Whether you own a Teacup, Apple head, or a Deer head Chihuahua, this breed has been one of the most popular dogs breeds globally for a long time. However, they are usually chosen for their size, even though these puppies are not to be trifled with.
They are fiercely protective, stubborn, and often require a lot of socializing, training and love. Chihuahuas became very popular after the movie Legally Blonde came out in 2001. While the film made sure that Chihuahuas were one of the most popular dog breeds of that time, what was not expected was that Chis are not just lap dogs and accessories that you can carry around. Instead, they have huge personalities trapped inside tiny bodies, requiring constant attention. They need to be monitored most of the time.
While there are many different variables of Chihuahua, there is one feature that’s present amongst all. Chihuahuas can be either short-haired or long-haired. Since the Apple heads have been accepted as the breeds standard, both short and Long Haired Chihuahuas are accepted by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and the other kennel clubs worldwide.
The Long-Haired Chihuahuas have been present for a very long time. What makes them one of the most lovable pets is their ability to be well trained. They are low maintenance when it comes to grooming and have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
THE TEMPERAMENT OF A LONG HAIRED CHIHUAHUA.
Even though Long Haired Chihuahuas are tiny, they have prominent personalities! Whether long-hair or short-hair, Chihuahuas are an extremely loyal breed and very intelligent. But they can be a little stubborn.
Therefore, it is essential to have rules for your Chihuahua, especially when teaching your Chihuahua to control the ‘terrier’ temperament they’re known for.
Sadly, the breed is rumored to be feisty, so many usually avoid adopting a Long-Haired or any Chihuahua. Even though Chihuahuas are often seen as an aggressive breed, this is, as in many breeds, a cruel and unnecessary tag that they wear. You can take steps to minimize this trait and make sure your Chi is as loving as any other dog.
Chihuahua is a breed that usually shed all year round. It doesn’t matter if you have long hair or a short-haired Chihuahua. You will still end up with a lot of fur around your home. There is an upside to this situation: the grooming portion is relatively easy since these are tiny dogs.
If you opt for a long haired Chihuahua, you must regularly brush them and bathe them. This will help them cut down on shedding and prevent mats from forming throughout their coat. If you do not want to invest time and money to regularly brush your Chihuahuas coat or take them to a groomer, we recommend choosing a short-haired Chihuahua. While they are not known to have alopecia (also known as complete hair loss), shaving their fur is not recommended.
You should brush out their hair at least three times a week and bathe them at least once a month. Washing them can also depend on whether they spend a lot of time outside with other dogs and get dirty much quicker than dogs that spend most of their time at home. You will have to assess whether your puppy needs a bath or not.
You also need to remember that their nails would need trimming every so often, especially if your Chi does not spend a lot of time outside or you tend to keep them away from the pavement and the streets.