Chihuahuas are super popular for a reason, especially with seniors. These tiny pups don’t need much space, making them perfect for apartments or smaller homes. Being the world’s smallest dog breed, they’re easy to handle—no need to be a bodybuilder to walk them!
Famous Chihuahua Fans
Did you know that celebs like Jamie Lee Curtis, Mickey Rourke, and Sharon Osbourne adore their Chihuahuas? One look at those adorable faces, and it’s easy to see why these tiny dogs steal hearts.
Chihuahuas are Loyal and Loving Companions
Chihuahuas are incredibly loyal and loving, making them wonderful companions. They have big personalities packed into their small frames and are often quite comical and entertaining. These little dogs are anything but boring!
Easy to Train
Even though they’re small, Chihuahuas need socialization and training to be well-behaved. They’re smart and catch on quickly but can be a bit stubborn. A bit of training goes a long way with these clever pups.
Perfect for Cuddles
Chihuahuas love to cuddle, especially with their favorite human. They enjoy being warm and cozy, making them great lap dogs. If you live alone, a Chihuahua can be a fantastic companion to snuggle up with.
Space-Saving Pups
Unlike larger breeds, Chihuahuas don’t need a lot of room to roam. They’re just as happy in a small apartment or retirement community as they would be in a house.
They love indoor games and only need about 30 minutes of exercise each day, which can include playing fetch or other fun activities. If you have a yard, ensure it’s secure since these little guys can find ways to slip out.
Chihuahuas are Low Maintenance
Chihuahuas are pretty low maintenance compared to some other breeds. They don’t need frequent grooming or baths, which can strip their coats of natural oils.
They come in various colors and don’t shed much, making it easy to keep them looking fabulous.
Economical to Maintain
Chihuahuas can be expensive to buy but once you have one, they are relatively cheap to keep. They don’t need expensive grooming like a poodle would. You can easily take care of their grooming needs at home yourself.
And they are cheap to feed even if you use expensive dog food. This is because they don’t need much food at all. 1/3 to 1/2 cup twice a day is all they need.
Easy to Handle
These small dogs are easy to lift, so you won’t strain your back trying to pick them up. They’re perfect for seniors who might find larger dogs a bit too much to handle.
The Perfect Senior Pet
Chihuahuas are loyal, happy, and low-maintenance, making them ideal companions for seniors. Their unique personalities and affectionate nature will bring joy and laughter into your life. Whether you’re looking for a cuddle buddy or a little friend to keep you company, a Chihuahua could be the perfect match for you.
Cathy Bendzunas
Pet Blogger
Tonya Virden
Saturday 25th of May 2024
Hi Cathy,
Lately my sweet Velvyt is no longer peeing on her pee pads, when not taken outside. How can I make her return to them & stop peeing on my rugs?
Thank you & loving your articles, as usual.
Cathy Bendzunas
Saturday 25th of May 2024
Hi Tonya, This actually happens a lot. First you have to make sure you get all the smell of the pee off the rugs or she will continue to use those spots. Use an enzyme cleaner made to remove urine. Then you need to use a paper towel to wipe up some pee the next time she urinates and wipe it in the middle of the potty pad so it will signal to her that's where she is supposed to go. We have some articles for more tips: https://ilovemychi.com/dog-stops-using-potty-pad/ https://ilovemychi.com/how-i-potty-trained-my-impossible-chihuahua/ https://ilovemychi.com/how-to-potty-train-an-older-chihuahua/ https://ilovemychi.com/housetraining-your-chihuahua/
Paulette Carpenito
Friday 24th of May 2024
Cathy, you might add regardless of the quality brand of food a Chi is very ‘cheap’ to feed. Easy on the wallet. They are also relatively healthy dogs.
Cathy Bendzunas
Friday 24th of May 2024
Thanks Paulette. Good idea.
Linda
Thursday 9th of November 2023
I lose email. Puppy Chihuahuas are abundant; however, I am looking for an adult or young elder chi. We lived together in a small house with gated backyard. Honestly, workmen knocked the gate down and I have not replaced it. Because of hawks, neither Lucy nor Nell were left alone. Lucy and Nell scooted under the gate and I expect another Chi would an equally adventurous Chihuahua. I require a mini /tea cup because I must carry the dog up and down to laundry. Both Lucy and Nell exceeded normal age expectation for tea cup/ mini breed: 1) 15 years 2) 20 years. I experienced mild and aggressive temperaments. I loved living with Lucy and Nell. Nell died a year ago and my heart has an empty spot for a best friend.
Cathy Bendzunas
Thursday 9th of November 2023
I hope you can find what you need Linda.
Pat
Wednesday 7th of June 2023
A few more reasons Chis are great for seniors. They won't hurt you if all of a sudden they decide to jump on you, like large breeds could and have. Another reason they are good for seniors; Chis don't eat very much and you don't have to spend a fortune. For my Chi, I would buy one case of Cesar -36 tubs. It would last a whole month and a little longer. He did not like any of the doggie treats. He would get little pieces of our chicken or pork chops. I don't know if it was good for him but he loved to have little dishes of my chai latte.He is a very good look out. At home , in the car while going for walks. I never had to worry about strangers getting near me. And when he would do his what I call his "danger" bark, people all around would turn to watch what the commotion was about. Ian certain there were times the person or persons he scared off, were not coming at me to ask the time. My Chi was with my husband where he had to be for continuous care . My husband died a week ago today. My Chi has bonded very tight to the care giver. She asked if I was going to take Mike back. I said no, I wouldn't be so cruel to him. It was so hard to let him go. Snd I know Mike must have thought he got abandoned. But he was very attatched to my husband too and the last day I talked to my husband he was telling me about how Mike glued to his caregiver. If I ever get to live somewhere I can have a pet again, it's going to be a Chi.
Cathy Bendzunas
Wednesday 7th of June 2023
I am so sorry you lost your husband and Mike too! All those points are true too.
John Trudeau
Saturday 11th of June 2022
We have 3 year old black chihuahua I'm 63 we take him everywhere have a car seat for him. I walk about 6km a day with him, we find him easy to care for and handle.
Cathy
Saturday 11th of June 2022
That's great John! Does your chi walk that far with you? Just noticed you and I are the same age.