|
 Breed Group:
Toy
Weight:
6 lbs
Height:
6-9 inches
Color(s):
any
Coat:
The Chihuahua coat comes in two
varieties: The Smooth and Long coat. The Smooth coat
has a glossy, soft, and close coat which is full
textured over the entire body, but quite scanty on
the head and ears. The Long coat has a soft, longer
coat that can be slightly curly or flat. This
variety does have an under-coat. Either coat type
comes in a variety of colors such as fawn, brown,
black, and white. The coat may be solid in color,
marked with splashes of color, or tri-color. They
are an average shedder.
Overview:
The Chihuahua is the smallest
of all breeds and has the distinction of being the
oldest breed in America. They were named after the
Chihuahua region in Mexico. It is believed that this
breed descended from ancient breed that was larger
in size and highly prized by Aztec royalty. The
Chihuahua of today has a very fine bone structure,
but are actually quite muscular.
Character:
The Chihuahua is a very
individualistic breed. They each have their own
unique personality, so only a few generalizations
can be made. They are commonly referred to as a
"Chi". They are energetic, graceful, and display a
human-like expression. Their life span is the
longest of any size dog.
Temperament:
The Chihuahua is deeply
devoted and fiercely loyal. They typically become
extremely attached to one or two people. They are
bold, fearless, and highly protective of their
masters. They thrive on inordinate amounts of
attention. The Chihuahua is by nature gentle,
loving, and sweet-tempered. They are wary of
strangers and make excellent watchdogs. This breed
is not well suited for children or other pets.
However, they are sociable with their own kind.
Chihuahuas are excellent companions in the right
circumstances.
Care:
The Chihuahua requires minimal
grooming. The Smooth coat variety requires only
occasional brushing. The Long coat variety should be
brushed several times a week with a soft bristle
brush. Both varieties only need bathing once a month
using a mild shampoo. Special care must be given to
not get water into their ears as they are prone to
ear infections. Dental hygiene is a must to prevent
tooth loss. The health issues that affect this breed
include slipped stifles, open font or soft spot, eye
problems, and heart disease. The Chihuahua does not
tolerate cold climates and must be protected when
taken outside.
Training:
The Chihuahua is can be
difficult to train, but with patience, love, and
consistency do well. They respond best to positive
reinforcement. Chihuahuas can be housetrained by
either the crate method or the paper training
method. Early, extensive, and intensive
socialization is an absolute must for this breed.
Activity:
The Chihuahua is an excellent
apartment or condominium dweller. The majority of
their exercise needs can be met indoors with toys or
play sessions. However, they greatly enjoy going
with their owners and benefit from daily walks.
Using a harness is recommended instead of a leash is
best given their delicate neck and bone structure.
Ownership: If
you are looking for
Chihuahua puppies for sale from reputable
Chihuahua breeders or to adopt a Chihuahua from
a
Chihuahua rescue then make sure you understand
as much about the
dog breeds you are interested in as you can.
Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research
by reading the breed information about the Chihuahua
puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find
Chihuahua puppies,
dogs and
puppies that make great
pets. |
