Chihuahua
The smallest breed in the world, bold well beyond its size and deeply bonded to one or two people. Fragile bones and dental disease are the main practical concerns.
Key facts
Lifespan
12–18 years
Height
15–23 cm
Weight
1.5–3 kg
Exercise
~30 mins/day
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Moderate
Training
Moderate
First-time owners
Suitable
About the Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are alert, opinionated companions that often prefer adults to boisterous children simply because they are so easily injured. They are frequently under-socialised and over-carried, which produces the snappy reputation — treated as a real dog, they train well. Both smooth and long coats occur in the same breed.
Living with a Chihuahua
Ideal for flats; needs warmth and careful handling.
- Good with children
- Good with other pets— depends on the individual
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Patellar luxation
- Dental disease and retained baby teeth
- Hydrocephalus and open fontanelle
- Tracheal collapse; hypoglycaemia in very small puppies
Ask the breeder for
- Eye testing; patella checks
- Cardiac auscultation
Buying a Chihuahua
Avoid anyone advertising 'teacup' Chihuahuas — deliberately breeding for extreme small size increases the risk of hydrocephalus, hypoglycaemia and fragile bones.
Read the full safe-buying guideChihuahuas for sale
No Chihuahua adverts are live right now. New adverts are posted daily — or set your sights a little wider.
All dogs for saleChihuahua FAQs
How long do Chihuahuas live?
A Chihuahua typically lives 12–18 years.
How much exercise does a Chihuahua need?
Around 30 minutes of daily exercise for a healthy adult, plus mental stimulation. Puppies need considerably less until their joints have matured.
Are Chihuahuas good for first-time owners?
Yes — Chihuahuas are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a Chihuahua breeder have done?
Eye testing; patella checks. Cardiac auscultation.
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.