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Chihuahua dogs
Thinking about
Chihuahua dogs as a companion?
Height: 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) Group Lifespan: 12-15 years Who is the Chihuahua?Chihuahua dogs ('chis') are happy-natured, feisty and intelligent little dogs. They are one of the toy dog breeds and are the smallest dog in the world. History of Chihuahua dogsNot much is really known about the origins of the Chihuahua but the name comes from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where the earliest examples of the breed were found in the 19th century.
Whatever its origin, the Chihuahua quickly became a popular pet dog in South America and is now one of the most popular small dogs in the world. There are two varieties of chi: smooth coat and long coat. The smooth coat lies flat and is quite short, while the long coat is soft and smooth, sometimes a little curly, with a long, feathery tail. The long coat usually sheds less than the smooth coat. 'Teacup' ChihuahuaSome people look for 'teacup' or 'pocket-sized' Chihuahua dogs. These are not official terms for the breed. Some unscrupulous breeders will advertise their dogs as being even smaller than usual so they can fit into a teacup or a small handbag. These are either the runts of the litter or have been deliberately bred to be extra tiny. But Chihuahuas that are even smaller than the normal size of around 2 kg (6 pounds) can suffer chronic health problems and often an early death after much expensive vet care. So be very careful if anyone offers you a 'teacup' Chihuahua! Personality
Good with children?Yes - but it is essential that young children are taught to handle the breed properly - that is, as a real dog, not a toy. A chi that has been mistreated by children can become snappy and aggressive.Exercise needsThe chi requires very little exercise and can live happily in an apartment. They still love their daily walk, however, and must be taken outside every day. HealthGenerally, Chihuahua dogs are a hardy little breed with a long life span. Possible health problemsHydrocephalus (or 'water on the brain' – an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the cavities, of the brain, causing pressure inside the skull and enlargement of the head, convulsion and mental disability. It can also cause death.) Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) Epilepsy Luxating patella (the kneecap can slip out of place and the dog holds its leg up for a few minutes until the muscles relax and the kneecap slides back into place) Obesity (it's very easy to overfeed such a tiny dog, causing diabetes, heart problems and an early death) Soft heads (some chis have a molera – a soft spot (the same as a human baby) that doesn't quite close up. This usually closes up after about 6 months and care should be taken with the puppy during this time. Some moleras never close, however, and the dog must be carefully treated all its life.) GroomingThe smooth-coated chi requires just a weekly brush, with the usual attention to the insides of ears and the teeth. The long coat may need an extra brush through the week and a check for burrs and grass seeds. Other than that, Chihuahua dogs are very easy to groom. Since the chi is a little dog, it's very important to look after their teeth. Tiny dogs often find it hard to chew the bones found at the butcher or supermarket. Owners should make sure their dogs get plenty of small chew toys and fresh bones like chicken wings to keep the teeth clean. Chis may need their teeth brushed on a regular basis. More information for new puppy owners:Want to know more about buying, raising and caring for a puppy? Check out these PuppyPrimer.com pages: Ideal ownerThe ideal Chihuahua owner will give their little dog plenty of loving attention and a daily walk, and will pay attention to its diet to make sure it doesn't get fat. Chihuahua dogs are also quite sensitive to the cold so make sure your dog has somewhere warm, preferably inside, on chilly days.
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Some people have speculated that they could be descended from the Fennec Fox of Africa, which is tiny with big eyes and ears; others think it may have come from Asia or Europe. It may also be related to an ancient Aztec dog called the Techichi.
