The Chihuahua is graceful, small, and compact, slightly longer than he is tall. The Chihuahua has a saucy expression and alert, terrier-like attitude. The coat can be smooth, with soft, glossy hair, or long, with soft straight or wavy coats and fringed ears. Ready to see what dogs fit you best? Take our short quiz to find out! Breed Image Breed Weight 6 lb Breed Height 6-9" Similar Breeds Japanese Chin Dogs & Puppies Papillon Dogs & Puppies Pekingese Dogs & Puppies Related Content How to Apartment-Train Your Dog Long Haired Dog & Puppy Breeds Temperament The saucy Chihuahua has earned his place as a favored toy dog because of his intense devotion to a single person. He is reserved with strangers but good with other household dogs and pets. Some try to be protective, but they are not very effective. Some may be quite bold; others may be timid. He may often be temperamental. Some bark. Upkeep The Chihuahua is a lively dog that nonetheless can get his exercise running from room to room indoors. He enjoys exploring the yard or going for a short walk on leash and especially enjoys accompanying his owner on outings. He hates the cold and seeks out warmth. Coat care for the smooth is minimal. Care of the long coat entails brushing two to three times a week. Health Major concerns: none Minor concerns: pulmonic stenosis, hydrocephalus, patellar luxation, KCS, hypoglycemia Occasionally seen: none Suggested tests: cardiac, knee, eye Life span: 14–18 years Note: A soft spot (molera) in the skull (due to incomplete fontanel closure) is a common breed trait. History The smallest breed of dog, the Chihuahua has a controversial history. One theory holds that it originated in China and was brought to the New World by Spanish traders, where it was then crossed with small native dogs. The other theory contends that it originated entirely in Central and South America, descending from the native Techichi. A small red dog was believed to guide the soul to the underworld, and every Aztec family kept such a dog that was buried with any deceased family member. To make matters worse for the Techichi, the Toltecs and their conquerors, the Aztecs, often ate dogs and the Techichi may have sometimes been on the menu. Despite what may have been short lives, the Techichis apparently were well cared for during life by the priests or their families. In fact, the most likely origin of the Chihuahua is a combination of these theories: the native Techichi was probably crossed with tiny hairless Chinese dogs, but again the date when this occurred is controversial. The Chinese dogs may have been brought over when a land bridge spanned the Bering Strait, or they may have been brought later by Spanish traders. When Cortes conquered the Aztecs in the sixteenth century, the little dogs were abandoned and left to fend for themselves. About 300 years later, in 1850, three tiny dogs were found in Chihuahua, Mexico. A few were brought to the United States, but they aroused only moderate attention. Only when Xavier Cugat (“the rhumba king”) appeared in public with a Chihuahua as his constant companion did the breed capture the public’s hearts. It experienced a meteoric rise in popularity and has continued as one of America’s most popular breeds. Breed Family Primitive Breed Type Toy Energy Level 5 Playfulness 2 Friendliness to Dogs 1 Friendliness to Strangers 1 Heat Sensitivity 2 Exercise Requirements 1 Affection Level 2 Friendliness to Other Pets 3 Watchfulness 1 Grooming Requirements 2 Vocality 5 Ease of Training 2 Disclaimer Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Breed Size Small Plural Name Chihuahuas Area of Origin Mexico Date of Origin 1500s Species Dog or Puppy