What is a Hairless Chihuahua? ( Rare Mexican Dog )

The chihuahua is amongst the most recognizable dog breeds in the world today.

It’s also the smallest and derived from a mute dog kept by the Toltec people in Mexico as far back as the 9th century.

Small enough to be carried around in a bag, the chihuahua is now an extremely popular pet in different parts of the world. But what on earth is a hairless chihuahua?

The Origins of the Hairless Chihuahua. 

More generally, the hairless chihuahua and chihuahuas are named after the state of Mexico, where the breed was first recognized and documented in the nineteenth century.

The chihuahua species derived from the Techichi, a popular breed of dog from the Toltec people of Mexico for generations before the evolution of chihuahuas.

Records from the colonial period refer to ‘nearly hairless dogs’ roaming the Chihuahua region in the nineteenth century, which were almost certainly the exact chihuahuas we know and love today.

The American Kennel Club first recognized them in 1904, and the Chihuahua Club of America was founded in 1923.

They have been kept as pets in America and further afield throughout the century, followed by stars including Marilyn Monroe, Paris Hilton, and Madonna.

Characteristics of Hairless Chihuahuas. 

What they lack in hair, hairless chihuahuas certainly make up for in feisty temperament.

While extremely loving and affectionate with their families, chihuahuas are spirited and frequently bark at outsiders.

For small dogs, like the pugs, chihuahuas provide good protection to their human companions and raise the alarm when something isn’t right.

Another great thing about hairless chihuahuas is that they don’t shed (obviously!) and require regular coat grooming.

But it’s important to keep them warm as they don’t respond well to the cold. Hairless chihuahuas need to wear a coat throughout the year when they’re outside to protect themselves from the elements.

The heaviest chihuahuas weigh no more than six pounds and won’t exceed eight inches in height.

If they keep good health, you can expect hairless chihuahuas to live for between 14-16 years, and they make great long-term companions for many families worldwide.

Hairless Chihuahuas Sociability. 

Before welcoming a hairless chihuahua into your family, you must understand what to expect and how they will fit into your home. These tiny dogs have huge personalities ( although they look ugly ) and are fun-loving and good-natured, as we explore below:

Hairless chihuahuas have a lot of love to give

One of the most endearing things about a hairless chihuahua’s personality is their desire to always be with you. They’re so small, so it is easy to sit with them all day on your lap and take them out with you in your bag for day trips.

They’re extremely intelligent. 

Hairless chihuahuas are very intelligent, willing to learn, and highly adaptable. They can be easily trained and can even compete in agility trials and obedience events if that’s something that you’re interested in.

Hairless chihuahuas don’t like strangers.

If an unknown visitor arrives at your front door, expect your hairless chihuahua to tell you about it! Even when they’re out for a walk, chihuahuas aren’t particularly fond of other humans coming over to give them attention.

They have larger-than-life personalities. 

For tiny, hairless dogs, these chihuahuas have huge personalities! Expect them to play by their own rules and protect their space. You will almost certainly fall in love with their feisty, unique personalities.

How Much Are Hairless Chihuahuas? 

If you want to welcome an adorable hairless chihuahua into your home, you will most likely need to approach a professional breeder in your area.

Chihuahuas are extremely popular breeds, but the hairless variety is less commonly available.

Still, if you contact a local breeder, they will be well-positioned to explain how and where to buy a hairless chihuahua.

As for the cost, you can expect to pay anywhere between $500 – $1500 for a hairless chihuahua puppy.

However, buying a chihuahua puppy from a reputable breeder with a championship bloodline could cost several thousand dollars more!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an adorable, pocket-sized family dog, then a hairless chihuahua is an excellent option for you.

They’re very similar in size, personality, and sociability to regular chihuahuas, except that they don’t have hair!

For such a small dog, the hairless chihuahua has a huge personality and lots of love to give and will be a fantastic addition to your family.

Hairless Chihuahuas FAQs.

1. Why are some chihuahuas hairless? 

The reason that some chihuahuas don’t have hair is due to a genetic defect. However, this doesn’t affect their characteristics or personality; you can expect them to behave similarly to ordinary chihuahuas.

You must be mindful that hairless chihuahuas are even more susceptible to the cold, so you should do everything possible to keep them warm!

2. Are hairless chihuahuas more expensive than regular chihuahuas?

Generally, hairless chihuahuas will fetch a similar price to regular chihuahuas, somewhere between $500 and $1500 per puppy. That being said, if demand for hairless chihuahuas is high in your area, you can expect to pay more.

3. Are hairless chihuahuas good with kids? 

Hairless chihuahuas are a little snappy towards children, a common trait of smaller dogs. This is particularly the case with children up to the age of ten.

That being said, hairless chihuahuas can form perfectly loving and trusting relationships with kids, depending on the environment in which they’re raised.

4. Is a hairless chihuahua the same as a mini Xoloitzcuintli? 

Xoloitzcuintli (or Xolos for short) is another breed of hairless Mexican dog and is not the same as a hairless chihuahua. A miniature Xolo is bigger than a hairless chihuahua at 14-18 inches high and 15-30 pounds in weight.

They also have different personalities and physical characteristics but are another great option if you’re looking for a loveable and hairless Mexican dog.