Does your Chihuahua run away when you let them outside to play and use the bathroom? Some Chihuahuas instinctively sprint towards the neighbor’s home once the front door is opened, leaving owners to question the effectiveness of their training. If this sounds familiar, check out the 5 most common reasons why Chihuahuas run away — and how to stop it — listed below.
Not only is this type of running away behavior frustrating, but it’s also quite dangerous. There are dozens of ways a ‘free-roaming’ Chihuahua can injure themselves by venturing from their home, some of which include:
Hit by a car
Skirmishes with nearby dogs and cats
Attacked by wild animals
Getting into pesticides, antifreeze, oil or other hazardous chemicals
Of course, there’s also a chance of your Chihuahua running away from home and not coming back, which is something no family wants to experience
As an owner, it’s your responsibility to protect your Chihuahua from dangers such as this. The first step in fixing this problem is to identify why exactly your Chihuahua feels the need to run away.
Reason #1) Looking For a Mate
If your Chihuahua isn’t spayed or neutered, they may run away in search of a mate. Unfixed females in heat release powerful pheromones that males can smell from over a mile away! And even if your Chihuahua is obedient and well trained, mother nature’s “mating magnet‘ will instinctively cause them to run away.
It’s obviously easier to identify a female searching for a mate, as their genitals will become swollen and bleed for roughly 21 days. Males, on the other hand, will run away anytime there’s a female in heat around; therefore, owners of male Chihuahuas need to use extra caution when taking them outside.
You can read our previous post about the benefits of having your Chihuahua spayed or neutered, but the bottom line is that all Chihuahuas — unless otherwise stated by your veterinarian — should be fixed to reduce the chance of them running away. By spaying or neutering your Chihuahua, they’ll no longer produce the hormones responsible for finding a mate.
Reason #2) Boredom
Another reason why Chihuahuas run away is because they are bored. It’s a common assumption by first-time owners that Chihuahuas don’t require the same amount of outdoor playtime as other breeds due to their small size. Rather than taking them out on a regular basis, some owners leave their Chihuahuas cooped up inside for long periods of time, resulting in boredom and pent-up energy.
Chihuahuas suffering from boredom and/or pent-up energy are more likely to run away when given the chance. Owners must realize that Chihuahuas — like all dogs — are complex animals that crave mental and physical stimulation. Just because they are small doesn’t mean you can leave them locked up inside the house all day long.
Whether it’s going for a walk, playing fetch or just laying out under the sun (Chihuahuas LOVE sunning), take your Chihuahua outside on a regular basis to reduce the chance of them running away.
Reason #3) Lack of Obedience
It’s downright frustrating when you call your Chihuahua to come back only to have them run off in the opposite direction. If this sounds like a familiar scenario, you aren’t alone. Lack of obedience is an all-too-common problem, making it difficult for walks and playtime outside.
When a Chihuahua doesn’t view you as the ‘leader of the pack,’ they’ll be more willing to run away while they are outside. And to make matters worse, a disobedient Chihuahua won’t come back when you call their name. You can yell until your lungs go dry only to have your Chihuahua take off down the street or into the neighbor’s yard.
So, how do you fix this frustrating problem? The first step is to only let your Chihuahua outside when they are attached to a collar and leash (or lead). Now when you are walking and playing with your Chihuahua outside, teach them a recall command such as “come here boy,” or “back Amos.” Give them plenty of slack on their leash and speak the recall command when you are ready to go inside. If they obey your command, give them plenty of affection, praise and of course a treat.
Reason #4) Mistreatment
A fourth reason why Chihuahuas run away is because they are being mistreated by their owner at home. In a perfect world, each and every Chihuahua would receive the unconditional love and attention they deserve, but this world is far from perfect. Some owners hit, slap and otherwise physically abuse their Chihuahuas, which naturally encourages them to run away when given the chance. You can’t expect a Chihuahua to listen and obey their owner if they are being abused.
Note: mistreatment isn’t limited strictly to physical abuse. Neglecting your Chihuahua and their need for attention is another form of abuse which may contribute to their running away problem.
Reason #5) Seeking Companionship
When they aren’t getting it at home, Chihuahuas may run away to seek companionship from other dogs or people. This reason goes hand-in-hand with mistreatment, as neglecting your Chihuahua and avoiding them on for days on hand will only encourage them to run off. Give your Chihuahua attention and companionship so they want to stay at home.
Tips For Preventing Your Chihuahua From Running Away
Have them spayed or neutered.
Teach them a ‘recall’ command, such as “come here Amos!”
Use treats as a reward when your Chihuahua successfully obeys your recall command.
Never punish or scold your Chihuahua for running away, as this type of negativity will only encourage this unwanted behavior.
Walk your Chihuahua on an extended lead or retractable leash until they obey your recall command.
Show your Chihuahua affection and love on a daily basis.
Whether you currently own a Chihuahua or are thinking of owning one, you’ve probably heard people refer to some of them as “teacups” or similar names. Typically, owners and breeders may refer to their ultra-small Chihuahuas using terms such as these. This can undoubtedly be confusing giving the fact that the American Kennel Club (AKC) only recognizes two varieties – the smooth and long-coat. So, what’s the deal with names like teacup? Keep reading and we’ll dive a little deeper into this subject, revealing the truth behind the teacup Chihuahua.
If you previously thought a teacup Chihuahua was a certain breed, you aren’t alone. There’s a growing misconception regarding this terminology that confuses most of the general public. Since the term is used so frequently and by so many people, it’s almost taken a life of its own, spreading like wildfire. As a result, people looking to add a new Chihuahua to their family may ask breeders or pet stores if they have any of the “teacup” breed. Instead of correcting them, the breeder will go along with the charade and try to complete a sale.
Confusing Names Used To Describe Chihuahuas
As a result of the poor information that’s been floating around, numerous improper names are being used to describe Chihuahuas. This may not seem like a big issue, but it creates an ethical grey area for breeders and sellers who know the truth about Chihuahuas. For instance, if a potential customer comes to a breeder asking them for a teacup Chihuahua, the breeder may respond by saying she has them, but only for a price greater than the non-teacups. Basically, terms such as these can be used to mark up the price on Chihuahuas; therefore, making it more profitable for the breeders.
Here are some of the most common unofficial names used to describe Chihuahuas:
Teacup
Toy (ALL Chihuahuas are considered a Toy breed)
Tiny
Mini
Miniature
Pocket-sized
Micro
Teacup Chihuahuas – The Facts
While we don’t know who the first person was to describe a Chihuahua as a teacup, the term picked up popularity and spread throughout the early 90s. It’s important to note, however, that no major canine association has ever used the term to describe or otherwise categorize Chihuahuas. Either one or more owners likely referred to their unusually small Chihuahuas as teacups, thus starting the craze that’s still going on today. When people hear the word teacup, they immediately assume it’s a certain breed of Chihuahua, but unfortunately it’s just some term that many people use to describe them.
The only people who benefit from confusing terms like teacup, toy and micro are the Chihuahua breeders. Now don’t get me wrong – there are some breeders who will explain to the customer that teacups are just a term and not an officially recognized breed. Others, however, will use the public’s ignorance as a tool to sell their small Chihuahuas at a higher price. For instance, someone sees or hears about a tiny teacup Chihuahua through and friend, so they scan through the newspapers in search of one. Because teacup Chihuahuas aren’t an official breed, chances are they will have a hard time finding one. However, they may stumble upon a breeder offering them for a higher price than your typical Chihuahuas. The customer will likely agree to the price simply because they can’t find these teacup Chihuahuas elsewhere.
The term “teacup Chihuahua” has been used so much that’s almost become an unofficial way of referring to small Chihuahuas. When a breeder or pet shop refers to their Chihuahuas as teacups, they are either doing it to try and get more money for them, or they are just as confused about the terminology as everyone else. In any case, it’s the breeder’s responsibility to label their Chihuahuas correctly and not deceive their customers in any way, shape or form.
What You Should Know About Owning a Teacup Chihuahua
Because of the increased demand for so-called teacup Chihuahuas in recent years, breeders and pet shops are encouraged to try and breed their Chihuahuas to be as small as possible simply because they can make more money off them. The problem in doing so, however, is that small Chihuahuas are more susceptible to health problems such as hypoglycemia, diabetes, patellar luxation, heart disease, bone fractures, joint problems, etc. Does that mean you shouldn’t get a teacup Chihuahua? It’s really a personal choice that only you can make, but I would advise against purchasing one from breeders because of the fact that it encourages them to continue breeding them this size.
If you decide to own an unusually small Chihuahua, be sure you’re willing to invest your time, energy and money into keeping them healthy. This means you’ll have to take them to the vet for regular checkups to ensure nothing is seriously wrong, as well as treat any current conditions they are experiencing. It’s all too common for people to make the decision to own a small Chihuahua without realizing just how much extra work goes into caring for them.
Something else that you’ll need to be aware of with small Chihuahuas is that they are more likely to suffer from fractures and broken bones than normal-sized Chihuahuas. If you accidentally roll over on them in the bed, sit on them while they are laying on the couch (trust me, this happens) or even pick them up the wrong way, they may experience a bone fracture. Be extremely gentle and carefully around your new Chihuahua to prevent such catastrophes from happening. In addition, you’ll need to keep larger pet dogs and cats away from your Chihuahua, as they may accidentally cause injury to your Chihuahua as well.
Hopefully this article will give you a better understanding on what teacup Chihuahuas are and what goes into owning one. Personally, I think small Chihuahuas are just as loving, affectionate and fun as normal-sized ones. However, they do require a bit more care and maintenance, so take this into account if you are thinking of owning a new Chihuahua.
Video of Cooper The Teacup Chihuahua
Here’s a video I found on YouTube of an teacup Chihuahua named Cooper. This adorable black and white Chihuahua is full of spunk and ready to pounce at anything coming his way. Too cute!
If you rub your Chihuahua’s head and feel an opening in his skull, try not to panic. Known as a molera or “soft spot,” it’s a common anatomical feature with the breed. Research shows that approximately 80% to 90% of all Chihuahuas are born with a molera. It was once even considered a mark of purity for Chihuahuas.
After discovering your Chihuahua’s molera, you may have some questions. In this article, we’re going to cover some common topics regarding this condition, including the following:
An overview of moleras
Prevalence of moleras in Chihuahuas
Why Chihuahuas have moleras
Whether or not it’s linked to hydrocephalus
How to care for a Chihuahua with a molera
What the AKC and other Chihuahua breed standards say about the molera
And more
What is a Molera?
A molera is an opening in the top of a dog’s skull where the parietal and frontal bones have not fused together.
Most puppies are born with an incomplete skull, the opening of which is called a molera. It’s found at the top-center of the skull, a few inches above the nose. The molera is typically either circular or diamond shaped. It has an average size of 1/4 inch to 1 inch in diameter, making it about the size of a dime. Some have smooth edges, whereas others have rough or jagged edges. As the pup matures, cartilage pulls the skeletal plates together and calcifies the skull.
Dogs aren’t the only animals born with an incomplete skull. While not referred to as a molera — that term specifically applies to dogs — it’s a common feature in many mammals. Even human babies are born with an incomplete skull. The cranial opening in babies is known as a fontanelle.
Normally, these gaps of unfused skull bone gradually close over time. In Chihuahuas and other toy breeds, however, the molera may never close. Some Chihuahuas live their entire life with this cranial opening, in which case certain precautions should be taken to protect against injury.
How Common are Moleras in Chihuahuas?
Moleras are very common in Chihuahuas, affecting roughly eight in 10 newborn pups. It’s such a common feature, in fact, that it’s mentioned in the Chihuahua breed’s standards by major canine associations throughout the world.
What’s really interesting is that moleras were even more common in Chihuahuas during the breed’s early years. Up until the early to mid-1970s, Chihuahuas were bred to be smaller, with a preferred weight of just 2 to 4 pounds. The preference for smaller Chihuahuas resulted in a higher rate of moleras.
Because of their smaller, dome-shaped skull, apple-head Chihuahuas are more likely to develop and retain a molera than their deer-head counterpart. Teacup Chihuahuas are also more likely to have a molera because they too have smaller heads.
How to Check Your Chihuahua for a Molera
Unless the molera is unusually large, it’s hard to identify by visual observation alone. A veterinarian can perform an X-ray to see if your Chihuahua has a molera, and if so, how big it is. But you can also feel your Chihuahua’s skull for the presence of this cranial opening.
Follow the steps below to check your Chihuahua for a molera:
While seated, coax your Chihuahua onto your lap.
Place your index finger at the “stop” between your Chihuahua’s eyes and the top of his nose.
Gently run your index up your Chihuahua’s skull.
If your Chihuahua has a molera, you should feel a groove or indention where the skull hasn’t developed.
Take note of where the molera is located, because you’ll want to use caution to protect this area from blunt force trauma.
Chihuahua Breed Standards and Moleras
When the American Kennel Club (AKC) created the first Chihuahua standards in 1923, it required the breed to possess a molera. If a Chihuahua didn’t possess this cranial opening, he couldn’t compete in the show ring and was automatically disqualified from winning conformation awards. It wasn’t until several decades later when the AKC updated its breed standards, now giving no preference to this anatomical feature.
Here’s what the world’s leading canine organizations currently say about the Chihuahua’s molera in their breed standards:
American Kennel Club (AKC): “A well rounded apple-dome skull, with or without molera.”
United Kennel Club (UKC): “Disqualification: An open fontanel, a hole or gap in the center of the skull, referred to as a molero.“
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): “A well rounded apple-dome skull, with or without molera.”
Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): “Well rounded apple head. Disqualifying faults: Dogs with an open fontanel.“
To recap, the AKC and CKC Chihuahua breed standards give no preference to the molera, meaning you can compete Chis with or without a molera in conformation shows. The UKC and FCI, however, view this anatomical feature as a fault, meaning Chihuahuas are automatically disqualified if they possess a molera.
Why Do Chihuahuas Have Moleras?
Chihuahuas have moleras for the same reason human babies have fontanelles: It allows for easier passage of the head through the birth canal.
Because of the breed’s large head and small pelvis, female Chihuahuas often struggle to give birth. The molera, however, helps by allowing the pup’s head to temporarily flex and squeeze through the birth canal.
Will My Chihuahua’s Molera Close?
There’s no way of knowing when or even if your Chihuahua’s molera will close. Statistics show that moleras fully close in about half of all Chihuahuas born with this anatomical feature.
Normally, a pup’s skull gradually fuses together as he matures. However, it may take anywhere from three months to three years for the molera to fully close — or it may never close. If a Chihuahua’s molera doesn’t fully close, it will likely shrink in size as cartilage pushes the parietal and frontal skeletal plates together.
Is a Molera Harmful?
In the past, it was believed that dogs with a molera had a higher risk of developing hydrocephalus, a serious medical condition in which cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) accumulates in the brain. Instead of draining, fluid builds up and soaks the ventricles of the brain, causing the brain to swell. The increased pressure caused by hydrocephalus can lead to brain damage, seizure, coma or death.
A 1989 Greene Braund study titled “Diseases of the Brain,” however, found no association between moleras and hydrocephalus in toy breeds such as the Chihuahua. Researchers concluded that the presence of a molera does not increase the risk of hydrocephalus.
Other breeders and experts refute these claims. Many Chihuahuas that suffer from hydrocephalus do, in fact, have a molera. But moleras are common in Chihuahuas, and not all Chihuahuas with this cranial opening suffer from hydrocephalus. More research is needed to conclusively determine whether moleras play a role in hydrocephalus.
A molera may or may not predispose your Chihuahua to hydrocephalus or other diseases, but you should still take precautions to protect your Chi’s head from injury. Without a fully developed skull, your Chihuahua may sustain brain injury from trauma to the head. Until it closes, follow the tips below to protect your Chi from injury.
Tips to Protect Your Chihuahua From Molera-Related Injury:
Let your veterinarian know about your Chihuahua’s molera.
Don’t allow your Chihuahua to jump on and off furniture (consider using pet stairs instead).
Watch your feet to avoid accidentally kicking your Chihuahua in the head.
Supervise your Chihuahua during playtime.
If your Chihuahua is epileptic — for reasons not associated with the presence of a molera — hold him during seizure episodes to prevent injury.
Use minimal pressure when petting your Chihuahua’s head.
If your Chihuahua hits his head and begins acting unusual — lethargy, trouble breathing, agitation, seizure — take him to the vet immediately.
The presence of a molera isn’t something that Chihuahua owners should lose sleep over. It’s a completely normal anatomical feature that usually closes over time. Most Chihuahuas are born with a molera because it allows them to pass through the birth canal with greater ease. As newborn Chihuahuas age, this cranial gap will begin to close. Even if doesn’t fully close, there’s no evidence linking the molera to any adverse health condition.
Does your Chihuahua have a molera? Let us know in the comments section below!
Chihuahuas are known for being loyal and affectionate, but are they smart? As social creatures, all dogs exhibit some degree of intelligence. They must socialize with their pack in the wild, and they must socialize with their human counterparts in domestic environments. As they interact with their pack or family members, they become more intelligent. To learn more about the IQ of Chihuahuas and whether they are smart, keep reading.
Are Some Breeds Really Smarter Than Others?
Canine intelligence is difficult to measure. We can measure human intelligence using IQ tests like the Stanford-Binet and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) tests, but there is no universally recognized IQ test available for dogs.
According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki in Finland, however, some breeds are smarter than others. For the study, researchers performed a battery of smartDOG cognitive and behavior tests on 13 popular breeds.
Researchers discovered “significant differences” between the tested breeds for five of the seven cognitive tests. The Border Collie, for instance, scored higher on the inhibitory control test than the Malinois. The Australian Shepherd, on the other hand, scored higher on the unsolvable task test than the Golder Retriever. The Chihuahua wasn’t included in this particular study, but the team’s findings indicate that some breeds are smarter than others.
Researchers didn’t find any difference between the breeds for the short-term memory and reasoning tests.
The Intelligence of Dogs: Where the Chihuahua Stands
Research published in “The Intelligence of Dogs” suggests the Chihuahua is the 127th smartest breed out of 140 breeds surveyed, earning it a working and obedience intelligence ranking of #67.
Originally published in May 1994 — and later republished in 2006 with new insights and a new preface — “The Intelligence of Dogs” is an international best-seller that delves into the intelligence of man’s best friend. It was authored by Stanley Coren, PhD, Professor Emeritus of the Department of Psychology at the University of British Columbia.
After transitioning from neuropsychology to the study of dogs and the relationships between people and dogs in the early 1990s, Coren began working on “The Intelligence of Dogs.” At the time, there were only guides on canine health, training and breed information; there weren’t any guides on canine intelligence. This prompted Coren to investigate the intelligence of dogs, ranking 140 breeds by working and obedience intelligence based on survey responses.
Other notable dog books authored by Coren include:
“The Pawprints of History: Dogs and the Course of Human Events”
“The Wisdom of Dogs”
“Do Dogs Dream? Nearly Everything Your Dog Wants You to Know”
“Born to Bark: My Adventures with an Irrepressible and Unforgettable Dog”
“Dogs All-In-One for Dummies”
“The Modern Dog”
“How to Speak Dog: Mastering the Art of Dog-Human Communication”
“Why We Love The Dogs We Do”
“What Do Dogs Know?”
The 3 Types of Canine Intelligence
Canine intelligence is closely correlated with a dog’s ability to perform tasks. Dogs that quickly and easily perform tasks are generally considered more intelligent than those that take longer or struggle to complete tasks. In “The Intelligence of Dogs,” Coren notes that there are three specific types of canine intelligence.
Instinctive Intelligence: The innate ability to perform the tasks for which it was bred, such as retrieving waterfowl, herding livestock or guarding property.
Adaptive Intelligence: The ability to adapt and learn how to perform tasks independently through experience and the dog’s environment, such as finding hidden treats or knocking over toy containers.
Working and Obedience Intelligence: The ability to learn how to perform tasks from humans, such as standing or sitting in place on command. Working and obedience intelligence is essentially trainability, or how easy a dog is to train to compete in obedience trials.
According to Coren, 51% of a dog’s intelligence comes from its genes and 49% comes from environmental circumstances.
“The Intelligence of Dogs” author Stanley Coren. Photograph by CaptainPsychology, distributed under a 3.0 CC license.
The working and obedience intelligence rankings in Coren’s international best-seller are based on survey responses from American Kennel Club (AKC) and Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) judges. Coren sent an extensive questionnaire to all AKC and CKC obedience trial judges.
The questionnaire asked the judges to rate breeds based on the following criteria:
The number of repetitions a breed needs to learn a new command given by a human trainer.
The success rate of a breed obeying an already-taught command on the first attempt.
The questionnaire also asked the judges to rate which breeds they believe to be the 10 most intelligent and the 10 least intelligent. Coren received responses from 208 judges. He then ranked all of the breeds for which he received adequate response data. If a breed wasn’t included in at least 70 responses, Coren didn’t rank it.
Coren ranked a total of 140 breeds based on the judges’ scores. Some breeds earned identical scores, in which case they shared the same ranking. The Giant Schnauzer and Portuguese Water Dog, for instance, both ranked #28, whereas the Border Terrier and Briard both ranked #30. When accounting for ties such as this, the working and obedience intelligence rankings for 140 breeds ranged from #1 to #79.
Working and Obedience Intelligence Rankings
A photo of a Border Collie and Afghan Hound, which rank as the most and least intelligent breed, respectively.
Coming in at #1, the top-ranked breed for working and obedience intelligence is the Border Collie. Border Collies are herding dogs. They were originally bred to herd sheep along the border of England and Scotland. Their long history of working with and obeying humans’ commands makes Border Collies exceptionally obedient.
There was a Border Collie named “Chaser” with a vocabulary equal to that of a three-year-old child. Chaser was the main subject of a study into canine intelligence spearheaded by John W. Pilley, Professor Emeritus of the Department of Psychology at Wofford College.
During the years-long project, Piley and his associates were able to teach Chaser the names of 1,022 objects. Coren’s findings in “The Intelligence of Dogs” reinforce the belief that the Border Collie is among the smartest, if not the smartest, breed on the planet.
At the bottom of Coren’s list is the Afghan Hound at #79. While elegant and affectionate, Afghan Hounds exhibit poor obedience based on the criteria based on Coren’s criteria. When compared to other breeds, they require more repetitions to learn new commands and have a lower success rate of obeying known commands on the first attempt.
The Chihuahua ranks #67 out of #79 for working and obedience intelligence. There are still 126 breeds with higher scores and 13 breeds with lower scores, though, suggesting the Chihuahua is the 127th smartest breed out of the 140 breeds surveyed.
According to Coren, rankings generally indicate the following:
Breeds that rank #1 to #10 learn new commands in fewer than five repetitions and obey known commands on the first attempt 95% of the time or better.
Breeds that rank #11 to #25 learn new commands in five to 15 repetitions and obey known commands on the first attempt 85% of the time.
Breeds that rank #26 to #39 learn new commands in five to 25 repetitions and obey known commands on the first attempt 70% of the time.
Breeds that rank #40 to #54 learn new commands in 25 to 40 repetitions and obey known commands on the first attempt 50% of the time.
Breeds that rank #55 to #69 learn new commands in 40 to 80 repetitions and obey known commands on the first attempt 40% of the time.
Breeds that rank #70 to #79 may require hundreds of repetitions to learn new commands, and they obey known commands on the first attempt 30 percent of the time.
Why the Chihuahua Ranks So Low for Working and Obedience Intelligence
Chihuahuas certainly aren’t dumb, so why do they rank so low for working and obedience intelligence? Intelligence is unique to each dog. Just like some people are smarter than other people, some dogs are smarter than other dogs. This applies to all breeds, including the Chihuahua. There are super-smart Chihuahuas that are brighter than the rest.
No methodology for testing canine intelligence is perfect, including Coren’s. Coren relied on responses from AKC and CKC obedience trial judges. If a breed performed poorly in obedience trials, it would typically receive low scores from judges and, thus, receive a low working and obedience intelligence ranking.
Obedience trials really only show how well a dog obeys his handler’s commands. Working breeds, such as the Border Collie and Golden Retriever, were originally bred to perform practical tasks, so they tend to have an innate ability to learn and obey human-instructed commands — more so than companion breeds like the Chihuahua.
The Chihuahua still ranks higher for working and obedience intelligence than many other breeds. Coren only ranked breeds for which he received adequate response data. There are 200 breeds recognized by the AKC, but Coren only ranked 140 of them. He ranked the Chihuahua #67, indicating that the Chihuahua is the 127th smartest breed out of 140 breeds for which he received adequate response data or 200 total breeds.
The Chihuahua’s low working and obedience intelligence ranking may be attributed to the breed’s stubbornness. These small dogs are known for being headstrong and stubborn, which can prove counterproductive during training sessions. You may give your Chihuahua a command, only for him to ignore you.
But you can’t blame Chihuahuas for being stubborn. Most Chihuahuas are stubborn because of the way in which they are trained. Owners either use punishment-based training or are inconsistent with their training approach, both of which Chihuahuas respond poorly to.
Are Chihuahuas Smart?
They may rank low for intelligence based on Coren’s research, but Chihuahuas are still smart. The AKC says the Chihuahua is “a very alert little dog of high intelligence” that can “excel in obedience training and other canine sports.” The CKC describes the Chihuahua’s temperament as being “saucy, superior intelligence.” If they weren’t smart, they wouldn’t be described as such by two of the world’s leading kennel organizations.
Memory and Retention
Chihuahuas have excellent memory and retention. They can remember routines, such as eating, walking and sleeping routines. Your Chihuahua, for instance, may go to his food bowl at the same time each day, expecting you to feed him, and he may lie down in his at the same time each night.
Chihuahuas can also remember the location of objects. Your Chihuahua may hide his favorite toy under a couch cushion, only to retrieve it the following day. Some Chihuahuas can remember the location of places like parks and veterinary clinics.
Chihuahuas can even remember the purpose of objects. When you grab your car keys, your Chihuahua may jump and bark with joy, believing he’s about to go for a car ride. If you bring home a tube of topical flea medicine, he may run and hide, believing you’re about to apply it. Excellent memory and retention is a sign of intelligence.
Perceptive of Emotions and Body Language
Chihuahuas are adept at reading their owners’ emotions and body language. By observing subtle cues, they know how their owners feel.
A study published in the journal Learning & Behavior found dogs can sense six human emotions: anger, happiness, sadness, fear, surprise and disgust. Chihuahuas, though, are more attuned to their owners’ emotions than many other breeds.
As companion dogs, Chihuahuas develop strong bonds with their owners. Your Chihuahua will probably spend most of his time by your side or in your lap. All the time your Chihuahua spends with you will improve his ability to sense your emotions and body language. Changes in your facial expression or the tone of your voice, for example, may convey a particular emotion that your Chihuahua is able to sense.
Fast Learners
Chihuahuas are fast learners. According to Coren, it typically takes 25 repetitions before they begin to understand a new command and 40 to 80 repetitions before they consistently respond to the command. That may sound like a lot, but you can easily reach 80 repetitions in just a handful of training sessions.
Because they learn so quickly, Chihuahuas often compete in obedience and agility trials. Obedience trials require participating dogs to obey their handler’s commands, such as heel, sit and stay. Agility trials, in comparison, require participating dogs to complete a timed obstacle course.
Eager to Please
Chihuahuas love to please their owners. When their owners are happy, they are happy. In addition to being a sign of intelligence, the breed’s eagerness to please plays a key role in their ability to learn so quickly.
You can train your Chihuahua with positive reinforcement. Rather than scolding or punishing your Chihuahua when he fails to obey a command, reward him when he does obey the command. You can pet and praise him, or you can give him a treat. Positive reinforcement will show your Chihuahua that you are happy with his behavior. And since he wants to please you, your Chihuahua will continue to perform the desired behavior.
Problem-Solving
In “The Intelligence of Dogs,” Coren notes that Chihuahuas are good at solving problems. They don’t always need the assistance of their owner or solve problems. Rather, Chihuahuas can often solve problems on their own, indicating a high level of adaptive intelligence.
Chihuahuas develop problem-solving skills at a young age. As puppies, they may learn how to escape a gated indoor area or how to open a treat jar. Chihuahuas will continue to refine their problem-solving skills as they enter and progress through adulthood.
Communication
They may not speak our language, but Chihuahuas can still communicate with us. Chihuahuas, in fact, exhibit some of the best dog-to-human communication skills in the canine kingdom. Using both verbal and nonverbal forms of communication, they can let their owners know what they need.
If your Chihuahua wants to be covered up, he may scratch at the blanket, waiting for you to pull it over him. If your Chihuahua is hungry but has an empty food bowl, he may push it toward you, believing you will refill it. If he wants you to wake up in the morning, he may lick your face. These are examples of nonverbal communication.
Verbal communication involves barking or other noises. If your Chihuahua needs to go potty, he may bark at the door. If your Chihuahua is about to have a seizure, he may whine or whimper at your feet. If he wants to play, he may perform a high-pitched, energetic bark. If there’s a stranger walking by the front of your house, your Chihuahua may perform a low-pitched bark or growl while looking out the window.
Name Recognition
Chihuahuas can recognize names — and not just their own names. They can recognize the names of people, toys and other pets.
You can teach your Chihuahua new names through repetition. Repeating the name of the person, toy or other pet over and over will allow your Chihuahua to develop an association between the two. He will begin to associate the name with the person, toy or other pet.
Big Brain
Chihuahuas have the largest brain relative to their body size in the canine kingdom. A typical Chihuahua’s brain measures about 2.25 to 2.5 inches in diameter and weighs approximately 1.94 grams (55.1 grams). That’s about the same size as a small lemon and the same weight as a dime.
Other breeds may have larger brains, but they fall short of the Chihuahua’s brain-to-body ratio. The average brain-to-body for all breeds is about 1:125, meaning the brain of a typical dog is about 125th the size of the dog’s body. There are slight variations in brain-to-body ratios from breed to breed, however. Because Chihuahuas are so small, their brains are proportionally larger, compared to their body size, than all other breeds.
Skilled Watchdogs
Chihuahuas are naturally skilled watchdogs. They are alert, protective dogs that will sound the alarm for potential threats. Whether there’s a wild animal roaming in your backyard, a burglar trying to break in through a window or even a fire starting in your kitchen, your Chihuahua will probably let you know.
Watchdogs alert their owners to the presence of threats by barking. In “The Intelligence of Dogs,” Coren lists Chihuahuas as #6 on his list of the top #15 watchdog breeds. Coren contacted over a dozen canine experts to create this list, many of whom were professional trainers and dog masters for police departments. After analyzing their responses, Coren concluded that the Rottweiler was the #1 watchdog breed among the experts, with the Chihuahua coming in at #6.
Sounding the alert for potential threats requires a certain level of intelligence. Watchdogs must be aware of their surroundings, have a loud bark, have excellent vision and hearing, and they must be able to distinguish between normal and not-normal sights and sounds. Their small size makes them less-than-ideal guard dogs, but Chihuahuas make excellent watchdogs.
Brain Games for Your Chihuahua
Looking to mentally stimulate your Chihuahua? There are a variety of brain games you can play with him. Brain games are toys or activities that require your Chihuahua to think. Brain games are essentially problem-solving exercises for the brain.
You can challenge your Chihuahua’s cognitive capabilities with a hidden treat toy. As the name suggests, hidden treat toys are toys that contain a hidden treat (or food). They require dogs to solve a puzzle to access the treat. Your Chihuahua may have to knock or roll a hidden treat toy in a certain way, for instance.
There are also snuffle mats. Snuffle mats are large mats with pockets or strips of fabric where you can hide treats. They aren’t necessarily toys, but snuffle mats work in the same way. Your Chihuahua will have to use his nose to search for the treat within the snuffle mat.
Scent games can keep your Chihuahua mentally sharp. They involve hiding one or more scents and allowing your Chihuahua to sniff it out. All dogs have a keen sense of smell. A typical dog’s sense of smell is 10,000 to 100,000 times stronger than that of a human’s. Scent games will encourage your Chihuahua to use his sniffer to find treats.
You can hide treats around your home. Alternatively, you can hide a treat in a closed fist, followed by extending both of your hands in front of your Chihuahua. Your Chihuahua will then have to sniff out the hand holding the treat. There are even scent game kits available for sale that contain scented bean bags, sprays or other items for your Chihuahua to sniff out.
Obstacle courses are brain games. Chihuahuas must exhibit both physical and mental skills to complete them. They must walk and balance through the course while mentally processing the obstacles they encounter.
You can create an obstacle course using common items around your home, such as chairs, blankets, pillows, hola hoops, doggie gates and empty cardboard boxes. If you’re going to create an obstacle course, though, make sure it doesn’t pose a risk of injury to your Chihuahua.
Teaching your Chihuahua new names is a form of mental stimulation. He probably already knows his name, but how many other names does your Chihuahua know? You can teach your Chihuahua the names of toys. You can then command your Chihuahua to fetch a particular toy. If he successfully retrieves the right toy, reward him with praise and a treat.
In addition to new names, you can teach your Chihuahua the “drop it” command. It’s an obedience command that involves a dog dropping an item in his possession. If your Chihuahua is holding a treat or toy, the “drop it” command should prompt him to release it.
Not only will the “drop it” command mentally stimulate your Chihuahua; it can keep your Chihuahua from chewing on things he shouldn’t be. If you notice your Chihuahua chewing on the side of your couch or one of your shoes, the “drop it” command will make him stop — assuming you’ve taught your Chihuahua this obedience command.
Hide-and-seek is a multigenerational childhood game that’s popular throughout the world. You can play it with your Chihuahua to keep him mentally sharp while simultaneously building a stronger bond with him. Just find a hiding spot and wait for your Chihuahua to find you.
When playing hide-and-seek with your Chihuahua, don’t hide in the same place each time. Chihuahuas are fast learners. After hiding in the same place two or three times, your Chihuahua will probably remember. For a more mentally stimulating game of hide-and-seek, choose a new hiding spot each time.
Does Age Affect Intelligence?
The age of any dog can affect his intelligence. Puppies are like sponges and rely heavily on social learning. They watch their littermates and parents. As they absorb this information, puppies learn how to perform the same tasks, resulting in a higher level of intelligence.
Senior dogs, in comparison, have more experience. They’ve learned how to adapt to their environment and, ultimately, survive. However, senior dogs may experience age-related cognition decline. Their cognitive capabilities may decline as they grow older.
With that said, you can still teach an old Chihuahua new tricks. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna found that all dogs were able to learn; senior dogs simply learned more slowly than younger dogs.
Diets high in antioxidants, selenium and fatty acids have been shown to protect against age-related cognitive decline in dogs. If you have a senior Chihuahua, talk ask your veterinarian for dieting advice.
Don’t let their small size fool you into thinking Chihuahuas aren’t smart. While individual variation exists within the breed, Chihuahuas are absolutely smart. They have excellent memory and retention, are perceptive of body emotions and body language, are fast learners, are eager to please, can solve problems on their own, can communicate using verbal and nonverbal methods, can recognize names, have larger brains and make excellent watchdogs.
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Does your Chihuahua follow you around the house, demanding to be in your lap or by your side 24 hours a day? A behavioral trait known as clinginess, it’s common in the breed.
Clingy Chihuahuas cross the metaphorical line that separates loyalty and obsession. They feel like they must be near their owner at all times. Clingy Chihuahuas will follow their owner wherever he or she goes, even to the bathroom. If this sounds familiar, you might be wondering why Chihuahuas are so clingy.
What Does Clinginess Mean?
Clinginess is a behavior characterized by a strong desire to be physically close to a person. Merriam-Webster defines it as the tendency to “stay very close to someone, such as a parent, for emotional support, protection, etc.”
There are clingy people, and there are clingy dogs. Children may cling to a parent, whereas dogs may cling to their owner. In both scenarios, the clingy child or dog will feel the need to be physically near someone. They will follow that person around wherever he or she goes.
Clingy dogs are colloquially known as velcro dogs. This is a direct reference to the popular brand of hook-and-loop fasteners. Hook-and-loop fasteners consist of a strip of hooks and a strip of loops. When pressed together, the hooks will catch the loops, thereby holding the two strips together. A clingy dog is essentially the strip of hooks, and the person to whom he clings is the strip of loops. The clingy dog will stay attached to that person at the hip.
Clinginess vs Separation Anxiety in Chihuahuas
Clinginess and separation anxiety are two common types of behaviors in Chihuahuas. Some Chihuahuas have separation anxiety. Others are clingy. There are even Chihuahuas that exhibit both behaviors. While they both involve an attachment to a person, however, clinginess and separation anxiety aren’t the same.
Clinginess only involves a strong desire to be near a person. Clingy Chihuahuas want to be near that person, typically their owner, all the time. Separation anxiety is similar but with the added element of anxiety during periods of separation.
If a Chihuahua has separation anxiety, he will become emotionally distraught when separated from his owner. The Chihuahua will panic and become anxious. When his owner returns, the Chihuahua’s anxiety will subside.
Clingy Chihuahuas don’t become emotionally distraught during periods of separation. They still want to be near their owner — just like Chihuahuas with separation anxiety — but clingy Chihuahuas won’t panic and become anxious when separated. They will accept their temporary isolation without acting out and exhibiting signs of anxiety.
Chihuahuas with separation anxiety may exhibit the following signs when left alone or separated from their owner:
Barking, howling or whining
Scratching at doors
Shaking
House soiling
Excessive panting
Pacing or restlessness
Loss of appetite
Chewing furniture, shoes, pillows or other accessible objects
Overreacting to departures and arrivals
Do Chihuahuas Cling to a Single Person?
Most Chihuahuas cling to a single person. They don’t outright reject other people. After clinging to someone, Chihuahuas may show affection and loyalty toward other people, such as other family members who regularly play with them and pet sitters who regularly care for them. Nonetheless, Chihuahuas typically only cling to a single person.
Chihuahuas will often cling to the person on whom they imprint. Imprinting is a learning-related bonding process that begins during puppyhood. Puppies will choose a person — or another animal like their mother or a littermate if they are in the wild — who they trust to teach them new things. Puppies will imprint on this person, allowing that person to guide them through the world.
Most puppies imprint on the primary provider of food, comfort, affection and safety. In a domestic setting, this is typically the owner who spends the most time with the puppy. As adults, Chihuahuas will continue to follow the person on whom they imprint.
Some Chihuahuas may cling to multiple people, but most cling to a single person: the person on whom they imprint. They will develop a stronger bond with this person, preferring to follow this person over everyone else in the house.
Chihuahuas have earned a reputation for being clingy. After imprinting on a person with whom they are particularly close, they will follow that person around. Here are some of the most common reasons Chihuahuas are so clingy.
#1) Companion Dog Origins
The Chihuahua’s origins as a companion dog may play a role in its clinginess. There are hundreds of breeds recognized by major kennel organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC), but nearly all of them fall under one of two categories based on their purpose:
Working dog
Companion dog
Working dogs consist of breeds that were originally used to perform practical tasks on behalf of their owner or handler. Bloodhounds, for instance, were originally used for scent detection. With roughly 300 million olfactory receptors, they can track wild game, as well as people, better than other breeds.
Doberman Pinschers were originally bred for personal protection. In the late 1800s, German tax collector Louis Dobermann began crossing breeds, such as the Rottweiler and German Pinscher, to create a new, more protective breed.
Unlike Bloodhounds and Doberman Pinschers, Chihuahuas aren’t working dogs; they are companion dogs. Chihuahuas were originally used, and are still used, for companionship. Chihuahuas keep their owner company, providing unconditional love and loyalty to their human counterparts. Their companion dog origins predispose Chihuahuas to clinginess.
#2) Lapdog Behavior
Chihuahuas can become clingy by spending so much time in their owner’s lap. They are lapdogs. Chihuahuas enjoy lying in their owner’s lap, and they are small enough to do so.
Lying in their owner’s lap is a bonding experience. Chihuahuas will develop a stronger bond with their owner. Over time, this unbreakable bond may manifest in the form of clinginess. When a Chihuahua isn’t able to sit in his owner’s lap, he may follow his owner around — a behavior that’s characteristic of clinginess.
Lapdogs also tend to get in their owner’s face. They may sit on the back of the couch and snuggle against their owner’s neck, or they may lie in their owner’s bed next to his or her head. Being close to their owner’s face promotes a stronger bond. Chihuahuas and other lapdogs have stronger bonds with their owners than larger breeds, which may contribute to their clinginess.
#3) Watchdog Instinct
They may have originally been used for companionship, but Chihuahuas make excellent watchdogs. They have a natural instinct to guard their property and family members from threats. According to a survey published in “The Intelligence of Dogs,” Chihuahuas are the eighth most effective watchdog breed.
Their ability to sound the alarm for potential threats may a role in their clinginess. Chihuahuas are alert, courageous and protective. When they see an unfamiliar person or hear a strange noise, they may bark loudly to let their family members know.
Chihuahuas want to protect their family members from harm. An unfamiliar person could be a burglar trying to break into the home. A strange noise could be an electrical fire. The watchdog instinct in Chihuahuas may compel them to follow their owner, acting as a true guardian and protector.
#4) Boredom
Some Chihuahuas are clingy because they are bored. All dogs need mental and physical stimulation. It allows them to release their pent-up energy while subsequently staving off boredom and its side effects.
Chihuahuas that don’t have an outlet for their energy will become bored. When bored, they may act out by chewing on furniture, destroying pillows or simply making a mess. Other Chihuahuas may cling to their owner when bored. They don’t have anything else to do, so bored Chihuahuas may follow their owner around the house.
#5) Heat Cycle
Female Chihuahuas may become particularly clingy during their heat cycle. Unless spayed, they will typically go into heat two to three times per year. During these heat cycles, female Chihuahuas may become extra needy while demanding their owner’s attention.
Also known as an estrous cycle — not to be confused with the “estrus” stage of this cycle — a heat cycle is a reproductive cycle. Excluding humans, most female mammals have them during their fertile years.
Heat cycles consist of the following four stages:
Proestrus: The Chihuahua’s estrogen levels rise, resulting in swelling of the vulva, bleeding and behavioral changes that make the Chihuahua more receptive to males.
Estrus: Lasting about five to 10 days, this is the breeding stage. The Chihuahua’s luteinizing hormone (LH) and progesterone levels will increase, and her estrogen levels will decrease. These hormonal changes will compel her to court suitable males.
Diestrus: The Chihuahua will stop seeking courtship during the diestrus stage. If pregnant, her estrogen levels will rise. If not pregnant, the Chihuahua’s hormone levels and behavior will return to normal.
Anestrus: The final stage of a heat cycle, anestrus involves uterus involution. It will last until the Chihuahua’s next heat cycle.
Clinginess usually occurs during the proestrus stage. As the Chihuahua’s body chemistry changes, so will her behavior. She may become snappy, or she may become more affectionate. Chihuahuas that become more affectionate during the proestrus stage may cling to their owner until the estrus or diestrus stage.
#6) Injury or Illness
A Chihuahua’s clinginess may be attributed to an injury or illness. Chihuahuas seek their owner’s attention when they aren’t feeling well. It’s their way of asking for help. Chihuahuas will feel more secure near their own, and they recognize their owner as being their primary caregiver. Depending on what’s wrong with them, their owner may be able to treat the Chihuahua’s injury or illness.
If a Chihuahua is about to have a seizure, he may seek the comfort of his owner. The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) says that roughly one in 100 dogs are epileptic. Chihuahuas, however, have higher rates of epilepsy than most other breeds. During the early stages of a seizure — before the convulsions begin — Chihuahuas may follow their owner.
Chihuahuas may follow their owner if they are suffering from an injury. Maybe a Chihuahua has a torn nail, or perhaps he was stung by a bee. Chihuahuas can perform some basic self-grooming, but they rely on their owners to treat bodily injuries.
Clinginess associated with injuries or illnesses is often accompanied by other symptoms. An injured Chihuahua may limp or “favor” or a particular leg, whereas an ill Chihuahua may be lethargic or have a loss of appetite.
Failure to socialize Chihuahuas at a young age can lead to clinginess. According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Guelph, roughly one-third of new dog owners don’t properly socialize their puppies.
Socialization is the process of exposing a dog to new stimuli, such as places, scents, people and other animals. It helps to prevent behavioral problems. When properly socialized, Chihuahuas will feel comfortable in social scenarios. They will be less likely to cling to their owner and, instead, will happily interact with the people and pets around them.
Here are some tips on how to socialize a Chihuahua:
Begin socializing as soon as possible, preferably while your Chihuahua is still a puppy.
Invite friends and family over to play with your Chihuahua.
Take your Chihuahua to local dog parks.
Take your Chihuahua for walks around the neighborhood.
Take your Chihuahua for car rides.
#8) Emotional Trauma
Emotional trauma is a common cause of clinginess in Chihuahuas. Traumatic events, by definition, are scary. They are incidents that instill fear in Chihuahuas.
Some Chihuahuas are abused during puppyhood. Others are abandoned. After being adopted from an animal shelter, these Chihuahuas may become clingy. They will remember the fear of being abused or abandoned by their previous owner, which may compel them to seek comfort by clinging to their new owner.
Any fear-inducing incident can cause emotional trauma and pave the way for clinginess. A Chihuahua may experience emotional trauma after being attacked by another dog, or he may experience emotional trauma after a professional groomer accidentally cuts his nails too deep.
Traumatic events will trigger a Chihuahua’s fight-or-flight instinct. The Chihuahua will perceive the event as potentially harmful, so he will naturally fear it. He will then become afraid of similar events in the future in an effort to survive.
If the Chihuahua was previously attacked by another dog, he may fear other dogs. If the Chihuahua was abandoned by his previous owner, he may fear being alone. He may not remember the circumstances of the traumatic event, but he will associate it with the feeling of fear. And when the Chihuahua is afraid, he may cling to his owner for comfort.
#9) Old Age
Old age can cause clinginess in Chihuahuas. Small dogs are generally considered seniors at about 10 to 12 years of age, compared to 6 to 8 years of age for large dogs. As they transition from adulthood into seniorhood, their bodies will change. Some of these changes may make them more dependent on their owner.
Senior Chihuahuas may experience vision or hearing loss. They won’t be able to see or hear as well as they did in their younger years, so they’ll cling to their owner for assistance.
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) may cause clinginess in senior Chihuahuas as well. Research shows that it affects 14.2% to 22.5% of all dogs over the age of 8. Also known as canine dementia, CCD involves the age-related slowing or deterioration of cognitive function. It’s essentially the canine version of Alzheimer’s. Senior Chihuahuas with CCD may feel confused or afraid, so they’ll follow their owner.
#10) Young Age
Both old and young Chihuahuas may exhibit clinginess. It’s normal for puppies to cling to their owner. In the wild, puppies rely on their mother and littermates for survival. They stay together in a pack for food, comfort, warmth and protection from predators.
When pulled away from their mother — most puppies are separated from their mother at about 8 weeks of age — puppies will maintain their social instinct. They don’t want to be left alone. Instead, they will instinctively follow other people and animals around them.
Puppies go through three developmental stages: the neonatal stage, the transitional stage and the socialization stage. While puppies may exhibit clinginess during any of these three stages, clinginess is most common during the socialization stage. The socialization stage lasts from 3 to 12 weeks of age. Puppies in the socialization stage are eager to learn, so they’ll often cling to their owner.
#11) Stress
Stress is a common cause of clinginess in Chihuahuas. Stress is a state of mental tension. When Chihuahuas — as well as people for that matter — encounter a potential threat, their bodies will produce more stress hormones. Elevated levels of stress hormones like cortisol will change a Chihuahua’s behavior.
Stress and anxiety go hand in hand. A stressed-out Chihuahua will typically feel anxious, which may compel him to follow his owner. Owners provide a sense of comfort for their four-legged companions. By following his owner, the stressed-out Chihuahua will feel safer and more relaxed.
Loud noises can trigger stress in Chihuahuas. When they hear fireworks or construction work going on outside, Chihuahuas may seek the comfort of their owner. A change in routine can also trigger stress in Chihuahuas. Chihuahuas are creatures of habit. Abruptly changing a Chihuahua’s typical day-to-day routine can leave him feeling stressed. Regardless of what triggered his stress, he may cling to his owner for comfort.
#12) Rewards
Chihuahuas may become clingy if they are rewarded for doing so. Chihuahuas repeat behaviors for which they are rewarded. Clinginess is a behavior. If a Chihuahua gets a treat, neck scratches or praise when following his owner, he may continue to follow his owner.
Rewards are the foundation of positive reinforcement training. Owners can train their Chihuahuas to perform tasks, such as going to the bathroom outside, by rewarding them. Most owners don’t intentionally train their Chihuahuas to be clingy, but the result is the same: Chihuahuas that are rewarded for following their owner will be hard-wired to do so.
Rewards work by triggering the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine. When Chihuahuas have high levels of dopamine, they’ll feel happier and calmer.
Consistently rewarding a Chihuahua for performing a task will allow his brain to create an association between the reward and the respective task. The Chihuahua’s brain will want more dopamine, so he will willingly perform the task for which he is typically rewarded. The Chihuahua may continue to use the bathroom outside to get the reward, or he may continue to follow his owner.
#13) Curiosity
Curiosity may compel Chihuahuas to cling to their owner. Chihuahuas are curious creatures by nature. They want to know what’s going on around them, especially in their home. Rather than sitting in their crate or lying in their bed, they may follow their owner.
The curiosity of Chihuahuas can be traced back to their ancestors. From goliath-sized Bullmastiffs to tiny Chihuahuas, all dogs are descendants of wolves. Wolves had to explore their environment to survive in the wild. It allows them to find food, avoid predators and adapt to changing conditions.
Modern-day Chihuahuas no longer need to explore their surroundings to survive, but they still possess this curiosity-driven instinct as their wolf ancestors. Some Chihuahuas will explore on their own. Their social nature, though, means they are more likely to explore in their owner’s presence. A curious Chihuahua may follow his owner from room to room so that he doesn’t miss out on anything.
Other Clingy Breeds
All dogs can be clingy, but some breeds are more likely to exhibit this behavior than others. The Chihuahua is just one of many clingy breeds. What are some other clingy breeds exactly?
In addition to the Chihuahua, other clingy breeds include:
American Eskimo Dog
Bichon Frise
Boston Terrier
Brussels Griffon
Bulldog
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chinese Crested
Cocker Spaniel
Dachshund
French Bulldog
Golden Retriever
Havanese
Italian Greyhound
Japanese Chin
Labrador Retriever
Lhasa Apso
Maltese
Miniature Schnauzer
Papillon
Pekingese
Pomeranian
Pug
Shetland Sheepdog
Shih Tzu
Tibetan Spaniel
Yorkshire Terrier
Notice a pattern with the list of clingy breeds? Most of them are small. Small breeds, including the Chihuahua, are typically more social and have a stronger desire for companionship than larger breeds. This makes small breeds more likely to exhibit clinginess.
Some owners find clinginess to be annoying. They still love their Chihuahuas, but they don’t want their four-legged companions following them around all day long. Clingy Chihuahuas won’t give them any space, so owners won’t have the luxury of privacy.
Clingy Chihuahuas stay right behind their owner. When vacuuming or doing other household chores, owners will have to watch where they step. Owners who aren’t careful may accidentally step on their Chihuahua.
Whether clinginess is a problem often depends on the cause. Clinginess attributed to an injury or illness is a problem. Chihuahuas can’t treat their own injuries and illnesses, so many of them will cling to their owner for help. Owners should seek veterinary care if their Chihuahuas are injured or sick. Neglecting to take them to a veterinarian could result in their condition worsening.
Clinginess attributed to boredom is also a problem. Boredom leads to behavioral problems, such as clinginess, and it can even cause depression. Fortunately, boredom is preventable. Owners can prevent their Chihuahuas from becoming bored by providing them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Clinginess may be a sign of separation anxiety, or it may progress into separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is exactly what it sounds like: a behavioral disorder that involves anxiety-related symptoms when a Chihuahua is separated from his owner.
Chihuahuas with separation anxiety will often cling to their owner. They’ll have an unhealthy attachment to their owner — to the point of becoming anxious when they are left alone. Because of their fear of being left alone, they may follow and cling to their owner.
Even if a Chihuahua is only clingy, he may develop separation anxiety. One study found that “several factors associated with hyperattachment” were significantly associated with separation anxiety in dogs. Hyperattachment is clinginess. For the study, researchers evaluated 200 dogs with separation anxiety. They found that clinginess was a major risk factor for separation anxiety.
How to Make Your Chihuahua Less Clingy
There are several things you can do to make your Chihuahua less clingy. Giving him more exercise, for instance, may prove helpful. Lack of exercise can lead to boredom, which as previously mentioned, is a common cause of clinginess.
To curb his clinginess, take your Chihuahua on at least two walks and give him at least a half-hour of additional exercise per day. Exercise can consist of playing games like tug-of-war, fetch or hide-and-seek. Daily exercise such as this will provide your Chihuahua with physical stimulation and reduce the risk of clingy behavior.
Mental stimulation is equally important in the prevention of clinginess. It will force your Chihuahua to think. Mental stimulation will keep your Chihuahua’s mind sharp while warding off depression, stress, cognitive decline and clinginess.
Here are some ways to provide your Chihuahua with mental stimulation:
Teach your Chihuahua a new trick, such as how to sit or shake paws.
Assign names to your Chihuahua’s toys and train your Chihuahua to recognize them.
Give your Chihuahua a puzzle toy.
Create scent-based scavenger hunts.
Change up your Chihuahua’s environment via socialization.
Enroll your Chihuahua in an obedience class.
You can make your Chihuahua less clingy by socializing him. As your Chihuahua is exposed to new places, scents, people and other animals, he will become more independent. He won’t feel the need to follow you all the time. A well-socialized Chihuahua will feel comfortable being away from his owner.
While socialization is most effective during the socialization stage of a puppy’s life, it’s never too late to socialize a Chihuahua. It may require more treats, but you can socialize your Chihuahua at any age. Just take him to different places where he’s exposed to different stimuli.
Don’t make a big deal out of departures and arrivals. A common mistake owners make when dealing with a clingy Chihuahua is petting and praising them before they leave. They know their Chihuahuas will miss them, so they pamper their four-legged companions before walking out the door. And when they return home, owners may immediately pet and praise their clingy Chihuahua again.
Giving your Chihuahua a little TLC before leaving and after returning home may sound harmless, but it can encourage clinginess. Your Chihuahua will begin to think of departures and arrivals as a “big deal.” so he will follow you. Rather than giving him attention immediately before you leave and after you return, ignore him.
Another way to make your Chihuahua less clingy is to desensitize actions that trigger his clinginess. Your Chihuahua may follow you whenever you walk to the refrigerator for a snack, or he may follow you when get your shoes from the closet. Densentiziation is the process of repeating a particular action so that your Chihuahua becomes accustomed to it. If you repeatedly walk to the refrigerator or closet — and you don’t reward or otherwise give your Chihuahua attention when doing so — he may stop following you.
In Conclusion
Chihuahuas make wonderful companions, but many of them are clingy. They follow their owner wherever he or she goes. Some of the top causes of clinginess in Chihuahuas include their companion dog origins, laptop behavior, watchdog instinct, boredom, heat cycle, injury or illness, lack of socialization, emotional trauma, old age, young age, stress, rewards and curiosity.
If clinginess is a problem with your Chihuahua, you can follow the tips listed above to make him less clingy. If it’s not a problem, you can ignore this behavior. Regardless, it’s your responsibility to set boundaries for your Chihuahua.
Merle Chihuahuas are adorned for their unique appearance. Some of them have a long coat, whereas others have a smooth coat. All merle Chihuahuas, however, feature a colorful merle coat that distinguishes them from other Chihuahuas, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg regarding their characteristics. What is a merle Chihuahua exactly, and how do they differ from other, non-merle Chihuahuas?
What Is a Merle Chihuahua?
A merle Chihuahua is a Chihuahua with a coat pattern consisting of irregular patches of one or more dark colors on a light-colored base. Known as a merle or dapple pattern, it’s the result of genetics. Chihuahuas, as well as other select breeds (see below), can be born with the merle gene. Chihuahuas born with this genetic abnormality have a merle coat.
Overview of the Merle Gene
Somewhere in the canine kingdom many centuries ago, a mutation occurred that paved the way for the merle pattern. Merle allele (M) is the gene that’s responsible for the merle pattern in Chihuahuas and other breeds. It’s a mutation of the non-merle allele (m) gene.
Alleles are different versions of a given gene. Some genes come in different forms. There’s the merle allele and the non-merle allele, for instance, the former of which is responsible for the merle pattern.
The merle allele is an incompletely dominant gene, whereas the non-merle allele is a recessive gene. As an incompletely dominant gene, the merle allele doesn’t override its recessive counterpart entirely. Both genes will be partially expressed when paired together, with the merle gene being the most predominant.
Like humans, Chihuahuas are born with pairs of genes. They inherit one gene from each parent. All merle Chihuahuas have the Mm genotype. They inherit the merle gene from one parent and the recessive allele from the other parent, resulting in the Mm genotype (except in the case of double merles as explained below).
While working in Dr. Keith Murphy’s Canine Genetics Laboratory at the flagship university in 2006, a team of geneticists and students discovered the merle gene. They found that merle Shelties — the breed studied during the project — had extra DNA tacked onto their PMEL17 or “SILV” gene.
The PMEL17 gene affects pigmentation. When researching merle Shelties, the team identified a SINE insertion involving extra DNA within this pigment-defining gene. The merle Shelties, in other words, had a genetic mutation consisting of the merle gene. Merle Chihuahuas and other merle dogs exhibit this same genetic mutation.
The Breeding of Merle and Non-Merle Chihuahuas
The presence of the merle gene in a sire or dam will determine whether their offspring will be merles. Chihuahua puppies can only be born with the merle gene if at least one of their parents has the merle gene.
Non-merle x non-merle parents = the entire litter will consist of non-merle Chihuahua puppies.
Merle x non-merle parents = half of the litter on average will be merles and half will be non-merles.
Merle x merle parents = half of the litter on average will be merles, one-quarter will be non-merles and one-quarter will be double merles.
The merle gene can’t be “carried” by skipping a generation, only to appear in a later generation of puppies. Chihuahuas are either born with it or without it.
The merle gene affects the distribution of pigment within the Chihuahua’s coat. The color or colors of a Chihuahua’s coat is governed by two pigments: eumelanin and phaeomelanin. Eumelanin governs black in a Chihuahua’s coat, and phaeomelanin governs red in a Chihuahua’s coat. Even with just these two pigments, Chihuahuas can have a wide variety of coat colors.
The merle gene specifically affects the distribution of eumelanin, which controls the black color in a Chihuahua’s coat. It essentially dilutes areas of the coat that are pigmented with eumelanin, resulting in irregular patches of dark-colored fur on a light-colored base.
Merle Chihuahuas can further be classified as blue or red depending on the particular shade of their dark-colored fur. Blue merles — the most common type — have patches of black fur. Red merles, in comparison, have patches of brown or copper-colored fur. They are genetically different, but they both have the merle gene.
The Chihuahua isn’t the only breed that can be born with the merle gene. Other breeds include:
American Bully
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Shepherd
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Shepherd
Beauceron
Border Collie
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Chinese Crested
Collie (rough and smooth)
Dachshund (long-haired and wire-haired)
Dalmatian
Finnish Lapphund
Great Dane
Harlequin Pinscher
Norwegian Elkhound
Pomeranian
Pyrenean Shepherd
Rat Terrier
Schipperke
Shetland Sheepdog
Shih Tzu
Silken Windhound
Whippet
How Do Merle Chihuahuas Differ From Other Chihuahuas?
Merle Chihuahuas are easily distinguished from other Chihuahuas by their coat. They feature a unique coat pattern consisting of irregular patches or blotches of dark-colored fur, such as black or brown, on a light-colored base. Aside from their coat pattern, though, merle Chihuahuas differ from non-merles in other ways.
The merle gene can affect the color of a Chihuahua’s eyes and skin. Merle Chihuahuas are more likely to have blue eyes than non-merles. Blue eyes, of course, are common in all newborn Chihuahuas. Non-merle Chihuahuas are often born with blue eyes as well, but their eyes will begin to change to a different, permanent color within the next two to four months. Merle Chihuahuas are often born with blue eyes that don’t change color.
Some merle Chihuahuas have two blue eyes, but others only have a single blue eye. Regardless, blue eyes are a common feature of merle Chihuahuas.
Merle Chihuahuas also commonly have pink mottling on their paw pads and nose. The merle gene affects the distribution of eumelanin throughout the coat, skin and eyes, resulting in these nuances in appearance.
There are certain health problems that are more common in merle Chihuahuas, such as hearing loss. One study found that 4.6% of merle dogs were deaf, with double merles having an even greater rate of deafness. Blindness is another health problem to which merle Chihuahuas are susceptible. Merle Chihuahuas are more likely to suffer from congenital eye defects that impair their vision than non-merles.
What Is a Double Merle Chihuahua?
A double merle Chihuahua is a Chihuahua with the MM genotype. Standard merle Chihuahuas have the Mm genotype in which they inherit the merle gene from one parent and the non-merle allele from the other parent. Double merles inherit a copy of the merle gene from each parent, resulting in the MM genotype.
Double merle Chihuahuas don’t have the same characteristic coat pattern as standard merles. They typically feature smaller and fewer patches of dark-colored fur, and they feature a lighter base color than that of standard merles.
Each copy of the merle gene dilutes the eumelanin in the Chihuahua’s coat. Standard merle Chihuahuas only have a single copy of the gene, but double merles have two copies. With two copies of the merle gene, double merle Chihuahuas have lighter coats. Some double merle Chihuahuas are nearly entirely white except for a few small patches of dark-colored fur.
Double merle Chihuahuas have an even greater risk of health problems than standard merles. The aforementioned study, for example, found that 10% of double merle dogs were unilaterally deaf and 15% were bilaterally deaf.
Common health problems in merle Chihuahuas include:
Deafness
Microphthalmia (abnormally small eyes)
Blindness
Canine follicular dysplasia (hair loss)
Skin cancer
Because of the health problems with which they are associated, breeding double merles is considered unethical. It’s a universally condemned practice — and for good reason. Breeders who intentionally breed double merles expose their puppies to many severe health problems, which can be passed down to future generations. Standard merles have a slightly higher risk of health problems than non-merles, but the risk is substantially higher with double merles.
What Is a Cryptic Merle Chihuahua?
In addition to double merles, there are cryptic merle Chihuahuas. Also known as phantom merles, they have the merle gene but exhibit little or no merle pattern in their coat. Many owners assume they have a non-merle Chihuahua when they actually have a cryptic merle.
Cryptic merle Chihuahuas possess other genetic modifiers that mask the coat-lightening effects of the merle gene. They may have two copies of the recessive red allele, for instance. Chihuahuas with this genotype won’t produce any black fur. The recessive red alleles restrict their coat color to red and shades thereof.
The merle gene only affects areas of the coat that are pigmented with eumelanin. Chihuahuas with two recessive red alleles have phaeomelanin-pigmented coats; they don’t have eumelanin in their coats, so the merle gene doesn’t show up in their coats. Cryptic merle Chihuahuas still have the merle gene, and they may pink blue eyes and pink mottling on their paw pads and nose, but they don’t have the same coat pattern as standard merles.
Are Merle Chihuahuas Allowed to Compete in the Show Ring?
It’s a common misconception that merle Chihuahuas are prohibited from competing in the show ring. Many canine organizations do, in fact, view the merle gene as a fault. They prohibit owners from registering and competing their merle Chihuahuas in the show ring.
In 2007, The Kennel Club (TKC) banned the registration of merle Chihuahuas. Just a few years later, it banned the registration of all Chihuahuas that are the offspring of a merle sire or dam. Even if a Chihuahua doesn’t have a merle coat, it can’t be registered with the United Kingdom’s official canine organization if one or both of his parents are merles. Other non-U.S. canine organizations have implemented their own bans, but the American Kennel Club (AKC) allows merle Chihuahuas to compete in the show ring.
The Chihuahua Club of America (CCA), the AKC’s official parent club of the Chihuahua, voted against the TKC’s disqualification of merle Chihuahuas. The AKC has since added merle as one of the breed’s standard markings. Therefore, you can register your merle Chihuahua with the AKC, and you can compete him in the show ring. The registration requirements for merle Chihuahuas, however, are more stringent than those for non-merles.
DNA Testing Kits for Merle Chihuahuas
Think your Chihuahua might have the merle gene? You may want to order a DNA testing kit. You can’t rely on appearance alone to determine if your Chihuahua has the merle gene. There are cryptic merle Chihuahuas that look like non-merles. With a DNA testing kit, you can check your Chihuahua’s genotype to determine whether he’s a merle.
Many breeders use DNA testing kits to ensure that they don’t accidentally breed double merles. Breeding a merle sire to a merle dam may result in double merles in the litter. Rather than relying strictly on the appearance of the sire’s and dam’s coats, breeders can use a DNA testing kit. The DNA testing kit will reveal the exact genotype, such as mm, Mm or MM. If the merle gene is present in both the merle and dam, they shouldn’t be bred.
Even if you have no intentions of breeding your Chihuahua, you may still want to use a DNA testing kit. It will provide you with insight into your canine companion’s genetic makeup. You just need to swab your Chihuahua’s mouth for a DNA sample, after which you can mail it to a laboratory for analysis. The company from which you purchased the kit will provide you with a detailed report about your Chihuahua’s genotype.
Here are some of the top DNA testing kits for merles:
Embark
University of California, Davis
Paw Print Genetics
In Conclusion
Merle is a genetic pattern found in dozens of dog breeds, one of which is the Chihuahua. It’s characterized by a mottled coat with patches of dark-colored fur on a light-colored base. The merle gene affects the distribution of pigments and can result in a wide range of beautiful coat patterns, including the blue merle patter and the red merle pattern. While merle is not exclusive to Chihuahuas, it adds a distinctive charm to this already captivating breed.
As with any breed, a Chihuahua’s lifespan varies depending on a number of different factors (see below for a complete list). Some of these factors are controllable, whereas others are outside of owners’ control. Owners should familiarize themselves with these factors so they give their Chihuahua the longest, fullest life possible.
There’s no fool-proof method for predicting exactly how long they can live, but current data suggests that Chihuahuas live an average of 15 to 20 years when properly cared for by a loving owner.
Small breeds like the Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier live longer than medium-to-large breeds like the Labrador Retriever and Mastiff. Medium-to-large breeds have an average life expectancy of 10 to 13 years.
Does this mean all Chihuahuas live between 15 and 20 years? Not necessarily, but this is a good rule of thumb to follow.
Factors That Impact a Chihuahua’s Lifespan:
Diet – a Chihuahua’s diet will directly impact their lifespan. Owners should feed their furry four-legged friends a nutritious, well-balanced premium dog food with no fillers, preservatives or artificial flavors. Avoid the temptation of feeding your Chihuahua leftover dinner scraps, as this can lead to obesity, toxicosis and other health problems.
Weight – equally as influential in a Chihuahua’s lifespan is weight. Obese Chihuahuas are prone to a variety of adverse health conditions that may lower their average lifespan, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Underweight Chis may also experience a lower average lifespan due to malnutrition and a weakened immune system.
Healthcare – it should come as no surprise that healthcare plays a role in a Chihuahua’s lifespan as well. Taking them to the veterinarian for routine checkups will promote a long, healthy life by diagnosing illnesses early, before they progress to life-threatening ailments. Most veterinarians recommend taking adult Chihuahuas between the ages of 7 and 10 for a wellness check once a year. If you have senior Chihuahua over the age of 10, however, you should take them for a wellness check twice a year.
Genetics – “good genes” can lengthen a Chihuahua’s lifespan, which is why it’s important to pay close attention to a pup’s parents if you’re looking to adopt. If the parents are healthy, energetic and happy, their pups are more likely to live a long and healthy life.
Spaying/neutering – Chihuahuas that are spayed and neutered tend to live longer than those that aren’t fixed. Neutering a male Chi before the age of year will decrease their risk of developing testicular and prostate cancers, and fixing female Chis before their first heat cycle can reduce their risk of developing uterine and ovarian cancers. Of course, there are other health benefits associated with spaying and neutering a Chihuahua, such as lowered aggression levels, reduced risk of running away, and fewer pups ending up in the pound.
Vaccinations – Chihuahuas require vaccinations and follow-up booster shots to protect against potentially life-threatening diseases like the parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough), canine influenza, distemper and rabies.
Oral Care – like most small breeds, Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems like tooth decay, tooth toss and gum disease. Some studies suggest that as many as 9 out of 10 Chihuahuas will experience dental problems. Allowing your Chihuahua to suffer from poor oral health can reduce their lifespan. Bacteria enters the bloodstream through bleeding gums (caused by gingivitis) and goes straight to the heart and kidneys.
Gender – statistically speaking, females live longer than their male counterparts. The exact cause of this longer average lifespan is unknown, but studies suggest female Chihuahuas live 1 to 2 years longer than males.
Activity Levels – keeping your Chihuahua active is crucial to promoting a long, healthy life. Whether it’s playing fetch, tug-of-war (with a toy, of course), or going for a walk around the neighborhood, give your Chi plenty of daily exercise. Doing so will burn excess fat, build muscle, strengthen their immune system and ward off illness, which can increase their average lifespan.
The World’s Oldest Chihuahua
The world’s oldest Chihuahua on record (keyword being on record) is Megabyte, who passed away on January 1, 2014, at the age of 20 years and 265 days. Other than the occasional news article and blog posts, details are scarce about Megabyte’s life; however, we know this full-bred Chihuahua lived 20 full years before passing away on New Year’s Day, 2014.
There have been several reports of Chihuahuas living to 20, 21 and even 22 years of age. These reports were never verified, and thus Megabyte retains his title as the world’s oldest Chihuahua.
Chihuahua Age In Human Years and Dog Years
Age In Human Years
Age In Dog Years
1
15
2
21
3
25
4
29
5
33
6
37
7
41
8
45
9
49
10
53
11
57
12
61
13
65
14
69
15
73
16
77
17
81
18
85
19
89
20
93
21
97
22
101
23
105
24
109
25
113
*This chart can be used for all dogs under 20 pounds.
Chihuahua shirts are undoubtedly popular. They come in countless different styles and designs with practically any graphic, phrase or logo you can think of. Whether you want to go with a basic shirt featuring a single color or a more detailed one with rhinestones or some other flashy design is up to you. Just remember to choose a shirt that’s designed to fit your Chihuahua’s size body. Just like our shirts come in different sizes, so do Chihuahuas, and it’s important to only choose a shirt that fits them properly.
*As an Amazon Associate, Chihuahua Wardrobe earns from qualifying purchases.
How To Choose a Chihuahua Shirt
If this is your first time shopping for a Chihuahua shirt, it’s easy to feel lost and confused. After all, most of us have trouble buying shirts for ourselves, so trying to buy one for a Chihuahua is going to be equally if not more difficult. You have to not only make sure it fit rights, but that it also looks cute enough so that you’ll actually dress them up in it. Far too many owners purchase shirts and other clothes for their Chihuahuas and then later realize they don’t look good on them. The fact is that you probably won’t dress them up in a shirt if it doesn’t look good on them.
Before you even think about what style of shirt your Chihuahua will look good in, you should narrow your selection down to comfortable choices. Even small imperfections such as stitches or seams that protrude out can cause a lot of discomfort when worn by a Chihuahua. If you’re purchasing a shirt in person, take a minute to feel the material and determine whether or not it will be comfortable. 100% cotton shirts and cotton wool blends are generally the most comfortable materials around. However, polyester shirts with a soft interior lining can also prove to be quite comfortable.
Does It Fit?
Chihuahuas can range in size from as small as 2 pounds or as heavy as 10 or more. Although the (American Kennel Club) AKC standards state that Chihuahuas must weigh less than 6 pounds, the fact is that many of them are much heavier; therefore, some shirts may not fit them as well. Unless you want them to look like a clothes hanger, you must choose a shirt that fits them properly.
So, how do you know whether or not a shirt will fit your Chihuahua without dressing them up in it beforehand? The truth is that sometimes it’s easier, while other times it’s more difficult. Read the description of any shirt you’re considering purchasing for your Chihuahua to see if the manufacturer has size specifications listed. Depending on who manufactured the shirt, they may include sizing information for it. For instance, some of the smaller shirts may be designed to fit Chihuahuas weighing up to 2 pounds, while other shirts may fit Chihuahuas weighing 4-6 pounds. Of course there are also shirts that are “one size fits all.” These shirts are usually made with a soft, flexible cotton that has some give in it. Remember, though, there’s no such thing as a TRUE one size fits all shirt, so don’t be fooled by this labeling.
Popular Types of Chihuahua Shirts
If you’re still having trouble finding a shirt for your Chihuahua, you should consider some of the following types of shirts:
Graphic t-shirts with cute sayings or phrases on them.
Shirts with rhinestones or other small accents.
Plain striped cotton shirts.
Pink shirts featuring ruffles or frayed ends.
Hopefully the suggestions listed above will spark some ideas in your mind on what shirt you should choose for your Chihuahua. Remember, ideally, you want a shirt that’s going to express your Chihuahua’s personality. If they’re a feisty little ankle-biter, a shirt with a skull and crossbones will fit their personality perfectly. On the other hand, a cute pink shirt will likely fit a pampered female Chihuahua the best.
Chihuahua Shirt Care and Maintenance
Caring and maintaining Chihuahua shirts is a bit different than traditional people’s clothes. If you intend on making them last for several years, you should familiarize yourself with the proper methods for caring for your Chihuahua’s shirts. Only then will you be able to make them look as pristine as they did when you first bought them.
Unlike most of our clothes, Chihuahua shirts don’t need to be washed immediately after wearing them. In fact, washing them too much may actually damage some of the shirts out there by unraveling loose thread. Depending on the activity levels of your Chihuahua and where the environment where they play, you can usually get by with washing it once every 10 wears. When you’re ready to wash it, place it in the washing machine along with any other Chihuahua clothes that are dirty and run it with warm water and a bit of detergent.
Some Chihuahua shirts have specific washing instructions printed inside the label. Before placing any shirts in the washing machine, check to see if there’s a label inside the collar, as this will tell you what the best and safest method for washing is.
“The Intelligence of Dogs” author Stanley Coren. Photograph by CaptainPsychology, distributed under a 3.0 CC license.
A photo of a Border Collie and Afghan Hound, which rank as the most and least intelligent breed, respectively.
