All breeds › Chihuahua
Chihuahua
The world's smallest breed, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua.
♥ Swipe on the ChihuahuaQuick facts
- Origin
- Mexico
- Size
- Small
- Energy
- Medium
- Bred for
- Companionship
- Lifespan
- 14–16 years
- Temperament
- Bold, loyal, sassy
- Exercise
- 30 min/day
- Grooming
- Low
- Shedding
- Medium
- Training
- Moderate
- With children
- Supervise
- Apartment
- Yes
Where the Chihuahua comes from
Chihuahuas are named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua and are thought to descend from the Techichi, a small dog kept by the Toltec people.
Personality and daily life
Bold, loyal and sassy. Chihuahuas often bond to one person and can be wary of strangers and larger dogs.
Chihuahuas are tiny with big personalities and often bond to one person. They are fragile around small children.
Exercise, grooming and health
Short walks and play. They get cold easily, have dental problems, and can have knee and heart issues. Socialise them early.
Is a Chihuahua right for you?
Calm adults and apartment owners. Not ideal with small children.
- Copes well with apartment living
- Best with older children, always supervised
- Easy to groom
Similar breeds
Profiles are general guides. Individual dogs vary, so always meet the dog and talk to a breeder, shelter or vet.