You see them in those tiny designer bags or shaking on a park bench, but the black long haired chihuahua is a whole different vibe. Honestly, most people think Chihuahuas are just yappy, nervous wrecks that come in tan or white. But when you get a solid black one with that flowing, silky coat? They look less like a "purse dog" and more like a miniature, ancient shadow.
They’re striking. Seriously.
But here’s the thing—finding a truly jet-black one without a single white "medallion" on the chest is actually pretty tough. Most have a little splash of white or maybe some tan points, making them "Black and Tan" rather than a true solid black. If you find a pure black one, you're looking at a genetic rarity that’s basically the unicorn of the toy dog world.
The Genetics of That Midnight Coat
Why are they so rare? It’s all about the "K" locus. For a black long haired chihuahua to be solid black, they usually need a dominant black gene that overrides other patterns like brindle or fawn. Even then, two black parents don't always guarantee black puppies. Genetics is a messy game of hide-and-seek.
The "Long Haired" part is actually a recessive trait. That means both parents must carry the long-hair gene for the pups to have that feathered look. If you cross a short-hair with a long-hair, you might get nothing but short-haired pups that just happen to carry the "secret" code for long hair. It’s why breeders who specialize in these dogs spend years tracking lineages. It isn't just about color; it’s about the texture. A good long coat shouldn't be frizzy. It should be soft, slightly wavy, and have those iconic "fringes" on the ears that make them look like they’re wearing 80s crimped hair.
Grooming Isn't Actually a Nightmare
You’d think a long-haired dog would be a full-time job. It’s not.
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Surprisingly, the long-haired variety sheds less than the smooth-coat (short-haired) ones. Why? Because the hair trapped in the undercoat stays there until you brush it out, rather than falling all over your couch like tiny needles. You really only need to brush them twice a week. Focus on the "pants" (the hair on their back legs) and behind the ears. That’s where the mats happen.
If you let it go? You’ll end up with hard clumps that hurt the dog’s skin. Just get a simple slicker brush and a metal comb. Done.
Temperament: Are They Actually Mean?
Let’s be real. Chihuahuas have a reputation for being "land piranhas."
But the black long haired chihuahua often breaks the stereotype. There’s a common theory among owners—though purely anecdotal—that the long-haired variety is actually much calmer than the short-haired ones. Maybe it’s because they weren't bred as intensely for size in the early days, or maybe it's just the vibe of the coat. They’re "velcro dogs." They want to be under your chin or tucked into your sweater.
They are fiercely loyal. Like, "I will fight a Doberman for you" loyal. This is called "Big Dog Syndrome," and it's why they get in trouble. They don't know they weigh six pounds. To them, they are apex predators.
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- Socialization is non-negotiable. If you don't introduce them to strangers and other dogs before they’re 16 weeks old, they will become "one-person dogs" who hate everyone else.
- Training works. They’re smart. They just don't see why they should listen to you if there isn't a piece of chicken involved.
- The "Shakes." Yes, they tremble. It’s not always fear. Chihuahuas have a high metabolism and struggle to regulate body heat. A black coat helps absorb some sun, but they still need a sweater when it hits 60 degrees.
Health Realities You Need to Know
I’m not going to sugarcoat it: small dogs have specific issues. If you’re looking for a black long haired chihuahua, you need to ask the breeder about Patellar Luxation. That’s a fancy term for "sliding kneecaps." It’s super common in toy breeds. You’ll see them walking, then suddenly do a weird little "hop" to pop the knee back in. It can lead to arthritis later, so keep them lean. An overweight Chihuahua is a recipe for medical bills.
Then there’s the "molera."
Historically, many Chihuahuas were born with a soft spot on their skull, much like a human baby. In the past, the AKC actually looked for this as a sign of purity. Nowadays, we know better. While a small molera is usually fine, a large one can be risky. You have to be careful about head bonks.
Also, watch their teeth. Their mouths are tiny, but they have the same amount of teeth as a Great Dane. This leads to overcrowding, plaque buildup, and eventually, tooth loss. Brush their teeth. I know, it sounds ridiculous to brush a dog's teeth, but it’ll save you $1,000 in dental cleanings down the road.
The "Black Dog Syndrome" Myth
In shelters, black dogs often get overlooked. It’s a documented phenomenon called "Black Dog Syndrome." People think they look aggressive, or they just don't photograph as well for Instagram.
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With the black long haired chihuahua, this is a shame because they are some of the most photogenic animals on the planet when the light hits that coat. In the sun, a black coat can actually show "rusting"—a reddish tint caused by sun exposure or certain mineral deficiencies. It doesn't mean the dog isn't pure; it’s just nature doing its thing.
Finding a Reputable Breeder vs. Rescuing
Don't buy a puppy from a pet store. Just don't. Those dogs almost always come from puppy mills where "rare" colors like solid black are used as marketing gimmicks to jack up the price.
A real breeder cares about the heart and the knees more than the color. Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,500 depending on the lineage. If you see an ad for a "Teacup Black Chihuahua," run away. "Teacup" isn't a real breed; it’s a marketing term for the runt of the litter. These dogs often have massive health problems like hydrocephalus or heart defects. A healthy adult should weigh between 4 and 6 pounds.
Alternatively, check out breed-specific rescues like the Chihuahua Club of America or local "small dog" rescues. You’d be surprised how many long-haired beauties end up there because an owner moved or didn't realize that a Chihuahua is a 15-to-20-year commitment.
Living With a Shadow
Living with one is an experience. They will follow you to the bathroom. They will burrow under your duvet until they’re touching your feet. They are quirky.
If you want a dog that’s going to hike ten miles with you, this isn't it. But if you want a companion that looks like a tiny, gothic prince and will keep your lap warm for two decades, the black long haired chihuahua is basically unbeatable. Just be prepared for the "stink eye." They are masters of judgment.
Actionable Steps for New Owners
- Invest in high-quality harness, not a collar. Chihuahuas are prone to collapsed tracheas. A collar puts too much pressure on their delicate throats if they pull.
- Get a dental routine started early. Use a finger brush and dog-safe toothpaste every other day.
- Find a "fear-free" vet. Because these dogs are small, they can be easily traumatized by rough handling at the clinic.
- Calorie control is everything. One extra ounce of weight on a Chihuahua is like ten pounds on a human. Use a kitchen scale to measure their kibble.
- Socialize, socialize, socialize. Take them everywhere in a carrier or a sling so they see the world without feeling threatened by it.