Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a small breed of dog, very popular for its size. Besides being an adorable pet, they are intelligent, restless and curious companions. And will offer all their love to whoever takes care of them.
They - unsurprisingly - get their name from Chihuahua, Mexico, the state they were first discovered. The meaning of chihuahua is literally "an arid and sandy place." They were captured and domesticated by natives at the time of the Toltec civilization. Today, we can find figures of a dog that lived in Tula, very similar to the current Chihuahua. Keep reading to know everything about the Chihuahua dog!
- America
- Mexico
- Group IX
- 5-14
- 14-18
- 18-22
- 22-27
- 27-31
- More than 31
- 2-7
- 7-22
- 22-55
- 55-100
- 100-220
- 8-10
- 10-12
- 12-14
- 15-20
- Low
- Meidum
- High
Physical Appearance
As we have already mentioned, they are small and compact dogs, with fast movements. Their height varies between 15 and 25 centimeters although some can reach 30. In addition, they usually weigh between 1.5 and 4 kg. These measures can vary when we meet the two types of Chihuahua dogs that differ by size and in some physical aspects:
The Chihuahua Apple Head: They are the most common. Their head has, as their name indicates, a shape similar to that of an apple that gives them a sweet and careful look. They have two large and separated ears, almost always in a straight position. In contrast to a large head and bulging eyes, their body is small and thin. They have a small tail that curves towards the body.
The Chihuahua Deer Head: They are a little larger than the previous Chihuahua. The shape of the head is longer and in some cases reminiscent of a small deer. They are somewhat taller and more stylized but equally show a delicate and sweet appearance that you will fall in love with.
In addition to the physical characteristics we also find two different types of fur:
Long hair
Short hair
The chihuahua can be an array of different colors like white, coffee, black, chocolate, cream ... In addition to tricolor, striped or mottled.
Character
The chihuahua does not have one specific personality defined by their race. It is dependent on their education. They can be tender and loving dogs or somewhat malicious and cunning. They are very intelligent and observant and like to get his way. They are very brave and devoted dogs despite their small size. Chihuahuas are always alert and anxious, particularly to any intruder.
Sometimes they can show jealous attitudes to the people around their owner. Though this is usually an easy problem to deal with. The Chihuahua does not seem to be aware of its small size and can face large dogs or dogs just to defend who he wants.
Behavior
The Chihuahua will show devotion, in general, to the person who takes care of them every day. They are very affectionate dogs that will ask for your attention throughout the day. In general, they are usually distrustful of strangers. They can be territorial and possessive dog with their owners, but they do not usually show offensive or violent attitudes. They are curious dogs that will easily accept affection and care.
Chihuahuas don't always accept the company of other pets. But, they usually can coexist beautifully with dogs of the same breed or size. To encourage a sociable dog we must allow them to play with other pets when they are a puppy. Although it does not matter if we start their education late, we can achieve great goals with patience.
Caring for a chihuahua
They are dogs that adapt perfectly to urban life so you won't have problems living in a small apartment. Even so, the Chihuahua is very restless and nervous. We must take them out for a walk at least twice a day to exercise and play with them inside the home.
Usually, and especially short haired Chihuahuas, they are sensitive to cold due to their small size. Look for clothes of your size to shelter them in winter, especially if you live in a cold environment.
Do not let them overheat. The Chihuahua is a very clever dog that will not hesitate to become fragile, capricious or extremely nervous if we give in to all their requests.
Finally we add that Chihuahua is a dog that has tendency to obesity. For that reason, it is important that we know the type of diet that this pet requires to prevent future diseases or problems.
Health
They can live up to 18 years or more if they are kept healthy and fit. In any case there are a number of diseases that can affect them throughout their life, we detail the most common:
Soft palate spasm
Epilepsy
Hernia Discal
Secondary glaucoma
Dislocation (luxating patella)
Hydrocephalus
Hemophilia A
Heart problems
They require a regular vet who is aware of their needs. For that reason, we recommend you take them regularly and follow their vaccination schedule.
In the brain they have a molera, a soft point they have in the skull that they were born with. Much like fontanelles in babies.
It is also important that you take care of their eyes to prevent eye infections.
Training a chihuahua
The basis of education for a healthy and social chihuahua begins by socializing them from an early age, with both people and other pets. It is super important that you follow this advice to avoid an antisocial dog, with improper and harsh behavior. They must learn to live in harmony with animals, children and adults. That will help you enjoy the outdoors as you leave them with the children without any concern.
Remember that for a dog to be calm and well behaved the people of your home should foster this climate of harmony and mental well-being.
It is important that you decide when to feed, walk or sleep your dog. The chihuahua is a clever dog that will try to receive treats and endless attention. Set limits and reward them only when they deserve it and behave appropriately.