Long Haired Chihuahua Puppies: Complete Growth & Care Guide
Everything you need to raise long haired Chihuahua puppies — age milestones, feeding portions, vaccination schedule, potty training, and first-year costs.
Long haired Chihuahua puppies are among the tiniest companion dogs you'll ever raise, but their first year demands surprisingly precise care. Their small body mass means blood sugar can crash within hours of a missed meal, their delicate tracheas require harness-only walking, and their celebrated socialization window closes faster than larger breeds. This guide maps every critical stage from week 4 through month 12 so you know exactly what to expect and when to act.
When Should You Bring a Long Haired Chihuahua Puppy Home?
Responsible breeders keep long haired Chihuahua puppies with their littermates until at least 10 to 12 weeks of age — not the 8 weeks common for larger breeds. The extra two to four weeks matter enormously for this breed. Chihuahua puppies are born weighing just 2.5 to 5.5 ounces (70–155 g) and develop more slowly in terms of immune competence and emotional stability than medium or large breeds. Puppies sent home at 8 weeks often show heightened fear responses, difficulty settling, and increased susceptibility to hypoglycemia.
At 10–12 weeks, your puppy should weigh roughly 1.5 to 3 lb (0.7–1.4 kg), be fully weaned onto solid food, have received at least one round of vaccinations, and demonstrate the ability to eat independently four times per day. Ask the breeder for a written record of deworming dates, the first DHPP vaccine, and any introduced foods.
Red flag: Any breeder offering a Chihuahua puppy younger than 8 weeks or advertising "teacup" sizes below 2 lb adult weight is prioritizing novelty over health. The AKC breed standard specifies a maximum weight of 6 lb (2.7 kg) with no minimum — but ethical breeders do not selectively breed for extreme miniaturization because it increases risks of hydrocephalus, patellar luxation, and dental overcrowding.
Long Haired Chihuahua Puppy Milestones: Week by Week
Weeks 4–8: Litter Life and Early Development
During this period, puppies are still with the breeder. Eyes and ears are fully open, deciduous teeth erupt, and littermate play teaches bite inhibition. The breeder introduces soft-weaning food (high-quality puppy kibble soaked in warm water or puppy-specific milk replacer) around week 4. By week 6, puppies should be eating mostly solid food. The first DHPP vaccine is typically given at 6–8 weeks. Weight at 8 weeks: approximately 1 to 2 lb (0.45–0.9 kg).
Weeks 8–12: Homecoming and Bonding
If you bring your puppy home at 10–12 weeks, expect the first 48 hours to involve clinginess, nighttime whining, and possibly loose stools from stress. This is normal. Your puppy should eat 4 meals per day, sleep 18–20 hours daily, and begin recognizing their name within the first week. Start handling exercises: gently touch ears, paws, and mouth for 5–10 seconds daily to prepare for grooming and vet exams. The long coat at this stage is short and soft — the full feathering on ears, legs, and tail won't develop until 6–14 months.
Weeks 12–16: Confidence Building
Energy increases noticeably. Your puppy will have short bursts of play (10–15 minutes) followed by deep sleep. This is prime time for introducing basic cues: sit, come, and name recognition using tiny training treats (less than 1 kcal each). Fear periods commonly hit around 12–14 weeks — your puppy may suddenly react with alarm to previously familiar stimuli. Stay calm, don't force interactions, and let them approach new things at their own pace. Weight at 16 weeks: approximately 2 to 4 lb (0.9–1.8 kg).
Weeks 16–24: Adolescence Begins
Teething peaks between 4 and 6 months. You'll find tiny deciduous teeth on the floor, and your puppy will chew everything within reach. Chihuahuas are prone to retained deciduous teeth — baby teeth that don't fall out when adult teeth erupt — so check weekly for double rows of teeth. If a baby tooth remains alongside an adult tooth past 6 months, your vet will likely recommend extraction to prevent crowding and periodontal disease. Switch from 4 to 3 meals per day around 16 weeks, and from 3 to 2 meals around 6 months.
Months 6–12: Approaching Adulthood
Your long haired Chihuahua is close to adult size by 8–10 months, though some continue filling out until 12–14 months. Adult weight typically lands between 3 and 6 lb (1.4–2.7 kg). The long coat begins its mature growth phase — expect noticeable feathering on the ears, a plumed tail, and a slight ruff around the neck. Spay or neuter is commonly performed between 6 and 9 months; discuss timing with your vet, as some evidence suggests waiting until after growth plate closure may benefit joint health in small breeds. Transition from puppy food to adult small-breed formula around 10–12 months.
Feeding Schedule: Exact Portions by Age and Weight
Long haired Chihuahua puppies have extremely high metabolic rates relative to their body size. Hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar) is a real risk in puppies under 4 months, especially if a meal is missed or the puppy is stressed. Keep Nutri-Cal or a veterinary glucose gel on hand — a pea-sized amount rubbed on the gums can stabilize a lethargic puppy during transport to the vet.
| Age | Meals/Day | Daily Amount (Dry Kibble) | Calories/Day (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks (1–2 lb) | 4 | ¼ to ⅓ cup | 100–150 kcal | Moisten kibble with warm water; offer free-choice for first 2 weeks home |
| 3–4 months (2–3 lb) | 4 | ⅓ to ½ cup | 150–200 kcal | Transition to dry kibble; set timed meals (15 min then remove) |
| 4–6 months (2.5–4 lb) | 3 | ⅓ to ½ cup | 175–225 kcal | Monitor body condition score; adjust if ribs not palpable |
| 6–9 months (3–5 lb) | 2–3 | ⅓ to ½ cup | 150–200 kcal | Growth rate slows; reduce if gaining excess weight |
| 9–12 months (3–6 lb) | 2 | ¼ to ½ cup | 125–175 kcal | Begin transitioning to adult small-breed formula at 10–12 months |
Kibble selection matters. Choose an AAFCO-certified small-breed puppy formula with kibble pieces sized for tiny mouths. Look for a named animal protein (chicken, lamb, or salmon) as the first ingredient and a guaranteed analysis showing minimum 22% protein and 8% fat for growth. Brands like Royal Canin Chihuahua Puppy, Hill's Science Diet Small Puppies, and Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Puppy all formulate specifically for breeds under 10 lb.
Vaccination Schedule for Long Haired Chihuahua Puppies
Chihuahua puppies receive maternal antibodies through colostrum that gradually wane between 6 and 16 weeks. Vaccinations are timed to fill the gap as those antibodies decline. The American Veterinary Medical Association and the AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines recommend the following core protocol:
| Age | Vaccine | Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus-2, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) | Core — 1st dose | $20–$40 |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP booster + Bordetella (optional, recommended if attending puppy classes) | Core — 2nd dose + Non-core | $30–$60 |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP booster + Rabies (required by law in most US states) | Core — 3rd dose + Rabies | $40–$75 |
| 12–16 months | DHPP booster + Rabies booster | Core — 1-year booster | $40–$80 |
When can your puppy go outside and meet other dogs? Until the full DHPP series is complete (typically 1–2 weeks after the 14–16 week dose), avoid dog parks, pet store floors, and areas where unknown dogs defecate. Parvovirus survives in soil for months and is fatal in unvaccinated puppies at a rate of 80–90% without treatment. You can carry your puppy in public, visit friends' homes with fully vaccinated dogs, and attend controlled puppy socialization classes that require proof of at least one DHPP dose. This balance is critical — isolating a puppy completely until 16 weeks means missing the primary socialization window.
The Socialization Window: Weeks 3–14
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) identifies 3 to 14 weeks as the primary socialization period for puppies. Experiences during this window shape lifelong responses to novelty. For long haired Chihuahua puppies — a breed prone to fear-based reactivity and one-person bonding — structured socialization is not optional; it's preventive behavioral medicine.
If your puppy shows fear (freezing, trembling, tucked tail, attempting to hide), increase distance from the trigger and toss high-value treats (boiled chicken, freeze-dried liver) near them without requiring them to approach. This is called counter-conditioning — pairing the scary thing with something wonderful. Forcing a frightened Chihuahua puppy to "face their fears" will deepen the fear response, not resolve it.
Potty Training: Realistic Timeline and Troubleshooting
When will your long haired Chihuahua puppy be fully potty trained? Realistically, expect 4 to 8 months for reliable house training, with some Chihuahua owners reporting full reliability closer to 10–12 months. This breed's tiny bladder (holding roughly 1 tablespoon of urine per pound of body weight) and sensitivity to cold and rain make them one of the more challenging breeds to house-train. There is no shortcut.
Sample Potty Schedule for a 12-Week-Old Chihuahua
| Time | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6:30 AM | Carry outside immediately upon waking | Do not let puppy walk — may have accident en route |
| 7:00 AM | After breakfast (15–20 min post-meal) | Use consistent cue word: "go potty" |
| 8:00 AM | After play session | Excitement triggers bladder release |
| 9:00 AM | After nap | Carry from crate directly outside |
| Every 1–2 hrs | Scheduled trips | Set phone alarm; don't wait for puppy to signal |
| 10:00 PM | Final trip before crate for night | Remove water 1.5 hours before bedtime |
| 2:00 AM | One overnight trip (8–14 weeks only) | Set alarm; phase out by 14–16 weeks |
Troubleshooting common setbacks:
- Refusal to go outside in cold/rain: Long haired Chihuahuas are more cold-tolerant than smooth coats but still dislike wet weather. Use a covered potty area or an indoor real-grass patch (e.g., Fresh Patch, Doggielawn) as a backup. Never punish for indoor accidents caused by weather avoidance — instead, create a sheltered option.
- Submissive/excitement urination: Common in Chihuahua puppies under 6 months. Greet calmly, avoid leaning over the puppy, crouch sideways, and let them come to you. This typically resolves with maturity.
- Marking behavior: Can begin as early as 4–5 months, especially in intact males. Spay/neuter reduces but doesn't always eliminate marking. Manage with supervision and belly bands during training.
Crate Training Progression and Time Limits
A crate is essential for Chihuahua puppy safety — these dogs can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps, and unsupervised puppies risk falls from furniture, electrical cord chewing, and ingestion of foreign objects. Choose a crate sized for the adult dog (approximately 18"L × 12"W × 14"H) with a divider panel to reduce space while the puppy is small. A crate that's too large invites soiling in one corner.
| Age | Max Daytime Crate Time | Max Nighttime Crate Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks | 30–60 minutes | 3–4 hours (with one potty break) | Crate beside your bed; drape blanket for den feel |
| 10–12 weeks | 1–1.5 hours | 4–5 hours | Feed meals in crate with door open; introduce stuffed Kong |
| 3–4 months | 2 hours | 5–6 hours | Begin leaving room briefly while puppy is crated |
| 4–6 months | 3 hours | 6–7 hours | Practice short departures from the house |
| 6–12 months | 4 hours | 7–8 hours | Never exceed 4 hours daytime without a potty break |
Chihuahuas bond intensely and are prone to separation distress. Build crate tolerance gradually: start with 5-minute sessions while you're visible, then increase duration and distance over weeks. If your puppy panics (continuous screaming for more than 15 minutes, self-injury attempts, excessive drooling), stop and consult a certified force-free trainer — pushing through panic creates lasting crate aversion.
Teething Timeline and Safe Relief Strategies
Long haired Chihuahua puppies begin losing their 28 deciduous teeth around 12 to 16 weeks, with the process completing by approximately 6 months when all 42 adult teeth should be in place. Because Chihuahuas have small jaws, dental overcrowding is one of the breed's most common veterinary concerns.
Teething relief strategies:
- Frozen washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth, twist into a rope, freeze for 2 hours. Supervise use — remove once pieces start tearing off.
- Rubber teething toys: Kong Puppy (size XS), Nylabone Puppy Chew (petite), or Benebone Puppy (tiny). Avoid hard nylon until adult teeth are fully set.
- Chilled carrots: A whole peeled carrot from the fridge provides crunch without calorie overload. Supervise to prevent choking.
- Redirect biting to toys: When puppy teeth touch skin, say "oops" calmly, withdraw attention for 3 seconds, then offer an appropriate chew. This teaches that human skin ends play while toys continue it.
Retained deciduous teeth warning: Check your puppy's mouth weekly starting at 4 months. If you see an adult tooth erupting while the corresponding baby tooth is still firmly in place, schedule a veterinary dental evaluation. Retained baby teeth are common in Chihuahuas and can cause the adult tooth to grow in at an abnormal angle, leading to palate injury or accelerated periodontal disease. Extraction is a quick procedure typically costing $50–$150 per tooth.
Common Long Haired Chihuahua Puppy Problems and Solutions
Puppy Biting and Nipping
Why it happens: Normal exploratory behavior and teething discomfort. Chihuahua puppies have needle-sharp deciduous teeth and thin skin on human hands makes bites feel worse than they are.
Solution: Use the "oops" redirect method described above. Never hold the puppy's mouth shut, tap their nose, or use any aversive technique — these increase fear and may escalate biting. Provide 4–5 appropriate chew toys rotated daily to maintain novelty. If biting intensifies, your puppy is likely overtired — put them in their crate for a nap. Most Chihuahua puppies significantly reduce mouthing by 5–6 months.
Nighttime Whining and Crying
Why it happens: Separation from littermates, need to eliminate, or learned attention-seeking.
Solution: For the first 2 weeks, place the crate next to your bed so your puppy can hear and smell you. If whining occurs, wait 3–5 minutes before responding (to distinguish genuine distress from settling fussiness). If you suspect a potty need, carry outside silently, reward elimination, and return to crate with minimal interaction. Avoid comforting whining with attention — this teaches that crying produces company.
Destructive Chewing
Why it happens: Teething, boredom, or anxiety. Chihuahua puppies can destroy baseboards, remote controls, and shoes despite their small size.
Solution: Puppy-proof by removing accessible items and using bitter apple spray on furniture legs. Provide structured chew sessions twice daily with appropriate toys. Increase mental stimulation with 5-minute training sessions and snuffle mats. A tired puppy is less likely to chew destructively.
Trembling and Shaking
Why it happens: Chihuahuas tremble due to cold, excitement, anxiety, or low blood sugar. While often normal, persistent shaking warrants veterinary evaluation.
Solution: Keep ambient temperature above 68°F (20°C). Provide a fleece-lined bed and consider a small dog sweater for outdoor trips below 60°F (15°C). If trembling accompanies lethargy, weakness, or refusal to eat, check gums (should be pink, not white or gray) and contact your vet immediately — this could indicate hypoglycemia.
First-Year Cost Breakdown
Budgeting accurately prevents surprises. Below is a realistic first-year cost range for a long haired Chihuahua puppy in the United States (2026 pricing):
| Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase/adoption | $300 | $2,500 | Rescue: $300–$600; Responsible breeder: $1,200–$2,500 |
| Veterinary (wellness) | $400 | $800 | 3 puppy visits, vaccines, fecal tests, heartworm prevention, spay/neuter |
| Food and treats | $180 | $360 | Small-breed puppy formula: $15–$30/month |
| Supplies | $200 | $500 | Crate, harness, leash, bed, bowls, grooming tools, toys, puppy gate |
| Grooming | $0 | $400 | Home grooming: $0; Professional every 6–8 weeks: $40–$65/session |
| Training | $0 | $500 | Group puppy class: $150–$250; Private sessions: $80–$150/hour |
| Pet insurance | $300 | $600 | $25–$50/month for accident/illness coverage |
| Emergency fund | $0 | $2,000+ | Hypoglycemia ER visit: $500–$1,500; Fracture repair: $1,500–$4,000 |
| Total (excluding purchase) | $1,080 | $5,160+ | Varies by location, insurance, and health events |
Chihuahuas are generally long-lived (14–18 years is common), so the first-year investment sets the foundation for over a decade of care. Pet insurance purchased before any conditions develop is strongly recommended — patellar luxation surgery alone can cost $1,500–$3,000 per knee, and ASPCA Animal Poison Control consultations for accidental ingestion cost $95 per call (888-426-4435).
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I feed my long haired Chihuahua puppy at different ages?
At 8–16 weeks, feed 4 meals per day to prevent hypoglycemia. At 4–6 months, reduce to 3 meals. At 6 months and beyond, transition to 2 meals daily. Never free-feed beyond the first 2 weeks home — Chihuahuas can overeat when bored, and obesity puts dangerous stress on their tiny joints.
When will my long haired Chihuahua puppy be fully potty trained?
Most Chihuahua puppies achieve reliable house training between 4 and 8 months with consistent scheduling. Some take up to 10–12 months. Cold weather and rain are the biggest setbacks for this breed — providing a covered or indoor potty option dramatically speeds the process.
How do I stop my Chihuahua puppy from biting and nipping?
Use positive redirection: when teeth touch skin, say "oops," withdraw attention for 3 seconds, then offer a chew toy. Ensure your puppy gets adequate sleep (18–20 hours/day for young puppies) — overtired puppies bite more. Never use physical punishment, which increases fear-based aggression in this sensitive breed. Most nipping resolves naturally by 5–6 months as adult teeth come in.
What vaccines does my Chihuahua puppy need and when?
The core schedule is DHPP at 6–8 weeks, DHPP booster at 10–12 weeks, and DHPP plus Rabies at 14–16 weeks. Bordetella is recommended if your puppy will attend group classes or visit groomers. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule based on local disease prevalence and your puppy's health status.
When can my Chihuahua puppy go outside and meet other dogs?
You can carry your puppy in public immediately, but avoid ground-level exposure to areas where unknown dogs have been until 1–2 weeks after the final DHPP dose at 14–16 weeks. Controlled puppy socialization classes that require proof of at least one DHPP dose are safe and strongly recommended during the 8–14 week socialization window.
Do long haired Chihuahua puppies need professional grooming?
Not necessarily. Unlike many long-coated breeds, the long haired Chihuahua's coat is relatively low-maintenance. Brushing 2–3 times per week with a slicker brush and occasional combing of ear and leg feathering prevents mats. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is optional but helpful for nail trims, sanitary trims, and ear cleaning if you're uncomfortable doing these at home. Bathing every 3–4 weeks with a gentle puppy shampoo is sufficient.
Sources consulted: American Kennel Club — Chihuahua Breed Standard, AVMA Vaccination Resources, Merck Veterinary Manual. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized care decisions.
Dr. Hannah Wickes
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
