chihuahuas are terrific dogs.our chi,Lil is middle-aged,she will be ten years next september.couldnt ask for a better dog.everyone she meets loves her,good watchdog too,she lets us know whenever people come to our house.she is a true lapdog,likes to be near people,but,apart from always wanting to sit on you,is not demanding.chihuahuas live for about 15 years,so i've heard.about the same as other toy breeds.