Long haired Chihuahua dogs have long fur all over, but especially around their ears, necks, tails and legs.
This means their grooming and general care needs are slightly different from a regular Chihuahua.
But, other than their fur, they are the same as any other Chi. They will still be a small dog that grows up to 15 inches and weighs between 3 and 6 pounds as an adult.
Let’s find out more about whether or not the long haired Chi is right for your family.
Long Haired Chihuahua vs Short Haired Chihuahua
Long haired Chihuahuas may be tiny, but they are hugely popular!
Their longer, fluffier coats give them a distinctive look that distinguishes them from short-haired Chihuahuas. These coats are especially fluffy around their necks, ears, legs, and tails.
This is the main difference between long haired and short haired Chihuahuas. But, it does mean that long haired Chis have some more complex grooming and care needs.
If you’re looking to find out more about the Chihuahua breed in general, you can check out our complete guide.
But for now, let’s look more specifically at long haired Chihuahuas, and how they differ from their short haired counterparts.
Long Haired Chihuahua Appearance
The long haired Chihuahua breed will look quite a bit like a normal Chihuahua. But, they have a lot more fur!
Chihuahuas are very small dogs. They can grow up to 15 inches tall, and will generally weigh between 3 and 6 pounds as an adult.
This tiny breed has triangular ears and round eyes. A long haired Chi should have soft fur, that can be wavy or straight.
But fur color can vary.
Coat Color
Chihuahuas can come in any fur color, so your long-haired Chi can look quite different from another dog of the same breed!
Some of the colors you might find a Chihuahua puppy in are:
- Black
- White
- Fawn
- Cream
- Chocolate
And more! They could even be a combination of the above colors, as markings are common on this breed!
Long Haired Toy Chihuahua
Even though Chihuahuas are already small dogs, some people prefer them to be even smaller!
Long haired teacup Chihuahuas aren’t a separate breed. They are just smaller dogs in the same breed.
The size of these smaller pups, unfortunately, comes with additional health issues, such as increased risk of heart disease.
It is important to do lots of research and consider these risks before you decide to get a long haired teacup Chihuahua puppy.
Let’s go back to looking at our standard sized long haired Chihuahua.
Long Haired Chihuahua Temperament
These may be small dogs, but they have big personalities!
They’re an incredibly loyal breed and also very intelligent. But they can be a little stubborn!
So, it is important to be consistent when you train your dog. Consistency and dedication to training will help you control the ‘terrier’ temperament they’re known for!
Unfortunately, the breed is rumored to be aggressive, so many may avoid adopting a long haired Chihuahua.
But are all Chihuahuas aggressive?
Aggression and Socialization
Although Chihuahuas are often seen as an aggressive breed, this isn’t guaranteed. Plus, there are steps you can take to minimize this trait.
Socialization from a young age is one of the most important ways to minimize aggression in adult dogs. Another step you can take is to meet your dog’s parents, to judge how friendly they are.
Obviously, these steps are only possible if you get your long haired Chihuahua when it is a puppy. But not all adult Chihuahuas are aggressive.
And if you’re looking to get a rescue dog, the organisations will often be able to tell you a little about their dogs’ personalities.
Long Haired Chihuahua Health
It is not just long haired teacup Chihuahuas that have health concerns. Health is an important issue for any breed – this includes long coat Chihuahuas.
Let’s look at some of the major issues long haired Chihuahuas can be prone to, and if there are any steps we can take to reduce the risks.
Heart Problems
Chihuahuas in general can be prone to heart conditions. Some that you should watch out for include mitral valve disease and patent ductus arteriosus.
Keeping your Chihuahua at a healthy weight and attending regular veterinary checks can help to reduce the chance of these problems.
Hydrocephalus
These little dogs are also prone to a condition called hydrocephalus.
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This involves a buildup of fluid in the brain, causing an enlargement of the head and potentially brain damage.
Patellar Luxation
Long haired Chihuahuas, as small dogs, have a higher risk of canine patellar luxation.
This is a problem to do with your dog’s knee joint. It occurs when the kneecap dislocates, or moves away from its normal position.
Dental Problems
It is important to also keep a close watch on your dog’s dental hygiene.
You can achieve better dental health for your long haired Chihuahua by brushing its teeth, or occasionally using vet-recommended dental chews.
Keeping a Healthy Chihuahua
Some health conditions can be tested for. So, when looking for a puppy, make sure you go to a breeder that health tests the dogs they breed from.
The predispositions to health issues like these emphasize the importance of finding a good breeder and a Chihuahua with healthy parentage.
A good way to keep on top of any issues that do arise is to have regular check-ups with your vet.
Long Haired Chihuahua General Care
We’ve looked a bit at the general care that a long coat Chihuahua will need in terms of its overall health. But, there is also a level of care needed to maintain its beautiful coat.
So, let’s take a quick look at what you should expect.
Shedding and Grooming
Chihuahuas are moderate shedders. Even those with short coats. So, you can expect to have to clean up fur around your house.
Long haired Chis will also need help keeping their coat clean and knot-free. You should brush your long haired Chihuahua’s coat at least once a week to ensure no tangles develop.
On top of this, make sure you regularly check his ears and teeth to keep them both clean!
Chihuahuas are small dogs, so this grooming process isn’t likely to take long each week. But, it does mean these little pups are more high-maintenance than their short-haired counterparts.
Long Haired Chihuahua Puppies
Hereditary health issues in long haired Chihuahuas make it even more important to be thorough when finding a long coat Chihuahua puppy.
Choosing the best long haired Chihuahua breeders can be tricky!
There are steps you can take to make sure the puppy you’re getting is as healthy as possible – both for your benefit, and your new pup’s!
- You can ask to see the parent dogs.
- You should ask whether the parents have been health tested.
- Have a good knowledge of the health problems long coat Chihuahua puppies may be prone to.
- You should also ask whether the puppies are being socialized.
This is important with this particular breed because early socialization will reduce the risk of aggression both towards people, and towards other dogs!
Puppy Price
What is the average long haired Chihuahua price? Well, the cost of these puppies can vary quite a lot!
Depending on the breeder, they are advertised at anywhere from $500 to $1200.
It is important to remember that it isn’t just the initial cost.
You will also have to take into account food bills and vet fees.
And if you’re not looking to get this dog as a puppy, you can also consider rescue dogs!
Is a Long Haired Chihuahua Right For Me?
This is a great breed to add as a new member of your family!
But it’s important to remember the health issues that can be inherent in this little breed.
With proper socialization, regular vet checks, and a healthy lifestyle can help these pups flourish.
But, they will need more general care than a short-coated Chihuahua. It depends on how much time you are willing and able to dedicate to your new companion.
Similar Breeds
Perhaps you aren’t sure if the Chihuahua breed is right for you. But don’t worry! There are plenty of other small breeds that you might want to consider instead.
Some of them have long hair too! Take a look at a few of our guides below for more inspiration.
Do You Have a Long Haired Chihuahua?
Are you looking to get one of these as your next dog?
Let us know the best thing you’ve found about having a long haired Chihuahua as a pet!
And how do you think it compares to the shorter haired version?
References and Resources
- Oliveira et. al. ‘Retrospective Review of Congenital Heart Disease in 976 Dogs.’ Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. (2011)
- Parker and Kilroy-Glynn. ‘Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease in Dogs: Does Size Matter?’ Journal of Veterinary Cardiology. (2012)
- Herzog. ‘Why Do Small Dogs Have So Many Psychological Problems?’ The Animal Studies Repository. (2013)
- Kuwamura et. al. ‘Neuronal Ceroid-Lipofuscinosis and Hydrocephalus in a Chihuahua.’ Journal of Small Animal Practice. (2006)
- Priester. ‘Sex, Size, and Breed as Risk Factors in Canine Patellar Dislocation.’ Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 160:5 (1972)
- Bomassi et. al. ‘Patent Ductus Arteriosus in a Family of Chihuahuas.’ Journal of Small Animal Practice. (2011)
- Harrington et. al. ‘Hydrocephalus.’ Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice. (1996)
Wendi Walling says
We are looking to buy another deer head long hair chihuahua we have one how and she is 13 years old her heart is not to well if anyone out there can let me know where one is please let me know. I don’t want to replace my baby at all I need one to help me though the hard time that is coming. Thanks
Nick says
We just loose or long-haired Chihuahua, Bootsie. We love them so much, we spent a lot of time with him especially with this Covid thing going on. He was only 12 years old we took him for dental work went to pick him up, Doctor said he’s doing fine, went in the back room to bring him out. Vet said I was just with him. I’m sorry he’s gone, this was about an hour after dental work was performed. Of course my wife was in shock I can’t believe what she was hering. She blames herself for taking him to the vet.
I tried to buy another Chihuahua for her I was scammed I have a $499 learned a lesson good be careful best way is to pick the dog up and pay them than. There’s a lot of unscrupulous people out there. If you know any trustworthy rescue, adoption or breeders please let me know.
John says
Our LHC male just turned 17 years old today. His name is Taz and we have owned him for all his life. He has not been sick a day in his life and has been the best little dog anyone could ever ask for. He always went for annual checkups but the vet never found anything wrong with him. He’s always been very loving and always on our lap. However, the last few years he has been wanting to be alone more and does not seek out attention as he did when he was younger. His eyes at 17 are cloudy as I’m sure this is cataracts and normal for his advanced age. He is unable to jump or climb stairs anymore. He walks aimlessly around the house(only the main floor) and gets stuck in corners without knowing how to back himself out or simply turn around. His hearing is basically gone. He sometimes exhibits Parkinson’s disease symptoms when his face quickly reflexes like someone is going to hit him. It’s really weird. He has lost weight and does try to eat whenever we put food down for him. He doesn’t appear to be in any pain and sleeps good. He has two other dogs in the home(Sheltie and Pomeranian) and they sometimes step on him knocking him down but he doesn’t seem to let this bother him. He’s very easy going, does not bark and licks my face when I pick him up. I know his days are numbered now and he will not make it to 18. We will be crushed when he passes but have had several years to get ready for it. My wife and I pick him up all the time and kiss him and he licks our face so I know he is showing his affection back to us in his own way. We live in NH so the winters are brutal on him but he is tough and has never worn a jacket when outside in the winter although he only stays out for a few minutes at a time. He rarely pees or poops in the house and when he does, it is most likely our fault for not letting him out timely. He is one of a kind and has the best personality a dog could have. He loves steak/steak tips, hamburgers , cheese, milk, ice cream, and Wendy’s vanilla frosties, chicken, oatmeal, Cheerios, etc, We haven’t fed him regular dry dog food for many years. There’s not a day that goes by now that I don’t think how lucky we are to still have him around.
Cammy says
John, we empathize with your family & Taz, as we have a 15 yo girl named Betty Boop. We too feed our girl like you feed Taz… they deserve whatever after all the years they’ve given us. Thank you for sharing your love of Taz & his life. Boop is displaying similar behaviors & we’re bracing ourselves for the inevitable, & it’s sorta comforting to know that other folks are (darn near) on the same path as us (age, breed etc) & you’ve shed light on a few questions I had. We truly hope Taz is still with you atm. Thanks again for sharing.
Sadie says
I recently lost my 12 year old tan male long hair Chihuahua to enlarged heart. He literally had every single one of the common Chihuahua conditions on the list, including a heart murmur that he was born with. My home situation was perfect for him and we connected instantly, so I decided to adopt him, despite the short life expectancy. He ended up living much longer than any of us expected.
We spent an enormous time with socialization at the beginning and really throughout his life, mostly because we just wanted to. The end result was the sweetest, most living little companion ever. He would give neck hugs, smile at you, and sing to sad songs when he heard them. If you socialize well, they are very smart when it comes to picking up human cues. You can teach them verbal commands and they will respond to the inflection in your voice. Ours was a little stubborn with potty training and marking.
He started out looking a little fox like with tipped ears and a wiry like coat as a juvenile. As an adult he ended up with this fluffy flowy tail and soft main fur around his head and neck. His average weighed was about 5 lbs.
They can be protective of the one human in the family they choose to bond with. Ours eventually ended up making good connections with everyone in the family but I don’t recommend small kids. Off and on, ours lived with four other dogs and four “much larger than him cats” throughout the years. It was a combo of small medium and large dogs varying in age and all with different temperaments. He adapted well with all of them but seemed to prefer one of the older cats the most.
This dog did require some extra care and vet expense over others. We spent extra at the vet for dental, blood work, meds, etc. Regular grooming and brushing was needed to minimize shedding. We went for the best food available in our area, food like ZiwiPeak dry and Primal raw. They also need plenty of “small dog appropriate” exercise or they will gain weight fast.
He was not an inexpensive pet for sure. If you can afford it and have the time, this little dog makes a wonderful companion. I wouldn’t hesitate to do it all again. He ended up being the most precious family pet to date.
Diane Spencer says
I have a LHC 6 years old that dribbles pee when she is around my husband does anybody have one that do that around their spouse?
Kathy says
I adopted a long haired chi when she was 4 months old. (She is year and half now) I was able to take her to work with me so she is very socialized. She never barks at work and lays in a small dog bed on my desk. Even though she prefers her mom, she will go to other people and if I get out of her sight while they are holding her she is fine. I am telling you all of this to say the early socialization is very important.
Fabian Rendon says
Hi I have a 2 month old long haired chihuahua. How many times a day do they normally poop?
Joshua Ryan Graham says
i have a long haired tea cup Chihuahua all of a sudden started acting weird she started going from person to person really quick she couldnt focus she was relentlessshe did that for hours then she went back to being normal
Teresa says
Did your pup ever have another episode of this bizarre behavior?
Were you able to determine the cause?
Rebecca says
I have a 5 month old long haired chihuahua. Mooch. He is very protective and doesn’t like men, AT ALL. I think it’s their deep voice that scares him. He is very smart. My advise is to NEVER hit or yell at your baby, it only scares them and they become afraid of you and your hands. Be gentle and understanding and have patience. They are wonderful companions and will love you as much as you love them.
Marcelo says
My Baci is going to be 11 next month. He was giving to me by a friend at only 8 weeks old. He is truly the best thing that has ever happened to me super smart not a yuppie dog at all gets along with everyone. He is the love of my life!
Suzie from NY says
I had the best LHC she was 9 when she passed of a brain mass.. she loved everyone and everything.. She was my total sidekick. Never had any health issues until about a month before she passed away she started stumbling around and we discovered a brain mass. Not unusual in her breed. I will at some point get another. I love and miss her everyday.
Teresa says
I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Chris says
My sweet, wonderful Maximus crossed the rainbow bridge this week after 15 years faithfully by my side. He was the most darling LHC and absolutely delightful. He was never yappy, never aggressive, always well-behaved, fiercely loyal and loving. He traveled all over the country with us and joined us on island vacations. He was an applehead with black, tan, and white coloring – absolutely adorable. People always thought he was younger than he was – he was just a happy little guy. He wasn’t interested in other dogs, never aggressive with them, just not interested. I think he believed he was more human than dog and wanted to spend his time with people. I don’t know that he ever met a person he didn’t like. If you pet him, he’d climb into your lap and snuggle in. He passed in my arms enveloped in cuddles and love – just like it should be. He really had no health issues at all until he developed cataracts around 13 years old and his hearing started to follow. Still, he was sweet to our kids and just wanted to snuggle and spend time with us. I would do anything to have another few years with him. Hold onto your chi’s and love them completely. Our fur babies are never here as long as we’d like.
Sandy says
It would so nice if they could live longer and be with us at the time we pass on to home
Cindy says
I have a rescue LHC @ 4.5lbs & she’s the love of my life! I’ve had her for 3mos, but she’s been a total love muffin! But in the past few weeks she has recently begun to snap at me, while sleeping on the arm of my chair & on my arm. She never digs in with her teeth with this or while playing, but it IS kind of scary. (I’m waiting for her head to spin around like in “The Exorcist”.) I’m going to check w/the vet @ her next appt, but good to hear others sharing their stories too. Thank you!
Teresa says
How is your LHC doing? What has your vet determined was the cause and has your chi responded to treatment, if any?
It sounds like pain to me. Js.
Cindy says
That has reduced greatly & thanks for checking back! Now if there was only a 12 step program for her kleptomania!!
Dave says
I bought my long hair when he was a baby. He is stubborn but very very smart and very single minded Having said that He is the most loving and great dog I have every had.
He loves my wife and I but favors her a bit more which is fine by me. He is not aggressive or mean Just a little angle.
And a lot of fun to play with He figures stuff out very fast and understands everything we say .
Just short of an Einstein He is working on understanding of gravity Will let you know when he becomes Newtonian
Sue says
I adopted a 5 year old LHC from a man who was moving and couldn’t take her with him. Pepper was left alone most days when her owner worked. Unfortunately, the only problem I have with her is that she pees inside the house. I let her out at least 4 times a day and even though I put down pee pads, she still goes in my bedroom.
She had to have many teeth extracted after I got her six months ago. Her diet is half a Ceasar sauce packet 2x a day. She eats her food with water added and that is the only water she has a day. Won’t drink water from her “water dish.”
Loves people and neighbor dogs. I’ve never had a Chihuahua before, so the attention she requires is different for me.
Gidget says
I have an 8 yr old LHC rescue. He has been the best dog I have ever known. My Chico is kind and sweet. Was also house trained ( a plus) when rescued. He doesn’t like men so much. It takes him a while to warm up. He loves the beach, loves walking. He jumps 3 ft high if you ask him if he wants to go “Bye, Bye”. I would definitely encourage anyone thinking of getting a LHC to look into rescues 1st.
Kevin says
Woof Blitzer is 8 months old LHC and I found him in the alley behind my house. What a great dog, I had a 161/2 year old Rat Terrier that I just had to send to the rainbow bridge and wasn’t planning on anymore dogs for a while, WOW did that change.
Woof is an awesome dog he is so smart and he wants to please his people, he loves to go for walks and trips to the dog park.
He is a good boy.
Vanessa says
I have a 9 month old she’s a good puppy she always waits for me to come home she gets so excited
Lisa says
Oh my, I have a 10 month old and we have had her since she was 8 weeks and she gets so excited when I get home also!! She is a really good pup!
Denise says
I had a LHC female she is 3 now. She can be a bit testy at times but she is a very loving little girl most the time. The only problem I have is she is a poor eater!!! I have tried everything to get her to eat.
Karla Spence says
I have used hard boiled eggs for my chihuahua that had a severe liver problem and wouldn’t eat. She was near death but the eggs saved her and now I’m mixing in canned food little by little and she loves her food. I recommend Royal Canin canned food.
Carolee Marshall says
I have had many breeds of dogs, all have been sweet and loving but the LHC male I have is a puzzle. He is with me 24 hours, always near or beside me but does not like to be picked up or held. When I do anything other than pet him, he viciously growls and shows his teeth. I have pushed the issue and he has never bitten me but he is scary. When I leave the house and return he goes crazy he is so happy I am home. He is afraid of everything and everyone. I have taken him with me to socialize him but he is very scared. Has anyone ever had such a pet and what did you do?
Cindy levendoski says
I have a lac male and he is 2. He loves when I am at home. Gets excited when I come home. He also gets scarred over a lit. I have had a lot of dogs but none like him. He is very fussy about what he es4s. He will smell it first. He too growls at people. Growls at my husband when he comes to bed. I don’t let children around him for fear. Our dogs sound alot alike. He loves to c6ddle.
Karla Spence says
I have a gun shy dog and she is scared of everything. I have found the best path is to be kind and affectionate to her and not push the issue. That seems to result in the most stress free existence for both of us.
amanda garner says
I have a long hair chihuahua/ shorky poo mix. she’s the sweetest , lovable, loyal girl ever! Even tho she is a mix breed, i know my girl is super attached to me, very high maitnance. You need to make sure you time and enough love and attention before considering buying one.
becky l ludlow says
I have a LHC male 8 mo. old. His father was long haired and his mom is short haired.
He has some long hair around his ears and on his tail. Will his hair grow longer with age.?
Chris says
Their hair really doesn’t grow much longer after a point. I’d say what your dog has around 1 year is what he’ll have. You obviously have to groom him, but if he’s more short-haired than long right now – that’s what he’ll always be. Their hair is always the longest by the ears, chest (like a lion mane), tail, and lower legs. They’re all different so even if yours doesn’t have the longest hair – I’m sure he’s a cutie.
Tammy Hohn says
My male LHC is the best.. He loves both my husband and I but if he is on my lap or laying next to me in bed and my husband comes close he acts like he wants to attack.He even did it to me once. We have never been mean at anytime. Now I can’t get him to go in his kennel within him acting like that. Not sure what to do please email me some ideas.
Ginger Elder says
I have a LHC girl…She is so precious and loves to go riding in the car…she does not like men except for the groomer. She has given me many hours of love and fun…she is 10 and hoping she is around for awhile longer….She is a Blessing to me.
cornelia says
My Chi will be 10 on Halloween. She began having seizures at 3 and finely was diagnosed with hydrocephalus. and has been on 2 meds that have really worked. She will use these the rest of he life.
When I got her she was 9 mpnths old and I had just begun chemotherapy for a non hodgkins lymphoma so was unable to house break her. She finely became paper trained which works well. She isn’t fund of going out and is basically a couch or bed potato. She is my world along with her cat room mate. She isn’t crazy about him, but it works out. As I have absolutely no human family, luckily I have my little fur family. I can’t say it enough, but without Salsa, my LHC, I can’t imagine life. My world revolves around her.
Renae says
My little baby girl LHC is 11 years old never had one problem with health been bundle of joy . Was socialised at very young age dog beach lots dog parks . Her favourite thing to do is walk meet new dogs big or small people are shocked at her age as she acts like she is young very affectionate people and animals and has been pleasure to raise with children I would add very stubborn but that adds to her spunk I have been told by vets she will go on till 16 -18 very healthy so I’m pleased we get to enjoy our little girl for long healthy life recommend to families with young children she has been gentle funny addition to our family.
Renae says
I have gorgeous LHC she is now 11 was raised with 2 lovely kind children. But she is so friendly with other dogs loves to play people mistake her for young dog she is so friendly playful barks a lot but we love her we did take her from young pup to dog beach play other dogs been around lot children but lovely naughty funny gorgeous girl x
Michael says
We love our our LHC and she loves us. She is very affectionate and always boisterously greets people at the door. She’s not so fond of men and will snap and snarl at those she takes a dislike to. Her favorite friend, however, is Jim who she asolutely adores.
She is not greedy and will often not finish her food. Overall a wonderful dog and at 10, still healthy and energetic
Debbie says
I have a long fur Chi
He has spunk for his size.He’s beautiful and a delight to watch.
Weekly grooming is needed with trimming of fur on feet ,beyond toe nails and back of legs. He can be loyal to both the owner and he loves his “ daddy” who spoils him with treats. But watch those treats,He put on weight after neutering. He’s loving and loves attention and play. Not fond of children, or there bikes.He has bad knees but rarely bothers him, but he’s still young.
becky l ludlow says
I have a 8 mo. old chi that has a long haired dad and a short haired dad.
“Dobie” has some hair around his ears and his tail. My question is:
Will his hair get longer as he ages or is this all he will have.?
Thanks for any input.