Comparator
German Spitz or Chihuahua: which breed to choose?
German Spitz and Chihuahua are two dog breeds often compared by future adopters. Here is a point-by-point comparison to help you decide: size, temperament, purchase price, monthly budget, and compatibility with your lifestyle.
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Key takeaways
- German Spitz is larger: 2–20 kg vs 1–3 kg for Chihuahua.
- German Spitz is cheaper to buy: 1,500–2,000 € vs 1,500–2,500 € for Chihuahua.
- Day to day, Chihuahua costs less: about 86 € per month vs 119 € for German Spitz.
- Both breeds need a similar level of daily activity (3/5).
- For “Family & children”, both breeds are tied (4/5).
- Chihuahua is rated higher for “Apartment living”: 5/5 vs 4/5 for German Spitz.
- For “First-time owner”, both breeds are tied (4/5).
- Chihuahua lives longer on average: 14–18 years vs 12–16 years for German Spitz.
Our verdict
Choose German Spitz if you’re looking for…
- Families present : The German Spitz enjoys sharing everyday life with an available and interactive household.
- Apartment living : He adapts well to it if outings, play, and training are ensured.
- Motivated first-time adopters : His training is often manageable provided you are consistent and manage barking.
Choose Chihuahua if you’re looking for…
- Attentive urban life : It is very well suited to an apartment household that offers it presence, outings and a stable environment.
- Careful adults : Its small size requires owners capable of handling and protecting a delicate dog.
- Active seniors : Its practical size and moderate exercise needs can suit a calm but present lifestyle.
- Families with calm children : It can fit in provided that the children are respectful and understand its fragility.
Detailed comparison
| General information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Germany | Mexico |
| FCI group | 5 | 9 |
| Size | Medium | Small |
| Height at withers | 18–55 cm | 16–21 cm |
| Weight | 2–20 kg | 1–3 kg |
| Coat | Long, double | Short or long, smooth to slightly wavy |
| Life expectancy | 12–16 ans | 14–18 ans |
| Average price | 1,500–2,000 € | 1,500–2,500 € |
| Monthly budget | ≈ 119 € | ≈ 86 € |
| Compatibility | ||
| Family & children | Very good | Very good |
| Daily activity required | Moderate | Moderate |
| Apartment living | Very good | Excellent |
| First-time owner | Very good | Very good |
| Other pets | Good | Good |
| Tolerance for being alone | Fairly good | Fairly good |
| Guarding instinct | Good | Limited |
| Pros & Cons | ||
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