Chihuahua
Description: The Chihuahua is small dog with an apple-shaped head, pointed muzzle, and large ears. Its eyes are round, large, and dark. A Chihuahua puppy has a “molera,” a soft spot on the top of the skull, but the bone will close off the gap as it reaches adulthood.
The body of a Chihuahua is stout, and longer than it is tall, ending with a tail curled over the back or to the side. While it is small, it is robust and well-balanced because of its level back and straight legs. There is a short-haired type o Chihuahua and a long-haired Chihuahua.
Dynamics: The Chihuahua is known to be a good companion dog. It is an extremely lively breed, giving and demanding affection. It is also bold and courageous. It is very loyal and tends to become very attached to its owners, sometimes to the point of jealousy problems. It keeps as close to its owner as possible, especially when there are strangers around.
The Chihuahua is slightly difficult to train, but it is an intelligent breed and will respond well to proper and gentle training. Concerning its size, it can move away swiftly to avoid being stepped on. It might snap at teasing children and people, and may resort to baring its sharp teeth in self-defense. The Chihuahua is not really favorable for children. Training this noisy and lively breed requires much patience. It also tends to become excessively aggressive with other dogs and strangers when not socialized well starting at puppyhood.
Breed Group: Southern, Toy
Weight: 2-6 lbs (1-3 kg)
Height: 6-9 inches (15-23 cm)
Color: Chihuahua colors usually include fawn, sand, chestnut, silver, and steel blue, but in actuality any color is accepted, including black & tan and parti-color.
Country of Origin: The Chihuahua is a native to Mexico, where it was named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It was brought to Europe and was internationally known at the end of the nineteenth century. It is the oldest breed on the American continent and the smallest dog breed in the world.
Activities: The Chihuahua is an active little dog, and still needs its daily walk. Play sessions can be substitutes for exercises and take care of their abundant energy.
Grooming: The Chihuahua has a smooth, short-haired coat that only needs to be brushed occasionally. Alternatively, it can just be wiped over with a damp cloth. The long-haired types of Chihuahua, however, needs to be combed and brushed daily.
Other Info: The life expectancy of a Chihuahua is about 15 years or more. Health problems include being prone to slipped stifle, gum problems, colds, stress, and rheumatism. Its eyes are prone to corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma.
The Chihuahua tends to wheeze and snore because of its short nose. It can get fat easily so it should be fed lightly. Given it small bone structure, it is vulnerable to fractures and other accidents in puppyhood. A Chihuahua puppy is born with a large head, and is mainly the reason for cesarean deliveries. There are some Chihuahuas that has a molera that doesn’t close and remain open throughout its life, which makes the dog more prone to injuries.
The breed is to be bathed once a month. Be careful not to get water in the ears and check it regularly. Keep the nails trimmed. Protect the Chihuahua from the cold because it hates the cold and may shiver.