Chihuahua

Delicate, ferocious, cute, yappy, cuddly, demanding, loyal, entertaining: Chihuahuas can be all these things at once. Chihuahuas are an ancient breed from Mexico, and each one has their own quirks and personality.

Snapshot

Health & Care

The two main issues with Chihuahuas are their fragility – they’re delicately boned and lightly muscled, and so do not do well with rough play (and are unsuitable for children); secondly, if their eyes protrude, there’s greater chance of eye injuries.

Key Facts

AVERAGE LIFESPAN
10 - 18 years
AVERAGE WEIGHT
1 - 3 kg

Common Conditions

Tip for a first-time owner

Chihuahuas are delicate and susceptible to throat injuries if leashed using a collar rather than harness. Although they have the personality of a much larger dog, they’re liable to injure themselves straining against a collar.