Coat

There are two types of coats; long-hair and short-hair. Long-haired chihuahuas are a bit higher maintanence since brushing, washing, and trimming hair is necessary. Shedding is also more time-consuming in cleaning up. Most long-haired chihuahua owners take their chi monthly to a local dog groomer. Also ask your groomer to wash your chi with flea and tick shampoo if he/she does not wear a flea and tick collar. Although short-haired chihuahuas do not need the brushing and trimming of hair, they still require washing and flea and tick protection.

Avocado will also promote a silky coat.

Nails

Your chihuahua will also need his/her nails clipped monthly, especially if your home has hardwood floors. Your local groomers typically include nail clipping with the wash, but you can also clip your chi's nails yourself with a dog nail clipper that you can buy from your local pet store. Be sure to cut just the very tip of the nail since approximately half of the nail is connected with flesh.

Eyes

If your chihuahua gets "goop" under his/her eye, take a wet paper towel and wash below the eyes. Your groomer will also take care of the goop for you. Be careful not to touch the eye or wipe under the eye too frequently since it can cause irritation.