If you’ve ever thought about bringing a Chihuahua into your life, the question of cost is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. It’s not just about the price of buying a puppy—it’s about the long-term commitment of caring for a dog that could live well into its late teens. Knowing the real costs helps you plan, prevents surprises, and ensures you can give your dog the best life possible.
Chihuahuas are tiny in size but full of character, and they’ve become one of the most popular toy breeds in the world. But before you take the step of owning one, it’s worth understanding what you’re signing up for, both financially and emotionally.
Quick Facts About Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed in the world. They typically weigh between 2 and 6 pounds, which is about 1 to 3 kilograms, and stand 6 to 9 inches tall, or 15 to 23 centimetres, at the shoulder. Despite their tiny frame, they live long lives. On average, you can expect a Chihuahua to live between 14 and 17 years, and some even reach 20 years with good care.
They belong to the toy group of dogs, a category made up of breeds that were developed primarily for companionship rather than work. Chihuahuas are bold, intelligent, and affectionate, but they’re also alert and sometimes protective. This combination of traits makes them ideal for people who want a loyal companion that thrives on closeness and attention.
Understanding their size, lifespan, and temperament is important because these factors influence not only the purchase price but also the ongoing costs of care.
How Much Do Chihuahua Puppies Cost?
The cost of a Chihuahua puppy varies depending on where you live. In the United States, you can expect to pay anywhere between $800 and $3,500 for a well-bred puppy. The average tends to fall around $1,200 to $2,000, but prices can climb higher if the puppy comes from a champion bloodline or a breeder with a strong reputation.
In the United Kingdom, prices typically range from £700 to £2,500, with the average cost being about £1,200. Again, the upper end of the scale usually applies to pedigree Chihuahuas with strong lineage or puppies bred specifically for showing.
These prices reflect more than just the size of the dog. They reflect the demand for the breed, the breeder’s investment in health testing, and the assurance that the puppy has been raised in a responsible environment.
Why Do Chihuahua Prices Vary?
The price differences you see when looking for a Chihuahua are not random. Breeder reputation plays a huge role. A breeder who invests in health checks, genetic testing, and proper care for both parents and puppies will naturally charge more.
Pedigree is another factor. A puppy with parents that have won awards or come from recognised bloodlines often costs more. This is because pedigree breeding requires careful selection and record keeping.
Coat type also influences cost. Long-coated Chihuahuas are often slightly more expensive than smooth-coated ones because they are less common. Colour can also affect price. Rare colours or patterns, such as blue or merle, usually come at a premium, although it’s worth noting that some rare colours can be linked to health risks.
Demand plays its part too. Chihuahuas are a highly popular breed, and when demand rises, so do prices. Puppies available in larger cities may also cost more simply because of higher local demand.
The Cost Difference Between Pedigree and Non-Pedigree Chihuahuas
Pedigree Chihuahuas, meaning those registered with official kennel clubs and bred according to set standards, usually cost more than non-pedigree dogs. The difference can be several hundred pounds or dollars. For example, a pedigree Chihuahua in the UK might cost around £1,500, while a non-pedigree could be available for £800.
In the United States, pedigrees often sell for upwards of $2,000, while non-pedigrees may cost closer to $1,000. The higher cost reflects the breeder’s investment in maintaining breed standards, carrying out health checks, and ensuring the dog meets recognised guidelines.
However, a non-pedigree Chihuahua can still make a loving and healthy pet. What matters most is that the dog Chihuahua dog comes from a responsible breeder who prioritises health and wellbeing.
Adoption Costs vs Buying From a Breeder
Adoption is another option, and it’s usually much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. In the UK, adoption fees typically range from £150 to £300. In the United States, adoption fees are usually between $100 and $400.
These fees often cover vaccinations, microchipping, and sometimes neutering or spaying. While you may not get a puppy with a full pedigree history, you gain the satisfaction of giving a dog in need a home.
Adoption is worth considering if you’re more interested in companionship than show potential. Many Chihuahuas end up in shelters because of their strong personalities, and they can make wonderful pets once placed in the right home.
Ongoing Costs of Owning a Chihuahua
Buying a Chihuahua is only the beginning. The ongoing costs are what really matter, and these last for the dog’s lifetime.
Food costs are lower than for larger breeds because of their small size. On average, you’ll spend about £15 to £25 per month in the UK, or $20 to $30 in the US, for good-quality small-breed dog food.
Grooming needs are modest. Smooth-coated Chihuahuas require minimal grooming, while long-coated ones need more frequent brushing. Professional grooming every few months may cost £30 to £50 in the UK, or $40 to $60 in the US.
Insurance is strongly recommended because Chihuahuas can be prone to certain health issues. In the UK, pet insurance can cost between £20 and £40 per month. In the US, plans typically range from $30 to $50 per month.
Vet care adds another layer of expense. Routine check-ups, vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, and dental care all add up. Annual costs often range from £200 to £400 in the UK or $300 to $600 in the US, not including emergencies.
Accessories like beds, toys, leads, and coats also form part of the ongoing costs. While these are not as regular as food or insurance, they add up over the years.
One-Off Costs You Should Plan For
When you first bring a Chihuahua home, there are one-off expenses you need to be ready for. Vaccinations are essential in the first year. In the UK, the initial course usually costs £70 to £100. In the US, expect to pay around $100 to $200.
Microchipping is a legal requirement in the UK and usually costs around £15 to £20 if not included in the breeder’s fee. In the US, it’s about $45.
Neutering or spaying costs vary. In the UK, it’s usually £150 to £250, while in the US it ranges from $200 to $400 depending on the clinic.
Initial supplies such as a crate, bedding, toys, food bowls, and a harness can easily add £150 to £200 in the UK or $200 to $300 in the US to your first-year expenses.
Are Chihuahuas Expensive Compared With Other Small Dogs?
Compared with other small dogs, Chihuahuas are fairly average in price. French Bulldogs, for example, can cost between £1,500 and £3,000 in the UK, or $2,000 to $5,000 in the US, making them significantly more expensive to buy. Pomeranians often cost between £1,000 and £2,500, while Yorkshire Terriers average between £700 and £2,000.
When it comes to ongoing costs, Chihuahuas are generally less expensive than brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs or Pugs, which often face higher vet bills. Their small size means lower food costs too. Overall, while the initial price varies, their lifetime costs are manageable compared with many other popular breeds.
How to Budget for a Chihuahua
Budgeting is vital before bringing any dog into your home. Start by setting aside savings for the initial purchase or adoption fee, plus the one-off costs like vaccinations and supplies.
Then think about the monthly expenses. Food, insurance, and routine vet care are the basics. Adding a little extra each month to a savings fund helps cover emergencies like unexpected surgeries or treatments.
Responsible planning ensures you don’t find yourself struggling to afford care. Remember, a Chihuahua could be with you for 15 years or more, so it’s important to think long-term.
When a Price Is Too Good to Be True
If you see a Chihuahua advertised at a very low price, be cautious. Puppy farms, backyard breeders, and online scams are unfortunately common. Puppies sold cheaply may not have received proper care, health checks, or socialisation.
Signs to watch out for include sellers who won’t let you see the puppy with its mother, breeders who avoid questions about health testing, or sellers who ask for payment before you’ve met the puppy.
While it may feel tempting to save money upfront, buying from irresponsible sources often leads to higher costs in the long run through vet bills and behavioural issues. Always choose a breeder or adoption centre with a good reputation.
Final Thoughts
So, how much are Chihuahua dogs? The answer depends on where you live, whether you buy from a breeder or adopt, and what kind of Chihuahua you’re looking for. Prices can range from a few hundred pounds or dollars to several thousand, especially for pedigree puppies from champion lines.
But the real cost of a Chihuahua goes beyond the initial purchase. It includes the ongoing responsibility of food, grooming, insurance, vet care, and all the little things that keep your dog happy and healthy.
If you plan carefully, budget responsibly, and choose a trustworthy source, the cost of owning a Chihuahua is a worthwhile investment. What you get in return is not just a dog, but a loyal companion with a long lifespan and a personality far bigger than their size.
Owning a Chihuahua is about commitment, love, and responsibility. When you understand the true costs, you can make the decision with confidence, knowing you’re ready to give your dog the life they deserve.
