Do Chihuahuas Like to Cuddle?

Last Updated on August 26, 2021

These tiny dogs have quite a reputation for being feisty and even aggressive according to some. However, they are loving and loyal dogs. But do Chihuahuas like to cuddle? Are they different or the same as other dogs when it comes to love and affections?  Let’s find out!

The short answer is yes, Chihuahuas like to cuddle when they feel loved and safe – just like any other dog. Many think the Chihuahua is a small dog and likes to be carried around in purses, maybe even has some sort of attitude.  

The truth is Chihuahuas are just like big dogs – they love their owners and want to be with them as much as possible.

Do Chihuahuas Like to Cuddle?

Most Chihuahuas do like to cuddle.  All dogs love to spend time with their owners.  They love to play, walk, cuddle and just hang out in general.  

Chihuahuas are very small dogs and they have specific needs when it comes to handling.  If you are careful and cuddle the right way you and your Chihuahua will live long happy lives together.

Why Chihuahuas Want to Cuddle

There are a few different reasons Chihuahuas like to cuddle.  Sorry, it’s not just because you are the best owner ever!  Typically there is a reason they want to snuggle up.

• If your Chihuahua is cold they might lean on you or want to sit on your lap.  Cuddling will help raise your Chihuahua’s body temp.
• They want to bond.  Cuddling with their human makes them happy.
• They want to cheer you up.  Cuddling can raise hormones in your body that make you happy.   So when they see you sad or sick they cuddle because they want you to feel better. Sound familiar – just like us!

Benefits of Cuddling with Your Chihuahua

Cuddling with your Chihuahua has many health benefits for your dog.  Depression is common in dogs and spending time with them and cuddling will help prevent it.

Studies have shown that cuddling with your dog can increase the levels of Oxytocin in both you and the dog.  Oxytocin is known as the “love hormone” and can help increase the bond between humans and canines.

It also helps reduce stress in humans.  When Oxytocin is releasing, the levels of Cortisol are dropping.  Cortisol is your stress hormone.  So cuddle and pet that pooch and you will find that you feel much more relaxed.

Studies show that cuddling or petting a dog decreases heart rate and blood pressure. So not only is it a win for you, but your doggo will love it too.

Why Chihuahuas Don’t Want to Cuddle

If you don’t spend a lot of time with your Chihuahua, they might not want to cuddle with you.  When there isn’t a bond between you and your dog don’t expect a lot of snuggling.  

If you are rough with your Chihuahua they might not want to cuddle.  This is a big reason that some shelters won’t let families with young children adopt Chihuahuas, they just don’t know how to be gentle with them.  

Sometimes their small size makes smaller kids think they are handled like toys. They may not have learned how to pick up and handle a dog of that size. If kids are rough with them, your Chihuahua will likely avoid that child.

Sometimes your Chihuahua just isn’t in the mood.  If they have been sleeping and want to play or maybe they want to eat.  Sometimes it’s just not something they want to do.

During the summer when the temperatures are warmer your Chihuahua might not want to cuddle as much as when it’s cold outside.  Their body temps are up during the warmer months so the need to keep warm isn’t as prominent.

The Best Way to Cuddle with your Chihuahua

First of all, never force your dog to cuddle.  If they are fighting it or want to run away and do something else let them.  Forced cuddle time won’t turn out well for either party.

Some Chihuahuas just like to lean against you.  They can do this by leaning against your leg or maybe against your side if you are sitting on the couch.  

Some Chihuahuas like to sit on your lap, that’s cuddling to them. 

And some like to do both.  They like to sit on your lap and lean against you, providing love and warmth.

Summary:  Do Chihuahuas Like to Cuddle?

In short, the answer is yes.  Chihuahuas do like to cuddle but safety is key.  If you handle them in the correct way your Chihuahua will love to snuggle and give you all sorts of affection.  This will not only benefit your dog but you as well.

If you’ve got one of these tiny pups, you’ll likely find out that they love to cuddle with you. They follow you around and want to be near you most of the time. And despite their size, they’ve got big hearts with lots of love to give!

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