Last Updated on December, 2024

Chihuahuas are a famous dog breed that is one of the oldest breeds in America. They are tiny and adorable. The price of a Chihuahua is a fair amount compared to many other dogs.

So, how much does it cost for a Chihuahua puppy? What additional expenses do you have to consider before buying a Chihuahua? Continue reading to learn essential information on Chihuahua and the related costs.

How Much Does a Chihuahua Puppy Cost? 

You can get a healthy Chihuahua for the price range between $500 and $2000. Chihuahua puppies with pure bloodline can cost you around $3500 and upwards.

The price of a Chihuahua puppy depends on various factors like the reliability and reputation of the breeder, the type of the Chihuahua breed, and so on.

You will get a brief idea regarding these factors in the later parts of this article. Don’t miss a single point; keep reading!

The cost of a Chihuahua is a little expensive since it includes the prices of all necessities, such as vet bills and health exams starting at birth.

Keep in mind that some people attempt to develop Chihuahua breeds without giving them the required care. Puppies born into poor conditions may have a variety of health issues.

Getting a puppy from unreliable breeders will result in further animal suffering, in addition to the fact that you were cheated by the amateur breeder who sold you the puppy.

Mixed-breed chihuahuas are not an exception in this case. So, in order to obtain the puppy breed of your choice, it is always advised to contact a professional breeder.

There are other less expensive options for a healthy Chihuahua puppy online, such as on Craigslist.

Finding such a location could be challenging. However, you might make an effort if you’re eager to have the dog while remaining within your means.

Chihuahua: Breed Info 

Chihuahuas are also known as “purse dogs,” With unique personality traits, they are considered national symbols of Mexico.

Chihuahuas are adorable dog-kinds with a smile that can flatter anyone within a few minutes. I have experienced such an event that I will never forget that innocent face after creating a big mess!

Appearance and Size 

Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with cute looks. The heads of chihuahuas are rounded. They have short, pointed muzzles. They have large, appealing eyes that are rounded. Chihuahuas have big, perked ears.

The long tail of the Chihuahua breed is carried up over its back. There are two different coat types for Chihuahuas. While one of the varieties is lengthy and swift, the other is short and smooth.

Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat colors and patterns.

As said earlier, Chihuahuas are tiny breeds. The Chihuahuas can weigh from 2 pounds to 6 pounds in weight. They can grow up to around six to nine inches in height.

Life Span 

Chihuahuas are very playful; thus, they can get injured while playing. A Chihuahua requires health examinations on a regular basis to keep any health issues at bay.

Personality and Temper of the Breed 

Chihuahuas are known for their personality traits. They have earned “saucy” for their attitude and varied expressions. Chihuahuas are charming and adorable. They are friendly and affectionate. 

Chihuahuas are devoted lap dogs who adore spending time with their owners. They might be curled up in a corner or beneath a blanket if they aren’t cradled next to you. Otherwise, they would be able to locate a sunny area to enjoy. 

With proper training, Chihuahuas are highly sociable. They can be brought up along with other kinds of pet animals. If you own a Chihuahua, you will eventually notice that it shows a special bond and affection towards you rather than the other people around you. 

Be consistent in your expectations and employ training that uses positive reinforcement. If the Chihuahuas become bored, they could exhibit undesired habits and picky eating. Be consistent in your training and set basic rules early on.

Origin of Chihuahua

The existence of Chihuahuas was noticed during the 19th century. Chihuahuas are thought to have descended from the Techichi desert dog breed. The Techichi breed has roots in Mayan culture.

They are Colombian dogs with morphological traits that mimic those of Chihuahuas. Additionally, it is thought that the ancient Toltec civilization bred them.

For the origin of Chihuahuas, the Chinese Crested is one logical explanation. The Chinese Crested’s ancestry may be traced to port cities worldwide thanks to sailors who took these little dogs on trade voyages.

In Central and South America, where the breed was later introduced to the Aztecs, it is thought that these trading endeavors brought the Chinese Crested there.

The Chihuahua’s ancestry is uncertain, but its official discovery date is undisputed. This unnamed breed first appeared in Central and South America in the late 1800s, with Chihuahua, Mexico, serving as its principal place of origin.

The small dog was then bred and sold to tourists by Mexican traders, many of whom carried them back to the United States to keep as pets.

Later, the natives and tourists started to call the tiny dog breed by the name of the region from where they have been found the most, Chihuahua.

During the 19th century, the name Chihuahua became popular with the tiny dog breed. The American Kennel Club (AKC) declared the Chihuahuas to be formally recognized in 1904. 

Types of Chihuahua 

There are majorly seven types of Chihuahuas you can find. They are Short hair Chihuahuas, Long hair Chihuahuas, Deer Head Chihuahuas, Pear Headed Chihuahuas, Teacup Chihuahuas, Apple Head Chihuahuas and Chihuahuas of colors.

Let’s check them out in detail!

Short-Haired Chihuahuas 

Long-Haired Chihuahuas

Deer-Head Chihuahuas

Apple-Head Chihuahuas

Additionally, they have a “molera” at birth, a soft spot in the skull similar to a newborn’s fontanel in humans. This spot may or may not fully close. 

Pear-Head Chihuahua

It is not advised to go for a Chihuahua type, specifically by the term “Pear-Headed,” because plenty of scammers exist to spread rumors about the rarity of the breed type to make extra money. 

Teacup Chihuahuas

Profit-seekers, such as those who operate puppy mills, take advantage of the demand and attempt to create miniature dog breeds by mating one variety with another. 

Such amateurish breeders mostly generate genetically defective Chihuahua puppies due to their intentional breeding for artificially small sizes.

Different Colors of Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are also recognized by the American Kennel Club, classified by the markings on their color coat.

Black Mask, Black Brindling, Black Sabling, Merle Markings, Spotted On White, White Markings, and Fawn Markings are a few examples of marking-based colored Chihuahuas. 

Health Concerns 

Being a Chihuahua owner, one must be aware of the health concerns that Chihuahuas are prone to. Here are some health issues that Chihuahuas are prone to. 

Common Health Issues

Chihuahuas are a commonly healthy dog breed. It is noticeable that out of all the dog breeds, Chihuahuas have quite a long lifespan. Still, Chihuahuas are also prone to certain health issues that one might have knowledge of before owning a Chihuahua.

Tracheal Collapse

In certain dogs, the trachea, the tube that carries air into and out of the lungs, might flatten, which can cause breathing problems. (1)

Tracheal collapse’s causes are unknown; however, heredity may play a significant influence. It appears that small dog breeds are more prone to the problem. 

Call your veterinarian immediately to schedule an appointment if your Chihuahua exhibits symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing. It’s essential to pay attention to this Chihuahua health issue.

Most minor cases are treatable with the veterinarian’s prescription medication. The objective is to improve your dog’s breathing and lessen coughing so they can live fun-filled lives.

Luxating Patella 

Chihuahuas are prone to luxating patella, a disorder in which the kneecap dislocates. Your tiny friend’s kneecap may slip out of its groove if you see them hobbling or holding one of their legs awkwardly. (2)

There are more extreme versions of this health issue in Chihuahuas, yet it usually returns to place on its own mostly. 

Sometimes the kneecap might not return to its natural position without being physically reinserted into its groove.

Surgery may also be advised in cases of grade 4 luxating patella, where the kneecap is misaligned permanently. It’s crucial to seek the assistance and counsel of your veterinarian.

Running or jumping might assist in causing this inherited health disease, typically brought on by genetics. These great canines may still go on everyday trips with the correct care and attention, perhaps not as intensively as they would want.

Their health and wellness can be significantly improved by physiotherapy, weight control, and specific activities. 

Hypoglycemia 

Open Fontanel 

The term “open fontanel” refers to another potential medical condition that Chihuahua owners should be aware of.

The soft areas on the dog’s head’s crown that result from the skull’s partial closure during development are referred to as the condition.

Even though they might need to be a little less boisterous than they would like, many dogs who are diagnosed with this illness lead normal lives.

It is due to the risk of major head injuries from even minor accidents; thus, these puppies should live peaceful lives.

Consult your veterinarian about the diagnosis and strategies to ensure your tiny pet remains well and healthy for years to come. Dogs with this problem can also develop hydrocephalus.

Do not assume that because these breed-specific problems exist, your Chihuahua will experience them and need to visit the vet frequently.

Owners have a higher chance of identifying uncommon symptoms if they are informed of potential health risks for their pets.

Knowing the difference between a Chihuahua’s typical antics and odd behaviors that can indicate an underlying ailment is crucial. 

Training a Chihuahua

Dogs like chihuahuas are delightful. Chihuahuas are often not regarded as obedient breeds. They do not only sit when told to.

When you place them in an obedience ring, they frequently begin creating new training orders because they become bored repeating the same things.

However, with effort and a wealth of helpful information, everything is possible, even with a Chihuahua. 

A Chihuahua puppy should best be trained when it is eight weeks old. Here are some training methods that you can use with your Chihuahua.

You can start additional training methods when the dog is old enough and has mastered fundamental commands while controlling their nutrition.

During training sessions, a set schedule should be adhered to. Training that is not prepared for could be harmful. The best training method for a Chihuahua may depend on how stubborn the puppy is.

For the Chihuahua breed, positive reinforcement works best. Any dog can benefit from training using the positive reinforcement method. You can reward the puppy with a treat each time it obediently follows your instructions.

Additionally, positive words are encouraged to be used in this training technique.

Training tools dog owners must have for their dogs:

• Recommended GPS Dog Fence
• Recommended Dog Crates
• Recommended GPS Trackers
• Recommended Bark Collars
• Recommended Shock Collars

Where to Buy a Chihuahua? 

You can select the best location to purchase a Chihuahua puppy based on your financial constraints. Here are the three primary types of vendors from which you can get a Chihuahua puppy.

Getting a Chihuahua Puppy From a Well Reputed Breeder

Here, the health of the parent dogs is routinely considered, and regular examinations are given to them. A respectable breeder will most definitely be able to provide you with a Chihuahua of exceptional quality.

Be cautious while investing in social media marketing. The American Kennel Club or other national breed organizations frequently list reputable breeders. If breeders register with the group, they must abide by its stringent rules.

A professional breeder can provide documentation, including legal certifications, medical records, and paperwork, as proof of the high caliber of the Chihuahua puppy you are purchasing.

Getting a Chihuahua Puppy From Craigslists

Another choice is to get a Chihuahua from an unregistered breeder. Here, the cost is cheaper than it would be from a reputable breeder.

This is the one aspect that requires your whole focus. These Chihuahua puppies are generally produced in puppy mills. They don’t adhere to the rigid guidelines of social norms. 

Unskilled breeders frequently neglect to take their animals to the vet on a regular basis. Taking them is something they might think about doing if any serious illnesses are detected.

Simply enough, they dominate reproduction, mainly in their backyards. These breeders produce puppies of all different breeds. Hybrids are commonly the outcome.

To properly care for and raise Chihuahuas in compliance with approved standards, some Unauthorized breeders study the breed. If you can locate one of these breeders, you can have a healthy Chihuahua for a less high price. 

Getting a Chihuahua Puppy From an Animal Shelter

It should not be donated to an animal shelter because a reputable breeder understands the puppy’s value and can care for it or sell it to another person.

If a puppy has any noticeable or significant genetic problems, an amateur breeder won’t care about the dog and will get rid of it. Even if the parents’ histories are unknown, a Chihuahua rescue facility may accept a pregnant Chihuahua.

Once saved, the dog or puppy will, without a doubt, receive excellent care from the shelter. After being rescued, the dog will receive regular grooming, maintenance, immunizations, and medical attention.

You could use this to verify the health of the puppy you’re considering adopting.

You can also consider getting a Chihuahua puppy from dog owners who are closer to you.

Procedures for Adopting a Chihuahua

You can adopt a Chihuahua from a shelter. You must go through some requirements in order to adopt a Chihuahua from a shelter. Finding a good shelter nearby should be your priority.

Do your investigation about the breed of dog you want to adopt. The research should consider the puppy’s age, how long it has been in the shelter, its health, the cost, and its outer appearance.

1. Submit the filled application.
2. Face an interview with the shelter.
3. Get approval from the shelter considering your capability to bring up the puppy you want.
4. Get the paperwork done and bring home the puppy.

Make sure you have the space and finances necessary to raise a Chihuahua puppy before adopting one. The dog was placed in the shelter for a cause; thus, it wouldn’t be right to go through any more traumatic experiences elsewhere.

Expenses to Consider When Owning a Chihuahua

Food 

Chihuahuas are a very active breed of dog. They need an adequate supply of dietary components for daily ingestion. The nutritionist’s advice allows for the adoption of a variety of diets. A healthy diet should be followed at the correct times.

A Chihuahua puppy only eats a relatively small amount of food each year, roughly 50 pounds of dry food.

Chihuahua adult dogs eat a little more, but the amount is still lesser than other dog breeds. Dietary supplements for the Chihuahua could cost up to $200 annually.

Medical Expenses 

Much more care must be given to a young Chihuahua. Regular vet visits, vaccinations, and immunizations are essential. The associated fee will be applied if a health problem is discovered.

Regarding Chihuahuas, heartworm and flea prevention is highly advised to be pursued. Monthly consultation with a veterinarian typically costs roughly $100. If the dog contracts any ailments while staying, the cost will increase. 

Grooming 

The type of coat that a Chihuahua has will determine how to groom it. Basic bathing supplies like dog shampoo, dog soap, a brush, and a nail cutter are included in the grooming price. A $75 to $100 price range applies.

What Makes the Chihuahua Breeds Expensive?

A well-known dog breed is the Chihuahua. Prices can differ significantly depending on the characteristics of the dog breed. Chihuahuas make excellent companions.

There are other elements determining a Chihuahua’s pricing, in addition to the variety of available breeds. Here are some key factors that have an impact on Chihuahua prices.

Quality of the Dog Kind With Superior Bloodline 

Higher-lineage Chihuahua puppies are more expensive than lower-lineage puppies. Don’t be misled by their diminutive stature; they are bright and fiercely loyal to their human family.

They make excellent watchdogs and will alert you if there is a risk from a stranger. They might be aggressive and extroverted or timid and reserved.

Chihuahuas are believed to be derived from a dog breed known as Techchi, belonging to the 9th century.

Chihuahuas with superior bloodlines possess unique characteristics, whereas Chihuahuas with lesser attributes of the ancestral lineage might mostly have genetic issues.

Reputable Breeder 

Despite being relatively pricey and in high demand among dog enthusiasts, some people continue to breed chihuahuas without having the necessary skills or taking good care of the parent dogs.

Purchasing a Chihuahua from a reliable breeder is the best option. A reputable breeder can charge more for the dog because there is a high demand for puppies.

Whatever the case, you are well aware of how expensive Chihuahuas are. But buying one from a reliable breeder lessens the abuse of dogs and ensures a healthy puppy.

Health Guarantee 

Before purchasing a Chihuahua puppy, you must first verify its health. A good breeder offers a fitness guarantee on a healthy Chihuahua puppy for at least two years. It may guarantee the dog’s genetic health.

One of the main elements affecting the cost of a Chihuahua breed is the health guarantee, which also covers the costs associated with raising the puppy from conception.

What Makes Chihuahua Breed Special?

Everything about Chihuahuas is special!

A Techichi, the canine companion of the ancient Toltecs, is the ancestor of the Chihuahua. The tiniest purebred dogs, Chihuahuas, or Chis as they are fondly known, are sharp-witted, spunky, and have distinct personalities. 

Chihuahuas make incredibly devoted and affectionate companions that, when properly introduced, get along with both kids and other animals. Chihuahuas may be easily trained due to their intelligence.

They actually perform admirably when participating in agility and obedience competitions and can serve as effective service animals, particularly for blind people and as emotional support animals.

Chihuahua – Dog Insurance Expenses 

Chihuahua pet insurance premiums can be higher than those for mixed-breed dogs. This is because Chihuahuas are far more likely than mixed-breed dogs to file claims for inherited diseases that are expensive to treat.

Plans exclusively designed for Chihuahuas offer comprehensive coverage for all disorders unique to the breed.

No matter what occurs, keeping your Chihuahua happy and healthy can be achieved by selecting the appropriate insurance. Make sure you carefully review the various conditions and types of therapy covered before buying insurance. 

Check whether diagnostic procedures like MRI and CT scans are fully covered.

Examine any restrictions on the price of certain treatments and the extent to which dental diseases and injuries are covered, especially in light of the fact that Chihuahuas are prone to mouth and teeth problems.

It is tough to obtain pet insurance when you need it because you cannot forecast the future. For the puppy’s health, it is best to get pet insurance as soon as you make the purchase.

Annual Expenses if You Own a Chihuahua – An Average Estimation 

The cost of a Chihuahua is quite expensive. Prices for typical Chihuahua puppies range from $500 to $2000.

Puppies from pure bloodlines of Chihuahuas cost more than $3,500. A suitable space for the puppy needs to be planned before purchasing.

A Chihuahua puppy’s annual food expenses are roughly $200.

The meal dishes and containers, which run about $50, are also essential.

Puppies enjoy playing, so you’ll need to get Chihuahua-specific toys. The price range for the toys is between $50 and $100. (Average = $75)

It is necessary to have grooming supplies like brushes, soaps, and shampoos. The intended consumers of these things are the pups themselves. The cost of these items ranges from $75 to $100. (Average = $87.5)

The annual cost of training for group classes will be about $1000.

Routine health checkups cost an average of $100 per month. Each year, it costs $1200.

After accounting for all expenses other than the purchase price, a Chihuahua will cost roughly $4,212.5 per year.

After a year, a Chihuahua puppy’s training fees and some vaccine fees are waived.

Description	Cost Per Year (Average Estimation)
Food	$ 200
Meal Dish and Containers	$ 50
Toys	$ 75
Grooming Kit	$ 87.5
Training Session (Group Classes)	$ 1000
Regular Health Check-Ups	$ 1200
Annual – Total Expenses	$ 2612.5

How to Reduce the Expenses When Maintaining a Chihuahua?

There are ways to save expenses if you think it would be costly to maintain a Chihuahua. The additional costs will be acceptable if you make the right decision.

Food Cost

In reality, Chihuahuas consume a lesser amount of food. A Chihuahua puppy consumes around 50 pounds of dry food for a year. Still, you can make some reduction in food costs for Chihuahuas. 

It is important to provide the Chihuahua puppy with the proper nutrients as soon as you bring it home. Dry dog food that has added nutrition is available and already prepared. The premium food brand costs a little bit extra.

You get to pick from the dishes that you cook yourself. Choose foods such as specific vegetables and cuts of meat that contain the required nutrients, as the pet’s nutritionist recommends.

You can buy premium dry dog food once a month and feed your dog intermittently. The main meals in this scenario should consist of cooked food.

Training Cost

Anything may be learned in the era of the internet. There are films made by certified trainers that can be used to train Chihuahuas. Another option is to hire a qualified trainer on a temporary basis.

Make friends with the trainer and ask him for advice on how to teach a dog. Eventually, you’ll be able to keep up with the training methods.

Note: You know, you can completely skip the chihuahua training cost? Here’s a training program that is totally free of charge. Check out the free course here.

Toys, Grooming Supplies, And Feeding Containers

Even chew toys are necessary when you own a Chihuahua. You will be forced to make the necessary material purchases.

Purchasing high-quality goods is the only thing you can do to cut costs. This instance can require you to invest a bit of extra money.

The issue is that you will only pay for the materials once. Investing in high-quality goods will help you save money. 

Other Dog Breeds Pricing Guides:

• Bloodhound Cost
• Teacup Chihuahua Cost
• Dachshund Cost

Final Thoughts 

One of the oldest dog breeds in America, the Chihuahua is a well-known breed. They are cute and tiny. A Chihuahua costs a reasonable amount compared to many other dog breeds.

A healthy Chihuahua costs between $500 and $2000. Chihuahua puppies with pure bloodlines can cost up to $3500.

The cost of a Chihuahua puppy varies on a number of variables, including the breed of the dog, the breeder’s reputation, and so on. 

On average, a Chihuahua lives 12 to 15 years. In actuality, Chihuahua breeds live longer than most other dog breeds. Chihuahuas can be found in seven main subtypes.

The types have been divided into groups based on the sorts of coats, head structures, sizes, and color patterns.

You can decide where to get a Chihuahua puppy depending on your budgetary restrictions. The three main categories of sellers from which you can purchase a Chihuahua puppy are reputable breeders, craigslist, and animal shelters.

Getting a puppy from a reputable breeder is always recommended. Apart from the buying cost, one must also be aware of the maintenance cost before owning a Chihuahua. 

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