Read About Long Haired Chihuahua

Long Haired Chihuahua is one of the tiniest breeds of dogs. This dog's small stature makes it very cute, and thus is considered as one of the most popular dogs available for adoption. Here's everything you need to Imageknow about this dog breed.

Long Haired Chihuahua - Dog Breed Facts

  1. AKC Group:

    This breed belongs to the Toy Group.
  2. Size & Weight:

    They grow to be about 6-9 inches in height, and 2-9 lbs in weight.
  3. Coat:

    The coat is long, soft and either flat or curly.
  4. Head & Muzzle:

    The skull is apple shaped and it has a short and pointed muzzle.
  5. Body:

    It's a tiny dog with a round rib-cage. Their legs are very thin and like sticks.
  6. Colors:

    They come in black, fawn, brindle and blonde. Some of them come along with tan markings.
  7. Life Expectancy:

    They live to be 15 years and more.
  8. Popularity:

    This is a popular breed (AKC rank: 11)
  9. Habitat:

    They are good for apartment life as they can't tolerate cold weather and prefer warm conditions.

Long Haired Chihuahua - Dog Breed Origins

  1. Country of Origin:

    This breed originated in Mexico.
  2. Lineage:

    It is a descendant of an ancient dog of Mexico, The Techichi.
  3. Date Admitted to AKC:

    It has secured it place in the AKC in 1904.
  4. Historical Information:

    Chihuahuas have existed for a long time, dating back to 9 A.D. They are named after the Mexican state Chihuahua where this breed was first sighted.

Long Haired Chihuahua - Dog Breed Defining CharacteristicsImage

  1. Training Ease:

    They have to be trained gently with some patience. They learn quickly as they are eager to learn.
  2. Temperament:

    Chihuahua dogs are loyal, intelligent, and brave. They make good companions and are very suspicious towards strangers. Proper socialization will make them feel comfortable with strangers.
  3. Child Friendly:

    This dog gets aggressive when children tease it. It's better to keep the dog away from children as it is very fragile.
  4. Behavior:

    They like to bark and play around.
  5. Habits:

    These dogs tend to snore and wheeze due to their short noses.

Long Haired Chihuahua - Dog Breed Concerns

  1. Health Issues:

    They are prone to slipped stifle, gum problems, rheumatism and eye problems. The molera on the skull is prone to injuries. They can't tolerate cold weather.
  2. Feeding:

    They must be fed lightly as they easily gain weight when overfed.
  3. Exercise Needs:

    A little exercise in the form of walks everyday will keep the dog fit and active.
  4. Grooming Needs:

    Regular baths and trimming of nails are necessary. They are average shredders. They must be burshed daily to prevent matting and tangling of the hair.
  5. Special Household Needs:

    It's better to use a body-harness rather than leashes as leashes might hurt the dog's neck.
  6. Travel Needs:

    A dog crate is useful and make sure you take the dog's feeding bowls along.
  7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

    They are usually aggressive with other pets but proper socialization can make these dogs get along with other pets.

Long Haired Chihuahua - How to Choose your Dog Breed

  1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

    Check the puppies for bright and shiny eyes. Their gait should be straight and make sure the legs are not very weak as these dogs are prone to fractures.
  2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

    Brushes, feeding bowls, beds and toys will be required.
  3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

    They like to lick things and care should be taken so that they don't lick anything harmful.
  4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

    They cant tolerate cold conditions. Make sure they are not exposed to cold weather and keep them warm. Children might handle the puppy roughly and this should be avoided.