The Chihuahua
The Chihuahua
Origins
The Chihuahua breeds was named after a state in Mexico. It is said that these dogs were descendents of the Techichi, a breed favored by Toltecs and later brought in Europe and in other countries by conquistadors. The genetic origins are stated to be in the 1800s. After the 1830-1850 period, this breed was increasingly becoming known to the Mexican regions and eventually in US territories.
Appearance
The Chihuahua belongs to the small dog breed category. These dogs weight between 1.3 and 5 kg and have a height of 15-35cm. These proportions differ mostly due to the region this breed appears in. The coat variation is another factor to separate the various types of Chihuahua. Some of them have a short-haired coat, others have it smooth and long. The body structure is small but powerful, flexible, well proportionate. Some dogs have a longer neck, thus displaying a higher posture, others have a medium neck and a forward posture.
The head often present a face mask; the eyes are mostly round and dark black or brown. The coat color varies from solid white or black, with spots of brindle, fawn, in other words, various patterned colors. There are just too many color variations to mention; the blue coat color is generally very rare, but it is possible to encounter.
Grooming
This process is generally low on demands, even if there is a difference in the coat lenghtness and texture. The various types of Chihuahua won’t be difficult to groom. Even if the dogs have a long coat, they shed less then the short-haired ones. An occasional weekly brushing and coat cleaning is required, but this will be an exceptional if your Chihuahua has to participate to dog shows and events.
Health Facts
This breed has a lifespan of about 14-18 years and is prone to several health issues. What’s worth mentioning is a possible existence of several genetic anomalies that disturb the neurologic system, creating seizures, epilepsy. Some dogs can develop a large head (the disease is hydrocephalus, and it appears during the first period of life) and since they have an incomplete skull, they have sensitive skull spots (called moleras).
The Chihuahua are also prone to varios blood sugar factors that could develop into hypoglycemia, dangerous in the puppy stage of life. Trembling is an external factor to show either overexcitement or a stress level. Because the Chihuahua are low ground situated, they can get eye infections.
The Chihuahua needs a special alimentation (overweight dogs are always a problem), although they can display stubborness, refusing to eat some nutritional elements.
Temperament and Lifestyle
The Chihuahuas are considered one of the best toy dogs members. The small size and the jovial posture makes them loved and appreciated. They are intelligent and loyal to their owners, behaving really well with small children and other pets, but they sometimes get scared and start biting defensively. This can be corrected with a proper dog training or dog socialisation effort. They aren’t ment to be guard dogs. This breed enjoys the outdoor activities and playing. The short haired dogs can have a difficult time in the hot summer, being prone to sunburns and heat strikes.
The Chihuahua is one of the best choises when getting or adopting a pet for your family.
More articles on this:
- The Yorkshire Terrier
- The Shih Tzu
- The Affenpinscher
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- The Brussels Griffon
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