The Short-Haired Chihuahua is one of the two official breeds of Chihuahuas recognized by the American Kennel Club. Compared to its Long-haired cousin, this breed of Chihuahua has a shorter coat of hair and is more popular in countries with warmer climates. Caring for the Short-haired Chihuahua is extremely important for Chihuahua owners as these dogs are relatively fragile and vulnerable to illnesses given their small size as compared to other dogs.



Nutrition is an important consideration when taking care of a Short-haired Chihuahua. Chihuahuas need regular meals of high quality food in order to obtain the necessary nutrients required for a healthy life. Ideally food should consist of proteins, carbohydrates and a vegetable. Generally, dried food is recommended to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. The Short-haired Chihuahua should be fed two meals daily. Care should be taken by owners to regulate the feeding portions for their Short-haired Chihuahua as Chihuahuas are prone to overeat, resulting in obesity. Food should be in small bite-sized proportions in order for ease of chewing and digestion as Chihuahuas have very small teeth. Also, food should be fresh and any unconsumed food after each meal should be discarded to prevent the growth of bacteria and germs. Plenty of drinking water should be provided for hydration purposes. This is especially important in places with warmer temperature.

The Short-haired Chihuahua should be groomed on a regular basis. Tangles are less likely with its smooth short-haired coat. As such, occasional grooming with a soft bristle brush would be necessary. In countries with warmer temperatures, frequent bathing would be preferable to prevent fleas and other skin-related illnesses. Otherwise, a bathe a month would be sufficient. However, Chihuahua owners would have to be careful to prevent water from entering the ears of their Short-haired Chihuahua to prevent infection.

Exercise is necessary to prevent obesity for the Short-haired Chihuahua. While Chihuahuas are often dubbed as pocket dogs, exercise is necessary to prevent Chihuahua obesity. Frequent short walks are necessary to prevent such a situation and to facilitate greater interaction and better relations between the Short-haired Chihuahua and its owner. However, moderation has to be exercised in terms of the distance covered and duration as Chihuahuas generally have a shorter stamina as compared to other breeds of dogs.

Given its thin short coat, it is necessary to provide the Short-haired Chihuahua with sufficient warm clothing especially in cooler countries. Generally, Chihuahuas do not adapt well to cold weather given their small size. In choosing clothing, it is important to understand that the Short-haired Chihuahua may have allergies to outfits made of certain fabrics. As such, it is important for Chihuahua owners to let their Short-haired Chihuahuas try out a particular new outfit for a short period of time. Should there be observations of rash, itch or discomfort, the outfit in question may not be suitable for the Chihuahua's use.

Timely checkups are also a necessity to determine the overall health state of the Chihuahua. Veterinarians would be able to dispense professional advice to Chihuahua owners on issues such as nutrition.

Most importantly, Chihuahua owners must be prepared for a long term commitment as far as Chihuahuas have an average lifespan of about 11 to 18 years. With sufficient care and commitment, Chihuahua owners would be able to look forward to a fulfilling experience with their pets.