Chihuahua

Chihuahua: BREED BOX Country: Mexico Size: 2-6 lb (1-3 kg), 6-9 in (15-23 cm) Temperament: Spirited Grooming: Light-Medium Recognition: FCI, AKC, ANKC, KC(UK), NZKC

The saucy and intelligent Chihuahua has been a favorite household pet for decades. These dogs may be small but they are bold and alert. They may be the ultimate dog for the city dweller. They adapt very well to apartment living, require minimal grooming and exercise, and you can take them just about anywhere.

Breed History

The Chihuahua comes from the Mexican state of Chihuahua where the earliest specimens were found. Sources say that these little dogs were used in religious ceremonies in pre-Columbian times. They were also pets for the upper classes in Mexican society.

Another theory claims that the Chihuahua actually came from Malta in the Mediterranean. Small dogs that look like Chihuahuas can be seen in a painting in the Sistine Chapel from 1482, before Columbus discovered America.

Another theory states that the Chihuahua came to Mexico from China some 200 years ago. Chihuahua DNA is close to that of other Old World dogs, such as those of European Toy dogs. It is suggested that European Toy dogs were somehow crossed with dogs that the Aztecs had.

However, history and other evidence does suggest that Chihuahuas originated in Mexico, probably from the Techichi, a little dog kept by the Toltecs. These dogs hunted in packs and can be traced back to the ninth century. Remains of these dogs have been found which resemble the Chihuahua, though they are slightly larger. These dogs probably predate the Mayans. When the Toltecs were conquered by the Aztecs, the Aztecs believed that the little dogs had mystical powers. The Spanish may have later introduced some smaller Chinese dogs among these dogs, such as the Chinese Crested.

The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904.

Appearance

The Chihuahua’s appearance can vary quite a bit. There is no specific height for the breed but they are usually between about six and nine inches tall. The dogs are supposed to weigh no more than six pounds for conformation purposes but pet Chihuahuas often do weigh more.

Chihuahuas typically have a domed head and erect ears. Their face may be somewhat like a fox — long and coming to a point. Their body is somewhat longer than tall. The breed is known to be graceful and alert. Any color is acceptable and they may be splashed with white. The coat can be long or short. They have full, round, luminous dark eyes. The tail is long and carried like a sickle, up and out on up over the back.

Smoothcoated dogs should have a soft, close, glossy coat. Longcoated dogs should have a soft texture, either flat or slightly wavy, with an undercoat preferred.

The Chihuahua has a certain “terrier-like” attitude about him and projects self-importance, confidence and self-reliance.

In The Home

Proper socialization is extremely important with all Chihuahuas and should begin at a young age with puppies. You should take your puppy to places where dogs are allowed and encourage him to investigate things while on a leash. It’s not enough to carry your Chihuahua everywhere. Do encourage your Chihuahua to behave like a dog. You should also ask friendly people to pet your puppy and encourage your puppy to meet other friendly dogs while he and they are leashed. Doing these things will build confidence and respect, teach your dog how to communicate with other dogs, teach your dog good manners, and, in general, socialize your Chihuahua. This can prevent a number of behavior problems when he’s an adult dog.

Chihuahuas can make wonderful pets but they can also be bossy and domineering. They do not always get along with other pets in the home and they can be jealous of their owners. It’s important that you establish from the start that you are in charge. If you treat your Chihuahua like a baby or let him do things that he’s not supposed to do then he will soon be running the house and you won’t be able to control his behavior.

Some Chihuahuas can bite and nip so it’s very important for you to stay in charge from the start. Do not treat your Chihuahua like a baby. Instead, treat him like a dog — with respect, with care and with love, yes; but do not allow him to take control of the household or you will have a dog who has a lot of behavior problems on your hands.

Some Chihuahuas should not be around children. Some Chihuahuas can be good pets with kids but you should supervise them.

Chihuahuas love attention and they love to be petted. They do need a lot of exercise for a small dog. Some Chihuahuas can be “yappy” or nuisance barkers.

Care

Chihuahuas of either coat type require only minimal grooming. In fact, it’s usually the shorthaired dogs who require more grooming because they are more inclined to shed a great deal than the longhaired dogs. But neither kind of dog requires a lot of grooming. You will need to clean your dog’s ears regularly to prevent ear infections. You will also need to trim his nails regularly.

The Chihuahua is prone to some health problems, as are all dogs. Like many other Toy breeds, the Chihuahua will need dental care. You should plan to brush his teeth at least once a week. Epilepsy and seizure disorders can also be problems. Hydrocephalus can also be a problem. Moleras, or a soft spot in the skull, can also be a problem. Chihuahuas can also be subject to hypoglycemia. Luxating patellas (slipped kneecaps) can also be a problem.

Chihuahuas often do live very long lives, however. They can live between 10 and 17 years.

Before getting any purebred dog you should talk to a breeder about health problems in the breed. They can tell you what to expect and you can ask them about any health testing they have done on the parents. Health testing can reduce the chances of passing down problems to the offspring.

Where to Find a Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are very popular dogs so it’s not usually too difficult to find one. However, it’s a good idea to go to a good breeder for a dog in order to try to avoid health problems. In the United States the AKC parent club for Chihuahuas is the Chihuahua Club of America. If you contact them they can give you contact information for breeders as well as provide you with more information about the breed. They can also give you information about Chihuahua rescue groups across the country.

Chihuahuas are so popular that you may find one in your local shelter. Check with them and see if they have any Chihuahuas. Even if they don’t you can talk to them and let them know that you’re interested in case they do get any Chihuahuas later.

• Ideal Owners: Almost anyone/Companionship
• Life Expectancy: 10-17 years
• Color: Any color

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Chihuahua Reviews

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