Chihuahuas

Photo courtesy of
Becky's Chihuahua Kennel

Chihuahuas make up a toy group and possesse many of the attributes peculiar to such breeds. Due to their small size Chihuahuas are very famous and loved. These animals are alert and merry, though suspicious towards strangers. Living in a small apartment usually does not bother Chihuahuas in spite of the fact that they have a natural need to run around and explore the environment. Striving for emotional contact and communication makes the Chihuahua a wonderful pet for children, adults, elderly people and those with disabilities.

Chihuahuas - Origin

The state of Chihuahua in Mexico is believed to be the origin of the breed though most people think the dog was indigenous to the southern parts of Mexico or even to the whole country. Aztecs seemed to have known the Chihuahua long ago as did the Toltecs whose drawings of the Techichi, the ancestor of the present day Chihuahua, were found to confirm the breed's old age.

A great number of myths and legends stuck to the Chihuahua and added to the attractiveness of the dog. One of the stories goes that ancient tribes used it during the funeral. The sins of the dead and their evil thoughts were believed to pass on to a dog which somehow calmed Gods, thus helping the dead enter the nether world.

Chihuahuas - Description

Photo courtesy of
Brehon Chihuahuas

The standard states that the Chihuahua is a graceful, compact little dog with a saucy expression and terrier-like qualities of temperament. There are two sorts of the breed: smooth coats and long coats. Both should have a soft coat texture. The difference is that smooth coats rarely have undercoat, whereas in long coats it is desirable. Note that a wavy coat is peculiar to the latter.

Color: The Chihuahua has no specific color pattern.

Though some people prefer to specify the name of the breed and call their dogs Tea-Cup, Tiny Toy, Pocket Size, Miniature or Standard Chihuahuas there are no discriminations made within the breed according to the American Kennel Club. Chihuahuas weigh usually up to 9 pounds. However, the standard does not allow dogs weighing more than 6 pounds to be shown.

Cropped ears can also be the ground for disqualification. According to the standard they should be large and erect serving as a barometer of a dog's mood and reactions. Large ears and large fluorescent eyes set a little bit apart, contrast sharply with a tiny muzzle and spare cheeks.
Life Span: Chihuahuas are known to live from 10 to 20 years.