Country of Origin: The Chihuahua
(affectionately called 'Chi') may descend either from tiny, hairless
Chinese dogs or the South American 'Techichi', a favored pet which was
buried with the deceased in the hope they would lead the way to the
afterlife. Modern Chihuahuas hail from Chihuahua, Mexico. They are the
smallest dog breed and the oldest North American breed. They rocketed
to popularity in the U.S when famous Latin musician Xavier Cugat made a
Chihuahua his constant public companion, and remain extremely popular to
this day. Famous Chihuahuas include the Taco Bell Chihuahua, Ren from
'Ren and Stimpy', and Ducky, the 2007 ‘Guinness Book of World Records’
winner for ‘World's Smallest Living Dog’.
Size:
The Chihuahua has a shoulder height of 15-23 cm (6-9 in) and weighs 1-3
kg (2-5.5 lbs). Chihuahuas have an apple shaped head with a short,
pointy muzzle, large erect ears, and tiny feet. The tail may curve over
the back or side.
Coat: The
Chihuahua can have a long or short coat. A variety of colors are
acceptable, including sand, chocolate, silver, chestnut, and blue. A
variety of patterns including sable and masks are also possible. The
variety of possibilities makes classification difficult.
Character:
Chihuahuas are intelligent, graceful, and sometimes too brave for their
own good. They usually bond with only one person and become highly
devoted, frequently kissing the owner's face (with or without approval).
The Chihuahua is reserved around strangers, and may attempt to defend
their owner, usually with little effect. Chihuahuas are tenacious,
proud, and very energetic.
Temperament:
Chihuahuas can usually live with other dogs and cats without problem.
They get along particularly well with other Chihuahuas. It is important
to socialize the Chihuahua as a puppy to prevent overt aggressiveness.
Small children may regard the Chihuahua as a toy, and their teasing can
cause it to snap or bite. It is preferable not to leave the Chihuahua
with children under the age of 12, unless they are well taught or
supervised.
Care: Chihuahuas
require regular grooming with a brush and comb for their long coat. The
Chihuahua’s claws must be kept trimmed, and its teeth must be checked
frequently for tartar buildup. Chihuahuas get cold easily and should be
kept in a warm environment. The small nose may cause
wheezing or
snoring.
The Chihuahua should not be overfed. There is typically a soft spot
on the top of the skull; this is normal and is usually closed by
adulthood. The Chihuahua has a long life span at 14-18 years.
Training:
Although they are usually not trained because of their small size,
Chihuahuas are eager to learn. The Chihuahua may require patience and
effort to housebreak; for this reason they are sometimes only paper
trained.
Activity: Chihuahuas
can usually get all the exercise they need by running around indoors.
If the dog becomes overweight it should be allowed to walk rather than
carried from room to room. Chihuahuas may be taken for short walks but
are not safe outdoors, unless on leash with the owner, although they love it.
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