Pedigree
Chihuahua
Origin: Mexico
The Chihuahua is the world's smallest dog, lively and attached to its owner. Contrary to the cliché, its small size often comes with more difficult behaviours, not easier ones: training is essential. Health to watch: teeth, patella, windpipe.
Small but not simple: small size correlates with more difficult behaviours, not fewer.
Heat (Morocco)
Watch the heat
First pet
Depends on the home
Availability
Market / breeders
Know this first
A small dog is not an easy dog (this is documented). Health: teeth, luxating patella, a fragile windpipe. Training matters as much as for a big dog.
For you if
- Anyone who really trains, despite the small size
- A present, patient home
Think twice if
- Anyone who thinks a small dog trains itself
- A home with very young, rough children
Care essentials
- Serious training and socialization
- Regular dental care
- Watch patella and windpipe
- Protection from cold (tiny frame)
Is a Chihuahua right for you?
Temperament is not everything: your space, your time, and the climate matter as much. Let us see if your life fits.
Common questions
Is a small dog easier?
No, often the reverse: small size correlates with more problem behaviours. It needs training like any dog.
In the same family
Size and difficult behaviours: behavioural literature (digest). Toy health: VetCompass baseline (digest).