Read About Chihuahua

Chihuahua is a little pet dog which is considered to be a status symbol among celebrities and stars. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Chihuahua - Facts

1. AKC Group:

   It belongs to the AKC toy group.

2. Size & Weight:

   The Chihuahua is no more than 6 to 9 inches in height. It weighs approximately 6 pounds.

3. Coat:

   The Chihuahua has two types of allowable coats -- smooth and long. The smooth coats are soft and glossy, while the long coats are furry.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Chihuahuas have dome-shaped heads. They have short but prominently pointed muzzles.

5. Body:

   They have small bodies. Their limbs are tiny and they have a short tail that docks between the hind limbs.

6. Colors:

   Permissible coat colors by the AKC are fawn, sand, chestnut, silver and steel blue. There are other permissible colors, too.

7. Life Expectancy:

   Chihuahuas can live up to 15 years.

8. Popularity:

   The Chihuahuas are extremely popular. Among several Hollywood stars, they are considered to be status symbols to be seen with.

9. Habitat:

   Chihuahuas are meant only for apartment life.

Chihuahua - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   The Chihuahua originally came from Mexico.

2. Lineage:

   Very little is known about how the Chihuahua was bred. The only known fact is that it is one of the oldest dog breeds in America.

3. Date Admitted to AKC:

   The Chihuahua secured its place in the AKC in 1943.

4. Historical Information:

   The Chihuahua was considered sacred among some primitive native Indian cultures.

Chihuahua - Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   The Chihuahua is a pampered dog and it does not train easily. It is slow to obey commands and will snap if forced to learn. It is difficult to teach them housebreaking.

2. Temperament:

   Chihuahuas are little short-tempered pets. They will not trust strangers, but will want their owners to carry them.

3. Child Friendly:

   It doesn't trust children. It will bite children if teased.

4. Behavior:

   It is distrustful of strangers. It will want to accompany its owner everywhere.

5. Habits:

   It is a dog that bites a lot. It will wheeze and snore while sleeping.

Chihuahua - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   The Chihuahua can suffer from various eye and gum problems. There are also known cases of rheumatism.

2. Feeding:

   Chihuahuas need to be fed at least two bowls a day.

3. Exercise Needs:

   These dogs do not require much exercise. They will meet all their exercise needs from romping within the house.

4. Grooming Needs:

   Daily grooming with a rough brush and a weekly bath with suffice.

5. Special Household Needs:

   You will need to keep the fragile objects out of reach as these are curious pets. Also keep fertilizers, chemicals and drugs out of their reach as they may be toxic to the dogs.

6. Travel Needs:

   You will need Chihuahua clothing and a dog car seat.

7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

   Chihuahuas like to hog their master's attention. Hence, they will not adjust well with other pets.

Chihuahua - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   The best indicators of a healthy Chihuahua are glossy coats, warm eyes and clean ears.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   You will need a leash, a Chihuahua outfit, a dog crate and some feeding bowls.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Teach the Chihuahua discipline from the beginning. This will be much easier than taking care of things around the house.

4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

   Chihuahuas like to be carried. Play with them and encourage children to be friendly with them.