Dogs Similar to a Chihuahua

Originating in Central America, Chihuahuas are small, low-maintenance pets that are ideal for those living in apartment buildings. They are loyal, loving lapdogs that guard their owners' homes with due diligence. Their small size makes them easy to exercise and their short coats need only occasional grooming. Small breeds like Chihuahuas are becoming more popular, especially among urban dwellers.

  1. Papillon

    • Papillons were once favored by European nobility.

      The Papillon is slightly bigger than the chihuahua, but shares many qualities. They are very affectionate and cuddly dogs that become very attached to their owners. They are natural watchdogs, just like the chihuahua, but are not considered to be "yappy." Though their coat is long and sheds excessively, grooming is needed only occasionally. Papillons are very intelligent, making them slightly easier to train than Chihuahuas.

    Pomeranian

    • Pomeranians' size is a result of Queen Victoria's interest in the breed.

      Pomeranians are similar in size than Chihuahuas, but require quite a bit more grooming and exercise. The higher energy level of the Pomeranian makes it a bit higher maintenance, but this may be a desirable quality for an active owner. Like the Chihuahua, Pomeranians are very dedicated and affectionate to their owners, but may need to be watched closely around small children and other pets.

    Yorkshire Terrier

    • The Yorkshire Terrier was originally bred to hunt rats.

      The Yorkshire Terrier is a loyal and wonderful watchdog, just like the Chihuahua. Though the two breeds are very similar in size, the Yorkshire Terrier does come with its own benefits. This breed's coat is similar to hair, causing less shedding and hypoallergenic qualities. Yorkshire Terriers are also very intelligent, making them easier to train than the Chihuahua. However, Yorkshire Terriers do tend to have a higher energy level than Chihuahuas, making them less of a "cuddle dog."

    Chinese Crested

    • The Chinese Crested can either be hairless or covered in fur.

      It is thought that when Chihuahuas were originally brought to Europe from Central America, they were bred with the Chinese Crested to reduce their size. It can then be assumed that many of the desirable traits that Chihuahuas possess will be present within this breed. The Chinese Crested sheds a lot less, as they are mainly hairless, and are found to be less noisy than the Chihuahua. This breed is loyal, but can be difficult to train.