WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LIFE SPAN OF A CHIHUAHUA?
Small dogs have the longest lifespan. There are many factors that go into guessing an average lifespan. Some of this data is factual from veterinarians' records. Some data is gathered from experience. I would estimate the average lifespan to be 10-16 years. If a dog is well cared for and the dog remains healthy, it should live at least 10 years. Very small Chihuahuas seem to have a decreased lifespan.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DO THEY REQUIRE?
Not much. This little breed has short bursts of energy each day. You should provide toys for your Chihuahua to keep it occupied. Small rawhides and stuffed toys with squeakers inside are ideal. If you have more than one small dog, a rope toy for tug-of-war is always fun! You can certainly take your Chihuahua on walks.

ARE THEY HIGH STRUNG OR NERVOUS?
If you define "high-strung" as follows: barks easily, does not adapt easily to change in environment, is suspicious of strangers, and flips in circles and jumps around when excited (like when you come home after a five-minute absence, for instance)....then yes, they are high strung.
There is good news, though. If you socialize your Chihuahua at an early age, they will be less stressed when new environments and people are introduced to them in adulthood. Proper socialization is critical at the earliest age possible.

LONG COATS VS. SMOOTH COATS: WHICH IS BETTER?
The issue of whether or not there is a difference in personality seems to be a topic of debate within the Chihuahua community. Some claim that there is no difference in personality; others swear that long coats have a tendency to be "soft-tempered" while smooth coats are more prone to aggressive behaviour.
Some Chihuahua owners swear by long coats and wouldn't have anything else; it is as much a matter of personal taste as is coat color. This is a highly discussed topic by Chihuahua breeders and owners. Many people disagree on this subject. Some people seem to believe that the smooth coats are more energetic and bold, and that the long coats are more laid back and reserved dogs. In our experience, the long coats do seem to be more accepting and mild mannered. However, some disagree, and it's a highly debatable topic.
If you're looking at the shedding aspect of the two different coats, you may be surprised. Smooth coats usually shed year round, much to many people's surprise. Where as long coats' shedding is usually seasonal. These are all things to consider, however both coats make good house pets. It's all a matter of you and what you're looking for.
As far as bathing is concerned, as a general rule, the long coats will need to be bathed more frequently, and it'll be a longer process (both washing and drying). The bib - the furry part of the chest - can easily get dirty and matted. Long coats can also occasionally get fecal matter stuck on their "pants." You'll have to either bathe your dog or cut the bit off with scissors when this happens.

MALE VS. FEMALE: WHICH MAKES A BETTER PET?
I believe there is a difference between males and females, just like us, men and women are different. A lot of people seem to think that females are sweeter and make better pets. This isn't always the case. In my experience, it all depends on the individual dog and how they are raised.

WHY DO CHIHUAHUAS SHIVER?
Chihuahuas shiver when they're cold, but they also shiver when they are wary, excited, unhappy, or frightened. This is a result of having a high metabolism, and is a normal characteristic of the breed.

WHAT IS THE SOFT SPOT?
Young Chihuahuas have a soft spot on their head that must be watched carefully and not allowed to be injured. This is referred to as the open fontanel (molera). Normally, the Chihuahua will lose this open spot when they reach adulthood.

WHAT ARE NORMAL HEALTH CONCERNS FOR CHIHUAHUAS?
Common disorders include weak knee or patellar luxation (dislocation of the knee cap), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Don't be alarmed though. All dog breeds have a list of things that can become disorders or conditions. Fortunately we have not experienced any health disorders or defects in our dogs.

WHAT IS THAT NOISE MY CHIHUAHUA IS MAKING?
Some Chihuahuas have been known to perform reverse sneezing. This can be scary when your dog first does this. It is totally normal and is not a big deal. Your Chihuahua's health is not at risk. It gets its name because the dog rapidly pulls air into his nose, whereas in a 'regular' sneeze, the air is rapidly pushed out through the nose. The dog is completely normal before and after the episode.
During a reverse sneeze, the dog will make rapid and long inspirations, stand still, and extend his head. A loud snorting sound is produced, which may make you think the dog has something caught in his nose. A reverse sneezing episode can last for several seconds to a minute.
This is usually caused by a elongated soft palate that is thought to become temporarily misaligned. It is a common trait in toy breeds. Pulling hard on a leash, drinking too fast or getting overly excited can lead to an episode of reverse sneezing.

IS CHOCOLATE TRULY HARMFUL TO CHIHUAHUAS?
There are some foods that humans eat that can result in your pets' death, even if it is healthy. One such food is chocolate. This attacks a dog's heart and can result in cardiac arrest. Another food that should not be fed to your dog is onion and garlic. These can make your pet sick. My best advice to you, is to call or visit your vet and ask him/her what foods you should not feed your pet. You'll be very suprised at the different foods that should not be fed to your dog.

ARE CHIHUAHUAS GOOD WITH CHILDREN?
Generally, it depends. If you raise your Chihuahua with children he/she will be accustomed to their behavior and learn to tolerate and love them along with the rest of the family. However, you need to keep an eye on your kids to be sure they handle the puppy with care and respect. Chihuahuas don't like to be held upside down or dragged around by their tail.