Chihuahua puppies for sale in Miami
The Chihuahua is the smallest recognized dog breed, with a big personality, deep loyalty to its people, and a long life. Here is what Miami families should know before bringing one home.
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Temperament and personality
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with a lot of confidence. They are alert, curious, and often act like they are much bigger than they are. Most bond very closely with one or two people and want to be wherever you are, ideally on your lap.
They can be wary of strangers and are quick to sound the alarm when someone comes to the door. Good early socialization helps a Chihuahua grow into a calm, friendly adult instead of a nervous or snappy one. With their own family, they are affectionate, playful, and funny.
Is a Chihuahua right for you?
A great fit if you
- Live in an apartment or condo and want a small companion
- Are home a good part of the day or can bring your dog along
- Want a dog that loves to cuddle and follow you around
- Are ready for a long commitment, often 15 years or more
- Have the patience for gentle, consistent training
Think twice if you
- Have toddlers or very young children who might drop or squeeze a small dog
- Want a jogging partner or a rough-and-tumble playmate
- Need a quiet dog for strict building rules about noise
- Are away from home for long hours most days
Health: what to know
Chihuahuas are generally long-lived, but like every breed they have some common health issues. This is general information, not veterinary advice. Your veterinarian is the best guide for your dog.
Luxating patella. The kneecap can slip out of place. You may see your dog skip or hop for a few steps. Mild cases are often managed, while severe cases may need surgery.
Dental disease. Small mouths crowd teeth, and tartar builds up fast. Many Chihuahuas lose teeth early without daily brushing and regular dental checkups.
Tracheal collapse. The windpipe can weaken and flatten, causing a honking cough. Use a harness instead of a collar on walks to protect the neck.
Heart murmurs and mitral valve disease. Valve problems are common in older small dogs. Your vet will listen to the heart at each checkup and may suggest tests if a murmur appears.
Molera (soft spot). Many Chihuahuas have a soft spot on the top of the skull, similar to a baby's. Some close as the dog grows and some stay open. Handle the head gently and ask your vet about it.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Very small puppies can have a sudden drop in blood sugar, especially if they skip meals, get chilled, or are stressed. Signs include weakness, shaking, wobbliness, sleepiness, or seizures. This is an emergency, so call your vet right away.
What to ask about the parents. Ask whether the parents had knee (patella) and heart checks by a veterinarian, and ask to see vaccine and deworming records for the puppy.
Call a vet if you notice: limping that does not go away, a honking cough or trouble breathing, bad breath or red gums, not eating, vomiting or diarrhea, weakness, or a puppy that seems cold and floppy.
Pet insurance tip. Enroll while your puppy is young and healthy, before any condition can be called pre-existing.
You can also read about your rights under Florida law when buying a puppy.
Daily care
Exercise
Chihuahuas need less exercise than most dogs, but they still need daily activity. A couple of short walks plus indoor play is usually enough. Mental games, like hiding treats or puzzle toys, help keep them happy.
Grooming
Chihuahuas come in a smooth coat and a long coat. Smooth coats need a quick brushing about once a week. Long coats need brushing a few times a week to prevent tangles, especially behind the ears. Trim nails every few weeks, since small dogs often do not wear them down. Brush teeth every day if you can; it is the single best thing you can do for this breed's health.
Feeding
Feed a quality small-breed food. Puppies need small, frequent meals, often three or four a day, to keep their blood sugar steady. Adults usually do well on two meals a day. Watch treats closely, because extra weight puts stress on small joints.
Training
Chihuahuas are smart and learn quickly, but they can be stubborn. Use short sessions, praise, and small treats. Skip harsh corrections. Potty training can take longer than with bigger dogs, so stick to a routine and be patient. Teach a calm response to the doorbell early to help with barking.
Living with a Chihuahua in Miami
Heat. Walk early in the morning or after sunset. Test the pavement with the back of your hand for 7 seconds; if it is too hot for you, it is too hot for paws. Never leave your dog in a car, even for a few minutes.
Air conditioning chill. Chihuahuas get cold easily. If you keep your home very cool, give your dog a warm bed, a blanket, or a light sweater.
Small-dog safety. Check balcony railings for gaps a tiny dog could slip through. Watch your step at home, since Chihuahuas like to stay close to your feet. At dog parks, use the small-dog area and keep your Chihuahua away from rough play with bigger dogs.
For the Miami basics every dog owner needs, like hot pavement, parked cars, year-round parasites, cane toads and hurricane prep, see our Miami puppy care guide.
Colors and coat
Chihuahuas come in many colors, including fawn, cream, black, chocolate, white, red, blue, and combinations with tan, white, or brindle markings. Both the smooth coat and the long coat are part of the breed standard.
Merle Chihuahuas exist, but merle is not an accepted color in the AKC Chihuahua standard. Merle should never be bred to merle, because that pairing can cause serious eye and hearing problems in puppies.
You may see the word "teacup" used online. It is not an official size. A healthy adult Chihuahua's size depends on genetics, and no one can promise an exact adult weight.
Bringing your puppy home
Your first week checklist:
- Supplies: a small harness and leash, a warm bed, a crate, food and water bowls, puppy food, soft toys, and puppy pads
- Schedule your first vet visit within a few days of bringing your puppy home
- Keep up the vaccine schedule your vet sets
- Offer frequent small meals to keep blood sugar steady
- Start a crate and potty routine from day one
- Begin gentle socialization with new people, sounds, and places
Ask us about our Chihuahua puppies, and see our financing options.
Chihuahua FAQ
How big do Chihuahuas get?
Most adult Chihuahuas weigh up to about 6 pounds and stand about 5 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder. Some pet Chihuahuas end up a little larger, which is normal.
How long do Chihuahuas live?
Chihuahuas are one of the longest-lived breeds, often reaching about 14 to 16 years, and some live longer with good care.
Do Chihuahuas shed?
Yes. Smooth-coat Chihuahuas shed lightly year-round, and long-coat Chihuahuas shed a bit more, especially seasonally. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Chihuahuas hypoallergenic?
No. No dog breed is truly hypoallergenic, and Chihuahuas do shed. People with mild allergies should spend time around the breed before deciding.
Are Chihuahuas good with kids?
They can be loving family dogs, but they do best with older, gentle children. Toddlers can accidentally drop or hurt such a small dog, so always supervise.
Why do Chihuahuas shake?
Chihuahuas often shake because they get cold easily, or when they are excited, nervous, or stressed. Shaking with weakness or sleepiness can be a sign of low blood sugar, so call your vet if you see that.
Do Chihuahuas bark a lot?
Many do. They are alert watchdogs and will bark at noises and visitors. Early training and plenty of socialization help keep barking manageable.
Are Chihuahuas easy to potty train?
Potty training often takes longer than with bigger dogs. A consistent schedule, frequent trips outside or to a pad, and lots of praise make a big difference.
Can Chihuahuas be left alone?
Adult Chihuahuas can handle a few hours alone, but they bond closely and may get anxious if left for long periods. Young puppies need frequent meals and should not be left alone for long.
How much does a Chihuahua puppy cost?
The price depends on coat type, color, lineage, and the health checks done on the parents and puppy. For current availability and details, contact us.