The history of the Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, as far as humans can remember, is believed to have originated from the breed named the Techichi that lived in the region named Chihuahua, Mexico, from which the name was borrowed. The race would have served as a sacrifice for the deceased humans to guide the dead to a better world.
It is the smallest breed of dog in the world and also one of the oldest. As for the long-haired variety, it was created in the United States and is the result of a cross of Chihuahua with a Pomeranian and a Butterfly.
All colors are accepted except the blackbird, which since 2010 is no longer registerable at the Canadian Kennel Club due to the health problems associated with it.
It should not especially be judged by its small size: the Chihuahua has quite a temperament and is very suspicious of strangers who approach him or approach his masters. A character that shows loyalty and attachment to the family. Even better, this variety can live up to 20 years, so its small size is not synonymous with vulnerable health.
Characteristics of the Chihuahua
Its small size is the first detail to notice when evoking the physical characteristics of a Chihuahua. It is 16 to 20 cm long and weighs 1 to 3 kg. It has a well-structured and compact body, a wide chest, and a short, firm back. This balanced and harmonious constitution is one of the strengths of this race.
Their fur is short, smooth, and shiny, but it is not uncommon to see chihuahuas with long, silky fine hair. Dresses can also come in a variety of colors: white, brown, cream, or black. Their eyes are another feature of Chihuahuas: they are big and very expressive. The same is true for large, upright, widely distant ears.
Chihuahua’s Necessary Living Conditions and Behavior
Chihuahua’s playful and dynamic characters are especially characterized by their strong characters.
Maybe a way to make up for that small size. It’s not a loose dog anyway, it may bark loudly in front of strangers and scare them. Due to its size, this breed is an excellent companion dog, but it also acts as a guard dog. He is a fighter, so he is not afraid to compete with much larger dogs. It is better to educate him from an early age so that he learns to control his fiery temper to avoid problems. Living conditions are as popular in apartments as in large homes with gardens. But he is so energetic that he needs to walk regularly.
Chihuahua diet and major health problems
Chihuahuas are not weak at all. On the contrary, it is very robust. However, in some cases, tartar can cause eye irritation and tooth problems. Another point: It’s so dynamic that it can be the victim of a fatal fall.
Its diet should be rich only in carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fats that provide high-quality croquettes. Finally, adequate hydration is essential.
Physical characteristics of this small dog breed
In terms of physical characteristics, the Chihuahua breed that meets the standard should not weigh more than 6 lbs. He is a little longer than he is tall, with good legs and a solid bone and muscle structure.
Short-haired chihuahua
The tail port is half-moon above the back. The head should be round like an apple and the muzzle has a stop that blends into the skull at a 90 ° angle. The ears are wide and large, which is one of the characteristics that sets the Chihuahua apart from all other breeds.
Chihuahua health care
when it comes to chihuahua’s grooming, these dogs require little maintenance. A bath from time to time (twice a year for short hairs, 3 to 4 times a year for long hairs) is sufficient to ensure the cleanliness of the coat.
During the molt, a little more combing/brushing to remove the dead hair helps a lot in having a beautiful coat and healthy skin.
Chihuahuas tend to have a lot of tartar, like the majority of small breeds. It is therefore advisable to brush your dog’s teeth and make him chew on bones to delay scaling at the vet as much as possible.
The main conditions and diseases found in Chihuahuas are dislocation of the kneecaps as well as genetic diseases of the eyes and heart. This is why good breeders must have their breeders tested so as not to breed dogs that are affected by these problems.
The myth about the Chihuahua
Contrary to popular belief, Chihuahuas are not just pocket dogs that bark, chew, and raise their owners’ thighs.
He likes to rest on his master’s thighs, but he will be much happier if he is also encouraged to move and bring out the best of him. If given the chance, he will accomplish great things! Do not underestimate the benefits of physical exercise and mental work in dogs, regardless of breed!
The Chihuahua, for what type of family?
The Chihuahua is not for everyone and not everyone is made for this small breed. When you think about adopting this dog, you have to make sure that his personality and his rhythm of life suit ours. They have their strengths and weaknesses like all races. Adopting a dog is a lifelong endeavor.
Certain factors such as barking when alerted or not being an independent dog could certainly not be suitable for everyone and it is important to take this into account.
On the other hand, people who live well with this reality will find a versatile and perfect companion for doing activities as much as sticking in front of the television at night. You should also know that for a family with young children, you have to be very careful because, given their small size, they are relatively fragile at the level of the joints and the skull (fontanelle). Veterinary costs can quickly add up in the event of an accident.
If you are looking for a calm dog that can easily live in an apartment, the Greyhound might be (surprisingly) a smarter choice!
In conclusion, regardless of the choice of dog breed, it is very important to learn about the pros and cons to make a responsible adoption and also to choose the right breeder to find your puppy since this one will do anything.
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