Chihuahua is one of the most popular dog breeds because of its sassiness, grace, charm, and size. It is considered the smallest dog breed but doesn’t let its size fool you.
Among all of the dog breeds that made it in theaters, the Chihuahua became big in Hollywood!
The name Chihuahua came from the state of Chihuahua, the largest of the 32 states in Mexico. Apart from knowing where its name came from, its origin and history are a little complicated.
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What Do You Need to Spend on?
Chihuahuas are a less expensive breed; normally costing $300 to $800. Rare Chihuahua breeds such as Merle and Blue Chihuahuas have each been sold for up to $10,000.
Merle Chihuahuas are known for having white spots and patterns in their fur, but they are being bred less these days because of resulting health issues.
Blue Chihuahuas are slightly more common than Merle but are still very rare and expensive – the lowest price being around $850. But often, they are sold for thousands.
They are known for having a bluish hue to their grey coloring that owners are willing to pay extra for. Teacup Chihuahuas are usually expensive, as well.
A “teacup” describes a Chihuahua that is slightly smaller than average. However, there is no real “teacup” breed. The word is used as a marketing technique to put a bigger price tag on the dog.
The average teacup Chihuahua costs around $2,000. White Chihuahuas are also considered to be a rare breed and can cost up to $1,500. Spots or any trace of cream or fawn in the white fur will dramatically bring the price down.
Deer Head Chihuahuas will cost less than White, Merle or Blue Chihuahuas since they are much more common. They are not certified by the AKC, thus, ineligible for dog shows.
In this case, it can cost as little as $400 and as much as $1,200. Also, very common are long-haired Chihuahuas which fall into the same price range.
An Apple Head Chihuahua, like the Deer Head, is not recognized by the AKC and will be slightly lower in price – usually around $300 to $800. However, if you are looking to adopt a Chihuahua, it will still cost you some as most shelters ask for around $300.
What to Spend on Before Bringing Chihuahua Home
- Kennel and Crate Cost
Chihuahuas are toy breed dogs and, as mentioned, the smallest. They generally measure about 15 – 23 cm and weigh 3 – 6lbs. Because of this, they can pretty much go everywhere in your house without having to worry if they’re taking up too much space.
If you want a dog house for your Chihuahua, you can buy small kennels online at prices ranging from $35 to $90. These prices depend on the style and materials.
As an option, you can get a furniture-like kennel that can go along with the design of your homes.
It may seem impractical or unnecessary to buy a kennel for small dogs but getting them their own private space can be advantageous. It can provide a sense of security and discipline for your dog which is necessary especially for training.
- Health Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations
Health certificates are necessary for you and your dog for a lot of things. For one, the health certificate is a requirement if you want to take your dog on a plane for a vacation. Your dog needs to undergo health procedures and vaccinations like anti-rabies and deworming that usually cost around $75 to $100.
In most states, a dog license is required by the law for you to secure as the keeper of a dog. However, you need to have a health certificate as a requirement before you can get one.
The price of getting a license may vary depending on each jurisdiction. For a 1-year dog license, prices are usually around $10 to $20 and $20 to $50 for fixed and unfixed dogs, respectively. Pay for $180 to $350 or higher for the permanent dog license if you’re looking for that as an option.
Chihuahuas are purebred dogs that are recognized by the American Kennel Club. They can get registered at around $30 to $80 depending on the packages you want to avail.
- Training
Chihuahuas may be small but they have big brains. They are able to adapt and learn quite quickly especially when given positive reinforcement. They are so bright that they can be trained to compete in dog sports too!
Chihuahuas are good dogs that excel in obedience training. With the right conditioning and the right attitude, you as an owner can show a strong leadership trait but in a gentle approach.
To help you be guided even further, dog training schools offer courses that cost $120 to $200 from basic courses to advanced courses, respectively. These can be helpful if you want to learn more about how to keep your dog disciplined and controlled.
Factors and Inclusions That May Affect the Chihuahua Price
Chihuahua prices may vary depending on the age, size, gender, condition, among others. However, some items that are included in your upfront purchase may also affect the overall price.
Prior health certifications, vet consultations, registrations, and all other paperwork surely have an impact on the prices. However, these are some of the items that you should be willing to consider as they will ensure that you are buying from a responsible owner or a quality breeder.
Some sellers would also have to let you pay for the shipping, although, some sellers may offer meetups which may be better especially if you’re near them. Either way, this may or may not significantly affect the price of your purchase as some will include the price of shipping on the upfront price.
The Regular Expenses of Owning A Chihuahua
Owning a dog can prove to be quite a responsibility especially for first-time owners. Chihuahuas are no exception. Even though they’re small, watching over them is as important as for larger dogs.
- Food and diet
Feeding Chihuahuas should be supervised carefully as these small dogs seem to be full of appetite. Some owners, especially first-timers, tend to think that every dog food can be suitable for all dogs. However, that’s not the case as there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to dog’s diet.
For Chihuahuas, they have surprisingly high-energy diet requirement even though they do not need too much exercise. Dog foods that are rich in protein with no artificial flavors are ideal for Chihuahuas as they help reduce allergies from developing and are high in energy content.
A bag of small breed adult dog food costs around $30 and lasts for as little as a few months, depending on the dog’s size.
A 40-lb bag will last as long as eight months. However, some dog food brands are priced higher since they specialize in fulfilling the unique nutritional needs and the jaw issues common for a Chihuahua.
For example, a 10-lb bag of a popular brand’s adult food costs as much as $43. This would last a 5-lb Chihuahua roughly a month or two.
Luckily the quantity of food for your Chihuahua will be much less compared to other breeds – typically eating only half cup, servings twice a day.
A little bit more to consider when buying dog foods for Chihuahuas are their contents and kind. Some dog foods may affect dogs’ teeth, so you may want to check on that as Chihuahuas are prone to developing dental problems.
- Grooming and hygiene
Coats of Chihuahuas come in two different variants such as the smooth and long coat (or shorthaired or longhaired). Layers may vary differently as some may have single or double-layered coats regardless of their coat variants.
Chihuahuas come in any color combinations. Some Chihuahuas come in pure solid color while some have two or even three-color combination.
When it comes to grooming, nothing can go wrong as these cute little Chihuahuas’ coats are easy to maintain. For example, brushing their coats at least three times a week can be enough. Don’t forget to also brush them before bathing as it can help to distribute the shampoo evenly throughout their bodies.
Grooming kits, especially for Chihuahuas, can be purchased at around $26 so be sure to include that in your budget.
You can buy quality shampoos formulated for Chihuahuas for $15. Just be sure to buy products that don’t contain allergenic components. You can ask your pet’s groomer and vet about that as well.
Another advantage of keeping Chihuahuas is that their hygiene is also easy to maintain. You should keep an eye though on their teeth as they are prone to dental problems.
Some owners prefer regular professional care for their Chihuahuas. A visit to the salon may set you back at $15 to $20 for a trim and bath depending on the coat type and another $20 to $25 for extra services such as nail care. Prices vary on each groomer and location.
- Toys and accessories
Every puppy has the instinct to chew on whatever it can reach especially during teething. Buying chew toys can be beneficial while Chihuahuas are still puppies as they focus that instinct on something appropriate rather than, let’s say, your favorite pair of Jordan’s or newly bought red Prada heels.
You can buy chew toys for $7 and around $8 for those recommended to help with their dental health.
There are also a lot of dresses and accessories you can buy if you’re feeling sassy for your Chihuahuas. You can buy costumes, shirts, and dresses that will suit the style you want for your Chihuahuas for $1.50 to $10 depending on the quality and style.
- Vet and other health costs
Chihuahuas are regarded as generally healthy dogs that can live for 15 – 20 years. However, as most purebred dogs, they tend to develop a range of diseases.
Chihuahuas are prone to patellar luxation – a condition where the kneecap frequently dislocates. The severity of the condition can vary, but if required, treatment may include surgery which can cost up to a few thousand.
Physical and massage therapy are also options for patellar luxation which usually involves regular appointments costing anywhere from $50 to $120 an hour. However, if less severe, you can buy a recovery sleeve for patellar luxation which costs about $30 to $50.
Obesity is also one of the most common health problems Chihuahuas are likely to develop. Giving them treats while training can also be a cause for them to become obese.
In order to keep them fit, a combination of proper diet, short exercise sessions, and knowing their daily calorie requirement are a must.
Each and every dog has their own specific needs especially with their health condition that is why a visit to the vet is a given requirement. A typical vet consultation usually costs $33 to $55 for a physical examination and $100 or higher for a more inclusive package and emergency care.
