Chihuahua Breed Description

An Owner's Chihuahua Description
Pesco was'nt my first choice as a lap dog, though he's probably the world's best since he just loves to be held and of course, his size makes him perfect for holding. I thought I wanted a Yorkie, or one of the other small terriers. As it turned out, we couldn't have asked for a better little dog. Aside from all the attention he gets from being so cute, I just love the way he has bonded with me and Allen, my husband. Pesco doesn't warm up quickly to strangers, but his affection for us, along with his peppy personality, has made him such a great companion for Allen and me as we move into our retirement.

Since last year, we've been traveling a lot more and Pesco loves our journeys. He always can tell when we're getting ready to go on the road again. When he sees us packing and cleaning the motor home, he gets all excited and runs in and out of the RV, taking his favorite toys on board and stashing them here and there--how cute is that? He can't bear to leave anything important behind! When we finally hit the road, he sits on the console between us he can have a clear view of the scenery.

Although he can be a good watch dog and alert us of approaching strangers, he's so afraid of the dark, especially when we are camping on the road, that he won't do it alone. If someone knocks on the door, he'll bark ferociously but when Allen opens the door, Pesco runs behind him, peeking out around Allen's leg. It seems he only does this when it's dark outside. When our 'brave' little soul comes out from behind Allen's protective leg, he acts like it never happened!

 

 

Introduction

The Chihuahua is the smallest of all breeds. It averages 6 to 9 inches at the withers and weighs less than 6 lbs. Their distinguishing look is that of having an 'apple shaped' head. Their colors are typically fawn, red or white and they come in both a short and long haired variety. The little breed was discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico in 1850 and brought to North America. The Chihuahua has routinely been in the top 20 registered dogs in the US for many years. It is a dog with very little exercise requirements and this makes it a great companion for the elderly and also for apartment living. It has a loyal personality and will bond deeply to those in the family that are kind and loving. Since the breed can be shy, it is best to only use positive reward based training and to socialize them with people from a young age. With their own family members, Chihuahuas are outgoing, loving, and happy little dogs. They enjoy human companionship and would prefer to never be left alone. They usually do well with other pets and with children that can appreciate their small size. People can't resist the endearing affectionate personality of the Chihuahua as well as their cute appearance. This breed is and will continue to be a family favorite.

History

At two to six lbs, the Chihuahua is the smallest breed registered with the American Kennel Club. Most of these dogs are between six and eight inches tall, with a body a little longer than it is tall. The Chihuahua is fine-boned, but muscular, and its head is distinctive because of its rounded shape. The dog has large eyes and big ears that stand upright when alert. The Chihuahua’s muzzle is on the short side and slightly pointed. Its tail is fairly long and carried up, curved toward the back. The dogs have soft, shiny, short coats on the body, but little coat on the head and ears.

Temperament

Chihuahuas are alert and have qualities similar to terriers, which means they have been called “grumpy” and easily provoked and temperamental. While not always appropriate for homes with young children, the dog is perfect for the elderly or individuals who have the time to pamper their pets and who live in small quarters on limited incomes. They are curious, affectionate, and loyal. The dog is also convenient to have as a companion because of its small size – it can be taken almost anywhere and usually enjoys itself greatly on any outing. Chihuahuas like other dogs of its own breed, but tend to dislike dogs of other breeds. The official AKC standard for the breed describes the Chihuahua as “A graceful, alert, swift-moving little dog with saucy expression, compact, and with terrier-like qualities of temperament.” However, some Chihuahuas carry “saucy” and “terrier-like” to extremes and are grumpy, haughty, or downright nasty when provoked – and provocation may come easy.

Health and Care

Chihuahuas need lots of human interaction and should be petted often because they thrive on attention and love. Chihuahuas need a high-protein, meaty dog food provided in three small meals each day instead of in one big meal. The dog’s coat should be brushed periodically with a soft brush; if the dog has long hair, it should be brushed every day. The dogs need to be bathed once a month, but care should be taken to keep water out of the ears to avoid infection. Chihuahuas can live to be very old – up to 18 years - and are generally healthy, but they are susceptible to some genetic diseases, including knee injuries and fractures, eye problems, heart disease, and dental problems. The dogs should not be permitted to jump from high places, since they may break a leg. When the dog is excited or feeling stressed, it will shiver or tremble. This is not a cause for concern, since it is believed that toy breeds have higher metabolisms and dissipate body heat at a faster rate than larger dogs. It is important to remember that Chihuahuas must always be protected from cold weather by wearing a coat or sweater.

Colors

Any solid, marked, or splashed color.

Living Area

Chihuahuas are not outside dogs. They are at home in apartments, as well as in the country. Due to their size, they should never be left unattended outdoors as birds and other wildlife will make them easy prey. This breed does well with novice or first-time dog owners.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Chihuahua breeders with puppies for sale.