Hong Kong's Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds - Chihuahua

DOG BREED #10 – The Chihuahua

Chihuahuas, with their tiny bodies and big personalities, are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world. These pint-sized pooches may be small in size, but they have big hearts and a need for special care to ensure their well-being. 

Five Fun Facts

General Care

Chihuahuas may be small, but they can be prone to obesity, so regular exercise is important to help them stay healthy. As a side benefit, exercise can also help keep them calm and happy. 

For the average Chihuahua we recommend at least 2 walks per day, generally around 30 minutes each, with a couple of additional toilet breaks during the day. 

Being tiny dogs, we also need to be careful with feeding them an appropriate amount. Remember that a 1kg dog needs much less food than a 5kg dog, never mind a 15kg dog. At the same time, Chihuahuas don’t have much energy reserve, so they should be fed at least twice daily. 

Training and Socialisation

Chihuahuas thrive on companionship and are known for forming strong bonds with their owners. They can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, so providing them with attention and love is essential for their well-being. 

Early socialisation (meeting other dogs and people) is also crucial for Chihuahuas to prevent them from becoming overly fearful or aggressive towards strangers or other animals.  

And remember – positive training (rewarding good behaviour) always works best. 

Health Considerations

Chihuahuas are generally healthy dogs, but there are a few special health care tips for the breed.  

Dental problems, including tooth issues and decay, are more common in the breed, and we recommend a food designed for dental care, chewing toys, and if you can a gentle daily brush. 

They’re also prone to a joint issue called luxating patella, where the kneecap can dislocate. A good joint supplement containing glucosamine is an excellent way to help prevent joint issues in later life. 

Lastly, their small windpipe (trachea) can be prone to collapse, causing a honking sound when breathing heavily or playing. If you do see this we recommend a checkup by your vet.  

The Bottom Line

Chihuahuas real characters -  petite and charming dogs but they do require special care and attention. With regular veterinary check-ups, proper dental care, regular exercise, socialization, and love, these tiny dogs will be happy and healthy companions, bringing joy and affection to any home they become a part of. 

Vetopia will be counting down Hong Kong's top 10 breeds in coming weeks - stay tuned and guess who's next? Until then, check out some dog treats for your furry friends!