History of the Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is generally considered the smallest dog breed in the world, and its history is as colorful and fascinating as the breed itself. Originating from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, the breed’s ancestry can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of the Toltecs and the Aztecs. The Chihuahua’s predecessors were believed to be the Techichi dogs, small, silent companions kept by the Toltec people as early as the 9th century.
When the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs, they absorbed the Techichi into their society, valuing the dogs for their religious significance and their role as companions. Historical records suggest the Aztecs believed Techichis had mystical powers, including the ability to guide the souls of the dead through the underworld.
The modern Chihuahua’s story began in the mid-19th century with their “discovery” in local markets by visiting Americans. The visitors from El Norte brought the tiny canines back to the United States where they were an instant hit. The Chihuahua’s popularity quickly increased north of the border, winning many admirers among dog show exhibitors.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Chihuahua as a breed in 1904. Since then, the Chihuahua has become a beloved companion in homes worldwide, admired for its loyalty, intelligence, and spirited personality. Despite their petite size, Chihuahuas have a bold and confident demeanor, often unaware of their own size limitations.
Appearances in various media have had a tremendous effect on the breed’s popularity, making it an instantly recognizable icon. Today, Chihuahuas are not only cherished companions and commercial mascots, they’re also determined competitors at dog shows and in various dog sports where they display their charm, intelligence, and versatility.
The Chihuahua’s rich history, from ancient Mexican civilizations to modern-day Main Street, underscores the breed’s enduring appeal and the special place it holds in the hearts of dog enthusiasts around the world.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
The Chihuahua is characteristically small but should not be delicate or fragile in appearance. Male and female Chihuahuas generally vary in height from 5 to 8 inches tall at the shoulders. Their weight is ideally between 2 and 6 pounds. Dogs weighing more than 6 pounds are unacceptable.
Proportion & Substance
The Chihuahua exhibits a compact body with well-sprung and rounded ribs. The body should be slightly longer than tall, measured from the point of shoulder to the point of the buttocks. Males can have somewhat shorter bodies than females. Overall balance, without exaggeration, is essential in this small but substantial dog. Despite their light weight, Chihuahuas should not appear frail or excessively thin; they need to display a symmetry, soundness, and vigor.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The Chihuahua’s coat comes in two varieties: Smooth and Long. The Smooth Coat should be soft, close, and glossy, with a ruff on the neck. Heavier coats with undercoats are acceptable, and the hair on the tail is often “furry.” The Long Coat is characterized by its soft texture, either flat or slightly curly. Ideally, there’s an undercoat. Fringing on the ears, a ruff on the neck, feathering on the feet and legs, “pants” on the hind legs, and a plume on the tail give this variety its distinctive appearance. Other than the coat, both varieties are identical and both regular grooming to maintain their condition and appearance.
Chihuahua Colors
|
Standard Color |
| Black |
ee |
| Black & Tan |
ee |
| Blue & Tan |
ee |
| Chocolate |
ee |
| Chocolate & Tan |
ee |
| Cream |
ee |
| Fawn |
ee |
| Fawn & White |
ee |
| Red |
ee |
| Black & White |
n |
| Black Sabled Fawn |
n |
| Black Sabled Silver |
n |
| Blue |
n |
| Blue & White |
n |
| Blue Brindled Fawn |
n |
| Chocolate & White |
n |
| Chocolate Blue |
n |
| Chocolate Brindled Fawn |
n |
| Chocolate Sabled Fawn |
n |
| Cream & White |
n |
| Fawn Brindled Black |
n |
| Gold |
n |
| Gold & White |
n |
| Red & White |
n |
| Silver |
n |
| Silver & White |
n |
| White |
n |
The Chihuahua – What to Consider?
The Chihuahua, renowned for its compact size and vivacious character, is beloved by many and often chosen for both companionship and competitive activities. Prospective owners must appreciate the breed’s distinctive personality traits and requirements to foster a harmonious relationship in the home and when out and about.
Home Life
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
Reserved Outgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal Interest Maximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
Low High
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
Low High
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction
Chihuahua Health
Chihuahuas are generally considered to be healthy and resilient dogs, with a well-cared-for individual typically enjoying a lifespan of 14 to 16 years. Nevertheless, these dogs do have a few breed-specific health issues that owners should be mindful of to ensure their pet’s longevity and well-being. Partnering with a reputable breeder and a knowledgeable veterinarian is crucial for monitoring and addressing any health concerns promptly.
Potential Health Risks
Chihuahuas, like all breeds and mixed breeds, many be predisposed to certain health conditions. Owners should be vigilant and proactive in monitoring their dog for signs of common health issues to ensure early detection and treatment. Here are some of the potential health risks associated with Chihuahuas:
- Patellar Luxation: This is a common condition in small dogs where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal alignment.
- Hypoglycemia: Maintaining proper blood sugar levels is crucial, especially in smaller Chihuahuas and puppies. Symptoms include lethargy, muscle weakness, and even seizures.
- Heart Problems: These include congenital heart defects and heart murmurs, which have been known to affect the breed.
- Dental Issues: Due to their small jaws, Chihuahuas are prone to overcrowded teeth, leading to dental disease if proper care is not maintained.
- Hydrocephalus: Also known as “water on the brain,” this condition can be found in the breed, especially those with an extreme “apple” shape to their skull.
- Tracheal Collapse: This is a condition where the tracheal rings weaken, leading to breathing difficulties.
- Eye Diseases: These include cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to vision loss if not addressed.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and management of these conditions. Veterinarians can provide guidance on preventive care, including proper nutrition, exercise, and dental hygiene, to help mitigate the risks of these health and other issues. Addressing any concern promptly can greatly enhance the quality of life for the Chihuahua and support a long, healthy relationship with its family.
Chihuahua Personality
Understanding the personality of a Chihuahua is crucial for anyone who is considering this breed as a companion. Despite the breed’s small size, Chis are known for their big personalities, brimming with confidence and charm. These dogs are fiercely loyal to their owners, often forming a strong, inseparable bond with their primary caretaker. This loyalty can sometimes manifest as over-protectiveness, making early socialization and training key to developing a well-rounded dog.
Chihuahuas can be ideal for novice owners due to their size and manageability, but their strong-willed nature requires consistent, gentle training. They are sensitive dogs that do not respond well to harsh discipline. Their sensitivity also extends to their environment; Chihuahuas prefer warmth and can become anxious or shivery in cold climates.
Though small, Chihuahuas are not passive dogs. They have a moderate-to-high energy level and enjoy being engaged in all sorts of activities. Despite their size, they are often good with children, especially if raised with them. However, all interactions should be supervised to make sure the dog is not accidentally injured due to its tiny size.
When it comes to other dogs and strangers, a Chihuahua’s reaction can vary. Some are very sociable and enjoy the company of other dogs, while others may be more reserved or even standoffish. Early socialization can help a Chihuahua become more accustomed to a variety of people and animals, reducing the chance of fearful or aggressive reactions.
Chihuahua Feeding & Nutrition
Proper feeding and nutrition are fundamental to a Chihuahua’s health and well-being. Given the breed’s small size, these dogs have specific dietary needs that must be met to ensure they maintain optimal health, energy, and longevity. The amount and type of food given to a Chihuahua can significantly impact its overall health, weight, and energy level.
For Chihuahua puppies, it’s crucial to provide a high-quality puppy formula that supports rapid growth and development. Puppies should be fed more frequently, typically three to four times a day, to keep up with their energy demands and support healthy growth. As they transition to adulthood, the frequency of mealtimes can be reduced to twice daily.
Adult Chihuahuas require a balanced diet that includes all necessary nutrients in the right proportions. The amount of food that’s needed depends on the dog’s age, size, activity level, and metabolism. On average, a Chi needs about ¼ to ½ cup of high-quality dry dog food each day, divided into two meals. This can vary, however, so it’s important to adjust the food amount based on the dog’s individual needs and to consult with the dog’s breeder or veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.
Monitoring a Chihuahua’s weight is also vital, as obesity can lead to numerous health issues, including joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. Treats should be given sparingly and should account for no more than 10 percent of a Chihuahua’s daily caloric intake.
In addition to providing the right amount of food, having access to fresh, clean water at all times is essential for a Chihuahua’s overall health. Regular veterinary exams can help to monitor the dog’s nutritional needs, and they can allow for adjustments to be made that will address any potential concerns.
Chihuahua Training
Training a Chihuahua requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of the breed’s unique temperament. Training should begin early to establish good habits and to
