Often times, you will hear Chihuahua owners comment on how each of their Chis have a unique personality but there are a few generalizations to the breed. Chihuahuas are graceful, alert and very loyal to their owners, they also have the tendency to become very attached to their owners. "Family" is part of a Chihuahua's life - They attach to each member of their family.

Even though the Chihuahua is a very small dog, there is nothing that you can do to convince them of that! Chihuahua's instinct is to protect and guard their owners. If a Chihuahua senses a stranger or feels that there could be possible danger for their owners, they will bark as if they are a powerful watch dog breed. Even if your Chihuahua is a quiet dog by nature, you should expect their behavior to change if a stranger comes to your door. Once a Chihuahua is in their protective mode, they will show no fear toward anything.

Because Chihuahuas are extremely attached to their owners, they are also very protective of them. They are leery of strangers or unknown people who come into your home. Because of this, Chihuahuas make fantastic watch dogs. Your Chihuahua will alert you to anything out of the ordinary but due to their size, can't defend you.

Your Chihuahua will also need a lot of human contact and attention, but every ounce of attention and love they ask from you will be returned ten-fold. They are very in-tuned with their owners, and will make sure to get their desired affection, exercise and petting by going so far as to pat their paw on your hand to gain your attention.

Chihuahuas are not an independent breed and are not the ideal pet for families that have smaller than school aged children or that require them to home alone for more than eight hours a day. They are the perfect companion for people who are looking for a forever loyal buddy to keep them company for hours on their lap or at your feet at night while you sleep.