Chihuahua Long Coat

The Chihuahua (Long Coat) is a small companion dog with a bold personality that far outweighs its size. Originating from Mexico, this breed is one of the smallest pedigree dogs in the world, yet is known for being confident, alert, and deeply devoted to its owner.

Long-coat Chihuahuas share the same temperament as the smooth-coat variety, with the addition of a soft, flowing coat. They are popular as companion dogs but require careful handling, early socialisation, and owners who understand small-breed behaviour rather than treating them as accessories.

Physical Appearance

The Chihuahua (Long Coat) is a very small, lightly built dog with a graceful outline and expressive features. Despite their size, they are not delicate when bred correctly.

Key physical characteristics include:

• A compact, well-balanced body

• A long, soft coat that may be flat or slightly wavy

• Large, round eyes with an alert expression

• Large, upright ears

• A moderately long tail, often carried over the back
  

Chihuahuas may have either an apple-shaped head (breed standard) or a deer-type head.

How big do Chihuahua (Long Coat) dogs get?

• Height: Males & females: 15-23 cm

• Weight: Males & females: up to 2.7 kg

Character Traits

The Chihuahua (Long Coat) is alert, loyal, and intelligent. They tend to form extremely strong bonds with one person and may be reserved or wary with others.

They are best described as:

• Confident and spirited

• Affectionate with their owner

• Watchful and vocal
  
  

Common personality traits

• Intelligence: High

• Affection: Very affectionate with owners

• Energy level: Moderate

• Loyalty: Strong

• Playfulness: Moderate

• Aggression: Not aggressive, but can be reactive

• Trainability: Moderate

• Guarding ability: High alertness for size

Ability to Socialise

Long-coat Chihuahuas require early and consistent socialisation to prevent fearfulness or excessive barking.

• With other dogs: Good with early socialisation

• With children: Best with older, gentle children

• With cats and other pets: Usually fine when raised together

• With strangers: Often reserved or vocal
  

They are not well-suited to rough handling or unpredictable environments.

Lifestyle Suitability

The Chihuahua (Long Coat) suits owners looking for a close companion rather than a highly active dog. Despite their size, they benefit from regular walks and mental stimulation.

They are best suited to:

• Adults or quiet households

• Owners who enjoy close companionship

• Homes where the dog is not left alone for long periods
  
  

Lifestyle considerations

• First-time owners: Yes

• Apartment living: Very suitable

• Left alone: Short periods only

• Noise sensitivity: High

• Barking: Moderate to high

• Drooling: Very low

• Heat tolerance: Good

• Cold tolerance: Low – may need coats
  

General Health & Health Issues

Chihuahua (Long Coat) dogs have an average lifespan of 14-17 years, making them one of the longer-lived pedigree breeds. However, their small size does come with specific health considerations.

Known health concerns

• Patellar luxation - Common in small breeds

• Dental disease - Requires regular care

• Heart disease - Particularly mitral valve disease

• Hypoglycaemia -Especially in puppies

• Tracheal collapse - Possible
  

Responsible breeders focus on health, structure, and temperament.

Exercise & Play Time

Long-coat Chihuahuas have modest exercise needs but still benefit from daily activity.

Ideal activities include:

• Short daily walks

• Indoor play

• Training games
  

Daily exercise requirement: 30–60 minutes

Nutrition & Feeding

Due to their size, Chihuahuas need nutrient-dense food in small portions.

Feeding guidelines (approximate)

• Adults: 40-70 g per day

• Puppies: Small, frequent meals to prevent low blood sugar
  

Weight should be monitored carefully.

Care & Maintenance

Grooming

The long coat requires regular but manageable grooming:

• Brushing 2-3 times per week

• Occasional trimming

• Regular dental care
  
  

Emotional Care

Chihuahuas form strong attachments and can develop separation anxiety if left alone too often. Calm, consistent routines help them feel secure.

History of the Chihuahua (Long Coat)

The Chihuahua originates from Mexico and is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. The breed has ancient roots and was later refined into both smooth and long-coat varieties.

The long-coat variety is believed to have been developed through selective breeding rather than being a separate origin.

Interesting Facts About Chihuahua (Long Coat) Dogs

• One of the smallest dog breeds in the world

• Long-coat variety is often calmer than smooth-coat

• Can live well into their late teens

• Highly bonded to their owners
  

Getting a Chihuahua (Long Coat) Puppy

Due to popularity, it’s important to choose a responsible breeder and avoid puppy farms or “teacup” marketing.

Before buying:

• Meet the puppy and its mother

• Avoid exaggeratedly tiny puppies

• Confirm health checks
  
  

Typical costs

• Purchase price: £800 - £2,000

• Monthly food: ~£25

Rescue is also an option through small-breed rescue organisations.