In this article, we will answer the following question: Are Chihuahuas good apartment dogs? We will talk about the advantages and disadvantages of having a Chihuahua dog, and help you decide whether this is a breed fit for you or not.
Are Chihuahuas good apartment dogs?
The Chihuahua is the ideal dog for apartment living. One of the biggest advantages of having a Chihuahua is that, due to their small size, they don’t need as much outdoor exercise as large dogs. They usually get enough exercise inside the house or by running in a small yard. They are excellent apartment dogs or similar in size.
Besides, the very good news is that Chihuahuas can be trained to use indoor litter.
This is one of the biggest advantages of having a Chihuahua, although it shouldn’t be used as an excuse not to take it for a walk. Because, like other dogs, Chihuahuas need to exercise outdoors.
These little angels make traveling with a pet as easy as possible. Your chihuahua will be comfortably seated in your purse and will adapt easily and just about anywhere. Because unlike other bulky dogs, chihuahuas are never bothered by tight spaces, on the contrary! Because, by nature, they like to be in small, comfortable spaces. In addition, their ideal small size will allow you to take them everywhere!
Having a Chihuahua as a companion
The Chihuahua is a dynamic, intelligent dog with a strong character. Despite its small size, the Chihuahua is courageous and fearless. He does not fear dogs larger than him and does not hesitate to confront them. He is also very suspicious of strangers. When intruders approach the house, it tries to frighten them by emitting high barks, which make it a good “alarm” dog.
The Chihuahua is not very patient with children. He can tend to bite those who handle him with little regard because he is aware that these intentions represent a danger for him (a fall can be fatal).
The Chihuahua is independent but very attached to its master. However, mothering him too much would be a mistake that could make him very capricious, even unbearable. It is important to remember that Chihuahua’s temperament is genetic, but it also depends on its education. It makes a good family companion when properly educated and treated with respect (and not like a cuddly toy or a child).
Quick-witted, he learns quickly and is good at obedience and agility competitions. Although considered a salon dog, they are active and prefer to be busy. He manages to exercise enough indoors, but will certainly not refuse a little stroll in the great outdoors.
Is Chihuahua right for you?
Chihuahua dogs can live perfectly in an apartment or a house. It does not require large spaces. The city also suits him very well.
The Chihuahua is suitable for families with children old enough to treat a dog with respect. It is strongly recommended not to give a Chihuahua to a young child. It could hurt him by squeezing him too tight or worse, by dropping him, which could be fatal. However, Chihuahuas are very suitable for the elderly.
Chihuahuas do not need a lot of exercise; they can spend their energy amply indoors. However, it should not be kept constantly in his arms or in a bag, because he loves walks and needs them.
The temperament of the Chihuahua depends above all on its education. If his owner constantly holds him in his arms, the mother too much does not impose any limits on him and accepts all his whims, it is normal for the Chihuahua to develop a dominant character. Firm and early education and socialization are necessary to make the Chihuahua a pleasant pet.
The Chihuahua is one of the slowest breeds to potty train. Be vigilant on this side.
Chihuahua grooming
The Chihuahua is an easy-care dog. The long-haired Chihuahua needs 2 brushings per week to remove dead hair and knots, while the short-haired one requires an occasional brushing.
Chihuahua shedding and hair loss is moderate. A bath every 2 to 3 months is recommended. Chihuahua’s teeth tend to scale up. As a preventive measure, brush them with dog toothpaste and proceed with descaling when necessary. The eyes should be cleaned regularly, with a specific product.
Chihuahua diet
The Chihuahua is prone to tartar. So prefer kibble, because they will have a brushing effect on his teeth. Its daily ration in adulthood is around 50 grams of dry food *.
The Chihuahua has an irregular feeding behavior: he can be greedy for 3 days then ignore his bowl the following days. He is also sometimes “choosy”: he will eat only if he finds that his food smells good and is even ready to sort his kibble. It is best to leave an adult Chihuahua’s bowl at all times so that he can choose for himself when he wants to eat.
At a young age, the Chihuahua must eat in small quantities, but regularly to avoid hypoglycemia attacks. Care must be taken to give him a suitable and balanced diet, as he has a tendency to be overweight. You should avoid sweets.
* The amount and type of food the Chihuahua feeds depend on its weight, age, and state of health.
Advantages of having a Chihuahua
- So well educated loving and endearing companion dog
- Intelligent, learns quickly, and is easy to train
- Needs very little exercise
- Requires little space, can live in an apartment very well
Disadvantages of having a Chihuahua
- Can be aggressive towards other animals, strangers and children if poorly socialized and poorly educated
- Can’t stand the cold
- Slow toilet training
- Fragile must be handled with care
- Barker.
The temperament of a Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is considered a companion dog. So there is no work to do in itself. The fact that it is small puts it at a disadvantage and it is easy prey for hunting animals/birds. It is said that if the breed has been able to survive all these years, it is because its structure has allowed it.
The Chihuahua is built so that he can run without too much effort and without getting tired, thanks to the efficient movement of the shoulders and gluteal muscles. This allows him to escape dangers easily. They are very alert, much like the terrier-type hunting dog breeds.
They tend to have a somewhat guardian temperament and to alert their humans when an abnormal situation arises. These dogs can then bark in these situations, which is quite normal given their instincts.
This leads me to tell you about their skills! Yes yes, they are not just cute little dogs! They are not considered working dogs but they have a lot of potential in dog sports (agility, odor detection, canine fitness, etc.).
Many people underestimate their ability to cooperate and move and yet, depending on their nature and structure, they are capable of doing almost anything. They are dynamic and lively little dogs who love to please their owners since they are very attached to them. They are very easy to motivate with food and toys, which helps a lot in training.
Is a Chihuahua a good family dog?
Contrary to popular belief, the Chihuahua is not a purse dog that just barks, bites, and does nothing except bask on its owner’s thighs.
Although he loves to lounge on his master’s thighs, he will be much happier if he is also encouraged to move and get the best of him. If given the chance, he will accomplish great things! Don’t underestimate the benefits of exercise and mental work in dogs, regardless of breed!
The Chihuahua is not for everyone and not everyone is for this small breed. When thinking about adopting this dog, make sure that his personality and lifestyle suit ours. They have strengths and weaknesses like all races. Adopting a dog is a lifelong commitment.
Certain factors such as barking in the event of an alert or that he is not an independent dog might not be suitable for everyone and it is important to take this into account. On the other hand, for people who live well with this reality, they will find a versatile and perfect companion to do activities as much as to stick in front of the television at night.
You should also know that for a family with young children, you have to be very careful because, given their small size, they are relatively fragile at the level of the joints and the skull (fontanel). Veterinary costs can quickly add up in the event of an accident.
Often, families with young children or people living in an apartment decide to opt for a Chihuahua because of their size. However, his keen, alert instincts, dependency, and energy level make him an active dog that needs to be taken care of. If you are looking for a calm dog that can easily live in an apartment, the Greyhound might be (surprisingly) a better choice!
Final thoughts
Chihuahuas are good apartment dogs, ideal in fact. They do not need too much space and are satisfied with all the care and love you can give them. Due to the fact that they are so small in size, many people prefer to adopt a Chihuahua. However, please keep in mind that a Chihuahua is not a toy, but a dog: it still needs exercise and to go out in order to maintain its health and general well-being.
In conclusion, regardless of the choice of dog breed, it is very important to learn about the pros and cons in order to make a responsible adoption.
If you have any questions or comments on the content, please let us know!
FAQ on Are Chihuahuas good apartment dogs?
Which dog is best for apartment living?
The best dogs for apartment living are considered the Yorkshire Terriers, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Greyhound, and Basenji dogs.
Are Chihuahuas needy dogs?
Chihuahuas are indeed needy dogs. They enjoy being petted, groomed and being taken care of 24/7 if possible. Additionally, they are very protective of their owner and their territory and can easily attack.
What breed dog barks the least?
The breeds of dogs that bark the last are the Basenjis, the Pugs, the Great Dane, Greyhound, and Newfoundland dogs.
Should Chihuahuas sleep with you?
Chihuahuas can sleep with you as long as they are healthy and parasite free. However, keep in mind that they have a very small size and you shouldn’t sleep with them if you are afraid an accident may happen during the night.
References
Ilovemychi.com
Chipets.com
Pets.webmd.com
