Chihuahua dogs sometimes have a bad reputation but if they are as bad as they are portrayed, why are so many of us crazy for them?
I know once I got my first chihuahua, I knew I would always have one. It doesn’t mean I don’t love and have other dog breeds, but there is something special and different about chihuahuas.
Sometimes it seems that chihuahuas are their own breed of animal, completely different from other dogs. But They are dogs. Just funny, quirky, adorable little dogs.
I asked my readers on Facebook what is something only a chihuahua owner would understand and was surprised at the amount of responses. Well over 700 responses, closer to 800! Apparently we as chihuahua pet parents have a lot to say about this subject.
I went through them and made a list and will share with you the most common answers. Most I expected and have experienced with my own chihuahuas. There were a few though that I was surprised was so common with other pet parents.
1-Chihuahuas Love Burrowing in Blankets
This was the top answer. Chihuahuas, more than any other breed love their blankies and love to burrow in them until you often can’t even tell they are there. That’s why (as so many people pointed out) you have to be very careful before sitting down so you don’t sit on them.
2-Chihuahuas Have Rituals With Their Food
I was surprised at the amount of pet parents that responded with this answer. I know one of my chihuahuas does this (as does my yorkie too) but I didn’t realize it’s such a common thing. The most common ritual is that they pick up one piece of food at a time and carry it to a different room to eat it.
Another ritual is that they will walk around the bowl one way and then turn around and walk around the bowl the other way before eating.
I’m sure there are more quirky “food rituals” and if your dog does one, let us know in the comments. I’m sure we would all love to hear about it.
3-Personality Plus
For such tiny little dogs, chihuahuas have strong personalities. Your home will never be dull with a chihuahua around. I love seeing how different each of my dog’s personality is and how much fun they are to have around.
4-Chihuahuas Have an Attitude
Well that’s probably an understatement. Chis have no idea that they are the smallest dog breed and think they can take on anyone or anything. I think they should change the phrase “Napoleon Complex” to “Chihuahua Complex”.
5-You Will Never Need a Doorbell
Chihuahuas actually make pretty good watch dogs. They may not scare of an intruder but they will definitely let you know about it. They will also let you know if someone is walking by on the sidewalk, or a leaf is blowing across the yard.
6-Chihuahuas Love to Bark
This kind of goes along with not needing a doorbell. Chihuahuas do love to bark. A lot. It can be annoying and doesn’t help their bad reputation.
7-Chihuahuas are the Ultimate Lap Dog
Chihuahuas love nothing better than to snuggle in the lap of their favorite human. They are great companions.
8-Chihuahuas are Loyal and Devoted
Chis decide who their human will be and though they may love everyone in a household, there is usually one special person who belongs solely to that chihuahua. At least in their mind that is.
All dogs are loyal but I had never seen the same degree of loyalty a chihuahua has in any other breed, have you?
Once they decide they love you, you will never have a moment alone again. You will have a constant tiny shadow.
9-Shivering and Shaking
This seems to be universal among chihuahuas. I haven’t met one yet that doesn’t do it to some degree. And there are different reason for it. Click the link to learn more about why chihuahuas shake and shiver.
10-Chis Tend to Paw at Their Pet Parents
Lucy does this to me a lot but I didn’t realize this was so prevalent among chihuahuas. A lot of chi parents wrote that their chihuahua will slap at them with their paw when they want attention, to be picked up, to be petted or fed, or whatever.
Lucy does it when she wants me rub her belly with my toes. If I stop, she scratches my ankles until I give in. It definitely lets me know when her nails need trimming.
11-House Training Issues
This was a big one among chihuahua owners and it’s one I hear about every day from readers. House training a chihuahua seems to be harder than with any other breed.
12-Chihuahuas can be Demanding
Let’s face it. The dark side of their big personalities is that chis can be demanding. I heard more than once “My chihuahua owns me“.
Chihuahuas can be overly sensitive and get their feelings hurt easily. They love attention. They can be clingy. They can be bossy. They can be aggressive.
Please notice I said “can“. It’s a generalization. Not all chis are like this but many do have some sort of issue to some degree.
13-Chihuahuas are Love
These little balls of fur are the purest form of love. When they love you, they love you with all their heart, soul and being. I try to be worthy of their love as much as I can.
So what do you think of this list? Can you relate to it? Were any of them a surprise to you?
I am booking for a recipe to make homemade healthy treats for my Chihuahua Tiny please help.
Check out this post Dorie: https://ilovemychi.com/healthy-recipes-homemade-chihuahua-treats/
Thank you so much for all your posts and the weekly newsletter! They bring a much needed smile to my ( and my chi, Baby’s ) face!
I’m so glad you enjoy it Lynne!
Buton (she’s too little for 2 Ts!) has her own FB group with 154 members….just for people to show off their pets. My first Chi but I’ve wanted one forever!
I bet she’s adorable! Congratulations on Buton’s group!
@Gouyen, congrats on your first baby chi! Jax (7 lbs) is also my first chi, having always had BIG dogs! I also have an adorable 9 lb. Shitzhu (also always spell it wrong!)Lucy. I love my “Littles” and will add to my pack again im sure!
@Gouyen, God is good and I know that you have a great blessing and adorable animal
Lot of those qualities are in both of our dogs one is a Mexican chi and the other is a Ratchi.
My Chi doesn’t do the shaking but all the rest fits my Charlie!!!😍🤗😀
My Lucy doesn’t shake either but my Lucas does.
They are so true I am a little deaf so I don’t hear the phone ring but bumble tells me the phone is ringing he has a different back for the.phone than the door I rarely miss a call he is so good chi,s are great thank you Kathy for your great chi letter and advice given best wishes Bumble and pat
You’re welcome Patricia!
My chi never lets me go into another room without poking her nose in to see what is going on, especially the bathroom while my other larger dogs just continue on with their own activities at the time. Hey mom, whatcha doing in there? So funny to me.
LOL. I don’t know why they feel the need to be with you in the bathroom but they do. If I go in and close the door and they are on the other side, I hear cries and whines like they are heartbroken and little paws come underneath the door trying to reach me.
@Cathy, With my little Addie, it’s paws and nose under the door. If I’m sitting down, I have to pick her up for hugs and kisses, then I set her down and she’s off to do something else…lol I guess she just needs to be reassured that I’m okay…? Who knows…lol? If I’m in there to long, according to her standards, she stands at the door and whines, then barks, to let me know it’s time for me to come out of there. Same if I’m in the kitchen to long, and she wants me to come sit in my lounge chair, so she can sit in my lap. She doesn’t hesitate to tell me whatever she wants me to do to meet her needs
…lol!
My chi “Bugs” does an “ army crawl” when she wants my attention. She can go forward and backward- it’s the cutest thing! Does anyone else’s chi do the same thing?
@Pat, Ditto that. 🙂 My little guy, Fezzik, tummy crawls a lot when he is excited and wants you to engage with him. Almost like a sneak attack play invite.
That sounds so cute!
@Pat, WOW I didn’t know that was a “thing” with chi’s she is my first one to do it, Laylabelle does it to get you to come play on the floor with you…in the next 5 years I am going to get another girl chi, for when I go out so layla isn’t alone…I bought her when she was 2 mos old, at first she would yowl and cry after she hit about 9mos-12mos ish she quit doing that, I would have to die to not be with my babygirl.
@Pat, My Sake does the army crawl when my boyfriend gets home from work and when we are putting his halter on to go for a “poopy walk.”
We tell Lucas to “army crawl” and he does it on command. Then we say “bang bang” and he turns over like he’s dead. It’s so cute.
@Amy Ross, my boy chi, Shadow, does it too, it’s hysterical, then he buries his face and lies still so we can kiss his cheeks. We call him stretcharoni! Lol
Hello
I love so much read your emails
My chi male 3 months old he is very clever from first he recognised where to pi and pooh !!!
You mentioned about food
My chi do the same he picked pieces and he eats on his bed !!!
They are adorable and super intelligent tiny dogs
Thank you for your info
Dear friend
You’re welcome Marika and I’m so happy you like the newsletter!
Pretty much sums my three up! Two apple head, short hairs and one long haired, deer head. I do notice a big difference between my long hair and the other two. He is alot more sensitive to hurt feelings and doesn’t sleep anywhere near what my other two do. Love them all!!!!
That’s interesting about the differences you see between them Vivian.
My chi is definitely all of the above!
LOL. I bet you have your hands full Tomi!
And these are just 15 things why we love these most infectious little bundles of joy a true gift from God ❤❤❤🐕
Amen Robert!
@Robert Defazio, there’s one thing my Addie does that I’ve not heard here. She loves to go for walks with me. which they all do. When she was young and energetic, she would run ahead until I said “stop!” then she would wait till I caught up, then take off again. As she got older and slower, she just hung around me smelling stuff. She loved it so much that when we got back in the house, she would run figure eights through the house, dining room and living room, as fast as she could, then come to a stop sitting in front of me, looking up, panting, as if to say, thanks so much, that was so much fun…! She owned my heart, and I was never lonely with her around, and gave love in proportions that my cup would run over, and I just had to pick her up and give her hugs and kisses, which would make her do some more running through the house. She always knew when I needed a little boost!
@Michael, yes all of mine love walks! And car rides.
Zoomies, I call the figure 8’s the Zoomies!🤣
I have 2 chis. Everything you wrote is 100% accurate for my babies.
LOL, typical chis.
I’m a Cocker Spaniel person but my last rescue was two chihuahuas. What a shock – they’re everything written here and more. They’re picky eaters and make a mess on the carpet, won’t take their meds, have to be told to go “outsie” on schedule, if they don’t like what you are saying they just look away. Mine are picky about being picked up. But they do go to bed when told to, go to their place when I have to go out and love their “Happy Place” (the couch). Guess I’ll just have to get used to them because they’ll probably out live me (I’m 80)
LOL, yes they are definitely different than other dog breeds.
@Lucie Leniston, There indifference to you sometimes, is probably because they are so imprinted on each other for their various needs, for such a long long time! But, if either one was with you alone, they would look to you for everything, and not be so indiffernt, of at all…!
Yes I have four 😉 thy have so much love to give .
Yes they do Sam!
My chihuahua pushes his food bowl away with his nose or tries to bury it. He only eats when his pug sister shows interest in his food-then he will finally finish it!
Good thing he has his sister to encourage him to eat!
I have a Chi/GSD mix (yes, you read that correctly) who I swear has no clue she’s Chihuahua. She hates being picked up, held, and does NOT want to be on your lap. She always has to be touching me though, so I say she’s a side dog and not a lap dog. She rarely shakes, only when super scared. She *is* full of personality, is too smart sometimes, and definitely does the pawing thing. She caught me in the eye once and scratched my cornea (my son heard me yelp from the other side of the house).
Another thing she HATES is baths; is that a Chi thing? GSD thing? Or just a Chloe thing?
I think the bath thing is a dog thing. Most dogs dislike them except the few breeds that are water dogs.
I’m curious, was your dog’s mom the german shepherd or was the dad?
@Erica B, I have no idea what the GSD is?
I believe it stands for German Shepherd dog
@Erica B,
@Erica B, Interesting! Very unusual for a Chi…just the opposite…! After my little Addie past at 14-years, I ended up rescuing a little 10-lb Australian Silky, who had been abandoned at a vet for over a year. One of the assistants brought him home to maybe keep him, but he needed some special training, after his trauma at the vet’s kennel. He didn’t trust anyone and snapped at anyone who tried to pick him up. He was about 80% deaf and part blind with cataracts. I knew he would probably end up euthanized, and I could not walk away, and had to save him. He really did not trust men, but I took him home in his carrier, and applied Cesar Malan’s method of what he called, “changing his brain,” and it worked perfectly. I named him lucky, because we were both lucky to find each other. He is now a happy little guy, who is attached to me like glue…lol But, he will not stay in my lap or let me pick him up for longer than about a minute. Typical of the breed as I understand. Definitely not a lap dog, like my little Chihuahua for sure…lol. It makes me happy to see him so happy though, after his ordeal at the vet kennel. He has a large fenced yard and loves to have some freedom. I want to get another Chi, asap, but here in NW Washington state, they are just near impossible to find…even a breeder…!!!
Spot on. Yes, they are the most loyal loving little buddies, but so bossy!
LOL, yeah they can be really bossy.
Right on! I’ll add that mine also barks when my phone rings
LOL, I guess your chi just wants to make sure you heard the phone.
If I use the parent tone and tell m”that’s bad” or “Stop” her ears go down and she stops and POUTS, give my Laylabelle 5minutes she’s in my lap loving on her momma to say she is sorry….
That’s good she doesn’t hold a grudge.
My little three pound diva and I love to be together all the time. She gets on my lap and paws at my chest which means she wants to be in my blouse. So I put her hind legs down my blouse and one front paw goes in too. The right front paw hangs out and is a perfect little anchor to hold her in my blouse. We regularly spend the whole day like that! Little chihuahua head popping out of my blouse under my neck.
That sounds adorable Sue!
Does anybody else’s chi twirl around on the bed when they are happy or excited? Mine does two twirls at a time. I keep thinking she is going to fall of the bed because she usually does it right near the edge but she never does!
@Judy Godfrey, mine does little circle twirls more than twice when shes excited about something or when a car goes by and I’m walking her outside with a leash
@Judy Godfrey,
Yes my Princeton likes to twirl when it’s time to eat 😀 I talk to him in baby talk ( which he loves). That gets him excited. He just jumps & twirls on his little legs. It is so cute 👍
I bet it is adorable!
My 15 yo Male Chi taps me all the time when he wants something including for me to lift the blanket so he can get under them. He is definitely Pampered. He picks out the light colored food from his bowl and puts them on the floor to eat them. Twenty minutes after putting down his food I have to go back to clean up his mess. And he drinks water so much and so fast that he chokes on it. He is also a snorer and does this snorting sound when he is finally comfy.
He sounds like he has quite the personality.
@Amy Ross, Right on with the taking out the lighter food. I wonder why they do this. My chi does the exact thing!
My baby was the center of my life for 14 yrs.loved him everyday..hope I was good enough for him.. I tried
I’m sure you were Diane. One thing about our fur babies. We know we aren’t perfect but we are in their eyes.
Creo que es una lista más que aceptada, no me sorprende en lo más mínimo porque en mi casa con mi pequeño revoltoso es mi día a día.🤣
My chipug is everything on this list & more. Very loyal,loving, clingy,sometimes. Bossy,aggressive. So funny& cute. Love love love♥️
Chugs tend to have LOTS of personality. I have a neighbor with one and love her!
My 4 pound chi has probably barked maybe 10 times in his little life but he is the sweetest little guy ever. Recovering from heart worms after I rescued him . My first chi and never knew those little fur babies could offer so much love
You are very lucky to have a non-barker!
My chihuahua kenny barks at his food and throws it around rolls on top of it and generally kicks off at each piece.im glad he doesn’t eat wet food .
LOL, yeah that would be a total mess with wet food.
I have 2 chi one is only 5 lb and the other is a deer 13 lb they are 6 yrs apart and the best of buds need to be together. Lots of laughs and loves. Great small dog you could own. For someting so small they have a huge supply of love and loyalty.
And they have huge personalities too!
Yeah I definitely agree apart from the barking as my chi hardly barks.
You’re lucky Denise!
Wow 100 % agree you just described my Chihuahua ♥️
LOL, I bet your chi is a lot of fun then.
I do have 10 Chihuahuas ane I totally agree with these facts. I just want more, because while I am working I do have a housekeeper to stay with them so they are never alone, because they hate it to be alone at home. They are my entire life. Amanda
Wow 10 chis! I’m glad you have someone there to be with them when you can’t.
Or as my breeder put it (as I was pulling away with a puppy) – “WE’LL SEE HOW LONG IT TAKES HER TO TRAIN YOU!”
LOL, so true!
I had a chihuahua that placed his food in a circular like fashion, then would go back to eat in his order.
I have seen all the cute characteristics you all have mentioned.
Trouble use to sit on my chest, stare into my eyes and wait for me to say different “ wants”, then lay down if satisfied, etc. Wanna go outside? Are you hung- hung? licks his lips, wanna go seep seep? Usually under blanket. You get pawed if you don’t satisfy him.
That is why we took it so hard when he passed…. he had such an adorable personality, he trained us😎🐕❤️
It does really sound like he was full of personality! So sorry you lost him.
I hope you feel better and get well from the vaccine fast! I love your Newsletter and so does my little chi, Peter Tater Tot!
Jean
Thanks Jean and so glad you and your chi enjoy the newsletter!
I am the proud mama of 6 chihuahuas: 1 boy and 5 girls. They range in age from 4 – 14 years. I enjoyed the 13 Things Only a Chihuahua Owner Understands, and I can relate to each and every comment. Another fact that could be added to the list is this: Visitors will never know how wonderful your chihuahuas are. They are simply amazing, sweet and loving doggies until a visitor shows up. Then, they morph into little, barking, pains in the butt.
That’s true Susan!
Hi Cathy,my boys agree to the list above all except 1, my chi boys were so easy to house train both were clean with in a few days, I think as a chi parent you have to remember they have tiny bladders so need to go out more than bigger dogs,I use to set a kitchen timer for every 30/40 mins and then take them out,if they ever went inside it was my fault as I’d think oh I will just finish this then let them out ! I also spent a lot of time sat in my kitchen/ dining room with them both close to the back door so easy to go out. I also don’t agree with puppy pads because I think if you teach them it’s ok to go in the house then it’s harder to break the cycle. You learn with chi’s to go to bed later and get up earlier but they are well worth it. Look forward to my next news letter,take care, Brigette,Holly, Dexter, Hunter and Chewie (from UK)
Thanks for your input Brigette!
My chi is a rescue that was used for breeding. She rescued me. She doesn’t do all of those things but some relate to my Trixie
I’m glad you gave her a good home Bernadette!
I can relate to all of these. Especially number 10. My chi, Lucky, always paws at me for everything. He’s very vocal,too, so if he wants something, he doesn’t hesitate at all to slap me on the leg and bark in my face.
LOL, at least he isn’t shy about letting you know when he wants something.
The most loving guy my Rascal is. Yes he likes others but I am his daddy.
Of course, you are his human.
We have adopted a 10yr old Chihuahua from a shelter. So we have no idea what kind of life he had. He is on antibiotics for kennel cough. We are elderly and we have a hard time walking on grass or rough terrain. We want to try litter training. What kind of ideas can you give me. I’ve read a lot of suggestions on here. I think it would be fairly easy on a a puppy but one that is 10yrs. Old may be different story. Help, help
Hi Marianne,
I’m assuming you saw the post I wrote on this. It had some tips in it. I found a post though that has some better tips here: https://wagwalking.com/training/use-a-litter-box-2
This article is nothing but facts I swear! My aunt sometimes comes out of the room for break from work and I’m at my desk in my room doing school work and we compete sometimes to see if he’ll give me attention or just go with my aunt and most the time he goes with my aunt but sometimes he does give me attention which I love!
LOL, he sounds like a character.
My Chi does all the above but she is the sweetest little Chi our lives would be so lonesome without her.
They do seem to know how to make our lives so much more enjoyable don’t they?
Never in a million years did I ever think I’d own a chihuahua or any other toy breed for that matter. Always been a big dog person. A couple years ago my daughter met a chihuahua and since then it had been the only thing in the world she wanted. After covid and some other challenges she has faced in the last several years we decided that we would get her a chihuahua as a birthday present. We knew some people who at the time had 3 chi’s and needed to re home their youngest little lady due to moving into an apartment. I had no idea what to expect and was a bit concerned with the thought of taking on another responsibility. When we first met Lola I couldn’t believe how sweet & submissive she was. It didn’t take long for all of us to come to that understanding that all chi owners come to in that these little dogs are simply different and addictive! She has brought so much laughter & happiness to our home. Sometimes she is a bit too much (along with our other dog who are both my shadow lol) and I just have to leave the house for a bit. But I will never regret deciding to get a chi & will most likely always have one!!!
I’m so glad you gave this little girl a new home Amory. Yes they can be a little much sometimes but I can’t imagine life without them.
Love the article write even more!!!
Thank you so much Connie!
No. I agree with them all. Little darling.
I agree with them too.
I have 6 chihuahuas in my house and 1 yorkie. When you come to my door they will all bark to let me know,,,,then once you are in they stop and want to lick you to death!! Often its only the yorkie that barks…..I have bred chis for 50yrs. and have proven that its not ALL in the training but about 1/2 in the temperament of the parent dogs and continually breeding quiet friendly temperament to the same. Most people that visit are extremely surprised at MY quiet chihuahuas.
I wish I could meet your little crew. I bet they are a lot of fun.
We have a tea cup only 4lbs. She never barks unless someone’s at the door.from day 1 as a pup she has never had an accident in the house,outside always.loves being under covers or wrapped up in a blanket.won’t leave my side and believe me I don’t mind.Loves going for rides both in a car or motorcycle. Most loveable dog ever ❤️🙏👍
She sounds like an awesome dog Paul!
LOL..in addition to circling his bowl and taking a piece at a time into another room.. after he takes it in the living room he throws it in the air and then chases it down before he’ll eat it..
he’s the most confident dog I’ve ever seen..his best friend is my Great Dane.
So you get dinner and a show. LOL
I really love your site so much. I just started reading on your site in November. I put my precious Bella down at 17 years old she had renal failure. I was so lost without her. I actually got physically sick. Lost 20 lbs. Since then I got a new pup, his name is Philip and once I get situated I’m going to send a pic.
I’m so sorry about Bella Debra! Glad you got a new little baby though.
I have to start feeding Bambi with a fork/spoon for a few bites then she will start eating herself
LOL, I sometimes have to do that with Bear too though he’s a Yorkie, not a chi.
Just found the newsletter. I rescued my little Chico when he was 1.5 yr. He is everything on your list except he is not at all aggressive. He loves all dogs, people and kids, but not squirrels! I had a doggie door from a previous dog and he learned how to use it right away and have never had an accident in the house. The funniest thing he does is he will circle me till I open the door when we are going for a ride. He has been such a joy to me especially since my husband passed over a year ago. I can’t imagine my life without him.
He sounds like a wonderful little chi Michelle! My chihuahua isn’t aggressive at all either but my first one could be at times if she didn’t like someone.
My little chi fits this to a tea!
Good! Glad this post is hitting home.
I have two rescue chis and they both have every attribute on your list. I am 78 and have had many breeds over the years but my chiuauas are the best of breeds for me. I wish I could have more.
I’d love to have more too Yvonne.
How do you get them to stop jumping on people and whining.
We do have an article on jumping here Kathy: https://ilovemychi.com/how-to-prevent-your-dog-from-jumping-on-people/
My chi know when it is 4 o’clock supper time and lets me know if I am late.
I watch the Y & R and he can be fast asleep but when music ends program at 5:30 he knows that is treat time. If I don’t respond he just stares at me and follows me around the house.
Best little companion on earth.
They are just so smart!
currently I have a very small chi pup sitting in my lap. I’ve only had him since yesterday and already he relates to most of these things(especially the one about him owning me)
Thanks for posting Sophia! I can totally relate.
My rescue Chi takes a piece of food out of her bowl puts it on the ground looks at it picks it up and eats it. Her semi regular ritual lol.
LOL, too cute.
Thank you for all your posts I frequently go on your site& appreciate all of the helpful information. I have a little girl chi, & she likes to take pieces of her food and then run back to her bed with them & eat them there, and go back to her bowl and get more!
This list fits my Jethro to a tea.
LOL, Mary.
I absolutely love my Cocoa. He’s one sweet chihuahua. I wouldn’t take anything for him. I’ve never owned a chihuahua until Cocoa. Yes, this list is spot on. He is definitely a lap dog. He’s very affectionate. He’s very smart too. He cam distinguish from his toys if which one to bring to me. There is one other thing that can be added to the list and that is if they get sick they can dehydrate quickly. Cocoa is 2 yrs old and he’s truly worth being my fur baby.
That’s true about dehydration. They are so tiny, it doesn’t take much.
Upon homing our Chi, he was very particular about his eating. Or I should say his person feeding him. I’m his person, but Brian hand feeds this little creature. I never could have children, at 54 I got my first baby. We call him Chimmy. Short for Cimaghonga.
That’s a cute name Amy.
I loved the “things we Chi lovers know about our breed.”
The house breaking issue ? My Chi mixes are 4 yrs young right now.
I live in an apt. We use pee pads by the 2 sliding doors to the porch.
I thank heaven every day that the lady trained the entire litter from birth how to use and be proud of using the pads. When puppies woke in morning, they were lovingly taken from the big pen with mommie chi to the pee pads provided. Praised and fed next. Back out to pee pads. And praised. I believe that early teaching laid a great foundation . My buddies are spot on and never soil our home.
Hi Cathy, I agree with all the above, my Heidi does them all, and she also has a habit of keeping her dry food in her mouth to chew on in bed, consequently, I find in the morning that I have crumbs, large and small to be cleaned out of “our” bed. In saying that, I would not swap her for the world. Kind regards.
That’s so cute!
The relocating of a dog when eating is said to happen because they are fed in stainless steel bowl. It creates a metallic taste. I switched to a ceramic dish and the dinner parade ended!
Just be sure the ceramic bowls you use don’t come from China. They use lead in their glaze for the bowls.
My chichi would go through the motions of burying her food with her nose to save for later,even though there’s no dirt she will go through all the motions.
One of mine does this too. Too funny!
I am a new chi owner…never thought i would own one based on the myths, but you know how it is…they enter your life. I can relate to most of the above to a large degree. But he is never vicious and not too barky. He stops when i tell him to. He is basically a happy guy and adventurous. But something I am curious about particularly. He is SOOO sensitive. The smallest trace of displeasure in my voice sends him scurrying. Today I am very disoriented, confused…he has been hiding and seems reluctant to be near. He has never been abused and only lightly chastised a couple of times. Does this sound familiar to anyone? Thanks.
No, not to me but every dog has their own personality and you just got a sensitive little guy.
@Cathy, I think Cesar Malan would suggest that he needs to be walked and spend more time outside and be sure to reward him for being obedient. I buy those bags of “Beggin” (sp?) made with real bacon, and cut them up in little bite sized Peaces, and they go nuts over them. I use them for treats to go potty outside and for any other training reward. My little guy comes back in the house all excited, jumping and running to my room where I keep the treats, and looks up where they are all excited.
My ebony stands up on her hind legs and waves her front paws when she wants my attention.
Aww, I bet that is cute!
My chi has all of the behaviors listed. It is so much fun watching him throw his blanket over his head and he tunnels from one end to the other under it. He does laps around the house with his cookie in his mouth. He is so sweet.
I bet that’s adorable Betty!
I think you should add that some Chihuahuas love shopping and meeting new “friends” And you should DEFINITELY add that some Chihuahuas love restaurants with lots of attention from diners, lots of wonderful smells, having fun watching the servers bring out food and perhaps a small bite of your dinner
Good ideas Constance.
Yes this is my first chihuahua furbaby and you are on point. I know it seemed awfully hard to potty train this little guy!
Yes potty training seems to be the hardest thing with chis.
@Cathy, If one is consistent about taking them out at the same time morning and night, and times in between, and always give them a treat, right on the spot, so they know what you are pleased about, and praise and pet them, making a big fuss, they will get the idea, and respond. After a while, just the affection will be enough. But one must be consistent…! Start with a leash at first. When they become consistent, then let them off their leash, when in your own fenced yard. They are like any other dog. Once they know what you want, they will do anything to please you and/or get a treat, which will turn into just approval, which they love to please…!
You would think so Michael but chihuahuas can be very stubborn and sometimes won’t become potty trained no matter how well you train them. But I agree consistency is extremely important. Dogs thrive on it.
We have had our little chi Milo for eight years and every point is spot on. He adores his Daddy but he follows me his mummy everywhere. He can be hard work but so worth it. My nickname for him is Boo. Such a loving little boy. Our world.
For such tiny little creatures, they do make such a large impact in our world.
@Cathy, Amen…!
Thanks for this information. Have had chihuahua’s for 40 years and realized all of these were true . The blanket one is so true, but I have one dog that doesn’t burrow under the blankets cause she gets too hot. They each are totally different and they seem to get more loving and devoted the older they get.
My Lucy doesn’t burrow under blankets either. She a long hair double coated and gets hot easily.
@Rosemary, LOL…that is another thing… I put a heating pad under my Chi’s bed, which she loves, and baby blanket over the top of the bed, that she loves to go under, then turn around and stick just her nose and eyes out. Then if she gets to hot she starts putting her head out, then half out, etc. until he is completely out of her bed with most of her body on the floor. So cute how they adjust their thermostat…lol! Finally, if she is still to hot, she will role over on her back, with her legs straight up in the air to gain more cooling…lol They are such characters…lol!
My Chihuahua loves to sun bathe and love to lick everyone in our house (face, leg, hand….whatever is close. She howls like a hound dog when she is excited. So friendly and very cute dog. She is now 14 and I cherish every day with her
She sounds like a lot of fun Rose.
Ahhhhhhh,yes! All true. Exactly. Every single one is true! (Except maybe the house training, mine was very easy).
You are very lucky! That seems to be the biggest issue with chis and most small dogs.
Oddly enough, my Yoda, is quite a unique chi. Going through the list:
Burrowing in Blankets-Yes, but Yoda burrows and usually plops down on top of the “pile” he’s burrowed
Rituals With Their Food- No
Personality Plus- No, Yoda is very chill
Have an Attitude- Not at all
You Will Never Need a Doorbell- Yes, mostly, but sometimes he’ll run to the door after he hears it open
Love to Bark- Definitely not. Yoda’s got to be the quietest little dog ever (even strangers have made such comments about Yoda and Chewie when I walk them).
Ultimate Lap Dog- Not really, my Yoda likes to lay next to me, but not on top of me. He loved to sit on my shoulder like a parrot when he was younger, still does sometimes.
Loyal and Devoted- Definitely!
Shivering and Shaking- Not at all, ever.
Paw at Their Pet Parents- Yes, to keep rubbing his chest.
House Training Issues- None whatsoever!
Can be Demanding- Not my Yoda
Chihuahuas are Love- Absolutely!))
So my Yoda fits 5 out of 13. I love him and his brother, toy terrier Chewie, so much!!!
Yoda does sound like a very unique little guy Vera.
they have anal glands issues Bells is in the groomer despite her pumpkin and glandex
Some dogs just seem to have issues with that and I feel for them. It has to be uncomfortable.
My Granddog, Teddy, has developed a ritual which perfectly demonstrates his intelligence. When he and his sister go outside, if one of them poops, they both get a treat. His sister will poop within a few minutes and they both want to go back inside. 5 minutes after getting the treat, Teddy will indicate he has to go outside so I let them back out. He immediately goes to his “area” and poops, therefore earning him a second treat! This happens daily.. he will not poop first time out!
@Tina Mandell, With all respect, you are treating him for not pooping. If you give her her treat for pooping but not him, he’s going to feel shorted, and wonder why. Then when he asks to go out, then and only then, give him his treat. Eventually he will figure out he should poop to get his treat, and will probably start pooping when she does. Carry the treats with you, so you can reward them immediately when they do the job, so they will relate the pooping with the treat better. Good luck…
My vet told me about the burrowing under blankets on my 2chi mixes first check up/visit. I had never known that trait. She mentioned that light fleece blankets are good to buy for them. It is fun to send my friends pics of my Chanel and Nike all warm and contorted in one to 6 of their wee blankies.
So lucky that I chose these small loyal dogs.
They do love their blankies!
@Cathy, Absolutely! My daughter bought a soft baby blanket for my little Addie, when she was only a few months old, and it has been one of her favorite things, if not her favorite..! She had her bed on a small lounge chair next to my Lazy Boy. I started throwing the hot towels out of the dryer, on top of her, and she didn’t even move. It was like heaven to her. She would peak her face out from the middle of the towels, and just lay there quietly in paradise…lol!
I bet it’s cute when she peeked out like that.
My grandmother is 74 and her Chihuahua is going to be the last dog of her. Her Chihuahua is almost everything in your article. She is 15 (actual birthday is unknown as we got her as an owner give up) but she is the best dog I have ever had as my own. She is just not a pet but a true family member
Cathy: I think how we perceive loyalty is directly related to the dogs environment. The whole world is open to most other preeds, as just a small world is open to our little Chi’s. We see our little guy’s loyalty from the perspective of his or her tiny world. So they are going to seem more loyal to us from that perspective. My border collies were I think, more loyal from their huge world, and because of their superior intelligence. My border collies could be a quarter mile away, exploring the woods of my horse farm. All I had to do was whistle, and he would come running full speed, and stop dead at my feet! Both breeds were just as loyal, ready and happy, ready to receive my command, wanting to do whatever I ask of them.
Interesting perspective Michael. Thanks for sharing!
i love my chihuahua. he is quirky and fun. he sleeps with and perfect companion. he loves me no matter what and i love him.
He sounds like a great little guy Madeline!
I have two little girls Chihuahua . Reading this article is my two girls to the tee. Thank you for the information. Deniserouse3743@gmail.com
You’re welcome Denise!
I have always had Chi’s in (minimum) pairs, so they can keep each other entertained. Doesn’t take away from their need to have your full attention when you are home. My largest pack was 9, 5 girls and 4 boys, long hair and short hair. Not really as crazy as that sounds. They took care of each other and were less trouble than my 2 kids overall. Each had their own little personality. I had a TV watcher, singer, dancer, hunter, mama dog to the whole pack, trouble maker, the “chewer” (nothing was safe around her), climber, and finally, motorcycle rider. Yes in a baby pack with goggles. There is nothing like a Chi. I’ve had other breeds of dogs but none will love you like a Chi. And yes they own YOU. It’s their home, you just live in it with them. All that enter must understand it’s their home. And as expected all our friends who had different breeds always had a favorite and totally changed their opinion about Chi’s when they met our pack. At present I have 2 males left from the original pack and 2 babies, 8 months old sister and brother. Can’t imagine life without theses perfect little beings in my life.
I enjoyed reading about your pack Debbi!
I RETIRED AND MY CHILDREN GAVE ME A CHIHUAHUA. I LOVE HIM DEARLY. HE IS ALWAYS AT MY SIDE. HE SLEEPS WITH ME. HE EXPECTS TO BE TUCKED IN AND KISSED GOODNIGHT. I DON’T KNOW WHAT I WOULD DO WITHOUT HIM. I LOVE HIM DEARLY.
Chis are the best companions!
My chi eats homemade food but picks out her least favorite pieces and sets them aside for after she eats her favorite pieces, then eats her least favorite
LOL, I’ve been known to do that too.
This is all so true! I have 7 chihuahuas and they do everything you listed. I’m surprised chihuahuas are soooo cool!
Yep, they are fascinating little critters.
I am concerned that my chi will die. My last Chi died of liver disease – she was 10. My newly adopted chi is healthy and in perfect condition and I think this issue is a psychological one. We have only had her for a week. I’m almost embarrassed posting this. Anyone else going through this?
It’s understandable to be worried about this but odds are, your new chihuahua will have a long life. Chihuahuas are the longest living breed after all.
My chihuahua autumn likes to bring her blanket to her food area and as I like to call it ‘make herself a red carpet’ until she get it lined up perfectly right so it reaches the bowl in just the right way so she can stand on it and eat. And she will spend minutes and minutes just walking around getting it just right and if it isn’t right she will walk away and come back later and try again.And only she is allowed to do it.No person is allowed to try doing it for her. Its so strange but so uniquely her lol
That is so funny! You need to video that.
This list is so exactly right!!!!! My Chis do all this. The funniest Thing to me is my girl chi will get 1 piece of food, take in a room and then roll upside down on it before she eats it. 1 have 2 and their personalities are ao different ❤️ they are truly the lights of my life.
LOL, that’s funny Kim.
This just describes my chiweenie. He is 6 pounds of awesome. He is my first toy breed and I love him. He is my sidekick and has anxiety if I am not near.
What’s his name?
A lot of people don’t realize how intelligent chi* s are and they also have a good memory
Yeah they get get a bad rap. They are pretty smart little critters.
Talking of food rituals my fur baby picks up a larger piece of her food brings it into the living room and plays with it like it’s a spider jumping and taping it or pushing it with her nose and then jumping backwards, eventually she’ll eat it.
Our Chi is the sweetest dog we’ve had & shadows us 24/7! It’s unreal how smart she is! As a rescue 4 years ago, we just lucked out getting her! Too many stories to share/just such a blessing for us❤️‼️ All the comments you’ve made are true except about the toilet training because it was a breeze!
You were lucky that potty training was a breeze. Sounds like you got a gem there.
Once a long, long time ago I used to make fun of Chihuahuas, (sorry Paris) and all Littles.
I bought one for my daughter who was going away to college and just had to have one.
He was a little cream colored bug eyed big eared fellow. She named him Nacho.
Seeing how college housing does not allow pets I was Nachos caretaker.
He turned into a handsome gentleman that loved one and all. He hardly barked, did spins in the air for snacks and made the saddest person smile. He loved so hard. It’s like he could see to your soul.
I believe he had an old soul.
After one year my daughter moved home and went to the local college.
She came to pick Nacho up to go live with her.
I tried to hide the tears welling up and my heart hitting the floor.
She returned the next day with Nacho in her arms.
She said “Mom he cried for you all night long.”
Yeah!!! I felt such love and sadness for my daughter. She was devastated but she knew he would remain with me for the rest of his life and she would come visit and cuddle with him anytime.
When Nacho was 4 I got a little brown female Chihuahua whom I named Sookie.
She was loud, proud and super smart. She was a rat/mouse catching farm girl! Smarter than most humans for sure. She loved hard just like Nacho. Loved going for rides. Riding in cars, tractors, combines, etc.
She would bark before we would pull off to any property we farmed. She knew exactly where she was at all times.
Nacho passed away 10 years ago and Sookie in January. My heart was destroyed. I still think about them daily.
I have 1 other Chihuahua named Piper 5 years old and got a 8 week old little brown girl I named Nova 4 weeks ago.
Potty training for all of my Chihuahuas was a breeze.
As puppies I take them out immediately when they wake up,after they eat, usually once every hour to 2 hours.
They are prey to a lot of different animals and people. I wouldn’t recommend letting them out of your sight while outside.
(Piper plays volleyball with balloons and will spin in the air before hitting the balloon back to you)
Nova waves Hi and bye while sitting up. She is still learning.
Each and every Chihuahua loves hard and so should you.
Once you have a Chihuahua you never go back!
Your chis sound awesome! And what is your secret to potty training? Even doing all the things you said you did, most people (including me) struggle with potty training.
My chihuahua demands to get inside my coat when in the car he paws at me until I let him in ,and pull up the zip.. he loves to wash my ears. He likes nothing better than to snuggle up with me in bed at night. He will only eat in his crate. His name is Rufus. He loves to shred my shoe laces might I add only if I am wearing them. But he is so loveable. He loves to be chased round the garden growling.
Rufus sounds like quite the character Sandie!
This describes my Rosie to a T. I try to be worthy of her devotion.
Every single thing listed is my Chi, Sarah Lee. 🐾❤️
LOL
I said yes to all the habits you mentioned and my Chihuahua has a habit of eating her yoghurt
desert before her main meal and if i feed her the main meal of
meat and vegetables she won,t eat it until she has her yoghurt
She’s a girl who knows what she wants.
There’s a few medical issues that chis have that I was not aware of, does anyone else know about this is ……. That we had to have both knee surgeries done due to short ligaments in knees and second is they have bad teeth, meaning they decay easily. It’s not as if we didn’t take care of our little ones teeth since he was a baby, they just decayed easily
Yes, teeth issues are very common in small dogs, specially chis. I have heard of a few chihuahuas having knee issues but I don’t think it’s that common.
My little Missi carries her biscuits one it at time from the kitchen to the lounge to eat it, then back for another one…..if we put her bowl in the lounge she will just stop eating…..
We were used to Sadie before Missi doing this but Sadie used to bring a mouthful in drop them down then eat, maybe when Missi is older she’ll do the same.
Missi is a Jackawawa but obviously inherited this Chihuahua habit
Love your news letter Cathy its so full of interesting things
Thanks E laine. I always wondered why they take their food from one place to another.
I am blessed with two sweet chihuahuas I call them my girls 💞they make my world a happy place . Ladybug and Chloe Anne
Such cute names! They do make our world better, don’t they?
Yes my Lola( who I’ve had for 6 years) gives us high fives💖
It’s so cute when they do that!