Compact and Portable

Due to their small size, Chihuahuas are easy to transport and can comfortably live in apartments or small homes. 

Low Exercise Needs

Chihuahuas require minimal exercise compared to larger breeds, making them well-suited for less active owners. 

Long Lifespan

Chihuahuas can live for 15 to 20 years, offering many years of companionship. 

Alert and Protective

Despite their size, they are excellent watchdogs, alerting their owners to any unusual activity. 

Fragile Build

Chihuahuas are small and delicate, making them prone to injury, especially if handled roughly or involved in rough play. 

Can Be Barky

Chihuahuas tend to be vocal and may bark excessively if not properly trained. 

Not Always Good with Small Children

Their small size and delicate nature can make them less suitable for homes with very young children who may accidentally injure them. 

Prone to Health Issues

Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems, patellar luxation, and heart disease, requiring regular vet check-ups. 

Exercise Needs

Chihuahuas have low exercise needs. A few short walks and some indoor playtime are usually enough to meet their physical activity requirements. They also enjoy mental stimulation through interactive toys and games. 

Walks

One or two short walks per day, along with some indoor playtime, are sufficient for Chihuahuas. They don’t need as much physical exercise as larger breeds, but they still enjoy getting out and about. 

Training

Chihuahuas are intelligent but can be stubborn and independent. Positive reinforcement training works best with this breed, and early obedience training is important to manage any bossy or territorial tendencies. Housebreaking can sometimes take extra patience due to their small size. 

Purchase Price

$1,500 - $4,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage. 

Initial Setup

Around $300 - $500 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $300 - $500 AUD per year, due to their small size and dietary needs. 

Grooming

Minimal grooming costs for short-haired Chihuahuas, typically around $100 - $200 AUD per year. Long-haired Chihuahuas may require more grooming, which can increase annual grooming costs. 

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups, dental care, and preventive treatments could cost $300 - $500 AUD per year. 

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 15-20 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $20,000 - $35,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors. 

Size and Weight

Chihuahuas typically stand 15-23 cm (6-9 inches) tall and weigh between 1.5-3 kg (3-6 lbs). 

Coat

Chihuahuas come in two coat varieties: short-haired and long-haired. Both types shed minimally, but the long-haired variety requires more grooming to prevent matting. 

Colour Options

Chihuahuas can be found in almost any colour combination, including fawn, black, white, chocolate, and cream, with various patterns and markings. 

Temperament

Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities. They are often described as confident, bold, and sometimes even sassy. Despite their small size, they are fearless and enjoy being the centre of attention. They are also loyal and form strong bonds with their owners, sometimes becoming protective or territorial. 

Good with Children

Chihuahuas can be good with older children who know how to handle small dogs gently. However, their small and delicate frame makes them less suitable for homes with very young children, as they can be easily injured. 

Socialisation

Early socialisation is essential for Chihuahuas to prevent them from becoming overly territorial or fearful of new people or environments. They can be wary of strangers, but with proper socialisation, they can become confident and well-adjusted. 

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Chihuahuas are best suited to indoor living, especially since their small size makes them vulnerable to temperature extremes. They enjoy spending time outside for short walks and playtime but should not be left outside unattended due to their delicate nature and sensitivity to weather conditions. 

Apartment Living

Due to their compact size and low exercise needs, Chihuahuas are ideal for apartment living. They do not require large spaces and are generally quiet indoors, though they may bark at unfamiliar noises or strangers. 

Time Alone

Chihuahuas do not do well when left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety or engage in destructive behaviours if isolated for too long. They thrive on human companionship and are best suited for homes where someone is present for most of the day or where they have another pet for company. 

Common Health Issues

Chihuahuas are prone to certain health issues, including dental problems, patellar luxation, heart disease, and eye issues. Regular dental care, proper nutrition, and regular vet check-ups are essential to keep them healthy. 

Guarding Ability

Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are alert and make excellent watchdogs. They will often bark to warn their owners of strangers or unusual activity, though their small size limits their actual guarding capabilities. 

Affectionate Nature

Chihuahuas are affectionate dogs that enjoy being close to their families. They love to cuddle and often seek out attention and interaction from their owners, making them excellent lap dogs. 

Suitability for Dog Parks

Chihuahuas can be social but may feel overwhelmed in dog parks, especially around larger, more energetic dogs. Supervision is recommended in such settings to ensure their safety and comfort. 

Climate Adaptability

Chihuahuas can be sensitive to cold weather due to their small size and short coat (in the case of short-haired Chihuahuas). In colder climates, they may need a dog coat to stay warm during walks. In hotter climates, it's important to ensure they have plenty of water and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day. 

Ethical Breeding Considerations

It’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings for common genetic issues like patellar luxation and heart disease. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.