Black and White Long Haired Chihuahua For Sale

The black and white long haired Chihuahua is one of the most striking color variations in the breed. The contrast between jet-black and crisp white patches gives these tiny dogs a bold, elegant appearance that catches the eye immediately. But beyond their looks, these dogs are known for their affectionate nature, alert personality, and fierce loyalty to their owners.

If you are searching for a black and white long haired Chihuahua for sale, you already know what you want. What you may still need is clarity on how to identify a healthy puppy, what questions to ask a breeder, what care this coat type requires, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that trip up first-time Chihuahua owners. This guide answers all of that in one place.

Whether you are comparing this color to other options like the blonde long haired Dachshund or exploring other small breeds, understanding what makes the long haired Chihuahua unique will help you make a confident, informed decision.

Why Black and White Long Haired Chihuahuas Stand Out

The Chihuahua is the smallest recognized dog breed, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in personality. The long haired variety, in particular, has a softer, more glamorous appearance than the smooth coat. When you combine that with a black and white pattern, you get a dog that looks almost like a tiny, elegant companion from a storybook.

Black and white is a classic color combination that appears in many breeds, from the black English Labrador Retriever to the black and white Goldendoodle. In the Chihuahua, this pattern often presents as a black body with white markings on the chest, paws, face, or tail. Some dogs have a more balanced split, while others have smaller white patches.

One of the reasons this color is so appealing is that it photographs beautifully and stands out against most backgrounds. For owners who want a dog that is both portable and visually distinctive, the black and white long haired Chihuahua is hard to beat.

Coat Types and Color Genetics

Chihuahuas come in two coat varieties: smooth (short) and long. The long haired Chihuahua has a soft, fine coat that can be straight or slightly wavy. The coat is longer on the ears, neck, and tail, giving the dog a fluffy, almost fox-like appearance. Despite the name, the long haired Chihuahua does not have a floor-length coat like a Shih Tzu or Yorkshire Terrier — it is more of a medium-length fringe.

How Black and White Coloring Happens

Black and white coloring in Chihuahuas is the result of specific genes that control pigment distribution. The black comes from a dominant gene that produces eumelanin, while the white patches are areas where pigment cells did not migrate during development. This is why no two black and white Chihuahuas have exactly the same pattern — each one is unique.

Some black and white long haired Chihuahuas also carry the merle gene, which can create a marbled or speckled appearance. However, merle breeding requires careful genetic testing, as double merle dogs can have serious health issues including deafness and blindness. If you are considering a merle Chihuahua, always ask the breeder for genetic testing documentation.

Temperament and Personality

Chihuahuas have a reputation for being yappy, snappy, and difficult. The truth is that these behaviors are almost always the result of inadequate socialization and training, not inherent breed traits. A well-bred, properly socialized long haired Chihuahua is affectionate, confident, and surprisingly adaptable.

That said, Chihuahuas do have distinct personality traits that owners should understand before bringing one home:

• Fiercely loyal: Chihuahuas typically bond deeply with one or two people. They can become protective of their chosen person and may be wary of strangers without proper socialization.
• Alert and vocal: They make excellent watchdogs because they notice everything and alert to any change in their environment. This also means they can be prone to excessive barking if not trained.
• Bold and confident: Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas often act like they are ten times larger. This can lead to conflict with larger dogs if not managed carefully.
• Intelligent and trainable: They learn quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement. However, they can be stubborn and need consistent, patient training.
• Sensitive to cold: Their small body mass and thin coat mean they get cold easily. They need sweaters or coats in cool weather and should not be left outside for long periods.

If you are looking for a dog that is affectionate, portable, and full of personality, the long haired Chihuahua is an excellent choice. If you want a dog that is outgoing with everyone and low-maintenance in terms of training, you may want to consider a different breed or a mixed breed like a black Lab German Shepherd mix.

Grooming and Daily Care

The long haired Chihuahua's coat is one of its most appealing features, but it does require regular maintenance. The good news is that the coat is relatively easy to care for compared to other long-haired breeds — it does not mat as easily as a Poodle or Shih Tzu coat, and it does not require professional grooming every few weeks.

Brushing and Bathing

Brush your long haired Chihuahua 3–4 times per week with a soft slicker brush or a fine-toothed comb. Pay special attention to the areas behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail, where tangles are most likely to form. During shedding season, daily brushing helps remove loose hair and prevents mats.

Bathe your dog every 3–4 weeks using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. Human shampoo is too harsh for a dog's skin and can cause dryness and irritation. After bathing, dry the coat thoroughly with a towel or on a low-heat setting with a dog dryer to prevent skin problems.

Nail Trimming and Dental Care

Trim your Chihuahua's nails every 2–4 weeks. Long nails can cause joint pain and gait problems, especially in tiny breeds. Use small, sharp nail clippers and have styptic powder on hand in case you cut the quick. If you are unsure how to trim nails safely, ask your vet or a professional groomer to show you.

Dental care is critical for Chihuahuas. Their small mouths are prone to overcrowding, which leads to plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss. Brush your dog's teeth daily or at least 3 times per week with a dog toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste. Professional dental cleanings may also be necessary.

Clothing and Temperature Management

Because of their small size and thin coat, long haired Chihuahuas get cold easily. In cool weather, they need a sweater or coat for walks. In hot weather, they need shade and limited outdoor time to prevent overheating. Never leave a Chihuahua outside unattended in extreme temperatures.

• Daily: Fresh water, dental brushing (ideally), supervised exercise
• Weekly: Brushing 3–4 times, ear check, paw check
• Bi-weekly: Nail trimming (every 2–4 weeks)
• Monthly: Bathing (every 3–4 weeks), flea and tick prevention
• Annually: Vet wellness exam, vaccinations, dental check

Health Considerations

Long haired Chihuahuas are generally healthy dogs with a long lifespan of 14–17 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Understanding these risks helps you ask the right questions when buying and plan for potential veterinary costs.

Common Health Issues in Long Haired Chihuahuas

• Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap slips out of place. Common in small breeds. Mild cases may not need treatment, but severe cases can cause lameness and require surgery. Reputable breeders screen breeding dogs for this condition.
• Dental disease: The most common health problem in Chihuahuas. Their small mouths crowd the teeth, leading to plaque buildup and gum disease. Daily brushing and professional cleanings are essential.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, especially common in puppies under 6 months. Symptoms include lethargy, tremors, and seizures. Feed small, frequent meals and consult your vet if you notice symptoms.
• Tracheal collapse: A condition where the windpipe weakens and collapses, causing a honking cough. More common in tiny breeds. Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on the neck.
• Heart problems: Chihuahuas can be prone to heart murmurs and other cardiac issues. Regular vet checkups help detect problems early.
• Eye conditions: Dry eye, corneal ulcers, and other eye problems can occur. Regular eye checks and prompt treatment of any redness or discharge are important.

If you are comparing the Chihuahua to other small breeds, you may also want to learn about the health considerations of breeds like the blue eyed miniature Schnauzer or the brown and white Boston Terrier to see which breed best fits your lifestyle and health expectations.

Choosing a Reputable Breeder

The breeder you choose has a bigger impact on your puppy's health and temperament than any other factor. A reputable breeder produces healthy, well-socialized puppies and provides ongoing support. A bad breeder — including puppy mills and backyard breeders — produces puppies with health problems, behavioral issues, and heartbreak.

Questions to Ask a Breeder

• Can I see the mother and father of the puppies? (If the father is not on-site, ask for photos and health records.)
• What health testing have you done on the breeding dogs? Can I see the results?
• How old are the puppies when they go home? (Reputable breeders wait until 8–12 weeks.)
• What vaccinations and deworming have the puppies received?
• How have you socialized the puppies?
• What is your health guarantee?
• Will you take the puppy back if I can no longer care for it?
• Can you provide references from previous buyers?

Red Flags to Watch For

• The breeder will not let you visit the premises or see the mother.
• The puppies are available at a suspiciously low price (this often indicates a puppy mill).
• The breeder has multiple litters available at once or sells many different breeds.
• The breeder cannot provide health testing documentation.
• The breeder pressures you to buy immediately or refuses to answer questions.
• The puppy appears sick, lethargic, or has visible health problems.

For a more detailed guide on this process, see our how to find a reputable dog breeder resource and our questions to ask a dog breeder checklist.

What to Expect When Buying

Buying a black and white long haired Chihuahua involves more than just choosing a puppy and paying for it. Here is what the process typically looks like:

1. Research and breeder selection: Start by researching breeders in your area or within traveling distance. Look for breeders who are members of breed clubs and who prioritize health testing over appearance.
2. Waitlist or deposit: Reputable breeders often have waitlists for their litters. You may need to pay a deposit to reserve a puppy. Be wary of breeders who demand full payment before you have seen the puppy.
3. Puppy selection: In many cases, the breeder will help match you with a puppy based on temperament and your lifestyle. If you have preferences, communicate them clearly.
4. Health records and contract: When you pick up your puppy, you should receive health records, vaccination history, deworming records, and a written contract. The contract should include a health guarantee and a return clause.
5. Bringing your puppy home: Prepare your home before your puppy arrives. Set up a safe space with a bed, food and water bowls, and toys. Puppies need time to adjust to their new environment.
6. First vet visit: Schedule a vet visit within 48–72 hours of bringing your puppy home. The vet will check the puppy's health and advise on vaccinations and parasite prevention.

For a complete checklist of what you need before bringing your puppy home, see our puppy visit checklist and our dog first aid kit guide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

These are the mistakes that most often lead to problems for new Chihuahua owners:

• Buying from a puppy mill or backyard breeder. The lower upfront cost almost always leads to higher veterinary bills and behavioral problems down the road. Always prioritize health and temperament over price.
• Skipping socialization. Chihuahuas who are not properly socialized during the critical window (3–14 weeks) often become fearful, yappy, and aggressive toward strangers and other dogs.
• Treating them like toys. Chihuahuas are real dogs with real needs. They need training, exercise, and boundaries — not just affection and carrying around.
• Overfeeding. Chihuahuas are prone to obesity, which puts stress on their tiny joints and heart. Follow feeding guidelines and monitor body condition.
• Using a collar instead of a harness. Collars put pressure on the trachea, which can worsen or cause tracheal collapse. Use a dog harness for walks.
• Neglecting dental care. Dental disease is extremely common in Chihuahuas and can lead to serious systemic health problems if left untreated.
• Leaving them unsupervised with large dogs. Even a playful large dog can accidentally injure or kill a tiny Chihuahua. Supervise all interactions carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions