Chihuahua
Chihuahua
BreedHighlighs: |
The Chihuahua is a tiny toy-sized dog. The height of the dog is less than its length. The head is well-rounded, apple-shaped, and the muzzle is short and pointed with a well-defined stop. |
Weight: |
Male: 1.8-2.7 kg Female: 1.8-2.7 kg |
Height: |
Male: 1.5-2.5 cm Female: 1.5-2.5 cm |
Life Expectancy: |
10-18 yr |
Litter Size: |
1-3 |
Breed Appearance: |
An elegant, observant, swift-moving, compact little dog with saucy expression, and with terrier-like qualities of temperament. |
History: |
Most historical references of the Chihuahua can be termed bewildering and obscure. A number of theories prevail regarding the origin of the breed. Both folklore and archaeological findings hint towards the fact that the breed originated in Mexico. Arguably, the most relevant theory is that the Chihuahuas descended from the Techichi, a companion dog favored by the Toltec civilization in Mexico. |
Originally: |
This is the oldest breed in the American continent as well as the smallest breed in the world. It’s a native of the Mexican state of Chihuahua, after which the breed is named. It was only brought to Europe after the conclusion of the nineteenth century. The breeds that were used to make up the Chihuahua are still vague, but some opine it originated from the Fennec Fox. Apart from being treated piously by the pre-Columbian Indian nations, the dogs of this breed were also widely considered as pets by the people belonging to the upper classes. |
Currently Used As: |
Chihuahua is currently used as a T.V show dog and an advertisement dog. |
Training: |
House breaking a Chihuahua can be an arduous task if not started timely and done consistently. If your Chihuahua reposes faith in you, they will endeavour profusely to please you. So never spank your Chihuahua if they commit silly errors during potty training. It is better to applaud them when they potty in the correct area.Chihuahua cannot hold their bladders for very long. Their bladders are very small. Chihuahuas usually have to go to the bathroom as soon as they wake up! So take them to their spot where you desire them to relieve themselves, immediately after a nap. |
Health&Care: |
Chihuahuas are prone to rheumatism, slipped stifle, colds and gum problems, corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma, due to their protruding eyes. They suffer from the tendency of gaining weight effortlessly. Exercise caution with toxic products, such as chocolate or fertilizers. This is a very small breed and it will not take much to poison the dogs of this breed. Chihuahuas are often born via a cesarean section because puppies are born with relatively large heads. They are susceptible to fractures and other mishaps in puppyhood. Some Chihuahuas have a molera, an unclosed section of the skull which can remain open forever. This makes the dog prone to injury. It has a tendency to wheeze and snore because of its small, short muzzles. This dog breed is vulnerable to stress, caused by the owners’ tendency to treat them like little babies. |
Living Condition: |
These little dogs are cut out for an apartment life. The Chihuahua adores warm weather and coldness repels it. They need space just like any other dog. Their small size does not imply that they can be kept in a small and confined space. |
Excersie: |
Although it is tempting to travel outside very often with these dainty creatures, in actuality, such little dogs only need one daily walk. Proper and sufficient play can address most of their exercise needs, however, as is the case with all the breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that are left out of daily walks are more likely to display a wide variety of behavior problems, as well as neurotic issues. They will also savor a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. |
Grooming: |
The smooth, short haired coat should be gently brushed occasionally or simply wiped over with a damp cloth. The long coat should be brushed daily with a soft bristle brush. Bathe both types about once per month, while adopting precautionary measures to preclude water from penetrating the ears. Check the ears regularly and keep the nails trimmed. This breed is an average shedder. |
Pros: |
Chihuahuas are adorable. Chihuahuas are suitable pets for apartment living. Chihuahuas are proficient watch dogs. Chihuahuas can be trained to use a litterbox indoors.Chihuahuas are straightforward to groom. |
Cons: |
Chihuahuas can be fragile. Some Chihuahuas are not recommended for young children.Chihuahuas are averse to freezing environments.Some Chihuahuas are not family dogs.Some Chihuahuas may tend to bark a lot. |