Everything you wanted to know about Chihuahuas

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Country of Origin:  Mexico

History:  The history of the Chihuahua is vague.  It is known that both the Toltec and Aztec cultures kept dogs, including a small breed called the Techichi, but it is uncertain whether these dogs were the ancestors of the Chihuahua.  Some fanciers believe it is a descendant of dogs introduced by Chinese or Spanish explorers.  It was first seen by North Americans in the mid-nineteenth century and brought to the U.S. shortly thereafter.

Physical Description:  The Chihuahua is a very small dog that is slightly longer than it is tall.  The skull is large and rounded, sometimes described as an apple head.  The muzzle is short and slightly pointed and the eyes are large and full.  The ears are large and erect with the tips pointing slightly outward.  The tail is natural and moderately long, carried erect, horizontally, or in a loop over the back.  There are two coat types: longhaired and smooth.  The  longhaired type is soft, flat or slightly curly, usually with an undercoat.  A large ruff on the neck and feathering on the tail, feet, and legs is highly desirable.  The smooth variety has soft, glossy, straight hair.  Any color is permitted; the coat can be solid, marked, or splashed.  Common colors are red, sable, fawn, black and tan, tricolor, and brindle.

Height:  6 to 9 inches

Weight:  2 to 6 pounds

Temperament:  The Chihuahua is an alert, sensitive dog.  It tends to dislike dogs of other breeds and requires socialization to be comfortable with strangers and children.

Activity Level:  Low

Best Owner:  The Chihuahua makes an excellent apartment dog and companion for an elderly or sedentary adult.

Special Needs:  Socialization, supervision with children and other animals

Possible Health Concerns:  collapsed trachea, heart problems, hydrocephalic, hypoglycemia, luxating patellas.

Mehus-Roe – The Original Dog Bible

 

 

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