Discover 10 Fun Facts About Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds, weighing in at just 2-8 pounds.

They have a long history dating back to ancient Mexico, where they were considered sacred animals.

Chihuahuas are known for their big eyes, which can be brown or blue. Their eyes are so expressive, it's like they're always saying something.

These tiny dogs have a surprisingly long lifespan, often living up to 12-18 years.

Chihuahuas are famous for being the smallest breed around, with Yorkshire Terriers coming in at a close second. They're tiny, but they pack a big personality.

Chihuahuas typically weigh between 2 and 6 pounds, making them a great fit for apartment living or for people who want a low-maintenance pet. Their small size also means they need less food and exercise than larger breeds.

Chihuahuas can be around 6 to 9 inches tall, which is adorable and makes them easy to handle. Their compact size also means they can fit in small spaces, like purses or bags.

A fresh viewpoint: Why Are Chihuahuas so Small

Chihuahuas are easily recognizable by their large round eyes, which can protrude from their heads. This distinctive feature makes them look like they're always curious and alert.

Their ears are another notable characteristic, sticking up straight rather than lying flat or flopping around. This unique ear shape is a defining feature of the breed.

Chihuahuas come in a wide range of colors, including solid and spotted patterns, and can be found in various colors such as black, white, brown, fawn, and red.

Explore further: Different Colors of Chihuahuas

When it comes to size, Chihuahuas are generally quite small, typically weighing between 3 to 6 pounds.

They can be even smaller, but these tiny Chihuahuas may not be the healthiest.

Some Chihuahuas can grow to be quite a bit larger, weighing in at 12 pounds or more.

These bigger Chihuahuas can be a great choice for families with children.

Chihuahuas come in two coat varieties, as specified by the AKC breed standard. This separation into smooth and long coats was formally recognized in 1952.

Smooth-coated Chihuahuas have coats that are smooth, close, and glossy. Long-coated Chihuahuas can have either smooth or wavy coats, and it's preferred that they have an undercoat.

These coat varieties are a key part of what makes Chihuahuas unique, and understanding them can help you care for your furry friend.

Expand your knowledge: Blue Merle Smooth Collie

Chihuahuas can have a wide range of personalities, from fun and outgoing to shy and anxious.

Some Chihuahuas are naturally bold and confident, making them excellent watchdogs due to their alert nature and suspicion of strangers.

Chihuahuas thrive on affection and companionship, often bonding strongly with a single person in their family.

However, if not properly socialized as puppies, Chihuahuas can be timid and reserved around new people and situations.

Early socialization is key to raising a well-rounded Chihuahua, exposing them to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences when they're young.

Chihuahuas are intelligent and eager to please, responding well to positive training methods.

With proper training, Chihuahuas can even compete in dog sports like agility and obedience.

In fact, Chihuahuas are quick learners and can pick up commands and tricks with ease.

Despite their small size, Chihuahuas can be quite athletic and enjoy activities like running and playing.

Chihuahuas often prefer the company of other Chihuahuas, making them happy to live with a Chihuahua pal in the home.

The Chihuahua's origins are unclear, but two theories exist about how he came to be. One theory suggests he descended from a Central or South American dog known as the Techichi. Toltec carvings from the 9th century C.E. depict a dog resembling the Chihuahua, with the same large ears and round head.

The Aztecs believed the Techichi had mystic powers, including the ability to see the future, heal the sick, and safely guide the souls of the dead to the underworld. They used the Techichi in Aztec rituals and even cremated them with the remains of the deceased.

Chihuahua lovers are a devoted bunch, and it's easy to see why.

Marilyn Monroe had a Chihuahua named Choo-Choo, showing just how much people adore this breed.

Celebrities have long been fans of Chihuahuas, with Jamie Lee Curtis being one example.

She not only acted with Chihuahuas in the movies, but also owned one in real life.

Their small size and big personalities make Chihuahuas a favorite among many dog lovers.

Chihuahuas were bred to thrive in Mexico's warm temperatures. This makes sense, given their origins.

Their ancestors adapted to the climate, allowing them to live comfortably in the heat.

Chihuahuas come in a wide range of colors and markings, including seven different colors and six standard markings. You can find purebred Chis in colors like Black, Black & Tan, and Fawn, among others.

The breed has a unique hair texture, with long-hair Chis shedding only twice a year, while short-hair Chis shed year-round. I've seen this firsthand with my own Chihuahua, who sheds like crazy during the spring and fall.

Related reading: Do Chihuahuas Have Hair or Fur

Long-hair Chis have some special terms for their hair, including "fringe" for the hair on their ears, "furnishings" for the hair on their legs, and "plume" for the fluff on their tail. It's adorable to see your Chihuahua all fluffed up!

Chihuahuas are known for having one of the largest brain-to-body size ratios, making them a unique breed. This is likely one of the reasons why they're so intelligent and trainable.

Chihuahuas typically have small litters, with only one to three pups per birth. This can make them more prone to health issues and complications during delivery, which is why they often require C-sections.

As Chihuahua pups grow, their ears begin to stand up, usually by around six months of age. It's a fun milestone to watch your Chihuahua's ears perk up and become more alert.

Here are the seven colors and six standard markings you can find in purebred Chihuahuas: