9 things to know before getting a Chihuahua

Thinking about getting a Chihuahua? These tiny dogs pack a LOT of personality into a small frame. They’re feisty, affectionate, and surprisingly athletic — but they’re not the right fit for everyone. After spending time around a few Chihuahuas (and seeing both the joys and challenges they bring), here’s what I’d tell a friend who’s considering one.

What Makes Chihuahuas So Unique?

Chihuahuas are like Velcro — once they bond with you, they’re glued to your side. They love to cuddle, follow you around, and even ride in your bag if you let them. But don’t let their size fool you — they’ve got big-dog energy. I’ve seen Chihuahuas take on agility courses, bark at dogs ten times their size, and act like they run the house.

They’re smart, loyal, and full of character — but they also come with a few quirks you’ll want to be ready for.

7 Things You Should Know Before Bringing Home a Chihuahua

1. They’re total lovebugs — and they hate being alone

Chihuahuas thrive on companionship. If you work long hours and no one’s home during the day, this may not be the breed for you. These pups do best in homes where someone’s around most of the time. If you’re a work-from-home type or live with family, great! If not, consider a breed that handles alone time better.

2. They get cold — like, really cold

Chihuahuas are not built for cold weather. Their thin fur and tiny bodies don’t offer much insulation, so you’ll want sweaters, blankets, and maybe even heated beds for them when temperatures drop. I’ve known Chihuahuas who refuse to go outside unless they’re bundled up. If you live somewhere chilly, be ready to pamper your pup in winter.

3. Housebreaking can be tricky

Like many small breeds, Chihuahuas can be a bit stubborn when it comes to potty training. It’s not that they’re untrainable — they just have tiny bladders and big opinions. Stick to a routine, use positive reinforcement, and be patient. And if you’re using potty pads indoors, skip the kitty litter — it’s not safe for dogs.

4. They’re fragile little things

You have to be careful with Chihuahuas. I’ve seen one get injured just from jumping off a couch. They’re tiny, and even a minor bump can cause injury. If you’ve got toddlers or a busy household, make sure everyone understands how delicate these pups are. No roughhousing, and definitely no dropping them from your arms!

5. Health-wise, they need monitoring

While many Chihuahuas live long, happy lives (some up to 20 years!), they can be prone to certain health issues like hypoglycemia, heart murmurs, and patellar luxation. Regular vet checkups are a must. If you’re buying from a breeder, ask for health clearances. If you’re adopting, see if the shelter has done any health screening.

6. Yes, they shed

Despite their size, Chihuahuas can shed more than you’d expect — especially the short-haired ones. They’re not hypoallergenic. But the good news? The fur is short and easy to clean up with regular vacuuming. A good brushing routine can help keep shedding under control.

7. They think they’re giants

Chihuahuas are famously brave — sometimes to a fault. They’ll bark at strangers, alert you to every sound, and “guard” their home like a much bigger dog. This makes early socialization super important. Introduce them to other dogs, people, and new situations while they’re young, and always reward calm behavior. A well-socialized Chihuahua is confident, not yappy.

Is a Chihuahua the Right Dog for You?

Chihuahuas are best for people who:

• Want a small, affectionate companion dog
• Can be with their pup most of the day
• Are gentle and mindful of their pet’s physical safety
• Don’t mind a bit of barking or shedding
• Enjoy training and socializing their dog
• Prefer a more indoorsy lifestyle (they don’t need tons of outdoor exercise)

If that sounds like you, a Chihuahua might just be your perfect match.

Getting Ready for Your New Pup

You don’t need a ton of space or gear to bring a Chihuahua home — just the basics: food, bowls, a cozy bed, warm clothes for cooler weather, and a plan for potty training. Start socializing early, be patient with housebreaking, and make sure your home is Chihuahua-safe (watch for high drops and small gaps they could slip through).

And most importantly — enjoy the snuggles. These little dogs love big, and once they’ve chosen you, you’ve got a best friend for life.