While the exact origins of the Chihuahua are debated, it's believed they descend from the Techichi, a small, hairless dog that was domesticated by the Toltecs and Aztecs in ancient Mexico.
Here's a breakdown:
* Techichi: The ancestor of the Chihuahua, a small, hairless dog kept by the Toltecs and Aztecs.
* Chihuahua: The state in Mexico where the breed was first recognized and brought to the attention of the world.
* Chihuahua (the dog): The breed's name, derived from the state where it originated.
It's worth noting that the name "Chihuahua" is a relatively recent one, adopted in the late 19th century. Before that, the breed was often referred to as "Mexican hairless dog" or "Mexican toy dog".