CHIHUAHUA
APPEARANCE
The Chihuahua is a fragile looking dog, and a very distinctive looking animal with a pretty face. The Chihuahua has a well rounded, apple shaped head. The muzzle is tiny in contrast to the head, will be slightly pointed, and either have a level or scissors bite. Ears are large and erect and their eyes are round and large. When it comes to the coat of the Chihuahua there are two varieties available, one being the long coated variety and the other the smooth variety. The coloring of the Chihuahua can vary and includes red, cream, chocolate, blue/gray, white, fawn, and black. The weight of the Chihuahua is around 2-6 pounds, and the height is around 5-8 inches.
PERSONALITY
Chihuahuas are bold, fearless, and highly protective of their masters. They thrive on inordinate amounts of attention. It is important to remember that the personality of Chihuahuas can vary, and whereas some may be very confident and friendly others may be reserved and stand offish. Their gentleness and sweet nature makes them perfect for elderly and handicapped people. Never leaving your side, they will lay in bed with you for hours.
TRAINING
This breed will need a firm hand and consistency during training. They desperately want to please their owners so teaching them obedience or rules for the house will not be too hard if the owner is gentle yet repetitive. Though trained fairly easily, one difficulty with this breed is housebreaking. Proper housetraining should be done outside.
EXERCISE
The Chihuahua can adapt to however much exercise you would like to give it. This playful breed enjoys being with their owners and going on outings. They should not be allowed to jump off furniture as they are very fragile and break bones easily.
SOCIALIZATION
This breed is not well suited for children or other pets. However, they are sociable with their own kind. Sociability with strangers will again depend upon the personality of the individual dog, but many are reserved and wary around strangers. It’s often said they have “terrier-like” qualities… as they are very alert, observant, bold and saucy.
LIVING CONDITIONS
The Chihuahua is an excellent apartment or condominium dweller. The majority of their exercise needs can be met indoors with toys or play sessions.
GROOMING
The shorthaired Chihuahua only needs an occasional brushing once or twice a week. For the longhaired Chihuahua, regular brushing with a bristle brush at least two to three times per week is needed, though daily brushing is often recommended. The teeth should be regularly checked for tarter, gum disease, and tooth decay. Bathing should only be done when necessary. The Chihuahua is a medium shedder and the short haired variety will shed all year round.
HEALTH ISSUES
The lifespan of the Chihuahua is around 15-18 years. A rather healthy breed, the Chihuahua may nevertheless suffer from pulmonic stenosis, patellar luxation, hypoglycemia and hydrocephalus. These small dogs have very fragile bones, and owners should take care to ensure that he is not treated roughly. Eye problems are another problem often seen in Chihuahuas, due to their large, protruding eyes.
HISTORY
The Chihuahua originated in Mexico and was bred to be a companion to people. The Chihuahua was registered with the AKC in 1904.
