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Long-haired ChihuahuaChihuahua

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Canis lupus familiarisPhoto © Animal-World: Courtesy Justin Brough

     The Long-haired Chihuahua is a classy little dog, full of personality and spunk.

    The Long-haired Chihuahua is one of only two recognize types of Chihuahuas, the other is the Short-haired Chihuahua or Smooth-coat Chihuahua. The Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog with a strong-will, yet extremely devoted to their owner. They are quick learners with a curious nature and make for an entertaining companion. Their suspicion of strangers makes them excellent guard dogs.

     Some important things to be aware of when selecting a dog of this breed, with large and prominent eyes, they are prone to eye problems. These little dogs are also susceptible to respiratory problems so will need a clean environment.

Common Name(s)     Long-haired Chihuahua, Chihuahua

Breed Type     The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. Classified as a toy breed they make a most suitable pet. The Chihuahua is most comfortable in warm climates.

Background     The Chihuahua is said to have been discovered in Mexico in 1850. They were sometimes bred for food, but they were also used in religious ceremonies and prized by royalty. It is speculated that Chihuahuas are descended from Chinese hairless dogs and ancient Mexican breeds. There are only two recognize types of Chihuahuas, the Long-haired Chihuahua and the Short-haired Chihuahuas, but no distinction is made for registration purposes.

Description     Chihuahuas are small dogs with large heads and pointed muzzles. They have prominent, dark eyes, and may have short or long hair. They come in a variety of colors, and all are acceptable according to breed standards. Puppies sometimes have a molera, or soft spot in their skull, which may or may not close when they get older. The sizes of males and females are similar, with an average height of 6-9 inches and weight of 2-6 pounds.
    The Long-haired Chihuahua has a fluffy sleek appearance due to soft, fine guard hairs padded with a soft undercoat..

Care and Feeding     Chihuahuas do best on a diet that is composed of poultry and brown rice. They can be sensitive to some foods, and beef is not suggested for their diet. Give your Chihuahua a bath monthly, but be careful not to get water into its ears. Nails should be trimmed as needed. The Long-haired Chihuahua requires no trimming of its coat, which can actually take up to two years to fully grow out, and needs very little grooming.
    Chihuahuas should have annual checkups, and receive vaccinations as follows:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
• Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster
  

    The Long-haired Chihuahua does shed, but it actually sheds less than it's Short-haired counterpart. But because they are prone to respiratory problems, try to keep dust to a minimum. It will be necessary to remove hair from the furniture and vacuum on a regular basis.

Housing Your Dog     Long-haired Chihuahuas are indoor dogs. They enjoy playing with small toys and they need a warm environment. They will often find a cozy place to snuggle up in and go to sleep. Keep an eye out, as they are very small and that place may be under blankets.

Social Behaviors     Chihuahuas are very loyal to their family but not so sociable with other humans. They can get along with other Chihuahuas fairly well, but around other dogs and other types of pets they may become aggressive. They are also not recommended for children.

Handling and Training     Long-haired Chihuahuas are intelligent and fast learners, but they are also strong willed. Sometimes this can make them difficult to train. Using positive reinforcement is the most effective method, and patience, as this breed is often difficult to housebreak..

Activities     Much like other dogs, Long-haired Chihuahuas need daily walks, but these can be short walks. They also enjoy playing both indoors and out.

Breeding/Reproduction     Mates for Chihuahuas should be examined for gum problems, rheumatism, and eye problems. Females sometimes need Cesarean sections due to the size of the offspring's heads.

Common Health Problems     The design of the Chihuahua's eyes and nose make both susceptible to problems, including wheezing, colds, and glaucoma. They may also suffer from rheumatism and stress. They should be seen by a vet if they display signs of these problems.

Availability     Long-haired Chihuahuas can be obtained from breeders or in pet stores. Prices vary greatly, but are generally in the $500-$800 range.

References "Chihuahua", Dog Breed Info Center, Copyright 1998-2008
"Chihuahua (dog)", Wikipedia, Copyright 2008
Cusick, William D., "What to Feed a Chihuahua", Referenced online, 2008
Welton, Michelle, "Chihuahuas: What's Good About ‘Em? What's Bad About ‘Em?", Copyright 2000-2008
"Chihuahua Puppies for Sale", Copyright PuppyFind.com, LLC, Referenced online, 2008
"The Chihuahua Dictionary", Bigchihuahua.com, Copyright 1998-2005. Referenced online, 2008

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Latest Comments
I have a long haired Chihuahua that I actually just got yesterday. He is extremely sweet and very cute. He is 3 months old and even though I just got him, I am madly in love with him already. Now I also have a Cocker Spaniel, and when he was introduced to my Cocker he acted a little scared. Is this common for a Chihuahua because every time the Cocker came anywhere near him he would run. Micaela 2009-10-29
I purchased a puppy thinking it was a morkie (maltese / yorkie). Since purchasing her we have fallen so in love with her. She has a wonderful personality - very independent and strong willed. I didn't see the morkie qualities in her and asked my vet what he thought she is and he said a long haired chihuahua. She sheds pretty badly and that is one quality I did not want. I can't get rid of her now that she is a family member. Do you have any suggestions what to do about the shedding? Bonitta 2009-07-16
I have a long haired chihuahua that looks just like the one on this page. He is the best dog I have ever had. He doesn't bark at just anything. He is VERY protective. I can't do anything without him. He has seizures from low sugar but the vet said that was common in these breeds of dogs to just give him 1/4 tsp. honey a day. I would put his pic here but I don't know how. EDITORS NOTE: Pictures can be uploaded in the gallery! Jennifer Hornbeek 2009-07-14
We recently adopted a long haired chihuahua, his name is Moses> He is 8 months old with long black hair. He weighs about 1 1/2 lbs., he is so cute! We have other dogs and he seems to be getting along well with them. He is already picking up the potty training experience. We love him already! shawna 2009-07-12
I have what is supposed to be a Pomeranian that looks exactly like your dog! Your dog is so cute, does it bark at like anything that moves outside, cause mine does BIG TIME! destiny 2008-08-02

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