Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds that can be found and are classified as toy dogs. Male dogs are about 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) tall while female dogs are about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall. Both males and females weigh from 2 to 6 pounds (1-3 kg). Their coats are smooth and short or long and somewhat fluffy. Dogs with each of these coat types may even appear in the same litter. Their coats come in a variety of colors and many color combinations also appear. Chihuahuas have small apple shaped heads with short pointed noses. They also have very large pointed ears that have become their trademark
 

Be careful with Chihuahuas around children as they may snap at children who try to pick them up, tease them or bother them in any way. This breed relies on its sharp teeth as a defense mechanism and may cause injury to people who are bitten. Chihuahuas are not good pets for families with small children in the household.

Regular daily walks are a good way for these dogs to get their needed exercise even though one may be tempted to carry these dogs around since they are so small and cute. Body harnesses are safer for the dogs than a simple collar and leash. It is recommended that owners feed these dogs small amounts of food twice a day. Grooming is minimal for this breed. Shorthaired dogs should be brushed weekly or cleaned with a damp cloth. Longhaired dogs should be brushed daily with a soft bristled brush. Each variety should be bathed once every month to six weeks. Owners should exercise great care to avoid getting water in the dog’s ears. Regular nail clippings are a good idea as well

Chihuahuas are basically pretty healthy as a breed but some may suffer from eye problems, heart disease, collapsed trachea, or dislocated kneecaps. They are very sensitive to cold weather and may enjoy the protection of a small sweater on cool days. Since their noses are short, Chihuahuas have a tendency to snore and wheeze at times. Puppies are very vulnerable to fractures and accidents because they are so small and fragile. In general most Chihuahuas can live up to 15 years or longer.

These dogs are natives of Mexico, where they were discovered roughly 100 years ago. Little is known about their prior existence. Their name comes from the Mexican state of Chihuahua and is believed to have been sacred to Pre-Columbian Indian nations. The most famous Chihuahua dog is most likely the Taco Bell dog that became famous by appearing in the restaurant's advertising campaign in the late 1990s