When you picture a Chihuahua, the first things that might come to mind are yappy little ankle-biters or shivering, nervous dogs carried around in purses. These tiny pups certainly have developed some not-so-flattering stereotypes over the years.
Yeah, Chihuahuas are definitely not for everybody! In fact, here are 13 reasons why you wouldn’t want a Chihuahua as a pet.
Don’t get a Chihuahua if you don’t want to…
1. Have a Very Protective Guard Dog on You All Day
They may be small, but Chihuahuas make effective alarm systems since they were originally bred as tenacious ratters and watchdogs. These fierce watchdog traits are deeply ingrained into the breed’s DNA.
2. Have an Extra Clingy BFF
Is having a constant sidekick a must for you? Then a Chihuahua will be your new velcro-like BFF that you’ll never get lonely moments away from. Studies show this breed bonds intensely and clings to their owners. (ref)
Once you welcome a Chihuahua into your world, get ready for them to always loyally follow you from room to room as your inseparable little shadow.
3. Use a Space Heater Anymore
There’s no denying that Chihuahuas’ tiny 4-6 lb bodies make them the perfect warm, snuggly portable heaters to curl up with. Their small, fur-covered frames radiate delicious warmth like efficient little hot water bottles.
4. Spend Hours Grooming Your Pet
Unlike fluffier breeds, Chihuahuas are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming due to their short, smooth coats. Weekly brushing sessions are usually sufficient to keep them looking sharp.
And giving a bath to a Chihuahua is an absolute breeze compared to bathing a larger, shaggy dog. Their pint-sized frames can easily be washed right in a kitchen sink without any wrestling matches.
5. Live in a Sprawling Home
With their small size and modest exercise needs, Chihuahuas thrive just as well in cozy urban apartments as they do in larger homes. You don’t need tons of space or a big yard for these canine companions to live their best lives.
6. Deal with a Boring, Serious Pup
While tiny, Chihuahuas bring massive, unstoppable larger-than-life personalities everywhere they go that guarantee you’ll always be laughing. Their mischievous antics and hilarious quirks make for non-stop entertainment and amusement.
7. Go Into Debt from Pet Costs
One of the biggest financial perks of petite Chihuahuas is their low-cost upkeep compared to bigger breeds. Their tiny portions and smaller size mean lower expenses for food, medications, toys, and supplies.
The overall reduced cost of owning a Chihuahua can potentially save you thousands over their lifetimes versus a larger breed dog.
8. Leave Your Pup Behind When Traveling
At only 4-6 lbs, Chihuahuas are supremely portable companions that can literally travel anywhere with you without any hassles. No bulky kennels or major accommodations needed for these adventure-ready pups!
9. Lose Your Precious Lap Space
There’s nothing more cozy and wonderful than having a warm, snuggly Chihuahua cuddled up in your lap for movie marathons or lounge sessions. And thanks to their miniature size, you’ll always have sufficient personal space for these lap-sized companions!
Chihuahuas were practically designed to be the ultimate lap dogs that can nestle in without overcrowding you.
10.Sneeze All The Time
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic, and that goes for Chihuahuas too. But these petite pups do have one significant advantage – they tend to shed far less than larger, fluffier breeds.
While Chihuahuas still produce some dander and allergens, their minimal shedding means less hair and dander getting dispersed around your home to trigger allergy symptoms.
11. Have a Fashionista pet
Chihuahuas look absolutely adorable sporting the latest canine couture and accessories. With their tiny frames, these little divas were practically made to model sweaters, pajamas, bows, booties, and more.
An abundance of fashionable items are almost always available in Chihuahua sizes to explore your own stylish side while letting your pup’s big personality shine.
12. Workout & Exercise
They may have energetic personalities, but Chihuahuas actually have modest exercise needs that make them ideal companions for folks who prefer staying sedentary.
You can keep your pint-sized pal healthy and tired out with just a quick 15-20 minute stroll around the neighborhood a couple of times a day. No running miles or heading to the dog park required!
13. Have a Canine Buddy for the Long Haul
The Chihuahua dog breeds (there are 7 types) actually make great long-term companions with impressive longevity. With proper care, these lively but robust pups live 15-20 years on average. (ref)
You’ll likely have your hilarious, loving furry soulmate for over a decade through all of life’s ups and downs, cementing their reputations as ultra-loyal buddies for the long haul.
Disclaimer: Some images in this content were created with the help of AI.
Don’t Miss These:
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.