Chihuahua

芝娃娃

ToyToyMedium coat45–90 min/day

Updated 2026-09-09

Open this breed's board in PocketPaw Don't have the app? Create an account

At a glance

The Chihuahua is the smallest recognised breed — a graceful, apple-headed toy from Mexico weighing no more than about 3 kg, in smooth or long coats. Chihuahuas are alert, charming and fiercely loyal to their person, get all the exercise they need indoors, and are a natural fit for Hong Kong flats; their tiny size means they need protection from cold, careful handling and, like any dog, proper training.

Facts

Size	Toy
Height	13–20cm
Weight	0.5–3kg
Life expectancy	14–16years
Breed group	AKC: toy FCI: 9
Role	Toy
Coat	Medium coat
Shedding	2/ 5
Exercise	20–120min/day
Can be left alone	up to 4 hours
Companionship need	4/ 5
Trainability	3/ 5
Barking	5/ 5
Good with children	1/ 5
Good with other dogs	3/ 5
Heat tolerance	4/ 5
Cold tolerance	1/ 5

Health

This page is general information compiled from published sources. It is not veterinary, legal or purchase advice. Dogs vary within a breed — talk to a vet or a reputable breeder about the dog in front of you.

Health notes are not veterinary advice. Conditions listed are those reported for the breed, not a diagnosis of any dog. Always consult a veterinarian.

Inherited eye conditions

Various inherited eye conditions are reported in the breed; annual eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist are recommended for breeding stock. Ask your vet about eye screening.

[1]

Mitral valve disease

Mitral valve disease is commonly reported in the breed, often with age. Ask your vet to listen for a heart murmur at routine visits.

[1]

Epilepsy

Idiopathic epilepsy is reported in the breed. Ask your vet promptly if your dog has a seizure.

[1]

Patellar luxation

Patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps) is commonly reported in small breeds; breeders screen for it. Ask your vet if your dog skips or holds up a hind leg.

[1]

Behaviour

Big-dog attitude, one-person loyalty

The CKC says the Chihuahua is alert and spirited — personality in a small package — that may become very attached to its owner and willing to please; the AKC describes a terrier-like demeanour with loyalty, charm and big-dog attitude, and stresses that even tiny dogs need training or they will rule the house.

[1] [2]

Indoor exercise is enough

Both clubs agree the Chihuahua can get the exercise it needs by trotting around a flat; the AKC recommends short, slow walks and warns against over-exertion, especially in hot weather.

[1] [2]

Temperament

The AKC summarises the breed's temperament as "charming / graceful / sassy".

[1]

Energy and exercise

Energy level is rated 4/5 (high) on the AKC breed-trait chart. The Royal Kennel Club puts its exercise need at "up to 30 minutes per day".

[1] [3]

Training and barking

AKC trait chart: trainability 3/5, barking level 5/5. Individual dogs vary; early socialisation and reward-based training are recommended for every breed.

[1]

Official guidance

Summaries of official documents are ours; the source is linked. Breed standards, laws and licensing rules change — check the issuing body for the current version.

AKC

American Kennel Club — Chihuahua

Breed overview, breed-trait chart, history, official standard summary and health notes from the AKC and the national parent club.

Read the source

Accessed 2026-09-09

CKC

Canadian Kennel Club — Chihuahua Short Coat (Toy Dogs)

Origin, temperament, activity level, height/weight, coat and grooming as described by the Canadian Kennel Club.

Read the source

Accessed 2026-09-09

The Royal Kennel Club — Chihuahua Smooth Coat

Breed characteristics (size small, exercise up to 30 minutes per day, lifespan over 12 years).