- If you are buying a Chihuahua puppy from a reputable breeder, you will likely receive it sometime between 6 and 10 weeks of age. The puppies need to stay with their mother for at least the first six weeks of life as their mother will be their primary source of nutrition through at least the fourth or fifth week, when puppy food will be introduced. Being around the mother for six to 10 weeks will also help the puppy learn some basic dog behaviors.
- A Chihuahua puppy is a toy breed, which is usually about 6 pounds when fully grown. Depending on when you get your Chihuahua puppy, it may weigh right around a pound, give or take a few ounces. The Chihuahua is small boned but muscular. There are two coat types associated with the Chihuahua: the smooth coat and the long coat. The long coat is a soft, long coat that is flat or even slightly curly. The smooth cost has a soft and shiny coat that is close to the body, though it is a thick or full coat. Both varieties, smooth and long, come in many colors, including brown, black, white, fawn, and a mix of colors.
- The Chihuahua does not require much in the way or regular care. The puppy will need to be bathed once a month with a very mild puppy shampoo. Chihuahuas have a predisposition for ear infections, so when you are bathing, take care to keep the ears dry. Your puppy will need to be fed a high-quality puppy food, preferably what the breeder was feeding to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Feed according to the dog food manufacturer's website.
- The Chihuahua puppy is one of the most energetic puppies you will ever meet. Chihuahuas are also very expressive, graceful and loyal to those they live with and are cared for by. Chihuahuas do best when there is plenty of attention to go around, as they are loving and sweet tempered and like for this affection to be returned. A Chihuahua puppy will usually be content to sit in your lap and nap when tired.
- As soon as you bring your Chihuahua puppy home, begin training and setting standards. This breed is notoriously difficult to train in all aspects, with crate training being the method of housebreaking that generally meets with success. Socialization is important for this breed as Chihuahuas tend not to like strangers, and activity will keep them from becoming destructive with their extraordinary amounts of energy.
