Chihuahua: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, puts the Chihuahua at about 12-20 cm tall and 1.8-2.7 kg, living over 12 years. It suggests at least 30 minutes a day, and lists 11 health problems to watch, including luxating patellas and hip dysplasia. Minimum running cost: at least £50 a month, and up to £8,900 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Size | Small |
|---|---|
| Average height | 12-20 cm |
| Average weight | 1.8-2.7 kg |
| Average lifespan | Over 12 years |
| Exercise | At least 30 minutes a day, ideally two short walks plus play |
| Grooming | Low maintenance: weekly brushing for smooth coats, two to three times a week for long coats |
| Cost | At least £50 a month, and up to £8,900 over a lifetime |
Source: PDSA, Chihuahua breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- luxating patellas
- hip dysplasia (BVA/KC hip scheme)
- hydrocephalus
- eye problems: dry eye, entropion and lens luxation
- heart valve disease (heart scans for parents)
- tracheal collapse
- Legg-Perthes disease
- dental problems
- difficulty giving birth
- cryptorchidism
- Chiari malformation and syringomyelia (BVA/KC scheme)
Source: PDSA, Chihuahua breed information.
Exercise and grooming
PDSA suggests at least 30 minutes a day, ideally two short walks plus play. Grooming: low maintenance: weekly brushing for smooth coats, two to three times a week for long coats. Source: PDSA, Chihuahua breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as varies widely from feisty to timid; clever but independent; likely to be vocal. PDSA says they suit slightly older children, need company and can develop separation anxiety quickly. Source: PDSA, Chihuahua breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: at least £50 a month, and up to £8,900 over a lifetime. These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a dog and puppy first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Chihuahua breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Chihuahuas live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of over 12 years.
How much exercise does a Chihuahua need?
PDSA suggests at least 30 minutes a day, ideally two short walks plus play.
What health problems do Chihuahuas have?
PDSA lists luxating patellas; hip dysplasia (BVA/KC hip scheme); hydrocephalus; eye problems: dry eye, entropion and lens luxation; heart valve disease (heart scans for parents); tracheal collapse; Legg-Perthes disease; dental problems; difficulty giving birth; cryptorchidism; Chiari malformation and syringomyelia (BVA/KC scheme).
How much does a Chihuahua cost?
PDSA's estimate: at least £50 a month, and up to £8,900 over a lifetime.
Sources
- PDSA, Chihuahua breed information, read 7 November 2026.
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All breed guides, everything for dog owners, human foods dogs can eat and pet emergency: what to do now.
