The Chihuahua is a very intelligent and long lived dog (up to 19 years). He is small and playful with a big heart (terrier-like qualities). He is a fast learner with a keen memory and will quickly understand what you expect of him; although he can be stubborn when he thinks you are not being fair. The Chihuahua is noted for its devotion to its master, he is intensely loyal and affectionate -- a good 'watch dog' and will warn you in case of any emergency. With his big ears he hears everything. You can take him anywhere you go and he will be pleased as long as he is with you.

Most Chihuahuas do not do well around small children. Many people mistakenly will tell you that Chihuahuas do not like children. That is not true. However, he seems to understand that he is fragile and easily hurt. A fall, even from the arms of a young child could be fatal. It is not that a Chihuahua hates children, but they are very wary of them. You should never leave him alone with young children. Small children are fast moving and unpredictable in their actions and this makes the Chihuahua nervous (they are after all 'high strung' animals); they will without warning snap at children when they think they need to defend themselves. 

A Chihuahua is sufficiently independent to stay home alone, although because they are so devoted and attached to their owners they are stressed when alone for even short periods -- much more so than many other dog breeds. Dogs by nature are social creatures. When left alone and separated from the rest of the pack they feel abandoned and lost. Owners who are away much of the day should consider having two Chihuahuas so they will be able to keep each other company.

The Chihuahua hates being cold, so he loves to hide under a blanket or towel, even in the summer -- Chihuahua owners learn to look under blankets or quilts before sitting down. Sitting in a sun beam is their most favorite pastime, second to sitting on their master's lap

Grooming:

I like to think of my short-hair Chihuahuas as ‘wash & wear’. Their maintenance is minimal. The Chihuahua should be groomed with a soft brush 2 to 3 times a week. A rub down with a velvet glove or wash cloth will make the coat gleam. Nails must be regularly clipped and the ears kept clean.

Feeding:

The daily requirements of a very small Chihuahua should be 2 – 3 oz (57 – 85 g) of a high quality pet food, with a few treats through the day. Chihuahuas fare better on two or three small meals rather than one large daily meal, due to their tendency for low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia). Bigger Chihuahuas can manage up to 1/2 can (13.3 oz 376 g size) of dog food and a few dog biscuits. Always provide an ample supply of fresh water for your Chihuahua.

Caution:

A Chihuahua has very frame with bones that are equally small. They cannot take 'roughhousing' and care must be taken not to accidentally step, or sit, on a Chihuahua as death could result. Stepping on small feet with hard-soled shoes would crush its foot. A fall from your arms, or a bed, could damage its knees, or worse, break its back. Accidentally kicking it could cripple it for life. They have high energy needs but have small livers and sugar reserves. Long periods without food could send a Chihuahua into a hypoglycemic coma, and possible death.

DO NOT buy a Chihuahua unless you understand these risks and are prepared to "play and love” with caution.