henderson KY Humane society full blooded chihuahua. Deer head chihuahua fawn. Also Evansville IN Second chances has chihuahua litters quote often . try there first. Mine is full blooded and smartest best mannered dog I ever owned and I’m old.

    • John
    • April 4, 2018
    Reply

    My wife and I got our Chihuahua’s after finding out we couldn’t have children… We are truly blessed to have one dear head and one apple head…. Pixie and Lilly. The best breed ever!!!

    • Melanie Wilder
    • February 22, 2018
    Reply

    I have a 5 month old “PeekaPom”, she looks like a Chihuahua! She is beautiful and the love of my life. I hope she turns out to look just like a Chihuahua!!

    • Gina
    • November 24, 2017
    Reply

    I have a cream-colored deer head and his name is Jacques. He is the most loving pup ever. He loves to kiss and will do it to anyone willing to let him. He is my joy.

    • Annie
    • November 9, 2017
    Reply

    I have a deerhead called Papi. He is two years old. He is my first dog ever. He is spoiled so he behaves a little different than the other Chihuahuas. I wish he was friendly but he is not. He just loves his mama.

    • darlene
    • November 7, 2017
    Reply

    I didn’t want a Chi but she picked me.This helped me understand the breed a little more she’s a 8 month rescue & so sweet. I believe I made the right choice.
    a match made in heaven😊

    • Stacy
    • October 26, 2017
    Reply

    I have been a proud owner, breeder & (lover) of Chihuahua’s my entire life of 49 yrs😉 my parents bought my first one when I was born in 1969 he was a fawn 🍎 applehead named Toby he passed away of a heart attack when I was still young so always feared owning another one due to loosing it prematurely due to they’re nervous disposition, but took my chances. My oldest baby girl Chi an black w/beige brows & chest now w/ alot of “grey” is now 15 (105) in doggie years of course,and she is a strong fighter for life lets just say! She is an AKC deerhead & in 2003 I purchased a 4 mos. old fawn male 🍎 applehead CKC male & named him Chico and on Chi’s 2nd birthay January 14 th 2005 they were married..yes we had an actual ceremony in Belton Tx & in June we welcomed our first litter of 6 first generation “Derapplehead”Chihuahuas I like to call my special breeds😊 On August 21st of this year we welcomed our 13th generation litter of just 2 males birthed by my tiny tiny (3.5)lb “Blue” siver-grey w/white markings female Gracie I am so proud to say I am a long time die-hard true lover of the Chihuahua breed, they are the most dedicated, protective, fun loving (little) creatures with the (biggest) personalities you will ever find and they’re love for an owner is Incomparably…💓
    Unconditional💖

      • k. koko
      • February 24, 2018
      Reply

      Do you sell puppies?

        • kenv
        • December 21, 2019
        Reply

        I thought the AKC did not recognize the deer head chi.

          • Rin Zsiga
          • October 10, 2022
          Reply

          They recognize them and register them, They just can’t show them in sanctioned dog shows.

    • Cilrogers
    • September 23, 2017
    Reply

    I have a three year old male Chihuahua,Cubby, a rescue who was found as a stray. He is a larger Chi but the love of my life. He is not a yappy and stays close to me at all times. He is my first Chihuahua but will not be my last.

    • Dorothy A Owens
    • August 7, 2017
    Reply

    Yes was looking for a special name for a female chuaua black with brown dots above her eyes

      • JEANE S DUFFY
      • August 8, 2017
      Reply

      I have 3 females: Lilly, Lola and Nina 🙂

      • Cathy Morris
      • May 25, 2018
      Reply

      Molly,Sissy,Sadie,Dotty,(or Dot),Sassy.

    • Deanna Fuller
    • July 15, 2017
    Reply

    I just bought my little girl at 4 months young and love her to death! ! (Junebug)

    • Robert and Romaine Wilson
    • April 5, 2017
    Reply

    Chis do not like bad weather. My girl runs back and forth and bark when the thunder sounds

    • chihuahua lover
    • August 10, 2016
    Reply

    my Chihuahua is constantly cleaning and grooming herself, licking people and she hates baths and the cold. she also loves tummy rubs too!!

      • Rhonda
      • February 19, 2019
      Reply

      Hi my name is Rhonda Briney growing up we had a chihuahua named Shimmey my dad always seemed to get a chihuahua now in my older years in life I too got a chihuahua from my nephew Richard due to my heart failure thought I would take him walking so I would walk more for my heart big dogs hurt me so anyway as it turns out my chihuahua name is Semper Fi always Faihfull and it’s true he is exactly that and more ty

    • Alivia
    • June 9, 2016
    Reply

    I do wonder what will happen to the breed as dogs get smaller and smaller. Hubby and I will be looking to add a chi baby to the family next year sometime, so I’m always looking. I tell hubby I want another deer head and he always answers that I’ll see a standard, snub nosed little baby and change my mind. I’m partial to rescues, and any puppy we find will most likely be a mix. I don’t mind paying for a well-bred puppy, I just feel guilty knowing how many doggies need homes.

      • Karren Crow
      • November 21, 2022
      Reply

      They do spoil easily. I don’t know how to not spoil a chi or any dog. Mine spoils me so why not.

    • Steve.
    • March 24, 2016
    Reply

    Very interesting facts, I’m new to chiuahuas so this is helpful

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