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Chihuahua

Chihuahua is a toy breed from Mexico also known as Chihuahueño, Chi.

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Chihuahua

Breed overview

Chihuahua is a toy breed from Mexico also known as Chihuahueño, Chi.

The smallest recognized dog breed in the world, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where it was discovered in the mid-19th century.

People looking into Chihuahua usually prepare for Low exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 2–6 lbs • 6–9 in.

ChihuahueñoChi

History and origin

Chihuahua is tied to originating from Mexico, specifically Chihuahua, with sources often placing its development around 1850 CE.

Chihuahua is described here as placed in the Toy group and marked as an established breed.

The smallest recognized dog breed in the world, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where it was discovered in the mid-19th century.

Browse dog breeds from Mexico Browse more Toy breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Toy
Size
Toy
Origin country
Mexico
Region
Chihuahua
Origin year
1850 CE
Weight
2–6 lbs
Height
6–9 in
Lifespan
14–16 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
2 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
5 / 5
Low exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 2/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Chihuahua is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortSmooth

Chihuahua is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Apple-shaped dome skull
  • Large, expressive eyes
  • Comes in long and smooth coat varieties
  • Varies widely in color

What this breed is known for

  • The smallest recognized dog breed in the world, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where it was discovered in the mid-19th century.
  • Though tiny, they're known for their oversized personalities and loyal, sometimes possessive attachment to their owners.
  • Come in two varieties: smooth coat (short-haired) and long coat, with a wide range of colors and patterns.

Health and care notes

Chihuahua is noted here for Low exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Luxating Patella
  • Heart Murmurs
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Tracheal Collapse

Coat details: Short, Smooth

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Chihuahua come from?

Chihuahua is closely associated with Mexico, especially Chihuahua in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Chihuahua get?

Typical size details for Chihuahua on this page are 2–6 lbs, 6–9 in, 14–16 years.

What is the Chihuahua known for?

The smallest recognized dog breed in the world, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where it was discovered in the mid-19th century.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Chihuahua reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.