Introduction
The little Chihuahua dog has a big personality. The Chihuahua, which stands as a small toy dog not more than six pounds, is an elegant, well-balanced dog. A national symbol of Mexico, these playful and comical “purse dogs” are among the oldest breeds in the Americas, with ancestry dating back to the pre-Columbian ancient civilizations. This breed is among the oldest dog breeds. The Chihuahua is a devoted dog that frequently develops close relationships with its owner. Although they are too small to play rough with children and require extra attention in the winter, they can adapt well if they spend a lot of time in their favorite lap of their owners. Their distinct characters and devoted personalities make them a popular breed among dog lovers.
Why Choose a Chihuahua?
Chihuahuas can be your greatest option if you’re seeking a pet that’s easy to love and care for! They are affordable and require little maintenance in addition to being devoted and entertaining. Feeding them food produced with natural components, such as Pet food, and small breed recipes, helps keep them healthy, reducing the need for veterinary appointments and extending their lifespan. These little dogs are humorous, lively, expressive, and devoted. They lick everything in sight, dance on their hind legs, wave their paws, and burrow beneath blankets. You can consider the following factors if you think about getting a Chihuahua:
Small and Mighty
Chihuahuas are the ideal tiny dog for dog enthusiasts. These are tiny toy breeds that are extremely energetic.
Long Lifespans
Although smaller dog breeds generally have longer lifespans than larger ones, chihuahuas have exceptionally long lifespans, averaging between 13 to 15 years.
Loyal
Chihuahuas like spending quality time with their owners whether they are curled up on your lap during downtime or accompanying you on a ride through the town.
Portable
Chihuahuas, who fall firmly into the toy dog category and weigh a powerful 3.3 to 6.5 pounds, are incredibly portable!
Ready to learn
You can have a fantastic companion dog if you provide them with the right learning environments as they are eager to learn with their high energy levels.
Relatively Low Maintenance
Because of their small size, chihuahuas require less frequent bathing and don’t need rigorous exercise.
Great Guard Dogs
Chihuahuas are excellent guard dogs because they are energetic and devoted.
Ideal for Warm Climates
They won’t feel uncomfortable in the regular heat and humidity of India. Anywhere in India where you live, you can get a Chihuahua puppy.
Factors Affecting Chihuahua Dog Price in India
Although chihuahuas are little dogs, this does not always mean they have cheap costs. You must pay for the puppy’s annual expenses, including food and training, and the initial ownership cost. It’s important for anyone thinking about getting a dog to consider the costs involved in adding a new pet to the family. Several variables can affect a Chihuahua’s cost. A Chihuahua’s bloodline is typically the most important aspect in determining its cost. Let’s examine the various other factors that affect the price to give you an idea of what budget you should have when trying to adopt one of these adorable little pups.
Bloodline Standard and Pedigree:
In India, a chihuahua puppy costs between INR 10,000 and INR 25,000. Normal Quality: INR 10,000 and INR 25,000. Champion Line/Show Quality: INR 20,000 to INR 35,000. Prices for purebred or champion bloodline chihuahuas are higher when compared with mixed breeds. Mixed-breed Chihuahuas could be less expensive because of their less predictable traits.
Normal Quality: 10,000 to 25,000 Indian Rupees
Show Quality: 20,000 to 35,000 Indian Rupee
Breeder Reputation and Location:
Geographical location is important since high demand for Chihuahuas can lead to higher costs; conversely, low demand can result in more moderate rates. The cost of a Chihuahua can also be significantly influenced by the breeder’s reputation and location. Due to the high standard of care, socialization, and genetic testing that they give, reputable breeders who place a high priority on the health and welfare of their dogs frequently charge more for their puppies.
Price Ranges:
According Breeder Reputation: Between INR 25,000 and INR 35,000
According Location: Between INR 10,000 and INR 25,000
Coat Colour and Pattern:
There are two types of coats for Chihuahuas: short-haired smooth coats and lengthy coats. The price of Chihuahua can rise sharply for rare coat colors or patterns. Chihuahuas with uncommon coat colors, such as Brindle or Merle, can cost more than those with more common ones, like black or solid brown. In India, a chihuahua puppy costs between INR 10,000 and INR 50,000. These come in a variety of coat types and colors, including tan, black, white, spotted, merle, etc. Snow White is rare and is on the most expensive side of them all.
Size and Weight:
Chihuahuas are renowned for having a charming personality in a tiny size and for being adorable and spunky. Less than 4 pounds in weight, Teacup Chihuahuas are frequently more costly than regular Chihuahuas. Standard Chihuahuas are more likely to be less expensive because of their more consistent weight and size.
Ongoing Expenses:
It’s critical to consider the other continuing costs like supplies, training, food, and grooming. Because they are smaller than other breeds, chihuahuas eat less food. The entire cost should include grooming requirements like bathing, combing, and nail cutting. The first year of veterinary treatment for a Chihuahua usually costs somewhere between INR 400 and INR 1000. This mostly depends on whether spaying or neutering is necessary and the puppy’s vaccination history.
Health Considerations:
When buying or adopting a Chihuahua puppy, there are many health issues to consider. Health issues, whether small or big, can set you back anywhere from INR 400 to INR 30000. You will have to pay anywhere from INR 500 to INR 1000 for routine examinations. The associated medical expenses of having a pet dog should be carefully considered before bringing any home. Like any breed, chihuahuas need regular veterinary care, which includes vaccinations, examinations, and preventative medications. If they are prone to specific health problems, they may also require continuous care and additional costs.
Breed Quality and Lineage
There is no doubt that the Chihuahua is one of the oldest breeds of dogs in North America, going back to pre-Columbian times in the ancient kingdoms of pre-Columbian times. It is a balanced, graceful terrier-like dog that weighs no more than 6 pounds, with an attentive and fun demeanor. The price varies according to quality. The price ranges for Normal Quality and Show Quality are INR 10,000 to INR 25,000 and INR 20,000 to INR 35,000, respectively.
There are two types of Chihuahuas:
The Smooth Coat: features a soft, glossy coat placed well over the body.
The Long Coat: features a flat or sometimes slightly curly coat and a long, full tail.
Chihuahuas are characterized as sassy, confident, and spunky. These small dogs are brave and may not realize how small they are, so they will confront bigger dogs without fear. As daring and spirited companions of ancient cultures, they have an innate boldness. These small dogs are courageous and might not be aware of their small size, therefore they will bravely approach larger canines. Their ancestors were also fearless companions, which accounts for their bold temperament.
The Average Lifespan of a Chihuahua
Some chihuahuas have been reported to live longer than the typical lifespan of 12 to 14 years. A Chihuahua who lived for 20 years, and 265 days is one of the longest-lived dogs ever reported. So why do some Chihuahuas live significantly longer than others? Like every living thing, longevity is influenced by a variety of circumstances.
Owners need to understand what impacts a Chihuahua’s lifespan so they can provide the best care for them. For the long and healthy life of your Chihuahua, always keep in mind these factors; Genetics, food, exercise, and general health can affect the lifespan of a Chihuahua. You can make your Chihuahua live longer and happier by providing them with a healthy diet, lots of exercise, veterinary treatment, and a loving home.
Coat Type and Color
Although Chihuahuas are a well-known breed of dog, many people are unaware that there are multiple varieties of this species. There are two recognized breeds of purebred Chihuahua dogs according to international breed standards: long-haired and short-haired. Breeders use coat length to differentiate between the two. These two groupings do, however, contain a variety of variations. There are sub-varieties within these two to pick from when searching for a Chihuahua puppy.
Short-haired Chihuahua
Because of their distinctive short-but-smooth coat, Chihuahuas with short coats are sometimes known as smooth-coat Chihuahuas.
Long-haired Chihuahua
As their name implies, these have longer hair, but they also come in a variety of colors, sizes, and head shapes.
Deer-head Chihuahua
Unlike other Chihuahua breeds, Deer-head Chihuahuas are larger, have longer snouts and legs, and do not have the characteristic rounded heads.
Apple-headed Chihuahua
This breed of Chihuahua is easily identified by its rounded head form, which features a high forehead and a short snout.
Pear-head Chihuahua
Pear-head” Chihuahua puppies are those that have the appearance of a cross between an apple-head and a deer-head.
Teacup Chihuahua
The teacup Chihuahua is from the original lap dogs, the smallest breed of Chihuahua. The lifespan of teacup Chihuahuas is shorter than others.
Read Also: Top 25 Cutest Lap Dogs That Can Be Fit Into Your Arms
Chihuahuas Coats
Coats for Chihuahuas come in many colors. Colors are decided by recessive and dominant genes, and parent-to-child genetic interactions also have an impact. Due to their activity level and possible defensiveness, families with small children might find it better to adopt lighter-colored Chihuahuas. Fawn Chihuahuas, for example, have brown coats that resemble fawns. You can consider looking for coats that are cream, red, black, or combinations of several colors. Chihuahuas with merle coats have a mottled black and white coat that makes them resemble hyenas. The colors that are most popular for Chihuahuas are fawn, black, and chocolate.
Chihuahua Puppies vs. Adult Dogs
Whenever thinking about getting a Chihuahua, keep in mind that many rescuers are also looking to adopt puppies. Whether you choose to adopt an adult or puppy Chihuahua depends on your lifestyle, personal circumstances, and available time. Every decision has benefits and difficulties of its own. The best option of all is adoption of a Chihuahua. Adopting a Chihuahua means an effort to end unethical breeding and provide a second chance at life.
Adopting a Chihuahua Puppy
A Chihuahua puppy that you adopt will allow you to train and socialize with them from a young age. An adult dog that is well-mannered and friendly can emerge from an early training program. A puppy develops close relationships with every member of your family as it grows up with you. A close friendship that lasts a lifetime can result from these early bonding experiences. Puppies usually start with less health issues than some adult dogs do. However, puppies require a lot of time, patience, and energy. Obedience training and socialization will take several months. The first year of puppy ownership can be costly due to vaccines, neutering/spaying, and other veterinary costs. Rest throughout their life, you need to take care of them by providing timely vaccines and preventative care.
Adopting an Adult Chihuahua
The size, temperament, and health status of an adult Chihuahua are already determined. Because of this openness, you can choose a dog that complements your expectations and way of life. Most adult dogs have received rudimentary training and can follow simple commands. Compared to pups, they are usually simpler to handle, though some may require further training. Adult Chihuahuas are typically less energetic and demanding. They are more suited for people or families who want a more laid-back way of living.
It may take some time for adult dogs—especially those from rescues—to get used to a new setting. They might also have behavioral problems due to their prior encounters. Adult dogs may also have underlying medical issues that need to be treated regularly or raise the cost of veterinary care.
Read Also: 15 Reasons Why You Should Adopt A Dog From Animal Shelter
Pet Quality vs. Show Quality Chihuahuas
Breeders affix labels to their puppies, such as show-quality and pet-quality, but these can be subjective. Expert breeders spend years grading, selecting, and caring for their puppies. This helps in understanding their growth patterns and creates a foundation for predicting their future behavior. Puppies classified as show quality and those classified as pet quality differ primarily in that they adhere to breed requirements.
Puppies designated as show quality are specifically bred to fulfil the strict behavioural and physical requirements set forth by breed associations for dog exhibitions. Pet quality puppies, on the other hand, are still healthy, purebred dogs who can make wonderful companions even when they may have small cosmetic defects or deviate from the breed standard, disqualifying them from dog shows. They are less expensive than puppies that are show-quality.
A show-quality puppy may not be worth the extra cost and work unless you want to actively display your dog. The affable and perceptive disposition of the breed is closely matched by pet-quality puppies, who may still make delightful, loving companions.
Additional Costs to Consider
Your little companions of the dog world are the chihuahua. Of the more than 2,000 dog breeds on the lists, these tiny puppies have emerged as favorites. This is because they can go practically any place because of their small size, including locations that larger dogs might not be able to. The first cost arises when you intend to purchase a puppy. We advise you to always search for adoption facilities to find a puppy who truly needs your love, but many of us have certain criteria when it comes to breed, size, or age. If so, you will have to purchase the puppy. The average cost of a chihuahua puppy would be something around INR 15,000–40,000.
Chihuahuas do their best with older children who are affectionate and playful, as they are loyal and loving. In addition to getting along well with cats and other dogs, especially other Chihuahuas, they enjoy play and activity. However, as true lap dogs, they prefer to spend their time sitting on the lap enjoying a warm, cozy environment.
Initial Setup Costs (Bedding, Toys, etc.)
The initial cost comes if you are planning to buy a puppy. Depending on the breed and the source, the cost of the dog might vary greatly, but a purebred from a breeder should cost you a few thousands of rupees for toys and treats (INR 500–INR 1000).
Having fun with your dog for the day is the best kind of bonding, so why not give them some brand-new Chihuahua dog toys? You would also have to buy a bed, leash, and some toys for them. Playtime is crucial to keeping up a healthy lifestyle, whether it’s bringing a toy from the park or playing with a squeaky toy at home. To entertain your Chihuahua dogs, you can purchase a variety of toys available in the market today. It’s also a fantastic method to burn off extra energy. Plus, for the proper comfort of your furry friend, you should also consider buying a perfect bed to make them feel relaxed and energetic.
Veterinary Expenses
For a puppy or an adult pet dog that you have, there are consistent monthly medical costs. Depending on the location and veterinary clinic, the initial vaccines and microchipping may cost several thousand rupees or more. Routine checkups and treatments may cost several thousand rupees or more annually. It’s also a good idea to get pet insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses. Veterinarians typically charge between INR 400 and INR 1000 for treating a Chihuahua for the first year.
You will need to budget for the following regular medical expenses:
- Vaccinations per year
- Heartworm prevention every year
- Preventing fleas and ticks’ treatment annually
- Deworming yearly or every 6 months
- The microchipping method
- Spaying or Neutering
Some Core Vaccines include:
- Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis: INR 200–INR 400
- Rabies: INR 100–INR 400
- Consultation Fee: INR 300–INR 500
- Average Deworming Cost: INR 250–INR 500.
Grooming Costs
Of course, a dog’s breed and kind of coat impact how much grooming it needs. Whether your Chihuahua has a long or short coat will determine what kind of grooming care they require. It can be more difficult to tame your long-haired Chihuahua’s silky mane, as you can guess. Grooming short-haired Chihuahuas could seem simple. How is a Chihuahua groomed? There are many types of grooming sessions, ranging from routine washing to hairstyle and haircuts. The cost varies from INR 1500 to INR 2500 depending on the service you choose.
Food and Nutrition
Food and other supplies that the dog needs are recurring expenses (INR 4000–INR 8000). Because every breed of dog has varied dietary needs, the price varies depending on the size, breed, and brand of food. The skin of Chihuahuas is very sensitive. For good health, Chihuahuas mostly depend on premium nutrients in their diet. Regretfully, because of their small size, they rank among the most susceptible breeds to health problems such as obesity and cardiac disorders. For this reason, it’s critical to feed your Chihuahua food that is reduced in fat, sodium, and carbohydrates. Your veterinarian could advise a change to a sensitive or hypoallergenic diet if they think the illness is brought on by a food allergy. Common allergies including wheat, meat, and soy are avoided in these items.
While choosing nutritious food for your Chihuahua, there are different additional factors to consider. You can choose a food that will promote your dog’s health and happiness with confidence if you know what to look for and explore some of the best possibilities. Keep in mind that Chihuahuas have tiny mouths and even smaller teeth. So, make their life easy and reduce the risk of choking by choosing dog food that is specifically made with small kibble sizes for these breeds. Furthermore, you can also provide them with lean animal protein that will encourage a healthy weight because it has less fat than other protein sources.
Training and Socialization
As soon as you bring your Chihuahua home, you can begin training him to be amiable. Be careful to socialize with him as much as you can with people and other animals to achieve this. When training a Chihuahua, some pet parents grow disappointed and give up too quickly, giving up when they don’t see results right away. Your Chihuahua can be trained, regardless of their age or stubbornness. Although housetraining a Chihuahua can need patience and hard work, it doesn’t have to be difficult or take up all your energy. All you need to do is remain focused and willing to work with, not against, your pet. Training classes can cost you something between INR 2000–INR 5000.
Make sure to keep treats available for your Chihuahuas and any other pets you may be introducing them to. To ensure the safety of both animals during your first encounter, make sure you are comfortable around the owners of any other animals your Chihuahua may be introduced to. You must be persistent and reliable, so that both people and animals can get along with your Chihuahua, but you must ensure your pet acts that way.
Where to Buy a Chihuahua in India?
Breeding dogs with love, morality, and consideration for their health and welfare is a long-standing practice among humans. If you’re set on getting a puppy from a breeder, it’s critical that you limit your puppy search to trustworthy and accountable Chihuahua breeders. You need to be sure that the breeder receiving your hard-earned money is a person who has dedicated their life to raising healthy canines that are good ambassadors for the breed. It is commendable to visit shelters and rescue organizations.
Reputable Breeders
However, many may also decide to adopt a fresh puppy from a breeder. So, following extensive investigation, you should always find a list of trustworthy breeders of Chihuahuas. Recognize that you are searching for more than just health; you have specific reasons for wanting a certain breed. Seek out a breeder who is also actively testing, displaying, and titling for those attributes. Seek out a breeder who awards their dogs with “Ch” titles if you want a dog that won’t develop arthritis too soon and looks like it belongs in the family. Similarly, choose a breeder who is proving their dogs in those venues and provide dogs that do well. This should always be taken care of if you require a dog that is obedient or easy to train, and excels at a particular dog sport or job, etc.
Adoption Centers and Shelters
You can contact adoption centers and other shelters dedicated to providing different breeds like Chihuahuas and Chihuahua mixes. Through a network of dedicated volunteers, they can provide you with a better breed throughout different regions. Plus, they can also help you provide your pet with immediate medical, emotional, and behavioral health. You should always consider genuine and authentic centers and shelters that have a goal to provide the best breeds to forever homes where they can live their best lives.
Online Marketplaces and Classifieds
You can browse a large selection of cute pups by going to the website of the internet marketplace and classifieds. To focus on certain alternatives based on breed, size, or region, use the search filters. When you buy a dog online, you can be convenient and save time. It is not necessary for you to make the tedious and time-consuming trip to the pet shop or animal shelter. From the convenience of your home, you can easily peruse their website and choose the breed and gender of Chihuahua that you want.
Research and Reviews
Although chihuahuas are considerably more prominent than they seem and are wonderful, lovable, loyal, and intelligent as well. However, it is advised that you conduct research and read user reviews before adopting one. For example, you should be aware that having little children may not be the best situation for your pet. It will be easier for you to decide whether to adopt or purchase a chihuahua if you read reviews and speak with people who have owned one. From their experience, you can make out that what type of environment would be best suited for your furry companion.
Tips for Finding a Reputable Chihuahua Dog Breeder
There is much more to dog breeding than just mating two healthy dogs with the right characteristics. Good dog breeders are aware of the moral implications of breeding dogs without conducting adequate research. To discover your new best friend, the first and most crucial step is to choose a trustworthy and reputable breeder. Breeders are helpful people; they serve as a link between you and your ideal dog. Think of a breeder as your go-to person for anything related to dog, from choosing the perfect dog to giving it lifetime care. They also invest years in researching their genetics and breed, which contributes to a better deal.
Visiting the Breeder
Meeting a breeder in person—at their kennel or home—is the best way to get to know them. Ask to meet your breeder and their dogs via video conference if meeting in person isn’t possible. Watch the breeder and the dogs. Are the premises clean? Does the breeder exhibit sincere enthusiasm for canines? Are the dogs fed properly? How do the dogs behave around strangers and the breeder? Dogs and pups should be friendly toward others and not be afraid to approach the breeder. You should check all these things whenever visiting a breeder.
Health Guarantees and Certifications
Nothing would make dog lovers happier than knowing that they have been a part of bringing a happy healthy chihuahua puppy or any other to your family. To help ensure this, a veterinarian can examine your puppy before you take it. Make sure that your puppy gets all age-appropriate vaccinations and deworming and is fully vaccinated. You should maintain proper details of all vaccines and deworming your pet has received along with when the next set of vaccinations and the recommended deworming. After that, you must stay in regular touch with your veterinarian about what vaccines and care your puppy should receive with time.
Conclusion
A Chihuahua can be the perfect friend if you’re searching for a small, active dog. Here are some key considerations before bringing one into your home:
Assess the Breeder
Visit the breeder’s location to observe the dogs’ living conditions and behavior. Evaluate the health of the puppy and its parents. A responsible breeder will disclose the dog’s current health status and any inherited diseases.
Living Arrangements
Due to their modest size, Chihuahuas can live comfortably in apartments, especially if the neighborhood is quiet. However, they shouldn’t be left alone all day. These dogs need mental and physical stimulation throughout the day, even though they occasionally enjoy cuddles.
Socialization and Behaviour
Chihuahuas need to socialize with dogs of all sizes to prevent them from becoming aggressive. Without proper socialization, they may try to defend themselves against larger dogs, which can result in injuries.
Health and Safety
Avoid letting your Chihuahua jump from high places, even small heights like the couch or bed, to prevent joint problems. Caring for their bones and joints is crucial, as surgery can be very expensive.
Possessiveness
Chihuahuas are extremely possessive and often bond with one family member. They will become very protective and possessive of their loved ones, which is something to be mindful of when introducing them to new people.
Chihuahua Cost Table for Indian Pet Lovers
Expense Category | Cost Estimate (INR) | Notes |
Adoption Costs | ||
Adoption Fees | ₹24,000-40,000 | Include vaccinations, spaying/neutering, & microchipping. |
Initial Setup Costs | ||
Supplies (bed, leash, collar, bowls) | ₹8,000-16,000 | Basic necessities for your Chihuahua. |
Crate | ₹2,400-6,400 | Optional but recommended for training. |
Toys and Chews | ₹1,600-4,000 | Helps with mental stimulation and teething. |
Healthcare | ||
Initial Vet Visit | ₹4,000-12,000 | General check-up, vaccinations, and microchipping. |
Ongoing Vet Care | ₹16,000-24,000 annually | Includes regular check-ups and vaccinations. |
Dental Care | ₹12,000-24,000 annually | Chihuahuas are prone to dental issues. |
Food and Treats | ||
High-Quality Dog Food | ₹1,600-4,000 per month | Depends on the brand and dietary needs. |
Treats | ₹400-1,600 per month | Used for training and rewards. |
Grooming | ||
Professional Grooming | ₹2,400-4,000 per session | Optional, as Chihuahuas are low maintenance. |
Grooming Supplies | ₹1,600-4,000 | Brushes, nail clippers, shampoo, etc. |
Training & Socialization | ||
Training Classes | ₹4,000-16,000 | Basic obedience and socialization classes. |
Miscellaneous | ||
Pet Insurance | ₹1,600-4,000 per month | Optional but recommended. |
Licensing | ₹800-1,600 annually | Required by many municipalities. |
Frequently Asked Questions
On average, chihuahuas can live 12 to 20 years. But it all depends on how much veterinary care is provided to them, how much love and affection is provided, a proper balanced diet, and a loving environment. All this can improve their life.
Having a reputation for being impatient, chihuahuas might respond negatively to youngsters, particularly when they engage in rough play. Though they are little and prone to joint injuries, they can be affectionate toward youngsters. Like with any dog, you should always keep an eye on your Chihuahua while they are around kids to ensure everyone’s safety and happiness.
The type of coat determines the specific grooming requirements. Grooming includes bathing, trimming fur, clipping coats, and clipping nails in addition to routine brushing. While some owners handle this themselves, others focus on routine brushing and hire a professional groomer or veterinarian office to do other grooming duties. While short-haired Chihuahuas benefit from routine brushing to reduce shedding, long-haired Chihuahuas need frequent brushing to avoid mats.
Chihuahua is widely regarded as the national dog of Mexico. But they are a popular breed of dog in India. They have apple heads, and erect ears, and are available in two coat types. Chihuahuas are highly adaptable and ideal as family dogs.
Chihuahuas are intelligent and sharp canines that will go anywhere with their owners. They are also fiercely loyal to the people they love. When a chihuahua encounters other people or animals, they often become quite protective of their favorite person and show extreme loyalty to them.
Chihuahuas are distinguished by their small, apple-shaped heads, large, expressive eyes, and a range of coat colors and lengths. In addition to learning and picking things up quickly, they are highly responsive to positive training methods and are competitive in dog sports like obedience and agility.