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Chihuahua
The world's smallest breed — tiny, bold and fiercely devoted to its chosen person.
How to spot it
A tiny dog, usually 15–23 cm tall and under 3 kg, with a rounded "apple" head, large upright ears and big bright eyes. It comes in two coat types — smooth and long — in almost every colour.
Temperament
Alert, confident and often devoted to one person, it is bigger in attitude than in body and quick to bark, which makes it a lively little watchdog. It can be wary of strangers and needs socialising so it stays friendly.
Exercise & training
Needs only short walks and indoor play, but it is intelligent and enjoys gentle training. Because it is so small and bold, protect it around big dogs and rough handling.
Grooming & care
Smooth coats need only a weekly brush; long coats a little more. Being tiny and thin-coated it feels the cold and shivers easily, so it needs warmth in winter. Take care of the teeth.
Health & lifespan
Long-lived at about 12–20 years. Watch for a slipping kneecap, dental disease, a soft spot on the skull in some pups, and low blood sugar in very small individuals.
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