So, you’re thinking about getting a dog for the first time, and those big eyes, tiny paws, and hilarious personalities of Chihuahuas have caught your attention. I mean, how can you not fall in love with these pint-sized bundles of sass? But before you dive headfirst into the Chihuahua life, you’re probably wondering—Are Chihuahuas Good for First Time Dog Owners?
Well, let’s break it down and go through the pros, cons, and all the things you need to know before bringing home one of these little spitfires. Spoiler alert: they’re not your typical lapdog.
The Pros of Owning a Chihuahua as a First-Time Dog Owner
Let’s start with the good stuff. Chihuahuas have some serious perks, especially if you’re new to the dog world.
1. They’re Small and Portable
If you live in a small apartment or don’t have a backyard, a Chihuahua’s size is a big win. These tiny dogs don’t need a ton of space to run around, and you can literally carry them anywhere. Want to go on a quick coffee run? Pop them into a dog bag, and you’re good to go. They’re like the perfect accessory—cute, compact, and always ready for an adventure.
2. Low Maintenance Grooming
Chihuahuas can have either short or long coats, but neither requires hours of grooming. A quick brush a few times a week for long-haired ones and an occasional bath for the short-haired guys, and you’re set. If you’re not into the idea of frequent trips to a dog groomer, this is a definite pro.
3. They Form Strong Bonds
Chihuahuas are known for being super loyal. If you’re looking for a dog that will be your shadow, follow you around the house, and snuggle on the couch for hours, a Chihuahua might just be the perfect match. They’re basically little Velcro dogs, always wanting to be by your side (or on your lap).
4. Great Watchdogs
Don’t let their size fool you—Chihuahuas have big-dog energy. They’re alert, fearless, and will let you know if anything suspicious is happening around your home. If you want a dog that will bark when someone’s at the door, these little guys have you covered. Plus, their bark is surprisingly loud for such a small creature. They are very possessive of their owners and family members. Therefore, if someone tries to approach you in an aggressive manner, then you can expect your Chi fighting fir you.
5. They Live a Long Time
Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living dog breeds, with a lifespan of 12 to 20 years. That means they’ll be around for a big chunk of your life, providing love, entertainment, and plenty of companionship. This breed is a great option if you want a long-term best friend. However, not only genes, but also care your Chi gets will determine their lifespan.
The Cons of Owning a Chihuahua as a First-Time Dog Owner
Okay, it’s time to keep it real. While Chihuahuas have their charm, they’re not always easy-peasy, especially for first-time dog owners. Here are some of the challenges you might face.
1. They Can Be Stubborn
Training a Chihuahua can be… an adventure. These little dogs are smart, but they’re also independent and have a mind of their own. If they don’t want to do something, good luck convincing them otherwise. Potty training, in particular, can be tricky. Be prepared for some accidents and a lot of patience. During training lessons, we recommend you to use your dog’s favorite snacks or fresh fruits and veggies. It can be a slice of an apple, piece of banana, blueberries, or some other snack.
2. They’re Fragile
Chihuahuas are tiny—usually weighing between 2 to 6 pounds—and that means they’re more prone to injuries. If you have small kids who might treat the dog like a toy or if you’re a bit clumsy, you’ll need to be extra careful. Even a short fall from a couch can cause serious injuries. We especially recommend you invest in some good and stable dog stairs. They can help your dog to get off or climb on the couch.
3. They’re Not Always Kid-Friendly
While some Chihuahuas are great with children, others… not so much. Their small size and sometimes nervous temperament can make them a bit snappy, especially if they feel threatened or annoyed. If you have young kids, you’ll need to supervise interactions closely to avoid any mishaps.
4. Separation Anxiety Is Real
Remember how we said Chihuahuas are like Velcro dogs? Well, that loyalty can sometimes turn into separation anxiety. These dogs don’t like being left alone for long periods and can become stressed or destructive if they feel abandoned. If you have a busy lifestyle or work long hours, this might be a problem.
5. They Bark… A Lot
Chihuahuas are known for their big voices. While this makes them excellent watchdogs, it can also get annoying. They’ll bark at the doorbell, strangers, loud noises, and sometimes just because they feel like it. This could become an issue if you live in an apartment with thin walls or have neighbors who aren’t dog lovers.
6. Health Issues Can Be Common
Like many small dog breeds, Chihuahuas are prone to certain health problems. Some of the common ones include:
- Dental issues: Their tiny mouths often mean overcrowded teeth, which can lead to dental problems.
- Patellar luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap slips out of place.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can be a problem, especially in very small or young Chihuahuas.
- Collapsed trachea: This causes a honking cough and can be aggravated by pulling on a leash.
Regular vet visits and a healthy diet can help manage these issues, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Tips for First-Time Dog Owners Considering a Chihuahua
If you’ve made it this far and still think a Chihuahua might be the right fit, awesome! Here are some tips to make the experience smoother:
- Start Training Early – Set boundaries from day one. Chihuahuas are smart but need consistent training to avoid bad habits.They need a strong pack leader who will teach them who’s the boss in the house.
- Socialize Them – Expose your Chihuahua to different people, pets, and environments to prevent fearfulness or aggression.
- Invest in a Good Harness – Skip the collar and go for a Chihuahua harness to protect their delicate necks. Dog harnesses give you a better control and keep their spines in a healthy posture. You certainly would not like to see your Chi pulling and a collar that strangles her neck.
- Be Patient – Potty training might take longer than expected, but persistence is key.
- Don’t Baby Them Too Much – It’s tempting to treat a Chihuahua like a fragile little baby, but they’re still dogs and need structure and discipline like any other breed.
So, Are Chihuahuas a Good Fit for You?
In the end, whether a Chihuahua is a good choice for a first time dog owner depends on your lifestyle, patience, and willingness to adapt. If you’re looking for a small, loyal companion who will love you fiercely (and maybe bark at the mailman a little too much), a Chihuahua could be your perfect match.
However, if you’re not ready to commit to training, socializing, and dealing with the occasional stubborn streak, you might want to consider a more laid-back breed.
Either way, owning a dog is a life-changing experience full of love, laughter, and the occasional mess. And trust me—once you’ve been loved by a Chihuahua, you’ll never look at dogs the same way again.
