The Chihuahua is a popular dog in the US. It is the smallest dog breed in the world and finds its origin in ancient Mexico. The Chihuahua is a small dog, but has a spirited character. Good training is necessary to make a loyal companion of the Chihuahua. The Chihuahua attaches itself primarily to one person and likes to go everywhere with them. It is a lively, cheerful and alert dog. He needs a lot of exercise, but can live well in an apartment. Have you become curious about this breed and do you want to know more about the Chihuahua? Then read this article.
The history: a companion dog from Mexico
The Chihuahua originally comes from Mexico and is named after a province in the country. It is not certain how the first type of Chihuahua came to the peoples of Mexico, but it is known that they were already living here around the 15th century. History tells several stories and theories about this breed. It is likely that the Aztecs, Mayans and the Toltecs had something to do with the origin of this breed. What we also know is that the Chihuahua experienced a great development especially around Mexico City. This is where this breed was primarily bred.
Until the 19th century, the Chihuahua was found only in Mexico. After that, this dog breed was also brought to other countries. Halfway through the 20th century the Chihuahua came to the Europe, where it is now a popular companion dog.
The character: a spirited temperament
Although the Chihuahua is a small dog, it is very lively and spirited. It is an energetic little dog that is very alert to his surroundings. If he notices something unfamiliar, he will also start barking. It is therefore a suitable watchdog. He will warn his boss when there is danger. A burglar cannot enter the house unnoticed if there is a Chihuahua in the house.
The Chihuahua is a companion dog and builds a strong bond especially with one person. He can easily adapt to the situation, this makes it a suitable dog to take anywhere. The Chihuahua finds it difficult to be alone. It is a loyal companion that is devoted to its owner.
With smaller children, you should be careful if you have a Chihuahua in the house. Small children may see this dog as a toy and not handle it with care. It is important that children learn to handle a Chihuahua carefully. This dog breed is very fragile. With older children it is often better. The Chihuahua likes to play games with children. A Chihuahua can also learn to live together with other animals. Early socialization and education is important here.
The appearance of a Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. A male and a female have a height at the withers between 15 and 23 centimeters. This dog breed only weighs between one and a half and three pounds. The Chihuahua is a miniature dog, so it can easily be taken anywhere.
The coat of a Chihuahua comes in different colors. Think of black, white, chocolate brown, golden, cream and light brown. Other shades can also occur. There is a shorthaired and a longhaired Chihuahua. The coat of a shorthaired Chihuahua is short and dense. It is shiny and soft in texture. The coat of a longhaired Chihuahua is fine and silky, smooth or slightly wavy. The hair on the neck, ears, tail and legs is often a little longer.
A characteristic of a Chihuahua is that its head is shaped like an apple. In addition, his large, round eyes are also very striking. His ears are erect and relatively speaking also quite large. The nose is of average size and points slightly upwards. The body of a Chihuahua is compact and he is slightly longer than he is tall. His body appears to be somewhat square. The legs are muscular. The Chihuahua carries its tail high.
The care
The teeth of a Chihuahua need a lot of attention. This dog breed has a greater chance of dental problems. In this breed, the teeth are a weak spot. When changing the milk teeth, it is important to note whether this goes well. It may be that some milk teeth remain in place, so there is not enough room for adult teeth. Plaque is also common in Chihuahuas, so it is essential to brush the teeth daily. You can do this with special dog toothpaste and a dog toothbrush.
A Chihuahua suffers from teary eyes and therefore it is important to keep the eyes clean. Also the ears should be kept clean. This reduces the chance of infections. The nails of the Chihuahua must be kept short. If you hear the nails tapping on the floor, then the nails are too long and need a trim.
The Chihuahua is a small and fragile dog. Therefore, he can get cold easily. In winter or when it is cold outside, it is wise to put a jacket on the Chihuahua. There are special dog coats for sale that help against the cold. Even in humid weather, a Chihuahua likes to be dried off after the walk.
The coat of a Chihuahua comes in two different types. The longhaired and shorthaired coat. The longhaired coat needs more care than the shorthaired coat. With the longhaired coat it is necessary to brush once a week to prevent tangles. With the shorthaired coat it is enough to brush once in a while.
Are there any diseases that occur in this breed?
There are several hereditary conditions and diseases that occur in a Chihuahua. The most common disorders are:
- Patella luxation
- Hydrocephalus (water head)
- Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt)
Patella luxation is a hereditary condition, but it can also be caused by environmental factors. These include slippery floors, overloading and certain movements at a young age. With patella luxation there is a defect at the knee joint and the knee does not stay in the groove of the kneecap. You notice that your dog starts to walk lame. This can cause damage to his cartilage. Joint wear can also occur.
Hydrocephalus can occur in a Chihuahua. This means that the dog has a water head. With a hydrocephalus, too much fluid is present in the brain, causing pressure. This pressure can cause important brain functions to be impaired. Symptoms for this condition include nervous twitching and abnormal behavior.
In Portosystemic Shunt, there is a misalignment of the blood vessels to the liver. Symptoms may include diarrhea, lethargy and vomiting. Too many waste products enter the blood, which can cause a variety of health problems.
It is important to keep a close eye on the health of your Chihuahua and if in doubt, call the vet. He can check the health of your dog and possibly prevent problems. An annual checkup is recommended. In good health, a Chihuahua lives to be between 12 and 20 years old.
Dog training for this breed
The Chihuahua is an intelligent dog and enjoys doing activities with his owner. He likes to please his owner and learns quickly. Dog training is therefore a suitable activity to undertake with a Chihuahua. During a puppy course, for example, you build a better bond with your puppy. In addition, your pup will learn to listen to you. He also gets to know other dogs and learns basic commands. A dog-training course is recommended for every dog.
A Chihuahua can be shy and therefore it is important to get them used to different people and situations from a young age. They also need to get used to different dogs and learn not to get overconfident. Even though a Chihuahua is small, they have a big ego. This is something they need to learn to deal with. In addition, you must protect him against large dogs, because a Chihuahua does not do this itself.
It is very important to raise a Chihuahua properly and consistently. For the safety of the dog, but also for the pleasure of the owner. A Chihuahua that is not properly raised can show problem behavior and cause inconvenience. A friendly, but consistent approach is recommended when training and raising a Chihuahua.
What does a Chihuahua cost?
A Chihuahua with a pedigree costs on average $1000 to $1200 at a recognized breeder. With an authorized breeder you can be sure that the dog is well cared for and has a pedigree. An authorized breeder can also tell you if there are any hereditary diseases in the pedigree.
If you are considering getting a Chihuahua from the shelter, it is best to contact an animal shelter in your area. You must keep in mind that with a Chihuahua from the shelter you do not know how he was raised and what possible behavioral problems he has.
With a Chihuahua you must also take into account other costs, such as the purchase of a basket, toys and leash. In addition, food must be purchased. There are also costs for the vet, dog tax and puppy course. So in addition to the purchase costs, you have additional costs for maintaining the dog.
How much exercise does this breed need?
A Chihuahua is an active dog that needs a lot of exercise. This breed likes to go outside several times a day. With this small dog breed, you do not need to walk long distances. The daily short walks and playtime Chihuahuas like. During these moments they can use their energy. Together with their owner, they also appreciate activities.
Because of the size of a Chihuahua, it is a suitable dog for people who live in an apartment. It is important to go outside regularly. If a Chihuahua does not get enough exercise, then he can be very busy in the house and show unwanted behavior. This you obviously want to prevent.
Recognition in the US
The AKC officially recognized the Chihuahua in 1904. This means that it is a healthy dog breed that may be bred with and can participate in various sporting events. There are also several breed associations in the US that deal with the Chihuahua, including the Chihuahua Club of America. You can contact them if you want to participate in events or if you are looking for a puppy.
Do you already have a Chihuahua at home?
It is important not to be tempted by the size of the Chihuahua. It is a small dog, but has a temperamental character. He is intelligent and learns quickly. This dog breed likes to be with its owner and enjoys doing activities together. A Chihuahua is therefore not looking for an owner who sits still a lot.
With a Chihuahua you do not have to be afraid that someone will enter your house unnoticed. A Chihuahua is very alert and will bark at danger. Do you have a Chihuahua and want to share your experience with this dog breed? Or are you orienting yourself and want to buy a Chihuahua? Share your experience in a comment below this article.
