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Long-haired Chihuahua

Chihuahua

Family: CanidaeCanis 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 two recognize types of Chihuahuas, the other is the Short-haired Chihuahua or Smooth-coat Chihuahua. There are some other names applied to these toy dogs with special characteristics. These include the term Teacup Chihuahua for very small dogs, and Applehead Chihuahua for those with the AKA standards preferred head-shape, being "a well rounded apple domeskull". However all of these cute little toy dogs, are still simply Chihuahuas.

The Chihuahuas are the smallest of all types of dogs, and are the tiniest of the small dog breeds. They are classified as toy dogs. They make wonderful pets for good consist ant keeper. These are dogs with a strong-will, yet are extremely devoted to their owners. They are quick learners with a curious nature and make for an entertaining companion. Their suspicion of strangers makes them excellent guard dogs as well.

   There are some important things to be aware of when selecting a dog of this breed. They have large and prominent eyes, so they are prone to eye problems. These little toy dogs are also susceptible to respiratory problems. To protect them and to keep them healthy, Chihuahuas need to be kept in a clean environment.

Common Name(s)   Long-haired Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Teacup Chihuahua, Long-haired Applehead 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

Lastest Comments on Long-haired Chihuahua View all 69 comments on Long-haired Chihuahua Add Your Comment

Diana Gilbert - 2012-05-04 Our baby, Paco is a four year old long haired chihuahua. Since we moved into a new apartment 2 months ago he been scratching like mad. I see no sign of fleas or hot spots or dry skin. We do have hard water (I think because we have water spots on the dishes), could he be allergic to the water? I have given him 2 baths since we have been here (because of the itching)? -or the grounds? The pine trees and red wood trees are new to him. Any suggestions? M. Wilson - 2012-05-22 Try feeding him Science diet sensitive skin- it works wonders!! You can buy it at Petbarn and most pet food stores or at the vet. Reply

Jim - 2012-05-18 Our little guy is 4mos. old/4.5lbs and is chewing on the baseboards in the kitchen. THIS is our only problem. He is taken outside to play almost every day and is put to sleep at about 11pm and sometimes does not wake until about 8am. Is there anything(food wise) we should keep him from eating? Jim - 2012-05-18 How can we NOT spoil this cute little guy(Jay) even if he is bad every now and then? Reply

misty - 2012-05-16 My lil one is 3 yrs old. She had 4 pups in October, I was worried as well about the same thing. Me and my husband sat up with her until 3 a.m. , helped her have the babies. She did an awesome job, being it was her first litter. My husband only had to help her with one, guessing she just got tired, being it was her last one, which is what we thought. We woke up the next morning to find she had 4.. Reply

sham - 2011-12-21 I have a long haired chihuahua that just turned a year old on the, 19th dec. His name is Lucky Boy. He is very smart, but every morning I find that he has peed all over the tiles outside my house this happens everyday. I do beat him and try to teach him not to do it but he still does it this is the only problem I have with him, other than that he is a really smart dog. How else can i train him to stop doing it ?? Charlie Roche - 2011-12-22 It will never do any good to hit/beat a pup. Besides you are doing it after the deed is done so your dog just thinks you are hurting him for no reason which leads to anxiety and possibly the behavior. Could he be afraid of morning? That is a little pup and he can only hold it so long. You can remove water after 6 pm - should bedtime be the 11 pm. You can take him out earlier and possibly in time, he will be able to hold it longer. He is going per you he has 'peed all over the tiles OUTSIDE my house'. You can try and put paper down (or a wee wee pad on the tile and then move to grass. Hurting the dog each morning and the pup has no idea why will just lead to anxiety. He is housebroken and per you going outside -- now you have to figure out a way for him to go where you would like. You can walk him earlier. Lucy - 2011-12-28 Never beat a dog! Are you walking the dog outside? If you are just letting him out by himself..please change this routine and take him out on a leash and show him where to go potty. This will take time to correct his bad behavior but it can be done, only if you put in the time. (One of my dogs is 9mos, but I walk both of them in the rain and snow). Also, you can remove water early, so he can get all his pee out before you go to bed. But remember to give him water as soon as you get up is the morning. He is just a baby and can not hold his pee too long. But if you don't have the time to spend with him to train... either find him a new owner or get the water hose out and wash the tiles off each morning. sk - 2011-12-31 You don't deserve to have a dog if you are going to beat him! amanda smith - 2012-01-06 No wonder he is peeing all over the tiles...you have pissed him off literally. don't beat your animal, how dare you! Suzanne - 2012-01-16 Do not hit your dog. He won't learn that way. Keep him a crate or the bathroom at night. Make sure you feed him just twice an day, take him out about 15-20 minutes later, praise him when he makes. At bedtime, lock him in the crate. Put a towel or old blanket in the bottom. Take him right out to make in the morning. Praise him again. Look online for good hints about potty training, too. Good luck! debbie - 2012-04-27 I would take him away from you Donna Castro - 2012-04-28 Are people so 'stupid' that they would actually hit a dog? Any breed of dog. We raised the most wonderful rott. with the help of a trainer, he was the best dog ever. We now have a long hair chihuahua we rescused from a shelter. Make a loud nosie when they bite, or are doing something wrong, they learn quickly. Donna Cindy - 2012-05-07 I wish I knew where you lived, you are abusing this poor chic, I have a 12 week old and would never think of hitting him, or hurting him in any way at all, maybe you need anger management classes and but first please put your dog up for adoption or give it to some that loves dogs tootie - 2012-05-09 I have found with my chihuahua, that if you get into a routine helps alot. I routinely get up at a certain time and take mine outside to the same spot, this has helped with accidents tremendously. Holly - 2012-05-12 Never beat a dog! My dog was beaten and now I give him extra protection, he is also a long-haired Chihuahua and personally I would take him away from you! You should be kind and use a POSITIVE attitude! Seriously, you make me wanna cry because you have beaten your dog! loretta hoolmaa - 2012-05-14 if u beat your dog YOU SHOULD NOT HAVE ONE Reply

Linda Wilson/Zippys Mom - 2012-02-28 My Chi is 1 yr today. I worry so much about two things; the awful whooping sound in his throat, I've heard its a backward sneeze--- and the second is that he is kinda skinny. He eats great. I feed him Royal canine for chis. He is very active, plays with his toys and does not act sick. He is a long haired, we love him so much and he is so very potty trained, never in the house. One last thing are there any shampoos that fleas don't like?? Charlie Roche - 2012-02-29 Many write in about their Chihauhau having sneezes or odd sounds and most reply that they have allergies - a lot of them. Your little guy sounds fine with the playing, eating and activity so I'd just assume allergies. Many suggest a different food but you are already on food for Chis - but possibly..... Kokomos Mom - 2012-04-04 My chi has a softer trachea that tends to flatten and it makes a sound like that, especially if she's been sleeping on it. Just be sure you are sensitive with the throat, only put him in a harness. And dont give him rawhide, just nylon bones. As for food, I feed my dog Rachel Rays Chicken and Rice and my dog is def healthy looking. And as for fleas, I would say daily use of a flea comb is better than any shampoo for fleas. Chis really shouldn't have any chemicals around them at all. Ria - 2012-04-29 My vet confirmed the backward sneezing. Sometimes my lil girl gets freaked out by it so I just talk to her and stroke her fur til she's done. Also if she starts to do it frequently I will give her a 1/4 teaspoon of clear children's benadryl. This will clear up the sneezing for a while. Ronnie Mathers - 2012-04-30 I have four long hair chis. Mom, pop, and two cute little babies. I rescued the mom and dad from a home where the man had over 20 dogs. They were in very bad shape when I first saw them. The fleas were everywhere and they had been scratching so much that they had sores all over them. I brought them home and ran them into the tub where I used Dawn dish soap on them. It killed every single flea on contact and didn't harm the dogs at all. I have had them two years now and this past January the female gave birth to three puppies. One only lived for four days; not sure what happened. I think she smothered it one night. The other two have had their full round of shots and are doing great. We are crate training them. It is a little tough but I think they are getting the hang of it. We have an accident every now and then. The male, Dodger, is black with tan marks on his face and white paws. He is my boy. He loves going for rides in the car and barks at everything. He is always by my side and is very loyal. The mom, Sissy, has a mind and attitude all her own. She is a sweet girl but strangers beware. We don't have company come over much anymore because she rules the house. They are very playful but they do not like it when my 10 year old runs through the house. She will go after him yapping the whole way. They both hate the door bell. We have to sprint to get to them and put them away when someone comes over. We are attempting to socialize the puppies though. When people come over we bring them out and put mom and dad away. We let other people pet and hold them. They, especially Dodger, are like babies. He always wants to be right on my lap or laying right next to me. He is my buddy. tootie - 2012-05-09 I took my long haired chihuahua to the vet for this same problem, because I too was worried. He assured me it was due to a soft trachea. He checked her and said it was not a problem at this point, and he would check her each year. Reply

craig - 2012-05-08 My 3 year old is pregnant. Getting worried about the birth with the take that the birth sometimes needs assistance from vet. What would I do if cannot get to vet and it looks like she is having trouble. Charlie Roche - 2012-05-08 I would sure take her to the vet before she is ready to give birth and talk to the vet. Many times little chis need assistance - actually surgery as they are so small they can not deliver naturally. You and your vet can discuss what options there are. Reply

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