Chihuahua

A selection of Chihuahua colours

Breed:  Chihuahua

Description:  The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the world. They have the appearance of being very fine boned and delicate but can actually be quite muscular and athletic. Dogs come in both short hair and long and are seen in a variety of solid and multi colors.
Characteristics: The Chihuahua is far more robust and fiery than the small size would have one believe. They’re courageous and extremely loyal – so incredibly dedicated and loving with owners, they will be constantly by their side and more than happy to go almost anywhere with them. They can get way too over protective of loved ones, so care should be taken to ensure they don’t become aggressive and even dangerous with strangers.

The Chihuahua is very alert and vigilant and makes a good barking watchdog, but if given the chance can become excessive with the barking , yapping at every small sound. It is best to enforce strict barking rules from the moment they come home, especially if you live in an apartment or plan to travel with them.

Though the Chihuahua is fairly easy to train, they’re still best suited for someone with at least a little doggie experience, if ill raised they can become quite the tyrant. They need good solid training and lots of socialization to help become the excellent dog they have the potential of being. They should never be coddled and treated helpless, they are a sturdy intelligent dog and should be treated as such.  The Chihuahua makes a wonderfully affectionate and loving friend, who loves to snuggle, cuddle and play, they may not be for everyone but for those who decide it’s the dog for them, with just a little work, they will repay your love hundred times over.

Best suited for a home without young children as they will not put up with their rough play and if not trained well can be possessive of food and toys. They love living with other Chihuahuas and usually does ok with other pets they’ve been raised with but can be belligerent with strange dogs.

Origins:  The namecomes  from the Mexican State they were first found in -  Chihuahua. There are many theories to the origin, but the most excepted is they come from the Techichi, a favoured companion of the Toltec people. When the Aztecs conquered Mexico these dogs were considered magical and were often sacrificed to lead the dead through the underworld and to take on all their sins so they would leave this life pure
Special needs: They can be very sensitive to the damp and cold and will need a coat during chilly weather. Due to their very small size they can be prey to large birds, snakes and other animals, owners should take extra care of them when they are outside. Chihuahuas are born with a soft spot on their heads, so care should be taken to ensure it does not take a blow there during puppy hood.
Highlights

- Not only is the Chihuahua the smallest breed of dog, they have the longest life span of any breed.

- There is no such thing as a teacup Chihuahua, this is just a term used by unscrupulous Breeders to charge more. Often the quality of these dogs are sacrificed for small size.

- Some Chihuahua can bond solely with one person and many have a special love for the elderly.

-  As the Chihuahua loves to be warm and snuggle, they will often be found curled up under blankets and warm sweaters.

-  The Chihuahua is very playful and keeps a fun loving attitude even into elderly years.