Chihuahua: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
The Chihuahua is a diminutive yet self-assured dog that enjoys giving and receiving attention. The breed appears delicate and little, yet it is actually rather arrogant and bold. Wide eyes and ears that are typically upright and enormous in comparison to its small head and body are among its distinctive features. The Chihuahua has a distinct character and can make a devoted and friendly companion dog.
Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 6 to 9 inches
WEIGHT: 2 to 6 pounds
COAT: Chihuahuas can have smooth short coats or longer fringed coats.
COAT COLOR: They are seen in many colors, either solid or a combination of two colors. Most common colors include black, tan, fawn, cream, white, blue, silver, chocolate, and red.
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 20 years
TEMPERAMENT: Loyal, alert, lively, attentive, bright, companionable
HYPOALLERGENIC: No
ORIGIN: Mexico
Characteristics of the Chihuahua
Because of how well-liked they are as pets, chihuahua owners consider themselves lifelong admirers of the breed. Chihuahuas are adored for their feisty (and even snarky) personality, which more than make up for their diminutive size.
Affection Level : High
Friendliness : High
Kid-Friendly : Medium
Pet-Friendly : Medium
Exercise Needs : Low
Playfulness : Medium
Energy Level : Medium
Trainability : Medium
Intelligence : High
Tendency to Bark : Medium
Amount of Shedding : Low
History of the Chihuahua
The Chihuahua's native state in Mexico is where it first appeared. The Techichi, a sacred dog of the ancient Toltecs, was most likely the breed's ancestor. Some people think that the Chihuahua's smaller size may have come about as a result of breeding with Chinese crested dogs, but others think its forebears may have existed before the ninth century.
The Chihuahua is one of the tiniest breeds in the world and one of the oldest on the American continent, having been first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1904. With its little size and big personality, it is also very recognized. The popularity of the breed increased in the 1990s and the early 2000s because to Taco Bell commercials using the breed and reality television shows that starred Chihuahuas as the purse dogs of wealthy, well-known young ladies.
Chihuahua Care
The friendly and attention-seeking characteristics of the Chihuahua make it a cuddly dog that likes to be handled and pampered. The Chihuahua may be a fantastic companion for a variety of homes if raised and managed properly. Although not all Chihuahuas will naturally get along with kids, they can be socialized and trained to do so. It is frequently advised against adopting a Chihuahua into a family with young children since the youngsters might not handle a little dog with the necessary care to prevent harm.
Exercise
It's common for people to underestimate how much exercise smaller dogs require, but giving your Chihuahuas regular exercise is crucial. Chihuahuas have a moderate to high degree of energy, and if not provided proper exercise, they may exhibit behavioral issues. Your dog's physical and mental health will be maintained with exercise and mental stimulation. When you are walking a Chihuahua, be careful since if they are not properly trained, they might become violent with larger dogs. To keep your dog out of any potential conflict, you might need to be on guard.
Grooming
Due to their short hair, smooth-coated Chihuahuas require little more than routine basic care. Long-coated Chihuahua breeds, in particular, require more frequent maintenance, particularly regular hair combing. Because of its small size, the Chihuahua's nails don't naturally wear down, therefore it's crucial that you trim them frequently to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
Training
The Chihuahua's feisty demeanor necessitates careful socialization and in-depth obedience training. Without sufficient socialization, the breed may develop defensiveness and fear, particularly around unfamiliar people or animals. Untrained Chihuahuas may display stubborn or defensive behavior toward their owners and other individuals. The breed is intelligent and may become well-behaved with commitment and persistence, while occasionally being stubborn. You must also teach your Chihuahua to accept handling from an early age, especially for grooming and maintenance procedures like nail trimming.
Common Health Problems
Breeders that practice responsible breeding work to uphold the highest breed standards as set forth by organizations like the AKC. These breeding guidelines reduce the likelihood of inheriting health issues in dogs. The following are a few genetic health concerns to be aware of in Chihuahuas:
_Patellar Luxation: The dog has pain as a result of the dislocating kneecap. Your dog can appear to be lifting its foot off the ground, and when its muscles lengthen and relax, its kneecap might reposition itself.
_Collapsing Trachea: This is a constriction of the windpipe that is typically found in little dogs. Coughing when pressure is exerted on the trachea is a marker of this condition—if you see these symptoms, you should discuss it with your veterinarian quickly.
_Hydrocephalus: This is characterized by an unusually big head when fluid builds up in puppies.
_Hypoglycemia: Chihuahua puppies who have low blood sugar may need a sugar supplement.
Chihuahuas want to remain warm and have poor tolerance for the cold. For walks in chilly weather, you might need to dress your dog in a sweater. Your dog will likely seek for warm spots in your house, such as next to the heater, in the sun, or on a blanket.
Diet and Nutrition
Chihuahuas only require 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dry food every day due to their diminutive size. Given that obesity can shorten a dog's lifespan, you must keep an eye on your dog to make sure it does not get overweight. If your pet is overweight or has a health issue, talk to your veterinarian about a suitable diet.
Since a Chihuahua's jaw is so small, frequent dental care, including as cleaning, will be necessary to support your pet's teeth. Dental chews and a diet that demands chewing are recommended since they both naturally contribute to plaque reduction. The pieces in a good dry dog food for Chihuahuas should be large and dense.