March 27, 2022

Long Haired Chihuahua - The Ultimate Guide

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.

Socializing your Chi from a young age is one of the most significant ways to minimize aggression often seen in adult Chihuahuas. There is one more option that you can try to avoid getting a puppy with aggression tendencies shown either earlier or later in life, and that is to meet your puppy's parents. This will help you see just how friendly they are since genetics play a significant role in personality. Remember that this is only feasible if you purchase your Long Haired Chihuahua as a puppy. It is important to note that not all adult Chihuahuas are aggressive.

 

Long Haired Chihuahua Health.

 

 

All chihuahuas have specific health issues at one point in their life or another. Long Haired Chihuahuas are not an exception. Typical health issues may be presented in the form of molera, which is a soft spot on your puppy's skull and one of the most sensitive parts of its body. If your puppy or an adult Chihuahua gets injured, this may lead to many problems. The worst-case scenario would be death. Long Haired Chihuahuas are also prone to heart conditions like mitral valve disease and patent ductus arteriosus, hypoglycemia, and even hydrocephalus, which is a buildup of fluid in the brain that causes an enlargement of the head and can lead to potential brain damage. Whether you have a Long Haired or short-haired Chihuahua, patellar luxation is also one of the most common health issues your Chi can experience.

To keep these problems under control and stay on top of them, you have to have regular checkups with your puppy's veterinarian.

 

Long Haired Chihuahua Grooming.

 

 

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.

 

Long Haired Chihuahua Puppies.

 

 

Whether you choose to adopt or buy your long-haired Chihuahua, it is essential to remember that you are taking home a living, breathing, and loving animal who will become a part of your household and will be loyal to you no matter what.

If you choose to buy your puppy, you need to research and find a responsible and reputable breeder. We will list some of the characteristics of a good breeder and hopefully help you in your choice:

 

• Look at reviews

• Ask to meet your puppy's parents

• Ask to see whether the parents have been health tested (all chihuahuas have to be health tested before breeding to ensure that's the puppies are as healthy as possible)

• Ask to see the living conditions in which both the puppies and the parents are living in

• Check whether the puppies are being socialized. 

 

Whether your puppy is being socialized from an early age is essential because they will have a much easier time adjusting to the new environment, people, and if you have other pets living with you. If you choose to adopt a Chihuahua, you should be prepared To invest time and patience if your Chi is a bit on the aggressive side and hasn't been adequately trained or socialized. Even though it is not the first choice for most people, adoption will undoubtedly make one Chihuahua's life much better since they are the second most utilized dog breed in the United States. This is solely due to overpopulation.

 

Long Haired Toy Chihuahua.

 

 

There are many variables within this breed, and Teacup or Toy Long Haired Chihuahuas are among them. Many people prefer this variety since it is easier to maneuver and monitor. However, with the size come the health issues in tow. The smaller they are, the heavier their health problems can be, and this variety is no exception. They have a much higher risk of heart diseases as well as liver shunts which are both life-threatening.

So, before you opt for a teacup size, you might want to do extensive research and learn of everything that can potentially endanger your puppy's life. It would be best to keep in mind that while this breed is tiny, their lifestyle is definitely not cheap. Choosing this smaller variety may come with additional costs and vet visits.

 

What is the price of a Long Haired Chihuahua?

 

 

The price of a Long Haired Chihuahua can vary by quite a bit, as in the rest of the varieties. A puppy can cost anywhere from $500 to $1300, depending on their litter. If the parents are champions and come from a pristine line, the price might go up even more. The price may also vary based on the size of the litter and the unique color of your Chi. Also, if the breeder is reputable and has done health tests on both parents, this will impact the price.

It is essential to read between the lines. A breeder asking for a higher price and has done all the health tests and has pristine conditions and lineage is in their right to ask for more. However, some breeders are unreputable and will ask for a lot more money solely based on your puppy's size and color. You might want to steer clear of those since they usually do not care for the puppy's health and wellbeing.

Please remember that buying a puppy for a certain amount is just the initial cost. When puppies are purchased, they have usually received one or two shots. You will have to cover everything else, including the rest of their vaccines, regular vet checkups, and training and socializing if you decide to consult with an expert. While considered pretty low maintenance, Long Haired Chihuahuas might need to get a trim or be groomed once in a while. This will also need to be included in the regular list of things your Chi will require.

 

To Sum Up..

 

 

Suppose you are looking for a little dog with a big heart and an even bigger personality. In that case, the Long Haired Chihuahua could be your perfect choice. They need lots of attention (in the form of positive praise, training, socialization, exercise, and grooming) so make sure you have a lot of time to devote to your furry little companion. They love being active and spending time outside but also require their downtime, which they will usually spend with their owners or in their burrows. Long Haired Chihuahua will undoubtedly enjoy participating in different dog activities. They are lovable, active, protective and will make any moment in your life unforgettable and full of joy.