Anyone who has a Chihuahua is quick to tell others how much they love their dogs. If you are considering adding a Chihuahua to your family, here are some reasons why this breed is an excellent choice:
1. They give world-class snuggles.
Chihuahuas LOVE to snuggle. If you find the weather to be less than ideal and want to spend the afternoon binge-watching your favorite series or diving into a book, your Chihuahua will be more than happy to join you.
This breed will not be heartbroken to miss a walk, although they do need them!
Chihuahuas love being cozy with their favorite human and soft blankets year-round but most especially in the winter months.
These tiny dogs may have been used by ancient people as hot packs for injuries because of how small and gentle they are, and because they are happy to stay snuggled up for hours.
They make the sweetest sounds when they pass out in a deep sleep, too!
2. They are small enough to go with your everywhere.
One of the most fun parts of owning a dog this size is that he or she can become your go almost everywhere companion. If your Chihuahua enjoys riding in a stroller, purse, bag, or backpack, it’s simple to take your canine companion everywhere that they are allowed to go.
If you want to take your Chihuahua with you all day, often it’s easy to accomplish it with some planning.
Many stores that do not normally allow dogs will allow a Chihuahua to come inside because they can be carried in, so the store does not have to worry about the dog peeing or pooping in the shop, or bothering or hurting a customer.
Be sure to check out our list of pet-friendly businesses.
3. They may live a long time.
According to the American Kennel Club, Chihuahuas may live 14 to 16 years but there have been reports of some living into their early twenties.
This is one of the longest life spans for dogs, and many Chihuahuas even exceed 16 years when bred responsibly and cared for properly. To maximize your chi’s life span:
- Arrange for regular preventative veterinary care.
- Feed a high-quality diet.
- Do not overfeed your chi; a healthy weight is crucial to a long life.
- Provide daily exercise.
4. They help you meet new people.
Between their small size and endearing faces, you will likely get many requests from people you encounter as you go out and about to pet your dog.
A well-socialized Chihuahua is generally happy to meet new people, but of course, all chis have slightly different personalities, so some may not be as interested in meeting new people.
Generally speaking, if you bring your chihuahua with you everywhere from the day you bring him or her home as a puppy, they will learn to enjoy going places and meeting people.
Some of my readers who take their chis with them everywhere have become regular customers at many dog-friendly stores and restaurants, with employees spreading the word they arrived so they can all pet their fur baby.
5. They have big personalities.
Chihuahuas may be small, but that doesn’t mean that they are boring. Most of these little dogs have BIG personalities!
They clearly communicate what they want and it can be quite funny to experience. Known as “little napoleons” who live by the mantra “my way or the highway”, they can run the house if not kept in check with training.
6. They become your best friend fast.
If you want to have a best furry friend who loves you unconditionally, your search will end with a chi. If you put in the effort to bond with your Chihuahua, your efforts will be met.
These little dogs tend to bond most strongly with one person in a family, although they usually love receiving attention from virtually everyone.
Their tendency to bond with one person makes them ideal for single people or for emotional support dog work. They do not judge and they love nothing more than being with their favorite human.
7. They make excellent alarm systems.
Chihuahuas can be rather vocal, which comes in handy if you want an alarm system. If someone walks up to your home, your chi will be sure to let you know before they even knock on the door!
Sleep peacefully knowing that if there is a disturbance in or near your home, you will be promptly alerted. Some chihuahua owners with decks joke that their chi gives an “evening report” of the neighborhood happenings every night when they go outside.
8. They help you learn to be an advocate.
Due to their small stature, Chihuahua owners have an obligation to advocate for their dogs to be treated with respect.
It only takes one bad interaction for a chi to be seriously injured, or to become apprehensive of certain people or circumstances, and it can be monumentally difficult to help them move past it.
Chi owners must ensure that their tiny dogs are handled gently and respectfully. If speaking up for yourself is difficult for you, it is likely that you will find your voice if your chi’s wellbeing is on the line.
9. They can help you be healthier.
Since Chihuahuas can become overweight quickly, helping your chi maintain a healthy weight is a crucial part of providing good care. By way of managing your Chihuahua’s weight, you can incorporate a plan for your health too. For example:
- There are certain fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs to eat; add them to your shopping list and share a healthy snack with your Chi.
- Taking your chi for a daily walk is beneficial for both of you.
10. They love hard.
Probably the most significant reason this breed’s popularity has stood the test of time is their loving nature.
When they find their human, they love them fiercely. They will want to be your everything, and you will want it no other way.
Closing
For these 10 reasons and more, Chihuahuas make excellent companions.
If you own a chi, what is your favorite part of having this tiny dog as your companion? Share in the comments below!
Recommended Reading:
What type of person should get a chihuahua
Chihuahuas are Great for Elderly People
Elissa Hilary
Wednesday 20th of July 2022
They are loyal! They are protective. After surgery my chi Jess was next to me 24/7❤️❤️
Cathy
Wednesday 20th of July 2022
Yes they are! Glad you had your own little nurse to help you heal after surgery.
Susan Warner
Tuesday 19th of July 2022
One of the best things about owning chihuahuas is that they enjoy being part of a pack. I am addicted to chihuahuas. Currently, I have five chi babies ranging in age from 5 years to 15 years. They get very attached to their people, but they also enjoy being with other chi's. It makes it easy to add to the family if the opportunity arrises!
~Susan
Cathy
Tuesday 19th of July 2022
That's so true. I have both chis and Yorkies and sometimes I pet sit dogs at my house and my dogs are always welcoming of other dogs. They are such a wonderful little pack.
Kathryn Coffman
Tuesday 19th of July 2022
I have PTSD. My little girl Daisy has changed my life. We resued her 6 Mos ago. She came from a abusive home. Fx pelvis and a acute case of Heart Worm. After 4 Mos of treatment for the H W Daisy is 100% healed. The bond and love we share is wonderful. She won't leave my side.We're Velcroed to each other. She's my go girl. If I go we go.I call her my huahua.She talks to me all of the time.l can almost understand her.Anyone that is lonely should think about adopting a Chihuahua. Get ready to laugh and smile always. Thanks, yeeehaaa+
Cathy
Tuesday 19th of July 2022
I love your story Kathryn and it sounds like you 2 rescued each other!
Kay & Jack Flavel
Sunday 19th of June 2022
We have a long haired chi named Skye & a chi/pug mix named Zoey. Skye is a little lady like girl and Zoey is a tomboy. They are both so loving! I think my favorite thing about Skye is her personality & making sure she gets her way! She is so cute you can't resist. Zoey is the all around loving easy going little dog! The cat just loves her too! We sure don't know what we would do without them! Keep the newsletters coming & prayers for your Ollie.
Cathy
Sunday 19th of June 2022
THey sound like wonderful little dogs!
Tami
Sunday 19th of June 2022
Sorry to here you had a trying week. You and your family are in my prayers. Wanting only the best for Ollie.
Cathy
Sunday 19th of June 2022
Thank you Tami!