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The Best and Worst Dog Breeds for Those with Chihuahuas

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Ever wondered how your Chihuahuas might feel about some new furry family members? You’re not alone! Discovering the ideal dog breeds to blend into your family dynamic can be as challenging as picking a favorite Netflix series to binge-watch.

Group of different dog breeds.

But fear not, we’re here to spill the kibble on which breeds pair perfectly with Chihuahuas and which might lead to chaos (and chewed shoe collections). Prepare to be surprised!

Whether you’re looking to double your fur family or simply curious about canine compatibility, these insights might be the paw-some break you’ve been looking for. And you bet you’ll want to share this knowledge with fellow pet lovers!

Understanding Chihuahuas: Small Dogs with Big Personalities

Chihuahuas may be small, but they pack a punch in the personality department. Known for their bold, sometimes sassy nature, these pint-sized pups often think they’re the largest dog in the park.

Their fearless demeanor and strong sense of loyalty make them lovable companions, yet, they’re not always the friendliest to newcomers. Particularly large dogs might intimidate them, leading to a less-than-ideal match in the household.

However, with the right breed, Chihuahuas can thrive in multi-dog environments, showing off their more playful side and even learning a few new tricks themselves! It’s all about finding the right balance.

Orange and white long hair Chihuahua sitting with black Labrador Retriever puppy
puppy labrador retriever and chihuahua in front of white background

The Gold Standard: Labrador Retrievers

If you’ve ever met a Labrador Retriever, you’ll know they’re basically the Blue’s Clues of the canine world: friendly, loving, and effortlessly charming. Labs are known to get along famously with other dogs, including our feisty little friends, the Chihuahuas.

Their patient and gentle demeanor provides a calming counterbalance to a Chihuahua’s high energy, creating a peaceful coexistence within your home. Labs can handle a Chihuahua’s bossy streak with a shrug and a wag of their tails.

Choose Labradors for a family dynamic bursting with love and daily antics—and hey, your Chihuahua might even learn a thing or two about the joys of fetch!

Orange and white Chihuahua sitting next to Pug.

Pug Out with Pugs

Pugs tend to have a personality as carefree and affectionate as a day spent lounging in your favorite chair watching your guilty-pleasure TV shows. With their comically charming nature and social adaptability, Pugs fit well into families that already include Chihuahuas.

Pugs don’t take life too seriously, which gels perfectly with a Chihuahua’s occasional need to rule the roost. Their similar needs for moderate exercise and social stimulation align well, minimizing jealousy or territorial behaviors.

Prepare for lots of cuddles and amusing pug snorts—all while your Chihuahua keeps their antics in check. Add a whole lot of “awws” to your daily routine!

 .4 dogs on rug.

Caution with Terriers: Energetic but Territorial

Have you ever heard the phrase, ‘too many chefs in the kitchen’? A household with both Chihuahuas and terriers might just define this—especially when territorial instincts kick in.

That being said, I have both Chihuahuas and Yorkies and they all adore each other and get along great. You can see my mixture of Yorkies and Chihuahuas in the photo above.

Terriers bring boundless energy and a fearless spirit to the table, much like Chihuahuas. However, this similarity can lead to frequent head-butts rather than hugs. You might find them competing for your attention more than you’d hope.

If your heart is set on this charismatic breed, early training and socialization can help ease potential tension. When properly managed, it’s possible for cautious peace to prevail.

Golden Retriever laying beside an orange and white Chihuahua.

Golden Retrievers: Gentle Giants and Natural Companions

Goldens are like the teddy bears of the dog world—large, friendly, and endlessly comforting. Their calm disposition makes them an ideal partner for Chihuahuas, taming the chaotic ‘who’s the boss’ game.

A Golden Retriever’s patient vibe often complements what the Chihuahua lacks, and this harmony helps in fostering a warm and inviting home life. These gentle giants are also pros at making friends wherever they wag their tails.

If you’re looking to create a loving and balanced blend, this fluffy duo is likely to win not just hearts, but social media likes galore!

White and orange Chihuahua sitting next to the Beagle

Beagles: Curious and Playful Partners

Beagles possess a curious, playful spirit that makes every day an adventure. Like a living ‘curiosity rover,’ they explore every corner and demand inclusion in all activities.

For a Chihuahua, a Beagle can be the Watson to their Sherlock—a fun and exploratory companion who’s always ready for a dose of mischief. Though both breeds are independent-minded, their mutual love for play can help develop a robust partnership.

Get ready for entertaining scenarios where your Chihuahua chases, and your Beagle goes ‘on the scent’ every sneeze or rustle! Think slapstick comedy but heartwarming.

Fawn Chihuahua sitting with brown Boxer on a bed.

Boxers: Energetic Besties with Boundaries

Boxers are much like enthusiastic partners at a spontaneous karaoke battle—they bring energy, fun, and occasionally, surprise karaoke skills (though mostly the howling kind).

Given their high energy levels, Boxers can match the Chihuahua’s zest for life. However, their imposing size and exuberance could potentially overwhelm the Chihuahua leading to a ‘too close, too soon’ vibe.

Yet, with proper introductions and managed encounters, Boxers and Chihuahuas can indeed become energetic besties who understand each other’s boundaries. Balance is critical here, as is a good sense of humor!

White and brown bulldog playing with fawn chihuahua with stick in grass.

The Chihuahua Challenge: Bulldog Companionship

It’s known across dog lovers’ circles that Bulldogs are as stubborn as they are charming. You’d think this might not mesh well with a Chihuahua, but sometimes opposites do attract!

Bulldogs might share the Chihuahua’s stubborn streak, but their easy-going and gentle demeanor creates an interesting, if not quirky, dynamic. Think comedy duo: one calm, the other seriously expressive!

If you can navigate the Bulldog’s street slow speed and the Chihuahua’s express lane antics, you’ll have a household filled with laughter and endless loyalty.

Black and white Chihuahua sitting by a Dalmation.

Understanding Incompatibility: The Dalmatian Disruption

Dalmatians are as iconic as their silver screen showcases, known for their distinct spots and energetic edge. But their high activity level doesn’t always match so well with the petite (and sometimes fragile) nature of Chihuahuas.

Given their energy and hunting instincts, Dalmatians might unintentionally intimidate a Chihuahua, bringing more four-legged drama than you’d like in your peaceful abode.

To avoid creating a chaotic environment, mindful choice, and perhaps opting for a calmer companion, would be wise. Besides, who doesn’t want to avoid their house resembling “101 Dalmatians – The Home Edition”?

Siberian Husky puppy laying next to Chihuahua.
puppy siberian husky and chihuahua in front of white background

Huskies: The Wild Card

Huskies—wild, independent, and possessed of a mischievous streak that could rival Tom Sawyer. Their love for adventure and notorious tendency for mischief can be fascinating yet chaotic for a Chihuahua-filled household.

Huskies can sometimes overwhelm smaller dogs due to their energy and independence. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep life exciting (instead of destructive).

Huskies can also be unpredictable. I had one turn on my terri-poo for no reason at all and hurt him pretty badly. Because of this, I may be biased against them but I wouldn’t recommend getting a Husky if you have a Chihuahua.

If you’re willing to invest time in proper introductions and training, it could work out but a Husky would not be my first choice.

The Secret Ingredient: Proper Introductions

The secret to any successful relationship between different dog breeds rests in those first crucial interactions. Think of it as the first date, but minus the sartorial dilemmas.

Introductions should happen on neutral ground where neither has their territory to defend. Balanced exposure, full of treats and encouragement, goes a long way in breaking the ice.

Trust us, it’s much easier to foster friendship when paws are shared on neutral grounds. And who knows, you might witness a budding friendship that becomes the talk of your neighborhood dog park!

Training Tips for a Happy Household

Let’s face it: a household without basic dog training can resemble the chaos of a live concert without a playlist. To make life harmonious, some simple training routines can work wonders.

Consistent commands, positive reinforcement, and a fair share of patience are often enough to create order amidst delightful dog chaos. Investing in structured leash walks and synchronized games can also highlight boundaries.

Your pets’ aptitude for love and learning might just surprise you. With consistency and love, who’s to say there can’t be a Michelangelo among pups in your living room?

The Golden Rule: Love, Patience, and Positive Vibes

In the world of multi-dog households, the ‘golden rule’ involves generous helpings of love, patience, and positivity. Just like humans, dogs thrive in nurturing, respectful environments.

Pet owners often find that when they loosen up and simply enjoy the process, their love and patience filter down to their furry friends. Ensuring shared activities can strengthen inter-dog bonds, turning companions into best friends.

Keep it fun, stay adaptive, and let those positive vibes flow like Beethoven’s Ninth—negotiations aren’t just for the treats!

Group of dogs with Chihuahua.

Bringing It All Together: Curating a Balanced Fur Family

Create the canine ensemble that fits the lifestyle and dynamics of your home by considering breed traits, personalities, and your own living situation. It’s like curating the perfect sound playlist but fuzzier!

Thoughtful selections and introductions can transform ‘potential fur stress’ into a dream team. Matching temperaments along with balanced energy levels pay dividends on peaceful cohabitation.

Ultimately, forming a family blessed with playful paws is truly an art. Ready to set the stage for those wagging tails? Let the delightful dog symphony begin!

Also, I’d love to know what other breeds you have with your Chihuahua and how they get along.

Cathy signature with cartoon chihuahua
blond woman holding white chihuahua

Cathy Bendzunas

Pet Blogger

I have had dogs all my life. I have been a pet groomer, worked in a pet hotel, and a kennel, and have bred and showed dogs.