Chihuahua
Toy Group

Height at Shoulders
5-8 in
Weight
<6 lbs
Life Expectancy
14-16 yrs
History
The Chihuahua is such an old breed that its origin story is a bit murky. Historians agree that Chihuahuas originated in Mexico and are most likely descendents of the Techichi, a popular companion breed in the Toltec civilization. The Techichi can be dated back to at least the 9th century, but it is possible that drawings on pottery from Colimo dated back to 300 BCE may depict the breed. It is believed that once the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs during the 12th century, the Techichi was bred down to create the smaller Chihuahua. When the Spanish conquistadors conquered the Aztecs in the 16th century, Chihuahuas became more rare, mostly existing in small, remote villages. When the breed gained popularity in other countries during the 19th century, it earned its name after many of the dogs were found in the State of Chihuahua. The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the world.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Chihuahuas share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★★
★★★★☆
★★☆☆☆
★★☆☆☆
★★★☆☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★☆☆
★★★★★
★★★☆☆
★★★☆☆
★★☆☆☆
Intelligence
★★★★★
Affection Towards Family
★★★★☆
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★☆☆☆
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★☆☆☆
Exercise Needs
★★★☆☆
Energy Level
★★★☆☆
Sensitivity
★★★★★
Noise Level
★★★☆☆
Prey Drive
★★★☆☆
Shedding
★★☆☆☆
Common Traits
Very people-oriented and affectionate, but are known to bond especially hard to one person
Wary of strangers and make great watchdogs
Prone to shivering if they are cold, excited, or scared
Can be stubborn and willful, but are easy to train if you convince them it's their idea
Sassy and have a "big dog personality" which can get them in trouble if they act tough to bigger dogs
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- Noise fear
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- Excitability