Chihuahuas are in the top 25 of the most popular dog breeds, and they are a great dog choice for seniors because they don’t need a lot of space. They are of course the world’s smallest dog breed, and this makes them really easy to handle – you don’t need to be strong to control them on a lead.
They thrive on attention and company and are so loyal to their owners. Famous senior chi owners include Jamie Lee Curtis, Mickey Rourke, and Sharon Osbourne – they are huge fans of this little dog breed, you only have to look at their cute faces to know why!
Chihuahuas are loyal
One of the reasons why chihuahuas make wonderful companions is that they are extremely loyal and loving. They can be very comical and entertaining and often have eccentric and quirky personalities. You certainly can’t say that a chihuahua is dull to have around!
It is still important to socialize your chi, and train him to behave nicely – just because he is little, doesn’t mean that you can let him run amok. But because chihuahuas are so intelligent and easy to train, this shouldn’t be a problem.
What is so lovely for seniors, is that chihuahuas do love a cuddle – they like to be warm, and one of the best ways is to snuggle in with their owner. If you live alone, having a little doggy friend can be a great companion.
Chihuahuas adapt to your space
Unlike a mountain husky, you don’t need a lot of space to keep a chihuahua. They are just as happy to live in a small apartment, or retirement community, as they would be to live in a house.
They are really content playing indoor games and don’t need a lot of exercise. You will still need to walk your dog – they need around 30 minutes of exercise every day. This can come from games too, such as “fetch,” not just walkies. If you have a yard, just make sure that it is secure – these are little dogs and they can easily get out.
Chihuahuas are low maintenance
Unlike other long-haired breeds of dog, chihuahuas are really low maintenance. They don’t need to go to the groomers, and certainly don’t need to be bathed too often, as it can strip their coat of its natural oils.
They come in a variety of different colors, and don’t tend to shed large amounts of hair. It certainly doesn’t take much effort to make a chi look fabulous.
Also chihuahuas are small enough for an older person to easily lift. No straining your back trying to lift a large dog. These little guys are small enough for anyone to easily pick up.
Chihuahuas are a loyal and happy little breed that is perfect for seniors. They are excellent company, and will delight you with their unique and happy personality.
Gabriella
Sunday 28th of November 2021
How do u get my girl Chihuahua to go outside to pee or poop
Annie
Saturday 21st of May 2022
@Gabriella, hi Gabriella, my name is Annie. When I first got my Chihuahua mix, a girl, she would not go out at all, for no pee or poo, not even to play! So, I got a collar and leash and walked her in the alley to get her used to smelling other dog's pee and poop. That way, she figured out that the alley was the place to go potty. No alley, then take her to a doggie park near your house. Once there, say, "go potty and say her name." Keep saying that or say, "ok now, say her name, time to go potty.Make pee and poopoo for mommy! When she does go say, OH GOOD GIRL! YOU WENT POTTY FOR MOMMY, WHAT A GOOD GIRL!" And, pet her for it too.
I hope it works. It may take a few outings. She'll catch on. Be patient.
Cathy
Sunday 28th of November 2021
Good question Gabriella. I gave up on one of mine who only wants to use a potty pad. I'll ask on the Facebook page and see if anyone has some good tips for you.
Maria
Tuesday 8th of June 2021
We just adopted an 11 year old Apple head chi named Ginger. She was in a household with 2 other chis. They were all adopted separately; I didn't ask why. Even though my husband was the first to hold her, she doesn't like men! Ginger sleeps with us. My husband has been very patient and already has babysat her while I was out. What else should we do? Should I use the herb droplets in her water to help with anxiety? P.S. The owner, in her 50's, wad getting married and her fiance didn't want the dogs at all! I would have dumped my fiance and kept the ring and the dogs.
Cathy
Tuesday 8th of June 2021
I would have dumped the fiance too. You can certainly try the herb drops. Also have your husband feed her whenever possible. Have him do everything for he that he can (that's fun or that she likes) such as take her for walks, play with her, give her treats, etc.
Donna Stone
Monday 4th of January 2021
We went from Great Danes 2 chihuahuas. The Great Danes live to be 14 and we got older and decided we would try something that live longer period. At one time we were the only family in Roanoke that had one Fawn Great Dane and one f a w n Chihuahua. The Great Dane was scared to death of the puppy. The Great Dane would try to sleep in the puppy bed. That didn't work so she slept under our bed and had to be pulled out periodically because she was unable to get herself out she was 140 lb. Now that we are old we have three chihuahuas and one cat. They are getting older and we have enjoyed them so much I highly recommend a Great Dane or Chihuahua to anyone who's willing to take it on.
Cathy
Monday 4th of January 2021
I LOVE Great Danes but I always thought they died at around 6-8 so I didn't want one that would be gone so soon.
Eve Safran
Saturday 6th of June 2020
Hi Cathy! My name is Eve Safran I am a big fan. I have vertigo and my doctor sent me for physical therapy to get Epley Maneuvers for vertigo. It helped me but does not help everyone. But if you don’t want to go to a doctor google it because I think you can do the exercises at Home. I had this done a while ago And the vertigo did not came back thank God. It is a horrible feeling. So please try that. If you have any other questions please email me .
Regards,
Eve Safran
Katrina Hernandez
Friday 5th of June 2020
Cathy, in response to your vertigo, my husband had an episode of this a while ago. His doctor gave him prescription for an antibiotic and Meclizine 25mg. He was feeling better in no time. I too have had vertigo several times and also used this medication. It works wonders, but you will have to see a doctor. Hope you feel better!!
Cathy
Saturday 6th of June 2020
Actually you can get Meclizine over the counter. Another reader told me about it so I ordered some from Amazon. I'm going to try that and if it doesn't help, I guess I'll have to go see a doctor.