Dog Breeds - Chihuahua

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection displayed by a particular breed towards their family members or acquaintances they are familiar with can vary. Certain breeds may seem distant and disinterested towards anyone other than their owner, while other breeds tend to equally cherish everyone they are acquainted with considering them as dear friends.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The extent to which a particular breed can tolerate and remain patient with the behavior of children as well as their overall friendliness towards families is an important factor to consider. It is crucial to closely monitor dogs when they interact with young children or with children of any age who have limited prior experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The level of friendliness exhibited by a breed towards other dogs should always be met with careful supervision during interactions and introductions. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that certain breeds inherently possess greater compatibility with fellow canines fostering harmonious relationships both within the home environment and in various public scenarios.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The quantity of fur and hair that a breed tends to shed is a determining factor in the level of grooming maintenance required. Breeds that have a high shedding tendency will necessitate more frequent brushing to manage the shedding, and they may also contribute to allergies for some individuals. Additionally, these breeds often call for regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep up with the amount of hair they leave behind.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks varies among different breeds. When considering grooming requirements, it is essential to evaluate the time, patience and budget you can allocate to this care. Some breeds may need more frequent bathing and brushing to maintain their coat's health and appearance, while others may require occasional trimming or specialized grooming. However, it's crucial to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming to ensure the well-being of their paws.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool varies from dog to dog. If you prefer to maintain a clean and tidy environment, it might not be suitable to choose a breed that is prone to excessive drooling. Some dogs have a natural tendency to leave ropes of slobber on surfaces, such as your arm or clothes, which may not align with your preferences for cleanliness. It's important to research and consider breeds that are known to be less drool-prone if this is a concern for you.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth
COAT LENGTH +
Short, Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The degree of friendliness a particular breed exhibits towards unfamiliar individuals can vary significantly. Certain breeds tend to adopt a reserved or cautious stance when encountering strangers irrespective of the setting. Conversely, other breeds readily embrace new interactions with humans and are more than happy to greet a fresh face whenever the opportunity arises!
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The degree of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play can persist beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds tend to maintain a keen interest in engaging in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. For them playtime remains a cherished and enjoyable aspect of their lives. On the other hand, some breeds are more content with relaxing on the couch and spending quality time with their owners. While they may still be open to occasional play sessions their preference leans towards a more laid-back and relaxed lifestyle.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds demonstrate a heightened inclination to notify their owners about the presence of unfamiliar individuals. These breeds tend to be more responsive to potential risks whether they are as mundane as the arrival of the mailman or as trivial as a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds are more inclined to develop a positive disposition towards strangers entering their domain, provided that they have been accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can encompass various aspects of everyday life such as alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions and daily routines. Some breeds effortlessly navigate these changes with minimal stress or disruption to their well-being. They can swiftly adapt to new surroundings, remain composed in the face of noisy environments tolerate different weather conditions and adjust to modifications in their daily schedules. Conversely, other breeds may be more sensitive or resistant to change requiring a more gradual approach and extra support to acclimate to new situations. Patience, consistency and a structured transition process can aid these breeds in adapting to changes effectively.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn can vary among different dog breeds. Some breeds are generally more responsive and eager to please their owners, making them easier to train. They often exhibit a strong desire to learn new commands and behaviors motivated by a desire to make their owners proud. These breeds tend to be attentive, trainable and enjoy the mental stimulation that training sessions provide.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation needs of a breed can vary significantly. High-energy breeds thrive on regular and vigorous exercise to channel their abundant energy and maintain their overall well-being. These breeds are often ready for physical activities such as running, jumping and playing and they require ample opportunities to engage in these exercises throughout the day. Meeting their exercise requirements is crucial to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency and type of vocalization can vary among different dog breeds. Some breeds tend to be more prone to vocalizing, expressing themselves through barks or howls on a regular basis. These breeds may bark at various stimuli, such as passers-by, birds, or other animals. They are more inclined to alert their owners to potential threats or communicate their needs through vocalization.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to remain happy and healthy can vary, especially considering purpose-bred dogs that have specific jobs or roles. These breeds often possess high intelligence and thrive on engaging mental challenges. Purpose-bred dogs, such as working or herding breeds, typically need regular mental stimulation to fulfill their natural instincts and maintain their overall well-being. Without appropriate mental exercise and an outlet for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities, they may become bored or restless. In such instances, they may resort to finding their own activities which might not align with their owner's desires or expectations.

COLORS +
,
PATTERNS +
Marking

CARING WITH FAMILY Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection displayed by a particular breed towards their family members or acquaintances they are familiar with can vary. Certain breeds may seem distant and disinterested towards anyone other than their owner, while other breeds tend to equally cherish everyone they are acquainted with considering them as dear friends.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN Unwise Good With Children
The extent to which a particular breed can tolerate and remain patient with the behavior of children as well as their overall friendliness towards families is an important factor to consider. It is crucial to closely monitor dogs when they interact with young children or with children of any age who have limited prior experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The level of friendliness exhibited by a breed towards other dogs should always be met with careful supervision during interactions and introductions. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that certain breeds inherently possess greater compatibility with fellow canines fostering harmonious relationships both within the home environment and in various public scenarios.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere
The quantity of fur and hair that a breed tends to shed is a determining factor in the level of grooming maintenance required. Breeds that have a high shedding tendency will necessitate more frequent brushing to manage the shedding, and they may also contribute to allergies for some individuals. Additionally, these breeds often call for regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep up with the amount of hair they leave behind.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks varies among different breeds. When considering grooming requirements, it is essential to evaluate the time, patience and budget you can allocate to this care. Some breeds may need more frequent bathing and brushing to maintain their coat's health and appearance, while others may require occasional trimming or specialized grooming. However, it's crucial to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming to ensure the well-being of their paws.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel
The tendency of a breed to drool varies from dog to dog. If you prefer to maintain a clean and tidy environment, it might not be suitable to choose a breed that is prone to excessive drooling. Some dogs have a natural tendency to leave ropes of slobber on surfaces, such as your arm or clothes, which may not align with your preferences for cleanliness. It's important to research and consider breeds that are known to be less drool-prone if this is a concern for you.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Smooth
COAT SPECTRUM
Short, Medium
FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend
The degree of friendliness a particular breed exhibits towards unfamiliar individuals can vary significantly. Certain breeds tend to adopt a reserved or cautious stance when encountering strangers irrespective of the setting. Conversely, other breeds readily embrace new interactions with humans and are more than happy to greet a fresh face whenever the opportunity arises!
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop
The degree of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play can persist beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds tend to maintain a keen interest in engaging in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. For them playtime remains a cherished and enjoyable aspect of their lives. On the other hand, some breeds are more content with relaxing on the couch and spending quality time with their owners. While they may still be open to occasional play sessions their preference leans towards a more laid-back and relaxed lifestyle.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant
Certain breeds demonstrate a heightened inclination to notify their owners about the presence of unfamiliar individuals. These breeds tend to be more responsive to potential risks whether they are as mundane as the arrival of the mailman or as trivial as a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds are more inclined to develop a positive disposition towards strangers entering their domain, provided that they have been accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can encompass various aspects of everyday life such as alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions and daily routines. Some breeds effortlessly navigate these changes with minimal stress or disruption to their well-being. They can swiftly adapt to new surroundings, remain composed in the face of noisy environments tolerate different weather conditions and adjust to modifications in their daily schedules. Conversely, other breeds may be more sensitive or resistant to change requiring a more gradual approach and extra support to acclimate to new situations. Patience, consistency and a structured transition process can aid these breeds in adapting to changes effectively.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please
The ease of training and the willingness to learn can vary among different dog breeds. Some breeds are generally more responsive and eager to please their owners, making them easier to train. They often exhibit a strong desire to learn new commands and behaviors motivated by a desire to make their owners proud. These breeds tend to be attentive, trainable and enjoy the mental stimulation that training sessions provide.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy
The exercise and mental stimulation needs of a breed can vary significantly. High-energy breeds thrive on regular and vigorous exercise to channel their abundant energy and maintain their overall well-being. These breeds are often ready for physical activities such as running, jumping and playing and they require ample opportunities to engage in these exercises throughout the day. Meeting their exercise requirements is crucial to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal
Frequent
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Happy to Lounge Needs a Job or Activity
The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to remain happy and healthy can vary, especially considering purpose-bred dogs that have specific jobs or roles. These breeds often possess high intelligence and thrive on engaging mental challenges. Purpose-bred dogs, such as working or herding breeds, typically need regular mental stimulation to fulfill their natural instincts and maintain their overall well-being. Without appropriate mental exercise and an outlet for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities, they may become bored or restless. In such instances, they may resort to finding their own activities which might not align with their owner's desires or expectations.
COLORS	,
PATTERNS	Marking

About The Breed

The Chihuahua is a small but spirited dog breed renowned for its robust personality. Recognized as a cultural symbol of Mexico, these tiny "purse dogs" have a rich history tracing back to ancient pre-Columbian times. They possess a well-proportioned and graceful physique, often weighing no more than 6 pounds. A distinguishing feature of the breed is their rounded "apple" head, complemented by alert, expressive eyes and erect ears. Chihuahuas come in various coat colors, patterns, and lengths.

Despite their small size, Chihuahuas exhibit loyalty charm and a confident attitude reminiscent of larger dogs. While they may be compact, they still require training to avoid developing behavior issues and prevent them from assuming a leadership role in the household. Living in urban environments suits Chihuahuas well as they adapt easily to city life. It's important to note that they may not be suitable for rough play with young children, and special attention is needed to protect them from cold weather. However, Chihuahuas thrive as long as they receive plenty of quality time and attention, especially in the comfort of their owner's lap.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A CHIHUAHUA

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Chihuahua: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	While Chihuahuas are generally healthy dogs, it is true that certain genetic health issues can affect the breed. It is crucial to select a Chihuahua from a reputable breeder who conducts regular genetic health screenings on their breeding stock. This practice helps ensure that the puppies are bred from genetically sound individuals. Some potential health concerns that can affect Chihuahuas include heart problems like patent ductus arteriosus and mitral valve disease. Eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts can also occur in the breed. Additionally, patellar luxation which refers to loose kneecaps is relatively common in Chihuahuas. Another health condition that may be seen in Chihuahuas is idiopathic epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures. To minimize the risk of these genetic health issues potential Chihuahua owners should thoroughly research breeders and seek those who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs. Responsible breeders will conduct appropriate health screenings on their breeding stock to ensure that these hereditary conditions are not passed on to future generations. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The Chihuahua comes in two coat varieties, each with its own grooming requirements. If you have a smooth-coat Chihuahua all they need is occasional brushing and regular baths to maintain a handsome appearance. On the other hand, the longhaired Chihuahua should be brushed at least once a week to prevent tangles or mats. Remember to trim the nails of both varieties regularly. Taking care of your Chihuahua's dental health is crucial too. Make sure to brush their teeth and consider using specific tooth-care treats recommended by your vet. Additionally, it's essential to check your Chihuahua's ears regularly and clean them to avoid any ear infections.

Exercise

	The Chihuahua derives great pleasure from running and engaging in playtime often finding ample exercise options even in limited surroundings. Simply trotting alongside their human caregivers generally provides enough physical activity for this cheerful breed. Maintaining your dog's weight and overall condition can be achieved through brief, leisurely walks. It's important to be mindful of not overexerting the Chihuahua. If you observe your furry friend panting heavily and expending significant effort to keep up it's advisable to lift them up and carry them back home.

Training

	The Chihuahua possesses remarkable intelligence and remains highly alert, making it a small dog breed that is always attentive. With a strong desire to please their human companions, they respond positively to training methods that focus on positivity. Chihuahuas seem to be fully aware of their own adorableness and learn how to use it to their advantage. Right from the start it's crucial to establish your authority and make it clear that you're in charge. Never permit your Chihuahua puppy to engage in behaviors that would be considered unacceptable in adulthood. Given their slight "terrier" disposition it's important to employ a firm yet gentle approach during training. Chihuahuas have the potential to excel in obedience training and various canine sports.

Nutrition

	Providing a premium dog food suitable for your Chihuahua's specific life stage (puppy, adult, or senior) will ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients for their breed. It's important to be mindful of potential weight gain in certain Chihuahuas, so monitoring their calorie intake and weight level is crucial. While treats can be valuable for training purposes, it's essential to avoid excessive quantities that may lead to obesity. When it comes to offering table scraps, it's best to do so sparingly if at all, and take particular care to avoid cooked bones and high-fat foods. Familiarize yourself with safe human foods for dogs and those that should be avoided. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet consult your veterinarian for guidance.

Historiography

Artifacts from ancient civilizations all over the world bear resemblance to Chihuahua-like dogs, indicating widespread trading and the presence of similar dog breeds in distant places. The origins of the Chihuahua type among the people of Mexico remain a mystery of prehistoric times. However, it is known that during the rule of the Toltecs, about a thousand years ago their preferred breed was the Techichi, a larger and heavier ancestor of today's Chihuahuas.

In the 12th century, the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs and are credited with refining the Techichi into a smaller and lighter dog. By the time Spanish conquerors overthrew the Aztec civilization in the 1500s, the Techichi held great cultural significance and was considered one of Montezuma's legendary treasures thought lost after Cortez's conquest.

However, the resilient little dogs managed to survive in remote villages, and in the mid-1800s, when Americans became interested in the breed, they discovered numerous specimens in the State of Chihuahua. This is how the descendant of two lost civilizations the Chihuahua gained worldwide fame. The first Chihuahua registered with the AKC was a small dog named Beppie in 1908.

In the 1940s and 50s, the renowned bandleader Xavier Cugat played a significant role in popularizing Chihuahuas. More recently, these charismatic canines stole the spotlight in movies such as "Beverly Hills Chihuahua," "Legally Blonde," and "Sex and the City." The minor-league baseball team in El Paso, Texas, also embraces the Chihuahua name.