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.
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.
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.