Are you thinking about getting a Chihuahua? Maybe you’ve seen one strutting confidently down the street, or perhaps you fell in love with those big, round eyes. But before you rush off to bring home one of these pint-sized pooches, let’s talk about the Chihuahua pros and cons.
Chihuahuas are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. But they aren’t for everyone. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Should I get a Chihuahua?”, you’re in the right place. Let’s reveal everything you need to know before buying a Chihuahua.
Pros of Owning a Chihuahua
1. They Are Perfect for Small Spaces
If you live in a tiny apartment or a house without a yard, you might wonder, “Are Chihuahuas good apartment dogs?” The answer? Absolutely! These tiny pups don’t need a lot of space to run around, making them perfect for urban dwellers. They also easily adapt to different environments and can fit most dog carriers. Therefore, a tiny Chi will surely be one of your favorite pals when going shopping or traveling.
2. Loyal and Loving Companions
One of the biggest perks of owning a Chihuahua is their fierce loyalty. These dogs become incredibly attached to their owners. If you want a dog that will follow you from room to room and snuggle up in bed with you, a Chihuahua might be your perfect match.
3. Low Maintenance Grooming
Wondering “What are Chihuahuas like?” when it comes to grooming? Unlike many long-haired breeds, Chihuahuas don’t require frequent trips to the groomer. A quick brush once a week (especially for short-haired varieties) is enough to keep them looking neat.
4. They Are Affordable to Feed
Due to their small size, Chihuahuas eat very little compared to larger breeds such as Belgian Malinois, Labradors, and Rottweilers. That means you won’t be breaking the bank on dog food every month.
5. They Live a Long Time
If you want a pet that will be with you for many years, a Chihuahua is a great option. These dogs can live anywhere from 12 to 20 years with proper care!
6. They’re Easy to Carry Around
Because they’re so small, traveling with a Chihuahua is a breeze. Whether you need to bring them on a plane or just carry them around in a stylish dog carrier, they’re one of the most portable breeds around.
Cons of Owning a Chihuahua
1. They Can Be Barkers
If you’re wondering, “Are Chihuahuas good dogs?”, you should know that they tend to be very vocal. They love to alert their owners to anything happening around them, which can be a bit much if you live in an apartment with thin walls.
2. Fragile and Delicate
A major Chi con is that they are extremely tiny and delicate. If you have small kids or larger pets, you’ll need to be extra careful to ensure your Chihuahua doesn’t get accidentally injured.
3. Stubborn and Hard to Train
Some people might ask, “Is a Chihuahua a good dog?” The answer depends on your patience level! Chihuahuas are intelligent but also stubborn. Potty training and obedience training can take extra effort compared to other breeds.
4. Can Be Aggressive
Many people don’t expect such a tiny dog to have a big attitude, but Chihuahuas are known for their feisty personalities. If they aren’t socialized properly, they can be aggressive toward strangers or other pets. That’s why it’s extremely important to socialize these little pooches from an early age. Socialization routine starts from the moment you bring your Chi home. She/he should get used to new scents, people, pets, and other animals from her/his environment.
5. Prone to Health Issues
Like many small dog breeds, Chihuahuas are prone to specific health problems, including dental issues, patellar luxation (knee problems), and heart disease.
6. Not Always Good for Families with Young Kids
If you’re wondering, “Are Chihuahuas good family dogs?”, it depends on the family. They do best in homes with older kids who understand how to handle them gently. In case you have or you’re expecting a baby, make sure you gradually introduce your Chi.
Are Chihuahuas Good Pets? (My Personal Experience)
I’ve had my little Chihuahua for five years now, and I can confidently say that Chihuahuas make good pets—but only for the right person. When I first brought my dog home, I didn’t realize how much of a diva she would be! She refuses to go outside when it’s cold, barks at anything that moves, and has a huge personality packed into a 5-pound body. She also wants to attack my vacuum cleaner when I clean my house.
But she’s also the most loyal, affectionate, and hilarious companion I could ask for. Whether she’s burrowing under blankets or staring me down for a treat, she keeps me entertained daily. If you can handle a little sass, a Chihuahua will reward you with endless love and devotion.
Chihuahua Dos and Don’ts
Before you decide if owning a Chihuahua is right for you, here are some quick tips:
Do:
- Socialize your Chihuahua early to prevent aggression.
- Keep them warm in cold weather—they hate the cold!
- Be patient with training—they can be stubborn. To teach your Chi certain commands and tricks, we recommend you to use his/her favorite treats. They are the best motivational tool for these little pooches. Besides, for some dogs, toys represent better rewards.
- Give them plenty of affection—they thrive on love. Chis are extremely affectionate and want to spend every second with their owners.
Don’t:
- Let them jump from high places—they can get injured easily. Instead, you can put some doggy stairs beside your bed.
- Ignore their barking—it can become a bad habit. If you pay too much attention and give your Chi everything she/he wants to achieve with the barking, then you can expect to live with one very spoiled dog.
- Leave them alone for long periods—they get very attached to their owners. Due to this fact, Chihuahuas and kids should never be left unsupervised. Chis can get jealous of kids because they think they’ve stolen their owners’ love.
- Assume they don’t need exercise—they still need regular walks. Regular activities will prevent them from obesity and health issues.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Chihuahua?
So, do Chihuahuas make good pets? The answer depends on your lifestyle. If you want a tiny, sassy, and affectionate dog that will be your shadow, then yes! But if you prefer a quiet, independent dog, you might want to reconsider.
