Chihuahua Dog Breed: Full Information
The tiny chihuahua dog breed has a big personality despite its small size. They’re frequently referred to as “purse dogs.” Since early pre-Columbian times, they have been around and are one of the oldest dog breeds in America. The national dog of Mexico is the chihuahua.
Related: Guide on Raising Chihuahua Puppies Successfully
History of the chihuahua dog breed
The history of the chihuahua’s ancestry is as obscure as that of other breeds. Two explanations, though, exist for how they came into existence. According to the first theory, Techichi, a dog from South America, is the ancestor of the Chihuahuas. This may actually be the case, as several illustrations of the Techichi show a resemblance to the Chihuahua in terms of its round head and huge ears.
The Techichi, a magical canine breed that belonged to the Aztecs in the 1500s and was thought to have the power to heal the ill, see into the future, and guide the souls of the dead to the underworld, was also known as the “dog of the gods.” As a result, killing and cremating a Techichi became customary. However, the Aztecs were subjugated by the Spanish, which led to the Techichi’s obscurity.
The alternative idea argues that certain Spanish traders imported Chihuahuas from China to Mexico, where they were crossed with local canines and bred.
Regardless of which hypothesis is correct, the Chihuahua breed was first discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico, in 1850, from which they got their name. The dog gained popularity in America during the 1890s, and by 1904 it had been registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Chihuahuas have been one of the most well-liked AKC breeds since the 1960s, coming in at number 11 out of 155 registered breeds.
The personality of the chihuahua dog breed
The Chihuahua is a brave and self-assured breed, which causes them to be frequently compared to terriers. Because of their high level of alertness and suspicion of outsiders, they make excellent watchdogs. It enjoys friendship and care and is sensitive.
They frequently have a special link with someone who is straightforward, but they are also open to making friends with those who have been properly exposed to it. Without early socialization, Chihuahuas can develop timidity.
size of the chihuahua dog breed
A Chihuahua typically weighs between 3 and 6 pounds. Despite the fact that there are smaller Chihuahuas, they frequently have poor health. Additionally, there are gigantic Chihuahuas that weigh between 10 and 12 pounds. Families with kids should consider this set.
Characteristics of the chihuahua dog breed
- The average Chihuahua stands 6 to 9 inches in height at the shoulder.
- Type of coat: Chihuahuas can have one of two types of coats: smooth and long or flat and curly.
- Chihuahuas come in a wide variety of hues and patterns for their coats. In addition to being solid shades of black, white, fawn, chocolate, grey, and silver, they can also be tricoloured shades of chocolate, black, or blue with tan and white. Brindle, speckled, and merle patterns are frequently seen.
- They shed less regularly for the majority of the year, but they shed more heavily during a specific period. They do, however, need weekly regular grooming.
- Chihuahuas have an average lifespan of 10 to 18 years.
major health issues associated with the chihuahua dog breed
The chihuahua doesn’t actually have any diseases, but they could be born with them or develop them over time. Not all Chihuahuas will contract these diseases, so talk to your breeder to learn what to anticipate.
In order to guarantee that you obtain the healthiest Chihuahua possible, prospective pet owners are urged to purchase their pups from a reputable breeder. Before you bring home a puppy from a reputable Chihuahua breeder, he will have received his shots and deworming.
Responsible breeders only use adult, physically sound canines. Additionally, they evaluate their breeding stock for genetic disorders specific to the breed, including heart disease and luxating patellas (bum knees).
The following ailments, however, could impact your Chihuahua:
Patella Luxation
In little dogs, patellar luxation, commonly referred to as slipped stifles, is a prevalent issue. It results from improper alignment of the patella, which includes the calf, thigh bone, and kneecap. It frequently causes the dog to become lame and have an irregular gait. Surgery is commonly used to treat it.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar, is also referred to as hypoglycemia. It frequently causes the dog to tremble, shiver, and slow down. In more severe circumstances, the dog can experience convulsions, fall into a coma, and eventually pass away. The dog must be taken to the vet as soon as it is discovered.
Heart murmurs
A disturbance in the flow of blood through the heart is the cause of heart murmurs. They serve as early warning signs of a heart condition that requires urgent medical attention. Medication, diet changes, and a reduced exercise regimen are frequently used to treat it.
Shivering
Chihuahuas frequently exhibit shuddering. Although the cause of their persistent trembling or shivering is unknown, it usually happens when the dog is excited, stressed, or cold.
Caring for your chihuahua dog breed
- Exercise is necessary for chihuahuas. Due to their high level of energy, they could chase squirrels all day long. Chihuahuas also like to go for walks and retrieve toys. On hot days in particular, do not allow them to exhaust themselves.
- Chihuahuas shouldn’t be forced to live outside, despite the fact that the breed enjoys playing outside. They are frequently the target of hawks, coyotes, and some larger dogs who enter the yard. They are also raised as companions, so you can depend on them as trustworthy indoor companions.
- Educate and interact with your Chihuahua. Being a smart breed, Chihuahuas are easy to train especially in agility and basic obedience. Socialization of the breed also helps build its confidence and ability to relate better with people.
- Housebreaking and crate training your puppy will help curb its destructive tendencies and avoid accidents within the home.
