If you want to adopt a Chihuahua, it’s best to know everything you can about them. Are Chihuahuas good pets? Will they fit in perfectly with your family?
Here’s everything you need to know about these small but feisty dogs.
Table of Contents
Are Chihuahuas Good Pets?
Chihuahuas were originally bred to be ratters. They chase away vermins like rats and mice. But nowadays, they are bred to become companions.
That said, they work best as house pets. These dogs are loyal and are eager to please their owners. Plus they are also fairly smart pets, so you can teach them basic commands and even venture more into complicated ones if you choose to.
However, it’s best to have a Chihuahua if you live alone or your family members are all adults. Although small kids and Chihuahuas can coexist in the same place, it can be rather difficult. You have to train both your kids and your pup to be familiar with each other and their needs.
Still, here are more reasons why you should get a Chihuahua as a pet:
1. They are the perfect size.
People who live alone can take care of pets, but if you’re someone who goes out hours at a time, you should choose the right pet. Luckily for you, a Chihuahua is the perfect choice.
With their small size, you can basically bring your pup anywhere. They can fit in big purses and bags. Most places in the city allow dogs as long as they are harnessed, in a crib, or in a purse.
2. You can play with their looks.
Are you a fashionista? Lucky you! You can also dress your Chihuahua up in anything.
They can look good in any costume and dress. If you don’t have kids or your kids are all grown up, they can act as your little children that you can dress up anytime. You can find someone that understands your love for fashion and won’t complain about how they look.
3. They are devoted dogs.
Chihuahuas are loyal and devoted. If they form a strong bond with you, they’ll never leave you behind and will protect you at all costs.
This could be troublesome sometimes, especially when they aren’t trained. Their devotion to you may cause jealousy. If they see someone or another animal getting close to you, it’s no surprise they would snap, bark, and growl at them.
However, this is a normal reaction for a Chihuahua, especially if you look at their temperament. That’s why socialization training is as important as obedience training.
4. They are alert and always on guard.
Although they are now bred as companion dogs, Chihuahuas still have a strong sense of protection. They are always alert and have the ability to guard you and your home.
If you stay alone at home, their bark can alert you of an intruder—whether imaginary or not. These dogs are also fearless. They won’t hesitate to bark and snap at people or breeds bigger than them.
5. You can have several options for this breed.
There are seven different Chihuahuas that you can choose from:
- Long-coat
- Smooth-coat
- Apple-head
- Deer-head
- Fawn
- Teacup
- Pear-head
Apart from the seven main different types of pups, you can also choose from different color variations. In addition, you can choose from Chihuahua half-breeds. You can basically find the pup of your dreams, and they are all adorable and sweet.
6. They don’t take up a lot of room.
Chihuahuas are perfect if you live in a small apartment. They have small bodies, weighing at only around four to six pounds. That means they don’t take too much space.
You and your dog still have enough space to move around. They may only need a little space for their bed and their food and water. But they can also stay on your bed as they won’t really need a lot of space to comfortably sleep in.
Chihuahuas actually prefer small spaces. You don’t need to live in a mansion if you want this for a pet.
Additionally, they are very easy to clean after. Since they are small, they also have small poop.
7. Chihuahuas are fairly smart.
Chihuahuas are 67th on the list of smartest breeds. Although that seems far down the list, they are still considered as fairly smart dogs. However, some break the norm and can be considered highly intelligent pups.
You can easily teach them basic skills—something that every dog owner should do to avoid unruly behavior. It may take a few repetitions plus a firm but gentle hand, but they can also do a few more complicated tricks.
Conclusion
Are Chihuahuas good pets? Sure they may fit some scenarios better than others, but in general, they are awesome pets to have. It’s no wonder they are among the most popular dog breeds!
