I absolutely despise the bad rap that Chihuahuas get. “They are dumb, mean, loud, ankle biters who are good for punting.” The negativity behind the breed name truly breaks my heart. I, too, was uneducated about Chihuahuas before I rescued Wynston but he’s taught me how amazing chihuahuas really are. In fact, a Chihuahua is a perfect breed for me, and I think it’s a great breed for anyone willing to give them a chance. Chihuahuas are the 2nd most euthanized breed of dog in the United States. I want to help change that. I’ve written a post about negative Chihuahua stereotypes, and now I want to focus on the positive side of things – why Chihuahuas are incredible dogs.
Why Chihuahuas Are Incredible Dogs
I often wonder if I’ll ever be able to have another Chihuahua after Wynston dies (although I have at least another decade with him). He’s just such a perfect dog. I used to think it was just HIM that I loved so much, but I’ve come to realize that the Chihuahua breed has a lot to do with it. The characteristics of this small breed are perfect for my lifestyle. I want to really break down everything I love about Chihuahuas, and why I think more people need to consider them as pets.
They can be as lazy or active as you want.
Chihuahuas are great couch potatoes. They love burrowing in blankets, sleeping, and being next to their human. But they also enjoy being active. Chihuahuas can hike, compete in agility, and do most activities that other breeds enjoy doing. Wynston used to compete in agility, we’ve hiked several miles together in the mountains, and have played on the beach for hours. But Wynston also likes being lazy around the house with me. I think there’s a common misconception that because Chihuahuas are small they can’t be active. That’s the furthest thing from the truth. What’s wonderful about the Chihuahuas is that you can choose to be lazy or active, because they are good at both!
They can thrive in any dwelling.
Apartment in the city, cabin in the woods, apartment in the suburbs – you name it, a Chihuahua can be happy living there. They can easily adapt to any situation, and with their ability to be lazy or active, they can thrive anywhere! I’d like to travel the country in an RV for a year, and I know Wynston will love it. As long as he’s with me, he doesn’t care where our home is!
They are low maintenance.
Chihuahuas require very little grooming maintenance, especially if they have short hair. They only need a nail trim and bath once a month. They don’t shed a lot. Their teeth are easy to maintain, and they don’t have any major known health issues. Chihuahuas are inexpensive and easy to maintain overall.
They are easy to travel with.
As you all know, I love traveling with Wynston. Chihuahuas are easy to travel with because they are small. It’s easy to bring a Chi on an airplane because they don’t take up a lot of space and they fit right under your seat in a carrier. You never have to worry about putting your Chihuahua in cargo! And of course you can pick them up if necessary.
They tend to be good with other animals.
In my experience Chihuahuas can be good with people and other animals. Wynston does well with animals as big as horses and as small as birds. He’s a fan of big and little dogs, and is more likely to befriend other species of animals than humans. Chihuahuas can also be amazing family dogs, but they do tend to have their favorite person.
They don’t cost a lot.
Chihuahuas are low maintenance and with that comes low cost. They don’t eat a lot or require fancy, frequent grooming, which cuts a lot of cost out throughout their life. But you’ll probably find yourself spending money on other things for your Chihuahua, likes toys and delicious treats 😉
They are extremely loyal.
Chihuahuas are known to be extremely close to “their person.” The breed is extremely loyal, and borderline territorial of the human they are closest to. Wynston is my guard dog, my shadow, my companion. If you want a loyal dog who will show you unconditional love, a Chihuahua could be the dog for you.
They are trainable.
A common misconception about Chihuahuas is that they are dumb and can’t be trained. This could not be further from the truth. Wynston has been easy to train and he’s SUPER smart. They just need to be given the chance to learn, like any dog. One of the reasons Chihuahuas are so alert is because they are of high intelligence. They can do tricks, compete in agility, and be professional models just like Wynston! In fact, Chihuahuas can excel at dog sports. Want to meet some other incredibly talented Chihuahuas? Check out our friends at ChiPets! You’ll be happy you did 🙂
They live a long time.
Chihuahuas are the smallest recognized breed by the AKC. They also have the longest life span. Typically the smaller a dog is, the longer they live. Want a dog that could be around 20 years? A Chihuahua will give you the best chance at that!
They are adaptable.
As long as a Chihuahua is with “their person,” they can easily adapt to any environment. Wynston is completely relaxed wherever we go, rain or shine. While Chihuahuas do prefer warm weather (you can thank their Mexican roots for that) they can be happy in cold weather climates. Just make sure you have a heating pad, plenty of blankets and a warm lap for them to sleep on!
Quotes About Chihuahuas From Our Friends
“My little girl is a constant heartbeat at my feet.” – Nanci J.
“I love Chihuahuas because they are fearlessly loyal!” – Chris T.
“Dogs are loyal, however my 4 chihuahuas go above and beyond to show their loyalty.” – Audra R.
“I have osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia. Zoey knows when I am having a bad day. She snuggles me on my back or knees to warm them up and make me feel better.” – Sherri U.
“A little dog with a huge heart.” – Dena H.
“Velcro dogs! They stick to you and never leave your side. Unconditional love and a devoted companion. Chihuahuas are very tuned into to their “person”. – Georgeann M.
“They are easy to care for and easy to transport!” – Patti E.
“They are incredibly intelligent, funny, devoted yet independent.” – Ann Marie G.
Thanks to everyone on Facebook who shared their thoughts with us!
Do you love Chihuahuas? Tell us why you enjoy the breed. Want to learn more about Chihuahuas? Check out this post about why Chihuahuas shake!
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