Are you interested in getting a Chihuahua dog but wondering about the cost? Chihuahuas are one of the most popular small dog breeds, known for their tiny size and big personality. However, before you bring one home, it’s important to understand how much it will cost you.
The cost of a Chihuahua dog can vary depending on several factors, including the breeder’s reputation, bloodline, and the type of Chihuahua. According to AKC PuppyFinder, Chihuahuas from champion lines can be much more expensive than those without a pedigree. Additionally, teacup Chihuahuas, which are smaller than the standard breed, can be more expensive as well.
- Adopting a Chihuahua from a shelter or rescue organization can be a cost-effective option, with adoption fees ranging from $50 to $400. However, if you choose to buy from a breeder, the cost can vary from $500 to $3,500, depending on the bloodline and type of Chihuahua.
- Budgeting is essential to ensure you can afford the annual expenses, which can range from $1,045 to $3,330.
Cost of Owning a Chihuahua
If you are considering bringing a Chihuahua dog into your home, it’s important to understand the costs involved. Owning a Chihuahua can be a long-term financial commitment, and it’s important to budget accordingly.
Initial Costs
The initial cost of owning a Chihuahua can vary depending on whether you adopt or purchase from a reputable breeder. Adoption fees can range from $50 to $400, while purchasing a Chihuahua from a reputable breeder can cost anywhere from $500 to $3,500, depending on the bloodline and whether the dog is show quality.
Other initial costs to consider include supplies such as food and water bowls, a collar, an ID tag, a microchip, a nail clipper, and grooming supplies. These costs can add up to around $100 to $200.
Recurring Costs
Recurring costs of owning a Chihuahua include food, supplies, grooming, training, and medical expenses. On average, you can expect to spend around $50 to $200 per month on your Chihuahua.
Food costs will depend on the type and quality of food you choose to feed your Chihuahua. Basic supplies such as food and water bowls can cost around $20 to $30.
Grooming costs can vary depending on whether you groom your Chihuahua yourself or take them to a professional groomer. Grooming costs can range from $100 to $300 per year.
Training costs can also vary depending on whether you train your Chihuahua yourself or hire a professional trainer. Basic training costs can range from $300 to $500.
Medical expenses can be a significant recurring cost for Chihuahua owners, especially if your dog has medical conditions requiring repeated attention and vet visits. Pet insurance can help offset some of these costs, with monthly premiums ranging from $30 to $50.
Sources
- According to Bubbly Pet, the average price of a Chihuahua puppy from reputable breeders can range from $1,000 to $3,500.
- Pet Budget estimates the first-year expenses of owning a Chihuahua to be around $3,330, with an average lifetime cost of $17,960.
- Hepper estimates the total monthly cost of owning a Chihuahua to be $50 to $200+ per month.
- iPet Guides notes that 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.
Caring for Your Chihuahua
As a new Chihuahua owner, it’s important to understand how to properly care for your pet. Here are some tips on how to care for your Chihuahua.
Feeding
Feeding your Chihuahua a balanced diet is crucial for their health. Choose high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds. A Chihuahua puppy may require more frequent meals than an adult dog, so consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate feeding schedule. Be sure to provide fresh water at all times.
Grooming
Chihuahuas have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Brushing their coat once a week with a soft brush will help remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are also essential to maintain their overall health.
Training
Training your Chihuahua is important to ensure they are well-behaved and socialized. Start with basic obedience training, such as sit, stay, and come. Positive reinforcement is key when training your Chihuahua. Consider enrolling your dog in professional training classes to help reinforce good behavior.
Exercise
Chihuahuas are a small breed that requires moderate exercise. Daily walks or playtime in a fenced yard can help keep them healthy and happy. Avoid overexerting your Chihuahua, as their tiny size can make them susceptible to injury.
Overall, caring for a Chihuahua can be a rewarding experience. Remember to provide them with proper nutrition, regular grooming, training, and exercise to ensure they are healthy and happy. For more information, consult with your veterinarian or reputable Chihuahua breeder.
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Chihuahua Breeds
When it comes to Chihuahuas, there are various breeds, each with unique characteristics. The breed types include the apple head, deer head, and teacup Chihuahuas. The apple head Chihuahua is the most popular breed, with a round head and a short snout. The deer head Chihuahua has a longer snout and a more elongated head, while the teacup Chihuahua is the smallest breed, weighing only 2-4 pounds.
In addition to breed types, Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, such as black, brown, fawn, white, and cream. Some Chihuahuas may have a solid coat, while others may have a mixture of colors or patterns, such as brindle or spotted.
If you’re looking to show your Chihuahua, you’ll want to consider a show quality dog. These dogs have a pedigree and come from champion bloodlines, which makes them more expensive. However, if you’re just looking for a loving companion, a pet-quality Chihuahua will be just as loyal and affectionate.
Overall, the cost of a Chihuahua depends on various factors, such as the breeder’s reputation, bloodline, and type. It’s essential to do your research and find a reputable breeder to ensure you’re getting a healthy and happy Chihuahua.
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Conclusion
In summary, owning a Chihuahua can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with expenses. You should consider the cost of food, supplies, grooming, training, vet visits, and pet insurance. Budgeting is essential to ensure you can afford the annual expenses, which can range from $1,045 to $3,330.
Adopting a Chihuahua from a shelter or rescue organization can be a cost-effective option, with adoption fees ranging from $50 to $300. However, if you choose to buy from a breeder, the cost can vary from $500 to $3,500, depending on the bloodline and type of Chihuahua.
It’s important to be cautious when buying from backyard breeders or puppy mills, as they may not perform health screenings or socialization, leading to potential health concerns. Professional training can also be an additional cost, but it can help with behavioral issues and improve your bond with your Chihuahua.
Spaying or neutering your Chihuahua can also prevent future health issues and unwanted litters. Chihuahuas have a lifespan of 14-16 years, and they are prone to common health issues such as dental problems, patellar luxation, and hypoglycemia.
Chihuahuas originated in Mexico and come in different types, including the teacup Chihuahua. They have a tiny size and come in various coat colors and patterns. The Chihuahua breed is popular, ranking 33rd in the American Kennel Club’s breed popularity.
Overall, the cost of owning a Chihuahua can vary, but it’s essential to budget and consider the expenses before bringing one home. Proper care and attention can ensure a happy and healthy life for your pet.
FAQ
How much do small Chihuahuas cost?
To give you an idea of how much size matters with this dog, let’s compare a little pricing. Your average, purebred Chihuahua will set you back between $300 and $500, while a ‘micro’ or ‘teacup’ variety will cost significantly more – up to $2000, in some cases!
While they are adorable, this size difference means that the smaller dog will need a lot more visits to the vet, so be prepared for around $2600 in medical expenses in just the first year to ensure that your little one stays happy and healthy!
How much does a Deer chihuahua cost?
‘Deer Head’ Chihuahuas are handsome little dogs and this is definitely reflected in the cost. Expect to pay anywhere from $400 up to $1200 when procuring a pup of your own. You might also be able to get them a little more cheaply, as they are not considered to be their own breed by the AKC.
You’ll just need to spend a little time researching breeders but the odds are in your favor that you’ll find a bargain on your Deer Head Chihuahua.
How much are white Chihuahuas worth?
White Chihuahuas are among the rarest color, so you should expect a price of between $500 up to $1500 for a puppy. Keep in mind that we aren’t talking about an Albino – A white chihuahua will have white fur, but also have black eyes, nose, and paws.
It’s a lovely coloration and harder to find than ‘standard’ Chihuahuas, but you can definitely find them if you look.
How much is a male Chihuahua?
On average, most people will pay around $800 for a male Chihuahua puppy, but the prices can vary quite a bit based on a number of factors. For instance, with papers, you are looking at $375 up to $2420 from a registered breeder, while a ‘backyard’ breeder who may or may not have papers will charge between $300 and $500.
What is an Apple Head Chihuahua?
Apple Head Chihuahuas are a variety of dogs that have rounded heads, along with short, pointy noses that are angled at about 90 degrees, and which have large, sometimes protruding eyes as a result of the specialized head shape.
While it’s a cute variety of Chihuahua, this is actually quite a common configuration from these dogs, so expect the price to be very close to a standard Chihuahua if not the same – if it isn’t, check with another breeder. Reputable breeders know that Apple Heads are common and should not charge you significantly more.
How much is an Apple Head Chihuahua?
When purchased from a local breeder, an Apple Head Chihuahua puppy should be priced at between $500 and $1000. If you are getting Teacup Apple Head, then this may be significantly more, but check your local shelters if you find the price prohibitive.
Apple Head Chihuahuas are a common variety, and you might well be able to rescue an Apple Head from your local shelter for around $150 to cover vaccinations, spaying, or neutering.
What is a Blue Chihuahua?
A Blue Chihuahua is not a dog with blue fur, but rather one that has a skin pigmentation which may be close to black or even a steel blue mixed with a little navy color.
This tends to give them a bluish tint in combination with their fur and the blue coloration is considered to be extremely rare – with Blue pups costing as much as $10,000 in some cases!
My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks.
I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.
