Instructions
Identification
Chihuahuas are small, muscular dogs with large eyes and an attitude to match. Smooth and rough coat types are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). The AKC specifies that Chihuahuas must have a broad chest and body that is a bit longer than the height at their withers, or the highest point of the shoulder blade. Their heads are round "apple-domes," topped by large, upright ears set at 45-degree angles to the centerline of the skull. They come in solid and patterned coats in all colors.
History of
Chihuahuas appear to be descendents of New World dogs kept by native peoples. Several theories exist regarding the pedigree of this little dog, which appears in a larger form in Olmec, Toltec and Aztec art. A common theory is that the native Techichi dog was mixed with an Oriental hairless breed brought across the Siberian land bridge by migrating peoples, producing the modern breed. They are not related to the Mexican hairless breed. Another theory names Cortez as the agent of breed modification by taking the Techichi back to Spain, but this theory does not account for the discovery of the Chihuahua near the Mexican state of the same name in 1850. The breed was recognized in 1884 but not registered by the AKC until 1904.
Size
The scrappy Chihuahua is the smallest of AKC registered breeds, weighing in at 2 to 6 pounds and generally standing between 6 and 8 inches tall. The smooth-coated Chihuahua appears smaller than his rough-coated brother due to the rough-coat's plume on his upright, curled tail and long, flat or curly coat and undercoat. Males are shorter from tail to shoulders than females.
Features
Chihuahuas are alert, active little dogs, who have a reputation for being temperamental and clannish. They are described as "terrier-like" in temperament and tend to be extremely loyal and long-lived. Smooth coated dogs who live in cooler climates may need sweaters to keep warm.
Risk Factors
The Chihuahua's size would seem to make a good apartment dog, but it does need daily exercise to stay trim and healthy. Their confrontational temperament rules out households with a lot of stimulation or loud, active children. The breed is prone to several health problems, notably "slipped stifles," a knee disorder, eye and heart disease. Over breeding of this popular dog has worsened these problems.
About Chihuahuas
Chihuahua owners know the meaning of stubborn. They also know that they'll find no more loyal companion to defend against all threats, however huge. These graceful little guys don't accept the fact that they're the smallest ones on the block and their curiosity sometimes gets them into trouble. Often recommended for apartment dwellers and older dog lovers, the Chihuahua makes a lively, intelligent companion. It makes a great family dog, however, only when the family accepts some specific rules about living with this spunky canine.