Protecting customers with insurance since 2001

Protecting customers with insurance since 2001

Chihuahua insurance and breed information

A tiny dog with a big personality – the Chihuahua is bright, loving and loyal.

Image of Chihuahua walking on grass.Image of Chihuahua walking on grass.Image of Chihuahua walking on grass.

At a glance

Up to 1 hour of exercise a day

Life expectancy of 12+ years

Small, between 2kg and 3kg

Playful, loyal, alert

Silhouette of a Chihuahua dog showing they can be between 12 and 21cm tall

Up to 1 hour of exercise a day

Life expectancy of 12+ years

Small, between 2kg and 3kg

Playful, loyal, alert

Silhouette of a Chihuahua dog showing they can be between 12 and 21cm tall

The Chihuahua is a loyal breed that suits a low-key lifestyle

As one of the oldest breeds of the Americas, Chihuahuas date back hundreds of years. They’re small enough to be picked up with one hand, but they’ll certainly let you know of their presence! Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal but enjoy their own space. Expect a confident, larger-than-life attitude from this little dog.

Buying or rehoming a Chihuahua

Small dog, big personality. You can buy Chihuahua’s from reputable breeders or adopt an older dog from a rescue. Bringing home your Chihuahua, regardless of its age or history, is a big commitment. Get ready for the big day by considering the following:

  • Make sure your dog has a safe environment and somewhere warm to sleep. Chihuahuas are prone to getting cold
  • Talk to everyone at home. Whether you’re getting a puppy or adult rescue, these dogs are small and fragile. Make sure everyone knows to handle them with care and give them space to adjust
  • Secure your garden, a tiny Chihuahua could be easy to lose
  • Figure out what to feed them and buy some food. Get some treats too for positive reinforcement
  • Buy your essentials, including a collar, ID tag, lead and dog bowls
  • Look up their exercise needs and plan their socialisation. This is important for Chihuahuas in preventing any fear aggression
  • Learn about separation anxiety and what to look out for
  • Make sure you understand their grooming needs. Chihuahuas need regular brushing, nail trimming and dental checks
  • Have a look at pet insurance options for your delicate new addition

Fun fact

Chihuahuas are known to be a national symbol of Mexico.

Top 5 health conditions in Chihuahuas

We’ve put together the most common claimed for conditions for Chihuahuas. Data is based on MORE THAN pet insurance customer claims.

Condition
Number of claims
Average paid out
64
£1,602.69
50
£2,122.35
50
£763.75
38
£542.73
38
£870.29
Condition
Number of claims
64
Average paid out
£1,602.69
Condition
50
Average paid out
£2,122.35
Condition
50
Average paid out
£763.75
Condition
38
Average paid out
£542.73
Condition
38
Average paid out
£870.29
Based on MORE THAN data 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2023. Average cost paid out includes excess.

Common health issues and problems in Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are overall considered a healthy breed, with a usual lifespan of over 10 years.

Some health conditions in Chihuahuas can be down to their genetic history. Others may be down to shared traits within the breed.

Click on the hotspots to learn about the most common health issues for Chihuahuas. Information is provided by our in-house vet team (October 2022).

Chihuahua illustration,
Patellar luxation
Heart problems
Dental issues
Hydrocephalus
Luke Mallion, our in house vet, seated.
A green Quote, speech mark.
"As Chihuahuas are such small dogs, take extra care when out walking. They can easily become over-exerted and need carrying. Short, slow walks are a good idea for Chihuahuas."
Luke Mangion, MORE THAN Vet

Are you looking for insurance for your Chihuahua?

Chihuahua lying on blanket
Chihuahua running on grass
Chihuahua walking in grass
Chihuahua lying on blanket
Chihuahua running on grass
Chihuahua lying on blanket
Chihuahua running on grass
Chihuahua walking in grass

Ready to insure your Chihuahua?