Chihuahua Grooming Guide

Grooming isn't much of a hassle with Chihuahuas. But note that it's easy for Chihuahuas to get cold—again, they are so small. But because of this, they're often happy to be put in doggy sweaters, wrapped up in warm blankets, and dressed in coats to stabilize their body temperature.

Coat Care

Chihuahua dogs can have a short or long coat in a wide range of colors including black, white, and brown.

Short-haired Chihuahuas should be brushed about once a week to help control their moderate shedding. Long-haired Chihuahuas require more frequent brushing—about two or three times weekly—along with routine de-shedding of the undercoat. They might need a bath once or twice a month, depending on how active they are outdoors.

Eye Care

A Chihuahua's ears are pricked, meaning they stand at attention. This lets oxygen enter them easily, making Chihuahuas less prone to moisture and ear infections than dogs with floppy ears. Because of this, you probably won't need to clean their ears very often, if at all.

Ear Care

A Chihuahua's ears are pricked, meaning they stand at attention. This lets oxygen enter them easily, making Chihuahuas less prone to moisture and ear infections than dogs with floppy ears. Because of this, you probably won't need to clean their ears very often, if at all.

Dental Care

The biggest part of their upkeep will be their teeth, which need to be brushed daily to prevent dental disease.

Summary

• Chihuahua grooming is relatively low-maintenance, though their tiny size makes them prone to getting cold, so they often benefit from wearing sweaters, coats, and being wrapped in blankets to maintain body temperature.
• Short-haired Chihuahuas require weekly brushing to manage moderate shedding, while long-haired varieties need more frequent brushing two to three times weekly plus routine de-shedding of their undercoat.
• Chihuahuas typically need bathing once or twice a month depending on their outdoor activity level, with coat colors ranging widely from black, white, and brown combinations.
• Their pricked (upright) ears allow oxygen to enter easily, making Chihuahuas less susceptible to moisture and ear infections than floppy-eared breeds, so ear cleaning is rarely necessary.
• Daily teeth brushing is the most critical aspect of Chihuahua grooming to prevent dental disease, which is extremely common in this breed due to their small mouths and overcrowded teeth.