Curious to know if your Chihuahua has reached full maturity? Keep reading to uncover the signs that indicate your furry friend is fully grown.

10 Signs Your Chihuahua Is Fully Grown

Written by: Mark Shilensky

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Estimated time to read: 12 min

As a Chihuahua owner, you may be curious to know when your furry companion has reached full maturity. Understanding the signs that indicate your Chihuahua is fully grown can provide valuable insights into their development and care. From physical cues like achieving adult size and closed growth plates to behavioral changes such as stabilized energy levels and reduced hyperactivity, these markers can be subtle yet essential in recognizing your Chihuahua's shift to adulthood. Stay tuned to discover if you have a fully grown Chihuahuas that is showing these telltale signs of being fully grown.

Typical Height and Weight Reached

When determining if your Chihuahua is fully grown, you can gauge their development by considering their typical height and weight. Adult Chihuahuas usually stand between 5 to 8 inches tall, making them a small yet mighty breed. Their ideal weight shouldn't exceed 6 pounds to maintain their adorable yet sturdy physique. By around 9 months of age, Chihuahuas generally reach their full adult size, with most of their weight gained by 20 weeks. Monitoring your Chihuahua's growth during this period is vital to ensure they're developing correctly and not overeating.


As your Chihuahua matures, their size stabilizes, and any significant weight gain post-9 months could signal potential issues such as overfeeding or health concerns. Maintaining they sustain a healthy weight is critical for their overall well-being. By understanding the typical height and weight of a fully grown Chihuahua, you can better track your furry friend's growth journey and provide the necessary care they need to thrive.

Well-Proportioned Body Shape

Once your Chihuahua is fully grown, their body will display a well-proportioned shape, slightly longer than tall, with symmetrical features. You'll notice a mature physique, well-filled out and in harmony with the breed's standards, indicating the completion of their growth. Their proportional blend of height, length, and weight will reflect a balanced and mature appearance.

Balanced Body Proportions

Achieving a well-proportioned body shape is essential for a fully grown Chihuahua, contributing to its elegant and agile appearance. As your Chihuahua matures, you'll notice that its body proportions evolve, with a slightly longer than tall physique. The harmonious balance between body length and height is a key indicator of adulthood in Chihuahuas. A fully grown Chihuahua will display a well-proportioned body without any exaggerated features, showcasing a graceful silhouette. These balanced body proportions not only enhance your Chihuahua's physical beauty but also underline its characteristic charm and agility. Keep an eye out for these signs of a well-developed body shape as your Chihuahua progresses into adulthood, embodying the grace and elegance typical of the breed.

Mature Physical Appearance

As your Chihuahua matures, you'll notice its physical appearance evolving into a well-proportioned body shape, characterized by a slightly longer than tall build. A fully grown Chihuahua will exhibit a well-balanced body shape, with proportions that are harmonious and not overly elongated or compact. Adult Chihuahuas display a mature physical appearance with a developed chest, firm back, and a strong overall physique. At full maturity, your Chihuahua will have reached its adult height and weight, showcasing a proportionate and well-balanced body shape. Embrace the sight of your Chihuahua's mature physical appearance, as it signifies the completion of its growth journey into a well-proportioned and fully developed canine companion.

Stable Energy Levels

Fully grown Chihuahuas typically maintain consistent energy levels throughout the day, showing a steady activity level without sudden bursts of growth-related energy. This stability in their energy levels is a clear indication that your Chihuahua has reached full maturity. Unlike puppies who may have unpredictable bursts of hyperactivity, mature Chihuahuas have established energy patterns that remain relatively constant. You'll notice that your Chihuahua no longer exhibits the same level of frenetic energy seen during their growth stages.


The absence of sudden spikes in energy signals that your Chihuahua has settled into its adult size and growth potential. This newfound stability in their energy levels allows for a more predictable routine and behavior. 

Curious to know if your Chihuahua has reached full maturity? Keep reading to uncover the signs that indicate your furry friend is fully grown.

Fully grown Chihuahuas are less likely to engage in excessive running around or erratic behavior that's commonly associated with puppies. Instead, they'll have a more even temperament and predictable energy output throughout the day. As a Chihuahua owner, observing your pet's stable energy levels is a reassuring indication that they've matured. Enjoy the consistent companionship and behavior of your fully grown Chihuahua, knowing that their energy levels have reached a balanced state that reflects their mature physical and emotional well-being.

Closed Growth Plates

Once your Chihuahua's growth plates close, bone development is completed, signaling the end of significant growth. Closed growth plates can indicate that your Chihuahua has reached its full height and bone length potential. It's important to consult a veterinarian to verify the closure of growth plates and guarantee your Chihuahua's healthy development.

Bone Development Completion

Upon closure of the growth plates in a Chihuahua's bones, typically occurring around 9-12 months of age, their bone development is considered complete, signaling the end of significant growth in height and size. Here are three key points to remember about bone development completion in Chihuahuas:

  • Skeletal Maturity: When the growth plates close, it indicates that your Chihuahua has reached skeletal maturity and is unlikely to grow taller.
  • Adult Size: The closure of growth plates signifies that your Chihuahua has reached its adult size and further significant increases in height aren't expected.
  • X-ray Confirmation: X-rays can provide a definitive assessment of growth plate closure, helping you understand when your Chihuahua has reached its full potential size.

Stunted Growth Indication

If a Chihuahua's growth plates close prematurely, their final size may be smaller than expected. Stunted growth in Chihuahuas occurs when the growth plates seal off too soon, leading to a diminutive stature. This condition indicates that your Chihuahua has reached its full adult height and won't grow taller. X-rays can confirm closed growth plates, marking the end of their growth phase. Once the growth plates are closed, your Chihuahua is considered fully grown and won't increase in height. It's important to monitor the closure of growth plates to assess your Chihuahua's developmental progress accurately.

Adult Size Achieved for A Fully Grown Chihuahuas

By around 9 months of age, your Chihuahua typically reaches their full adult size. It's an important milestone to see your furry companion grow into their final form. Here are some key points to keep in mind about your Chihuahua's adult size:


1. Weight Chart: Most Chihuahuas gain the majority of their adult weight by 20 weeks of age. It's vital to monitor their weight to make sure they're within the healthy range. Overfeeding can lead to excessive weight gain, which may impact their overall health and mobility.

2. Height and Length: Adult Chihuahuas should stand between 5-8 inches tall. This petite stature is a defining characteristic of the breed. Keep an eye on their growth to ensure they're developing properly. If you notice any sudden growth spurts or stunted growth, consult your veterinarian for guidance.

3. Stable Size: Your Chihuahua will fill out to their full size in 9 months, but it's important to maintain their weight within the recommended range. Significant weight gain beyond this age could indicate underlying health issues or excessive feeding. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are key to keeping your Chihuahua healthy and happy at their adult size.


Watching your Chihuahua grow into their adult size is a rewarding experience. By understanding the milestones and taking good care of them, you can make sure they thrive in their full-grown form.

Stabilized Appetite

Once your Chihuahua is fully grown, you'll notice a stabilized appetite, indicating they've reached their adult size. This means that your furry companion's food intake will remain consistent, without the rapid weight gain commonly seen during their growth phase. A fully grown Chihuahua will no longer require frequent adjustments in their food portions, as their appetite becomes more predictable. This stabilized appetite is a positive sign that your Chihuahua has concluded their growth phase and has achieved their adult size and weight.


Monitoring your Chihuahua's food intake becomes easier once they're fully grown. You can establish a regular feeding schedule without the need for constant adjustments. A consistent appetite also means that your Chihuahua is less likely to experience sudden fluctuations in weight, helping them maintain a healthy and stable body condition. 

Create an image of a fully grown Chihuahua in a weight charts.

By recognizing this sign of a stabilized appetite, you can make sure that your Chihuahua continues to thrive in their adult size and shape. Embrace this stage of their development, knowing that your Chihuahua has reached a milestone in their growth journey.

Reduced Hyperactivity

You'll notice your Chihuahua becoming calmer as they reach full growth, displaying a more relaxed demeanor than before. Their frenetic behavior will likely decrease, and their energy levels will stabilize, leading to a more composed companion. As your Chihuahua matures, their reduced hyperactivity will make them easier to train and interact with, fostering a deeper bond between you both.

Calmer Demeanor Observed

If you notice your Chihuahua displaying a calmer demeanor and reduced hyperactivity, it could be a sign that they've reached full maturity. Mature Chihuahuas tend to be less hyperactive and more composed in their behavior, reflecting their growth and development. Here are three indicators that your Chihuahua is fully grown:

  • Decreased High-Energy Behaviors: Fully grown Chihuahuas are less likely to engage in excessive barking and running around, showing a more relaxed attitude.
  • Stable Energy Levels: Adult Chihuahuas typically exhibit a more consistent energy level throughout the day, indicating a mature state.
  • Reduced Need for Constant Attention: Full-grown Chihuahuas often show a decreased demand for constant playtime and attention, preferring to relax and cuddle with their owners.

Less Frenetic Behavior Noticed

Have you noticed a decrease in your Chihuahua's hyperactivity and a more relaxed demeanor lately? As Chihuahuas reach full maturity, their behavior tends to become less frenetic. Your Chihuahua may no longer exhibit the same level of hyperactivity seen during their puppy stage. Instead, they might show a preference for calmer activities and shorter bursts of play. A fully grown Chihuahua often displays a settled disposition, seeking more lounging time and engaging in fewer high-energy antics. This shift towards a more relaxed behavior is a common sign that your Chihuahua has reached its full-grown size and is embracing a more mature way of being.

Energy Levels Stabilize

As Chihuahuas mature into adulthood, their energy levels stabilize, resulting in a noticeable decrease in hyperactivity. When your Chihuahua is fully grown, you may see these changes in their behavior:

  • Consistent Energy: A fully grown Chihuahua will have a more balanced and predictable energy level throughout the day.
  • Maturity: Reduced hyperactivity in your Chihuahua signifies their progression into a mature adult dog.
  • Completion of Growth Phase: Observing a decrease in hyperactivity indicates that your Chihuahua has likely reached their full size and finished their growth phase.

Noticing these signs of stabilized energy levels and reduced hyperactivity is a positive indication that your Chihuahua is fully grown and has entered into a more settled stage of life.

Permanent Coat Appearance

The Chihuahua's permanent coat appearance, whether short or long, serves as a definitive indicator of its full growth. Once your Chihuahua reaches maturity, its coat texture and color will remain consistent. Any changes in the coat appearance post-full growth might be more indicative of potential health issues rather than a growth phase. It's important to emphasize that regular grooming and maintenance play a key role in enhancing the appearance of your Chihuahua's coat.


Making sure your Chihuahua maintains a healthy and lustrous coat involves proper care and attention. Brushing your Chihuahua's coat regularly not only keeps it looking shiny but also helps distribute natural oils, promoting overall coat health. Additionally, baths should be given as needed, using dog-friendly shampoos to avoid skin irritations.


If you notice sudden or drastic changes in your Chihuahua's coat, such as bald patches, changes in texture, or skin irritations, it's vital to consult a veterinarian promptly. These changes could signal underlying health issues that need to be addressed promptly. By staying attentive to your Chihuahua's coat appearance and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can ensure your furry companion stays happy and healthy.

Maturity in Overall Look

At full growth, a mature Chihuahua presents a well-proportioned body with a slightly elongated profile. When evaluating your Chihuahua's maturity in overall look, consider the following:


1. Proportionate Body: A fully grown Chihuahua should have a balanced body, appearing slightly longer than tall. This proportion gives them an elegant and graceful appearance, reflecting their maturity.


2. Weight and Size: A mature Chihuahua shouldn't exceed 6 pounds in weight and typically stands between 5 to 8 inches in height. These size specifications indicate that your Chihuahua has reached its adult height and weight, showcasing its full-grown status.


3. Stable Growth: By the age of 9 months, a Chihuahua will usually reach its full adult height and most of its weight. Any significant weight gain beyond this point might signal overfeeding or potential health concerns. Monitoring your Chihuahua's growth post the 9-month mark is essential to ensure they mature healthily and maintain their ideal weight.


Observing these signs will help you recognize when your Chihuahua has reached full maturity in its overall look, allowing you to appreciate their development and well-being.

Full Development Indicators

Upon reaching full maturity, certain indicators can help you recognize the complete development of your Chihuahua. By around 9 months of age, most Chihuahuas are fully grown. This timeline aligns with when they reach their adult weight, with the majority of it gained by 20 weeks. It's important not to overlook any significant weight gain post this period, as it could signify overfeeding or underlying health concerns. While oversized paws might hint at further growth potential, Chihuahuas generally reach their full size by 9 months.


To monitor your Chihuahua's growth progress, referencing a Chihuahua growth chart can be valuable. These charts provide insights into average weight ranges at different ages, aiding in evaluating your pup's development. If you have concerns regarding your Chihuahua's weight or growth patterns, consulting with your veterinarian is advisable. They can offer guidance tailored to your Chihuahua's specific needs and address any uncertainties you may have.


Additionally, reaching out to the breeder for an estimated adult size based on your Chihuahua's genetics and growth trajectory can provide further clarity. By staying informed and observant of these full development indicators, you can make sure your Chihuahua is thriving as they reach their full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can You Tell How Big a Chihuahua Will Get?

You can estimate a Chihuahua's adult size by considering their genetics. Breeder insights and observing oversized paws can hint at potential growth. Typically, Chihuahuas reach full adult height and weight by 9 months, with significant weight gain by 20 weeks.

At What Age Is a Chihuahua Fully Grown?

Your Chihuahua is typically fully grown by 9 months old, reaching adult height and most weight by then. Significant weight gain after this age might signal overfeeding or health problems, so monitor their growth.

How Can You Tell if a Chihuahua Puppy Will Have Long Hair?

To tell if a Chihuahua puppy will have long hair, observe early signs like longer fur around ears, neck, and tail, or feathering on legs. Fluffier appearance compared to short-haired pups can indicate a long-haired Chihuahua.

How Do I Know if I Have a Full Chihuahua?

You can tell if you have a full Chihuahua when it reaches its adult height and weight within 9 months. By this age, your Chihuahua will have filled out to its full size, indicating it's fully grown.

Conclusion

So, if your Chihuahua is showing stable energy levels, a well-proportioned body shape, and a consistent coat appearance, congratulations! These are all signs that your Chihuahua has reached full growth. Remember to continue monitoring their development and seek advice from your veterinarian to make sure they're healthy and happy throughout their adult years. Enjoy watching your furry friend grow and mature into a fully grown Chihuahua!