Chihuahua vs Redbone Coonhound

Which dog breed is right for you?

Chihuahua

Size
3–6 lbs, 5–8 in
Lifespan
14–16 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
Yes
Bold Charming Alert Devoted

Redbone Coonhound

Size
45–70 lbs, 21–27 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Gentle Even-tempered Mellow Friendly

About the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the world's smallest dog breed, originating from the Mexican state of Chihuahua where ancestors of the breed were kept by the ancient Toltec civilization. Standing just 5–8 inches tall and weighing a mere 2–6 pounds, these tiny dogs come in smooth-coat and long-coat varieties with virtually every color and pattern combination imaginable. Despite their diminutive size, Chihuahuas carry themselves with a bold, terrier-like confidence that belies their fragile frame.

Temperament & Personality

Chihuahuas are fiercely devoted to one person — often forming an almost obsessive bond with their chosen human. They are alert, spirited, and surprisingly courageous, frequently standing up to dogs many times their size without hesitation. While they can be wonderful companions for older children who handle them gently, their small size and tendency toward snappiness make them a poor match for households with toddlers.

Pros

  • Perfect apartment dogs — minimal space and exercise requirements
  • Exceptionally long lifespan of 14–18 years, among the longest of any breed
  • Portable size makes them easy travel companions for on-the-go owners
  • Low food costs and minimal grooming needs — especially the smooth-coat variety

Cons

  • Prone to patellar luxation, heart murmurs, hydrocephalus, and dental overcrowding
  • Fragile bones — easily injured by falls, rough play, or being stepped on
  • Notoriously difficult to housebreak due to tiny bladders and stubborn temperament
  • Tendency toward excessive barking and aggression toward strangers if not properly socialized

Discover your perfect pint-sized companion — explore Chihuahuas looking for forever homes right here on Puplister.

About the Redbone Coonhound

The Redbone Coonhound was developed in the southern United States during the late 18th century from red foxhounds brought by Scottish immigrants, refined over generations into a sleek, powerful trailing hound. These athletic dogs stand 21 to 27 inches tall and weigh 45 to 70 pounds, with a lean yet muscular build designed for stamina over rough terrain. Their rich, deep red coat — the breed's most distinctive feature — is short, smooth, and glossy, giving them a strikingly handsome appearance.

Temperament & Personality

Redbone Coonhounds are easygoing, affectionate, and remarkably gentle for a hunting breed — they love being around their people and are known for their mellow, agreeable disposition at home. They are excellent with children, typically friendly with other dogs, and possess a happy-go-lucky attitude that makes them wonderful family companions. On the trail, however, they become focused and driven, with a deep, melodious bay that carries for miles.

Pros

  • Gentle, laid-back temperament that makes them great family dogs
  • Strikingly beautiful red coat with minimal grooming requirements
  • Excellent hiking and outdoor companion with tireless stamina
  • Good with children, other dogs, and typically non-aggressive

Cons

  • Extremely vocal — deep baying and howling can disturb neighbors
  • Very strong scent drive makes off-leash reliability nearly impossible
  • Can be slow to housetrain compared to many other breeds
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections due to long ears, and obesity

The Redbone Coonhound's gentle soul and gorgeous coat are hard to resist — discover available Redbones on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Chihuahua and a Redbone Coonhound?
The Chihuahua is 3–6 lbs, 5–8 in sized while the Redbone Coonhound is 45–70 lbs, 21–27 in sized. They differ in size (3–6 lbs, 5–8 in vs 45–70 lbs, 21–27 in), lifespan (14–16 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Chihuahua or Redbone Coonhound?
Chihuahua is not typically good with kids. Redbone Coonhound is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Chihuahua or Redbone Coonhound?
The Chihuahua has a lifespan of 14–16 years while the Redbone Coonhound has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

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