Overview
The Chihuahua is a Mexican toy breed and the smallest recognised dog in the world. Its large, upright ears, round apple-shaped head and bright eyes give it an instantly recognisable look.
It is kept almost entirely as a companion and thrives on close contact with its person. Despite its size it is bold and spirited, and it does best with owners who treat it like a real dog rather than an accessory.
History
The breed is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Genetic studies show it still carries a small share of ancestry from the dogs that lived in the Americas before European contact, which sets it apart from most modern breeds.
Small dogs of this kind were noted in Mexico in the 1800s, and the American Kennel Club registered its first Chihuahua in 1904. The breed then grew into one of the most popular companion dogs worldwide.
Appearance
The Chihuahua is a compact dog with a rounded skull, a well-defined stop, large erect ears and large round eyes. Show standards describe an apple-shaped head, though older deer-type dogs with flatter heads and longer legs still turn up.
A soft spot called the molera is often present on top of the skull. Dogs usually stand 15 to 23 cm tall, and the FCI standard prefers a weight between 1.5 and 2.5 kg. Pet dogs are often heavier.
Temperament
Chihuahuas are alert, quick and fiercely attached to their favourite person. They can be wary of strangers, and some are snappy with people or other dogs if they are not socialised early.
They are clever but can be stubborn. Because they are so small, they are usually not the best match for households with very young children who may handle them roughly.
Care and exercise
Exercise needs are modest: short walks and indoor play are usually enough. They feel the cold, so a coat in winter is a good idea, and they enjoy a warm blanket to burrow in.
Brush the smooth coat weekly and the long coat a few times a week. Dental care matters, and gentle, consistent training and early socialisation help keep barking and nervousness in check.
Health
Common concerns include kneecap luxation, heart problems and dental trouble. Puppies can suffer low blood sugar, and very small dogs often have difficult births. The fragile soft spot and the risk of hydrocephalus call for careful handling.
