Chihuahua's are the smallest breed of dog in the world and this is one characteristic that makes them so popular. The Chihuahua is a perfect choice for people who do not have much space in their home. You can easily take them with you everywhere (Paris Hilton is a prime example...) and the cost of feeding will not break the budget.  

Intelligent and brave, they often suffer from the 'small dog sydrome' which results in them taking on animals much larger then themselves. They can be stubborn but sensitive and playful.  They are social however and enjoy living together with other dogs and even cats.  Caution should be taken with children as they tend to treat the dog as a toy. Chihuahua's feel the weather and therefore should wear a warm waterproof coat when outdoors.

Fast Facts

• Good companion dog 
• Intensely loyal and become very attached to their owners
• Cheap to care for in relation to larger breeds
• Can live inside and don't take up much room, perfect for apartment dwellers
• Vary in height from 15-23cm at 1-3kg
• Hate the cold
• Prone to slipped stifle, gum problems, colds, stress, and rheumatism, corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma. They are vulnerable to fractures and other accidents in puppyhood. Some of the breed have a molera, an unclosed section of the skull which can remain open throughout life. This makes the dog prone to injury.
• Active dogs who enjoy and benefit from a daily walk even if they spend all day running around the house!
• Life expectancy of 15 or more years
• Named after the Mexico state of Chihuahua