Chihuahuas may be small in size, but they have big personalities that make them a popular choice for pet owners. These pint-sized pups are known for their spunky attitudes, loyalty, and affectionate nature. Discover why Chihuahuas are so beloved by their owners and what makes them such great companions.
They are loyal and affectionate
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their owners, sometimes to the point of wanting to actively protect them, and form strong bonds with them. Usually, they have one favorite person but will be loving to other family members as well, as long as they treat this surprisingly sensitive dog kindly.
They love attention themselves but will grant a great deal of it to their human too. Sometimes even to the point of constantly seeking to be close and watching every step of their owner, unless trained otherwise.
They are known for being affectionate and love to cuddle up with their humans. Physical contact with their human is very important to them and is a source of comfort. When insecure, some Chis might have difficulties sleeping deeply and peacefully without. Working on their confidence, being reliable, and providing a sense of safety to those pups will help with that.
Chihuahuas are also great at sensing their owner's emotions and providing comfort when needed. Their loyalty and affectionate nature make them wonderful companions for those looking for a loving and devoted pet.
They are easy to care for
Chihuahuas are fairly low-maintenance pets that are easy to care for. They usually don’t require much grooming. (Obviously, the long-haired Chis do need to be brushed). However, due to their light weight, their nails need to be trimmed regularly, since they don’t get whetted on the ground while walking as with heavier breeds. In addition to that, Chihuahuas tend to develop plaque and tartar on their teeth that can cause inflammation and loss of teeth early. So training the chihuahua to get its teeth regularly brushed is a must. Appropriate snacks to chew on help as well but the weight should be monitored then.
Relatively speaking, Chihuahuas require as much exercise as any other dog. It keeps them happy and helps them to be more relaxed and balanced. However, since they are so small, they don’t need to go the same distance as larger dogs to benefit from the effects. That being said, the Chihuahua is an active and playful breed that loves walking, hiking, and even dog sports. Their endurance is not to be underestimated, even if they love cuddling up on the couch just as much. So compared to other dogs, they require minimal grooming and exercise, making them a great choice for those with busier lifestyles or limited living space. They should not be left alone for extended periods of time, though. They crave the presence of their human and like to be engaged in their life.
The Chihuahua’s small size also means it doesn't require as much food as larger breeds, which can save on costs. Good quality food still goes a long way. Chihuahuas usually have rather robust health, but only when cared for properly.
Overall, Chihuahuas are a great choice for those looking for a low-maintenance pet that still provides plenty of love and companionship.
They are great for apartment living
Chihuahuas are the perfect pet for apartment living. Their small size means they don't need a lot of space to run around, and they are content to curl up on your lap or in their bed. As mentioned earlier they don’t require a lot of exercise, but while they still need their daily walks, it is possible to get their need for exercise covered by playing indoors on a rainy day. No need for daily long walks or runs, even if they are appreciated. This makes Chihuahuas a great choice for those who live in small apartments or don't have access to a yard.
A fair warning though: If you consider allowing them on your couch or bed, expect them to take up at least 80% of it, no matter their size. ;)
They are smart and easy to train
Despite their reputation for being stubborn, Chihuahuas are actually very intelligent and can be easily trained with positive reinforcement techniques. While they don’t have an inherent will to please by default, they have active minds and bodies and enjoy mental and physical stimulation a lot. They love mental challenges and learning new tricks and commands when they see the benefit in them. With patience and consistency, you can teach your Chihuahua to do everything from basic obedience to more advanced tricks like agility courses. The trick here is to find out what kind of reward your puppy is willing to work for. So, if your Chi likes treats, for example, you could try introducing your puppy to an intelligence toy. But beware, Chihuahuas tend to be quick learners.
They have a long lifespan
Chihuahuas have a relatively long lifespan compared to other dog breeds, with an average lifespan of 12-20 years. With proper care and regular vet check-ups, they can live a happy and healthy life well into their senior years. This means that Chihuahuas can be a long-term companion for their owners, providing love and companionship for many years.
Do you already have a Chihuahua as companion? What is it that you love about your pooch? Share in the comments below! 🧡
