The Ultimate Chihuahua Puppy Ownership Guide

14 minute reed By Lucy Hughes
Reviewed by: Pawrade Team
May 06, 2023

Different types of Chihuahuas

Feisty. Spicy. Spunky. Bold. Charming. 

No, this is not your dating profile bio – we’re talking about a Chihuahua puppy for sale!

The Chihuahua is the tiniest of recognized dog breeds, but they think they’re the biggest dogs on the planet! Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities and loyalty to their owners. They're intelligent and can be trained to do all sorts of tricks and commands. Because they’re so small and portable, a Chihuahua puppy for sale is a favorite of people who live in apartments and places that are the perfect size for a tiny friend. 

You may have more questions about owning a Chihuahua puppy. Where did the breed come from? What are some important facts to know about Chihuahuas if I am looking to buy one to see if the breed is right for me? And most importantly, where can I buy Chihuahua puppies for sale from a reputable, trustworthy breeder?

These pint-sized pups are a treasure trove of personality, and if you're lucky enough to have one, you know they're the best thing that ever happened to you! Discover what it’s like to own a Chihuahua puppy for sale with our ultimate Chihuahua puppy ownership guide.

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The History of the Chihuahua Dog Breed

A few theories exist for how the Chihuahua dog breed came to be. Starting in the 9th century, the Toltec people of Mexico kept a tiny, mute dog called the Techichi. The Aztecs later conquered the Toltec people, and this small dog became a sacred symbol to the upper class and spirit guides for the dead in religious ceremonies. Archaeologists have found proof of these small dogs by examining canine remains predating the 16th century at the Pyramids at Cholula on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Another theory is the Chihuahua is actually a mix of the Techichi line with tiny dogs from China brought to the Americas by the Conquistadors from the Island of Malta and other tiny dog breeds over the years. Regardless of the exact origin, the modern-day Chihuahua and its ancestors have delighted people as beloved companions for thousands of years. 

Not your average souvenir

Imagine taking a vacation and instead of bringing home tee shirts and coffee mugs, you bring home an entirely new dog breed that the United States had never seen before! That’s exactly how the Chihuahua came to be in the US today. Chihuahuas were popularized in the late 1800s when wealthy Americans began to vacation in Mexico and brought the dogs back with them as souvenirs. Named after the northern Mexican state, the breed became known as Chihuahuas. 

The rise of the Chihuahua’s popularity

These lively companions quickly became fashionable pets and were shown in dog shows around the world. In 1904, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed. They now hold the 34th spot on the AKC’s list of most popular dog breeds of 2022

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Billie Holiday holds Pepi the Chihuahua, April 18, 1957. Smithsonian, photo by Jerry Dantzic

The 20th century brought an explosion of popularity for the Chihuahua dog breed. Band leader Xavier Cugat was often seen conducting his orchestra with his sidekick Pepito in one hand and waving his baton in the other. Singer Billie Holiday loved Chiquita and Pepi, and Chiquita would sport a pawicure with the same color nail polish as Billie. Marilyn Monroe had a beloved Chihuahua named Josefa that had her own movie contract. 

Yo quiero Chihuahuas 

Today, Chihuahuas have captured the heart of the silver screen and popular cultural institutions. Chihuahuas have consistently been a top choice in commercials, movies, and TV shows. The 1997 hit commercial “Yo Quiero Taco Bell” launched a cultural phenomenon of one of the most successful commercials of modern times featuring a Chihuahua named Gidget.

Other TV shows and movies, such as “Sex in the City,” Beverly Hills Chihuahua, and Bruiser the Chihuahua character in Legally Blonde have delighted viewers. You can sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” at a Minor League Baseball game with the El Paso Chihuahuas, the affiliate of the Padres. Chihuahuas are everywhere!

The first wildly successful Taco Bell commercial featuring Gidget the Chihuahua debuted in 1997

Common Chihuahua characteristics

The Chihuahua is currently considered the smallest dog breed in the world, with an average weight of 2 to 6 pounds and a height of 6 to 9 inches at the shoulder. They have a rounded skull and large, erect ears, with big, expressive eyes that come in a range of colors. Despite their size, Chihuahuas are muscular and agile, with a brisk, confident gait. They all feature large eyes and bat-like ears that look like they’re way too big for those little heads!

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Apple Head vs. Deer Head Chihuahuas

Why are we talking about apples and deer when we should be focusing on Chihuahua puppies? Well, when it comes to Chihuahua puppies for sale, there are two different types of head shapes: Apple and Deer. While both types of Chihuahua puppies are undeniably cute, there are some physical differences between the two that are worth noting.

An Apple Head Chihuahua has a round head with a prominent forehead and a short, pointed nose. They may be more prone to dental problems due to their shorter snouts.

On the other hand, the Deer Head Chihuahua has a longer, slender head with a flatter forehead and a longer snout. Deer Head Chihuahuas may be more prone to respiratory issues because of their longer snouts.

Of course, every Chihuahua is unique in its own way. Regardless of head shape, all Chihuahua puppies for sale are loyal and loving companions that bring joy and laughter to their owners' lives. 

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Long hair vs. short hair coats

Some people may only think Chihuahuas feature short coats because of the ones you see on the screen. But did you know a Chihuahua puppy for sale can have either a furry long-haired coat or a short, sleek coat? 

Are you ready for this impressive statistic? The AKC lists 31 colors and color combinations of Chihuahuas (no, we’re not at Baskin Robbins) and 11 different types of markings!

From the shape of their head to the type and color of their coats, there truly is a Chihuahua puppy for sale for everyone.

16 Fun Facts Chihuahua Owners Want You to Know

Did you know there are some fascinating facts about Chihuahua puppies for sale that owners want you to know, and some that even the most devoted owners might not be aware of? Here are 16 fun tidbits that every Chihuahua lover will appreciate.  

1. Tiny but mighty

Chihuahua puppies for sale may be the smallest dog breeds in the world, but their hearts are just as big as their bark! Shhh…don’t tell them how physically small they are because they will sassily tell you otherwise! 

2. They’ll always cheer you up

Chihuahua puppies for sale are always up for a good time! If you're feeling blue, a Chihuahua's wagging tail and happy little face are sure to put a smile on your face. They also love to cuddle and will be your lap buddy when you binge-watch your favorite series.

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3. Please welcome to the stage…

Chihuahua puppies are absolute comedians! It’s like they are constantly about to tell you a joke and will try to communicate with you to make you laugh. Their hilarious, big bug-eyed expressions will show what they’re thinking. With their quirky little personalities and sassy attitudes, Chihuahuas are the ultimate pint-sized jokesters.

4. They’ll stick right by your side…

Chihuahuas bond fiercely with their people. They're often described as "velcro dogs" because they love to be near their humans and will follow them everywhere. Chihuahuas may bond particularly strongly with one person in the family, but they're typically friendly with the rest of the family, too. They're always there for their owners, providing comfort and support whenever needed.

5. …but might bond right away with just anyone

Chihuahuas may love their owners, but they can take some time to warm up to people they don’t know. They can be very protective of their owners and may even become territorial, especially if they feel their family is threatened. This loyalty is one of the reasons why Chihuahuas make such great companion dogs, but you’ll have to make sure to socialize your Chihuahua puppy at an early age.

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6. Chihuahuas do best with older children

When considering if a Chihuahua puppy for sale is right for your family, you’ll need to know how the breed does around small children. Due to its size, a young child may think a Chihuahua is a toy and be too rough with it, not understanding “gentle touch” consistently enough. A Chihuahua may be stressed by the boisterous noise children can make. It’s important to supervise your children around your Chihuahua puppy to make sure everyone is having a good time. Once acclimated to the family setting, they are loyal companions to everyone. 

7. They’ll have you wrapped around their little paw

A Chihuahua puppy for sale may grow up to rule the roost unless you do something about it. Their bold personalities may turn to little bossy kings or queens that rule their kingdom, and you are a mere peasant falling under their rule. It’s important to train your Chihuahua puppy with a firm yet gentle training method to make sure they know who’s boss! If you don’t, they will assume they’re the head of the family. 

8. Chihuahuas make great emotional support animals

Thanks to their loyalty, devotion, and intuition, Chihuahuas have been known to have a positive impact on their owners' mental health, providing comfort and companionship during tough times. If you’re planning on utilizing your Chihuahua puppy as an emotional support animal, you must train them as early as possible to be great canine citizens who can function in a variety of situations. 

9. They are a low-maintenance dog breed

Chihuahuas, even the long-haired ones, are very easy to groom. They will not need elaborate services at the groomer. As long as you keep up with regular coat brushing, nail trimming, eye and ear care, preventative flea, tick, and heartworm medication, and anal gland expression, you’ll enjoy a healthy Chihuahua for years to come. 

10. Chihuahuas will loudly tell you all about it

Whether it’s the mail carrier, a new visitor, a cat out the window, or merely a pile of leaves blowing down the street, a Chihuahua puppy will tell you about it. They have a big bark for such a little body. It’s crucial you train your Chihuahua puppy not to bark so you don’t get slapped with noise ordinance violations, especially if you live close to other people.

11. Chihuahuas have other doggy buddies

Chihuahua puppies love playing with other dog breeds no matter their size! Their bold personalities will think nothing of going right up to a Great Dane and barking at them like they own the place. 

12. Keep up with their dental needs

Because a Chihuahua will grow the same number of teeth as a Saint Bernard, a Chihuahua puppy’s jaw may not be able to handle all those teeth in such a small space. For this reason, owners must keep up with regular dental visits for their Chihuahuas to monitor teeth growth and prevent dental issues before they turn into serious health problems.

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13. Agility is not just for Border Collies

Chihuahuas may not be the first breed that comes to mind for agility courses, but they can be surprisingly adept at the sport. Their small size and agility can be an advantage, and with proper training, they can excel in competitions. However, it's important to remember to tailor the course to their size and capabilities to ensure their safety. 

14. You can teach a Chihuahua puppy fun tricks

Chihuahuas are surprisingly athletic and love to show off their acrobatic skills. Due to their intelligence, you can train them to do all sorts of dog tricks to impress your friends and family with ease.

15. Chihuahuas may not go home right at 8 weeks old

When you find your perfect Chihuahua puppy for sale, you’ll need to be aware that they might not be able to go home shortly after the 8-week mark like other breeds. Why? Well, Chihuahuas are so tiny that they may have problems regulating their blood sugar levels during those first weeks of life. Due to that reason, Chihuahua puppies may be ready for their forever loving home when they reach 2 lbs. or 12 weeks old, whichever comes first. 

16. They’ll be your buddy for a long time

Chihuahuas are generally a healthy breed and live a long, full life of 14-16 years. As of December 2022, the oldest living dog recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records is a Chihuahua named Toby Keith, verified to be 21 years old!

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How Much Does a Chihuahua Puppy For Sale Cost? 

While you may be looking for a set price range, you will learn when you’re looking for “Chihuahua puppies for sale near me” that Chihuahuas come in a huge range of prices. You may be tempted to choose the cheapest price. However, buyer beware!

You must know that the old adage “You get what you pay for” is absolutely true! There is a lot that goes into breeding robust, healthy Chihuahua puppies, and the price should reflect this fact. 

Reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs may charge more for their puppies. These breeders often invest in genetic testing and veterinary care to ensure that their dogs are healthy and free of genetic health issues. They also devote significant time and resources to socializing and training their puppies, which can lead to a higher price tag.

Chihuahuas can be more expensive than other dog breeds for several reasons. First, they are a small breed, which means they often have smaller litters than larger dogs, which can drive up the cost of each individual puppy. Additionally, Chihuahuas may require specialized care due to their small size and fragility, which can increase the cost of breeding and care for them.

Ultimately, the cost of a Chihuahua can vary depending on the breeder and the individual dog's pedigree, size, and coat type. It's important to do your research and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs, even if it means paying a higher price upfront.

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What Does a Responsible Chihuahua Breeder Look Like? 

It's important to buy a Chihuahua from a trustworthy and responsible breeder for several reasons. First and foremost, a reputable breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, which can lead to a healthier and happier pet for you. They will ensure that their dogs receive proper medical care, are screened for genetic health issues, and are well-socialized from a young age. They will also provide a clean and safe environment for their dogs to live in.

Additionally, a responsible breeder will be knowledgeable about the breed. Expert breeders live and breathe Chihuahuas! Puppy contracts from responsible breeders may ask that you contact the breeder first if you are unfortunately unable to care for your Chihuahua at any point in its lifespan of 14-16 years.

By purchasing a Chihuahua puppy for sale from a reputable breeder, you can also help reduce the likelihood of supporting puppy mills or backyard breeders, who often prioritize profit over the well-being of their dogs.

Overall, buying a Chihuahua puppy for sale from a trustworthy and responsible breeder is an important step in ensuring that you have a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted Chihuahua for years to come.

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Choose a Pawrade Chihuahua Puppy For Sale

When searching for a “Chihuahua puppy for sale near me,” you’ll want to make sure you do all your research on where to find a legitimate breeder who loves your Chihuahua puppy just as much as you do. Well, you’re in luck! 

At Pawrade we’ve pre-screened and hand-selected reputable Chihuahua breeders that have passed a thorough screening process. We’ve done the hard work for you! Just like us and like you, they abhor puppy mills. Pawrade also helps you fight puppy scams due to our rigorous selection methods. 

Whether you are searching for an Apple or Deer Head Chihuahua or a long or shorthaired coat, Pawrade offers Chihuahuas with all sorts of head types, fur length, and colors. Search our Chihuahua puppies for sale to find your fierce, sassy, tiny sidekick! 


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Lucy Hughes

Lucy Hughes has been teaching and writing professionally for half her life. She has a passion for helping people choose a puppy and lead an exciting life with their new furry companion. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and her beloved Golden Retriever, Bowie.

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