Where the Chihuahua came from
The Chihuahua is believed to be a native of Mexico and is named for the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Some writers link the breed to a small dog called the Techichi, kept by the Toltec people, which they say was bred with the Xoloitzcuintli. The AKC treats that as a belief, and some experts have guessed other origins.
How much of the old story is true is debated. By the 1800s people in the United States began to take interest in the breed. A man named James Watson bought a dog named Manzanita in 1888. The Chihuahua has a soft spot on top of the skull called a molera, much like a human baby's fontanel.
The first Chihuahua registered with the AKC was Midget, owned by H. Raynor of Texas, and the AKC recognized the breed in 1904. Today they are one of the most popular small breeds.
- Ancient Small dogs are kept in Mexico, linked by some to the Techichi
- 1888 James Watson buys a Chihuahua named Manzanita
- 1904 AKC recognizes the Chihuahua; first registered dog is Midget
The job a Chihuahua was bred for
The job was being a small companion. That shaped a bold, loyal dog who often picks one favorite person. At home they can be protective and big on attitude.
Sports that fit a Chihuahua
- Trick dog. Smart
- Scent work. Good
- Rally. Fun
- Obedience. Good
Training tips for a Chihuahua
- Socialize gently and early so confidence grows.
- Handle them with care and let them choose to approach.
- Use a harness instead of a collar for walks.
- Reward calm behavior and quiet moments.
Body and health
Tiny and fragile. Use a harness. Cold sensitive.
Fun fact. Chihuahuas are born with a soft spot on top of the skull called a molera, like a human baby's fontanel. The Chihuahua is the smallest recognized dog breed.
Breed is where we start
A study of more than 18,000 dogs found breed explains only about 9 percent of the differences in behavior between dogs (Morrill and others, Science, 2022). So your Chihuahua is a starting guess, not a label. We find the drive your dog actually runs on, give it a job, and teach you to read them.
Looking for a different breed? See what 75 breeds were bred to do.