Dog Breeds
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua loving and affectionate breed, known for having a big dog's personality.
or call us on
Dog Breeds
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua loving and affectionate breed, known for having a big dog's personality.
or call us on
Dog Breeds
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua loving and affectionate breed, known for having a big dog's personality.
or call us on
Other Names
Chihuahueño (Spanish), Chi,
Weight
2.7 kg (6 lbs)
Coat Length
Short and semi-long hair
Coat Patterns
Solid, mixed, brindle, merle
Lifespan
12 to 20 years
Personality
Affectionate, energetic, bold, lively, vocal, loyal
Length
24 to 38 cm (9.5 to 15 inches)
Coat colors
Black, brown, cream, red, fawn
Eye Color
Dark brown to ruby
Hypoallergenic
No
Other Names
Chihuahueño (Spanish), Chi,
Weight
2.7 kg (6 lbs)
Coat Length
Short and semi-long hair
Coat Patterns
Solid, mixed, brindle, merle
Lifespan
12 to 20 years
Personality
Affectionate, energetic, bold, lively, vocal, loyal
Length
24 to 38 cm (9.5 to 15 inches)
Coat colors
Black, brown, cream, red, fawn
Eye Color
Dark brown to ruby
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed History
The Chihuahua have a long history starting from the Toltec Civilization. The people bred these dogs and highly valued them as companions. The Techichi were often depicted in ancient artifacts, while some were even buried alongside their owners.
When the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs, they adopted the Techichi and refined the breed further. However, after the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the 1500s, the breed nearly disappeared.
In the mid-1800s, small dogs striking a similar resemblance to the Techichi were discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico. This is where these dogs got their famous name. American visitors in the area were charmed by these tiny dogs, so much so that they brought the breed back to the United States, where they gained tremendous popularity.
Today, the Chihuahua is one of the most famous dog breeds in the world. It is widely known for its bold personality and strikingly adorable appearance.
Breed History
The Chihuahua have a long history starting from the Toltec Civilization. The people bred these dogs and highly valued them as companions. The Techichi were often depicted in ancient artifacts, while some were even buried alongside their owners.
When the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs, they adopted the Techichi and refined the breed further. However, after the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the 1500s, the breed nearly disappeared.
In the mid-1800s, small dogs striking a similar resemblance to the Techichi were discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico. This is where these dogs got their famous name. American visitors in the area were charmed by these tiny dogs, so much so that they brought the breed back to the United States, where they gained tremendous popularity.
Today, the Chihuahua is one of the most famous dog breeds in the world. It is widely known for its bold personality and strikingly adorable appearance.
Health and Medical Concerns
Cancerology
Cardiology
Dermatology
Endocrinology
Gastroenterology
Hematology & Immune System
Infectious Diseases
Neurology
Ophthalmology
Orthopedics
Pulmonology
Reproduction
Mast Cell Tumors
MCTs look like small, raised bumps on the skin, which may grow over time. They are a common type of skin cancer in dogs, causing symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. It’s generally caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. (Nardi et al., 2022)
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer affecting lymph nodes, the spleen, and bone marrow. Dogs with lymphomas can have swollen lymph nodes, loss of appetite, weight loss, or lethargy. This type of cancer is caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. (Sánchez et al., 2020)
Mammary Gland Tumors
These tumors develop in the breast tissue of dogs and are more common in unspayed females. Generally, genetics is a key cause, but factors like hormones and age can also contribute. Symptoms include visible lumps on the breast area, lethargy, and loss of appetite. (Baba & Câtoi, 2007)
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Temperament and Lifestyle Fit
Temperament & Lifestyle Fit
Chihuahua Breed Info in the UAE
Adaptability
Legalities
Availability
Heat Sensitivity
Chihuahuas are not built for extreme heat, as their small bodies can overheat quickly. They are also prone to dehydration, so keeping them cool is essential.
Precautions
It’s best to walk them in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. Always provide fresh water, use cooling mats, and avoid hot pavement to prevent burns on their paws.
Chihuahua Breed Info in the UAE
Adaptability
Legalities
Availability
Heat Sensitivity
Chihuahuas are not built for extreme heat, as their small bodies can overheat quickly. They are also prone to dehydration, so keeping them cool is essential.
Precautions
It’s best to walk them in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. Always provide fresh water, use cooling mats, and avoid hot pavement to prevent burns on their paws.
Chihuahua Breed Info in the UAE
Adaptability
Legalities
Availability
Heat Sensitivity
Chihuahuas are not built for extreme heat, as their small bodies can overheat quickly. They are also prone to dehydration, so keeping them cool is essential.
Precautions
It’s best to walk them in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. Always provide fresh water, use cooling mats, and avoid hot pavement to prevent burns on their paws.
Chihuahua Breed Info in the UAE
Adaptability
Legalities
Availability
Heat Sensitivity
Chihuahuas are not built for extreme heat, as their small bodies can overheat quickly. They are also prone to dehydration, so keeping them cool is essential.
Precautions
It’s best to walk them in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. Always provide fresh water, use cooling mats, and avoid hot pavement to prevent burns on their paws.
Chihuahua Grooming Guide

Coat Maintenance
Short-haired Chihuahuas only require brushing once a week to remove loose hairs. Long-haired Chis need brushing at least three times a week using a slicker brush to prevent tangles.
Skin Health
Chihuahuas can be prone to dry skin, so it’s important to use a gentle shampoo when bathing. Also, moisturizers, oatmeal creams, and coconut oil products can help.
Bathing
A bath every 4 to 6 weeks is recommended for Chihuahuas. Be sure to use a pet-safe shampoo and dry them thoroughly.
Nail Trimming
Nail trimming should be done every 2 to 3 weeks or if the nails have grown too long. Use sharp dog clippers.
Ear Care
Ear cleaning every 1 to 2 weeks is recommended for Chihuahuas. Use a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution and cotton balls.
Eye Care
Because they are prone to tear staining and excessive tearing, they need regular eye cleaning. Use a damp cloth and clean their eyes daily or twice a week.
Teeth Care
Dental hygiene is important for Chihuahuas, just like any other dog. Brushing 3 times a week at home is recommended.
Diet & Nutrition
Dietary Needs
A balanced meal rich in high-quality protein, beneficial fats, and essential vitamins is ideal for maintaining muscle strength and energy levels. These can include chicken, beef, fruits, and vegetables.
Sensitivities
Food Types
Portion Sizes
Dietary Needs
A balanced meal rich in high-quality protein, beneficial fats, and essential vitamins is ideal for maintaining muscle strength and energy levels. These can include chicken, beef, fruits, and vegetables.
Sensitivities
Food Types
Portion Sizes
Dietary Needs
A balanced meal rich in high-quality protein, beneficial fats, and essential vitamins is ideal for maintaining muscle strength and energy levels. These can include chicken, beef, fruits, and vegetables.
Sensitivities
Food Types
Portion Sizes
Dietary Needs
A balanced meal rich in high-quality protein, beneficial fats, and essential vitamins is ideal for maintaining muscle strength and energy levels. These can include chicken, beef, fruits, and vegetables.
Sensitivities
Food Types
Portion Sizes

Physical Characteristics

Head
Typically apple-shaped or deer-shaped, with a short muzzle and a slightly domed skull.
Eyes
Their eyes are large, round, and expressive. These are often in dark brown to ruby.
Ears
The ears are large and erect, giving them their alert expression. They may droop slightly when relaxed.
Body
A Chihuahua's body is compact with a level topline.
Limbs
They have small and sturdy legs with well-defined muscles.
Tail
The tail is medium in length and curves over the back or to the side, often covered with a plume of fur in long-haired Chihuahuas.
Coat
Smooth-coated Chihuahuas have short and sleek fur. Long-haired Chihuahuas, on the other hand, have more volume. Common colors include black, brown, cream, red, and fawn.
Size
Both male and female Chihuahuas have a height of 15-23 cm (6-9 inches).
Weight
Both male and female Chihuahuas weigh up to 2.7 kg (6 lb).

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Wellness & Emergency Care
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Contact Us
DIP - 8am to 9pm
JLT - 10am to 7pm
Jumeirah -
Mon-Fri: 8am to 8pm
Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm
© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics
Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.
Services
Contact Us
DIP - 8am to 9pm
JLT - 10am to 7pm
Jumeirah -
Mon-Fri: 8am to 8pm
Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm
© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics
A Member of ARENA Veterinary Group
Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.
Contact Us
DIP - 8am to 9pm
JLT - 10am to 7pm
Jumeirah -
Mon-Fri: 8am to 8pm
Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm
© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics
A Member of ARENA Veterinary Group
Other Dog Breeds
Explore vet-written articles designed to help you understand your pet’s health, spot warning signs early, and make confident care decisions.