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.
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!
We’ll examine the differences between these and other types of Chihuahuas.
We’ll also discuss their personality traits and any health issues you should be aware of, so you have all the long haired Chihuahua information you need!
Long Haired Chihuahua
The main difference between a long haired Chihuahua and other Chihuahuas is their fur, as you’ve probably already guessed!
Long haired Chihuahuas have longer fur than other Chihuahuas, especially around their ears, necks, legs and tails.
This longer fur means grooming is a little more important.
You should brush your long haired Chihuahua’s coat at least once a week to ensure no tangles develop.
Other qualities, such as temperament, and health issues, are the same as their shorter haired counterparts!
Let’s look at these qualities in a bit more detail.
Long haired Chihuahua temperament
Long haired Chihuahuas 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!
Therefore, it is important to show you’re in charge, especially when training your Chihuahua, to 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.
Although Chihuahuas are often seen as an aggressive breed, this isn’t guaranteed. 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 long haired Chihuahua, rescue dogs are another really great option!
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.
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It is important to do lots of research and consider these risks before you decide to get a long haired teacup Chihuahua puppy.
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.
Chihuahuas in general can be prone to heart conditions like mitral valve disease and patent ductus arteriosus.
They are also prone to a condition called hydrocephalus, which involves a buildup of fluid in the brain, causing an enlargement of the head and potentially brain damage.
Long haired Chihuahuas, as small dogs, have a higher risk of canine patellar luxation.
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.
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 issues is to have regular check-ups with your vet.
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 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!
The Perfect Companion For Life With A New Puppy
Long haired Chihuahua price
The cost of long haired Chihuahua puppies can vary quite a lot!
Depending on the breeder, they are advertised 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 a long haired Chihuahua as a puppy, you can also consider rescue dogs!
Long Haired Chihuahua – Summary
Long haired Chihuahuas are a great breed to add as a new member of your family!
It’s important to remember the health issues that can be inherent in this little breed.
But proper socialization, regular vet checks, and a healthy lifestyle can help these pups flourish.
And every long haired Chihuahua is different!
Are you looking to get a long haired Chihuahua as your next dog?
Let us know the best thing you’ve found about having a long haired Chihuahua as a pet!
Sources
- 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)
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.
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.
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!
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.