They may look like teacup royalty, but Chihuahuas are more like pint-sized generals in command. One minute they’re curled in your lap, the next they’re absolutely certain the world needs to know they exist (loudly).
Not sure if you have the courage (and nerves) for such a bold little boss? Try our Which Dog Breed Is Best for Me? Quiz to see if a Chihuahua fits your lifestyle.
Great Names for a Chihuahua
Tiny dog, giant presence — these names hope to balance that drama:
Sassy & bold: Pixie, Zippy, Rebel, Tango, Jinx, Dash
Cute & soft: Poppy, Bella, Luna, Willow, Daisy, Coco
Regal contrast: King, Duchess, Rex, Prince, Majesty, Queenie
Fun & quirky: Noodle, Zigzag, Munchkin, Peanut, Sprout, Echo
If none of those feel right, try our Dog Name Generator on CrazyDogs.club for more fun ideas.
Exercise
Yes, even a Chihuahua needs movement — though it’s less marathon, more “power bursts.” Without enough stimulation, they’ll improvise with barking, pacing, or chasing shadows.
What works best:
- 30 minutes of walking or active time daily
- Short off-lead games (in secure, fenced area)
- Fetch or chase games with gentle bursts
- Puzzle toys or indoor agility (mini hurdles, tunnels)
“The biggest problem I have seen with Chis is their total lack of decent socialisation … many are treated as babies and not corrected when they act ‘yappy’.”
Small Frame Warning
Chihuahuas are fragile. Jumping off couches, rough surfaces, or high-impact play can easily injure their bones or spines.
Temperament
Don’t underestimate their size: Chihuahuas often think they are much bigger than they are. They can be loving, loyal, and feisty all at once.
Common traits:
- Strong attachment to their person
- Alert and sometimes yappy (small dog syndrome is real)
- Can be wary of strangers or other dogs
- Sensitive — harsh tone or sudden moves can upset them
“They are quite often ‘fear aggressive’ … many are better socialised as pups than being wrapped in cotton wool.”
Training
Training a Chihuahua is like persuading a dignified little creature to obey — intelligence is there, but ego and sensitivity are in the mix.
Training tips:
- Begin early (puppy socialisation is critical)
- Keep sessions short and high-value
- Use praise, small treats, attention — no harsh methods
- Focus on recall, “quiet” (bark control), lead walking
Need help? Use the World’s First AI Dog Trainer, which can help with small-dog challenges (sensitivity, confidence, consistency).
Strangers & Watchdog Potential
If there’s a visitor within earshot, your Chihuahua will announce it. But they’re probably not stepping up physically — mostly they’re vocal guardians.
- Likely to bark, sometimes aggressively
- Use socialisation to prevent fear-based reactions
- Many will warm up once trust is built
Other Animals
Chihuahuas can live with other pets, but care is needed due to their size and temperament.
- Supervise interactions, especially with larger dogs
- Slow, neutral introductions
- Respect their space; they must not feel threatened
Grooming
Their coat type (short, long, or “teacup smooth”) determines grooming effort. But regardless, they need regular care.
Grooming essentials:
- Weekly brushing for long/coated types
- Bathing only when needed
- Dental care is critical — Chis often have dental health issues
- Nail clipping, ear checks
Health
This cute little package often comes with health caveats. Owners must stay alert.
Common problems:
- Dental issues (many lose teeth with age)
- Luxating patella (knee problems)
- Hypoglycaemia (especially in pups)
- Tracheal collapse (tiny windpipe concerns)
- Heart defects in some lines
“Bag of character, watch out for their teeth … depending on surface types … fragile when young.”
Choose breeders who test for inherited issues and keep vet history transparent. Use our Best in Breeder Guide for help.
Cost of Ownership
Small dog, but costs still add up:
- Puppy price: ~ £700–£1,200 typical in UK
- Insurance: £25–£60/month (varies with age, health)
- Food: £15–£35/month (small amounts, quality diet)
- Grooming / dental: ~ £10–£30/month (products, cleanings)
- Vet & health checks: ~ £100–£300/year; dental or surgical bills extra
Famous Owners & Moments
- Chihuahuas have starred alongside celebrities and in pop culture thanks to their “tiny but fierce” image.
- Their image as “purse dogs” sometimes overshadows their strong personalities.
- Paris Hilton is a big Chihuahua fan
Myth-Busting
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| “They don’t need walking because they’re small.” | They still need exercise to prevent behaviour issues. |
| “All Chihuahuas are yappy and aggressive.” | Many are calm and friendly — poor socialisation causes the trouble. |
| “Small size means cheap care.” | Fragility and dental needs make cost and care critical. |
FAQs
Are Chihuahuas good with children?
Only gentle, older children. Their small size means rough play is dangerous.
Do they shed a lot?
Short coats shed less; long or fluffy types shed more noticeably.
Are they easy to train?
Yes — if you use gentle, consistent methods and confidence-building.
How much exercise do they need?
Around 30 minutes daily + play that stimulates mind + burst energy.
Thinking of Bringing One Home?
If you’re drawn to dogs with personality, flair, and a bold spirit in compact form — a Chihuahua might be your match. Just commit to careful training, socialisation, dental care, and protecting that tiny frame.
Use our New Puppy Paw-rent Planner and capture their unique look with a Custom Cartoon Pet Portrait.
Breed Stats
- Size: Toy
- Weight: ~1.5–3 kg
- Lifespan: ~12–20 years (varies widely)
- Best Trait: Personality, loyalty, compact companionship
- Challenging Trait: Fragility, dental needs, barkiness