Breed Profile

Don’t be fooled by sheer size! The lovable Chihuahua is certainly a huge amount of personally packed into a small sized dog. A popular pup for apartment dwellers, this adorable breed is well-known for their loyalty, affection and guard dog qualities.

Chihuahua facts and information

Trainability

4 /5

If it’s a pint-sized sports dog you are after then look no further. Regardless of their small stature the Chihuahua is celebrated for their achievements in the world of dog sport, including agility. They are a very easy to train and simply adore making their owners pleased. However, don’t be fooled, like all dogs (big or small) they need training to ensure their doggy etiquette and manners are in check. Chihuahua’s are very intelligent and fast learning, so keeping your training it fun and light is important. Adding variety is the key to keeping your Chihuahua entertained and eager to learn. Early socialisation with other dogs and humans is a must, the more the better. They are known to be fierce little guard dogs, so ensuring they are trusting towards family members, friends and other dogs will prevent any problems. Lots of positive interactions during puppyhood is important, as too enrolling in group dog-training and puppy-preschools. Being a very sensitive breed only ever use positive reinforcement training. Harsh training (for any dog), will not benefit your pup and will only invoke fear.

Grooming

2 /5

Chihuahua’s need very little grooming regardless if they are a long coated or smooth coated variety. A good regular brush will avoid matting and keep the coat in good condition. For the longer coats a pin-head brush is best, and for the smooth coat go with a rubber mitt. This breed will shed, particularly during seasonal changes, however increasing your grooming regime will help prevent a build-up of hair on your clothes and furniture. Your Chihuahua will also require a monthly bath to keep them smelling and feeling sensational. As a companion and loving breed, they will simply adore this one-on-one time with you. Start young to get your pup used to all the lovely attention a grooming session provides. It’s also a good idea to take careful note of the ears. If you notice any build-up of wax or a sickly smell scent it’s best to have a veterinarian rule out any yeast infections that may be present. Clean the ears weekly with a soft damp cloth.

Exercise Requirements

2 /5

Your pint-sized barrel of fun will thoroughly enjoy any activity that involves working side-by-side with their favourite human…AKA, you. They thrive on human companionship so a good play session or a daily walk is paramount in keeping them fit and healthy. Being a very smart breed they benefit hugely from enrolling in a weekly dose of dog sport, so consider signing up your Chihuahua in your local agility club. It’s a great way to burn off energy and keep your training sessions up, while also having bucket-loads of fun.

Intelligence

5 /5

Chihuahua’s are a very intelligent breed. Because of this they need variety and fun during training sessions. The breed does not like to spend lots of time alone. Being a lovable companion dog they can become lonely very quickly. Give your Chihuahua a ‘job’ to do when you are away is a good way to starve off the boredom. Consider treat-balls and rotating toys daily, or your wee friend may find some very interesting ways to keep entertained (cue the pillow fluff).

Family Friendly

3 /5

The breed is incredibly affectionate and simply loves those who have the time for a play and a cuddle. This makes them the perfect addition to any loving family. However, like with all dogs, care must be taken around small children. As the Chihuahua is so small they can easily become hurt by a child. Teaching your children how to handle a small breed is vital. Remember; sitting cuddles are best and avoid encouraging your children to carry the dog. The breed simply adores children, and other pets when socialised correctly from a young age.

Indoor/ Outdoor

The breed does not like being left alone for long periods of time and due to their size can feel the cold easily. This makes them the perfect indoor dog. They simply love nothing more than spending time with their family and will become your little shadow. Their small size means they fit with any living environment and will easily adapt to life in an apartment or one in a mansion.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.

We love the Chihuahua and provide the following

  • Training
  • Grooming
  • Boarding

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