Chihuahuas are the original pint size dogs or toy dogs of diminutive size that are not bred from any larger animals. These are affectionate dogs that make excellent companions for families with the only problem being their size, which may not be conducive to homes with really small children as they could harm the dog. This is the oldest breed of Native American dogs and is named after a state in Mexico, from where it originates.

Description

The original small dog, the Chihuahua, has no real specifications as regards its height, which could be anywhere between six and ten inches or in some cases go up to even 15 inches. However, with respect to weight, experts believe that the Chihuahua should not be more than six pounds. British breeders feel that the average weight of a Chihuahua should ideally be between 2 and 4 pounds. 

With the figures regarding weight and height out of the way, it is time to describe the Chihuahua that can be best described as having a longer body in comparison to its height. Well rounded apple shaped head, short muzzle and pointed stop describes the broad facial features of this breed. This breed has a soft spot on its head, called the molera, which disappears once they grow up into adults. The Chihuahua has round eyes that are set apart, large and are dark, ruby or light in color. Ears are large and erect and are far apart that tend to flair to the sides when the dog is in a relaxed mood. The Chihuahua has a long tail, which is sickle shaped and is either curled over the back or the side. The feet are dainty and small and have well split toes.

Coat Description 

The coat of the Chihuahua can be either shorthaired coat or longhaired coat. The shorthaired coat is definitely coarser than the longhaired one but is glossy and smooth. There is an undercoat in this shorthaired variety and it is preferable that these dogs have a slightly longer coat on the body than on the ears or head. Where the coat is longhaired, it should be soft, flat or slightly wavy, and with feathering around the ears, front and back legs and feet. It is preferred that the tail is flurry in a shorthaired coat while it is plumed in a longhaired one. Irrespective of which kind of coat the Chihuahua has, a ruff around the neck is preferred. Coat colors include chestnut, black, fawn, white, sable, sand, steel blue, silver, and black and tan.

History

The history of the origin of the Chihuahua is quite confusing and filled with many theories.  Some believe that the dog originated from Malta in the Mediterranean and sailed on ships to cross the seas to come to America. It is interesting to note that the early remains of the first species of this dog were seen in Mexico in a State from which it is named.  Another theory states that the Chihuahua originated from China and was then brought to Mexico.  

However, despite these two contending theories, the common belief is that the Chihuahuas are ascendants of the Techichi, which were the favored dogs of the Toltec civilization.

The Aztecs took over from the Toltecs and favored the Chihuahuas for the mystical powers. However, it is relevant to note that the present day Chihuahua is far smaller in size from its original specie. It is seen that traces of this breed that we have today were found in Casas Grandes in Mexico in the year 1850. Though the breed has been extremely popular in America, it was finally recognized by the AKC or the American Kennel Club only in 1904.

Temperament 

These are adventurous and lively dogs that make excellent companions to people but care should be taken that you do not get a Chihuahua if you have a small baby in your house. Since the Chihuahua has some native aggression that could make it territorial, possessive and protective, it may create problems with very young children. However, if you have older children who understand the needs of a dog and can take care of them, these can become extremely affectionate pets that are very cheerful, brave and agile.

It is important for your Chihuahua to experience human leadership early in its training. If this is not done, it could lead to aggressive and willful behavior from the dog. These dogs are extremely loyal pets and are completely attached to their owners. They are intelligent dogs that learn quickly and respond well to social training. However, it is important to take care that they do not jump from heights or indulge in any activity that could hurt them.

They are very creative dogs, extremely curious by nature, and strive to find various ways to attract your attention. It is pertinent to note that you should not leave your Chihuahua alone for long periods as this could cause them to become snappy and bark incessantly. It would do you good to remember that these dogs require a lot of attention. However, mollycoddling one is not appreciated and will result in a territorial, jealous and possessive dog. Therefore, when playing with your dog, care should be taken to give it the right amount of attention whilst not attending to its whims and fancies.

Health issues and concerns 

Like all other dogs belonging to the toy dog category, Chihuahuas suffer from the same anomalies that face small dogs in general. These diseases can be cured with expert observation and help in the form of a regular veterinarian doctor. Problems like genetic issues, epilepsy and seizures are common with this breed. Similarly, this breed is also prone to diseases like the mitral valve heart disease, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, hypoglycemia, hydrocephalus, cryptorchidism, demodicosis, hemophilia, cystinuria and the like.

In addition, these are the only breed of dogs that are born with an incomplete skull, which in other words means that there is a soft spot or molera on the skull. However, this soft spot fills up on its own as the dog grows older but care should be taken during the initial months after the birth of a Chihuahua until this closure occurs. It is relevant to note that in some dogs, the skull does not fill completely. In such cases, you should take good care of your Chihuahua and prevent any kind of accidents.

Grooming 

Chihuahuas are perhaps the only breed that respond positively to grooming, not minding the entire scenario. Grooming of a Chihuahua will largely depend on the kind of coat your dog has. If the dog is a shorthaired one, then grooming is relatively easy as you have to brush your dog regularly and bathe it just once in a month. However, if you have a long haired Chihuahua, then you will need to bathe your dog at least twice or thrice in a month and brush it every week.

Eyes of your pet should be taken care of by wiping it with a saline solution. This should be done at least twice a week. Similarly, ears should be kept clean from infection, which could occur very easily in such dogs. You should also trim the nails. It is interesting to note that Chihuahuas love their brushing routine but absolutely hate getting their nails trimmed. Therefore, you should be well prepared or get expert help to get the nails trimmed without causing any harm to the dog.

You should ensure regular brushing of your pet’s teeth to keep them clean. You can do this with the help of gauze wrapped around your finger.

Exercise  

A Chihuahua is prone to obesity. So, it requires regular exercise to remain in good shape and to keep the muscles strong. Walking is the perfect exercise for your Chihuahua but care must be taken to ensure that you do not indulge in real long walks as this could affect the dog. While taking your dog out for a walk in the park, it is essential that you put your dog on a leash. Otherwise, your dog might run away and get hurt. However, care should be taken not to exercise your dog in extreme cold or heat as the dog does not respond well to such extreme climates.

Playing with your dog is another common form of exercise where you could play hide and seek by hiding its favorite toy and persuading your dog to find it. Rewarding your dog positively when it finds the toy will help relate the two and ensure better exercise.

Training 

These dogs are intelligent dogs and respond well to all kinds of training, except maybe housebreaking that could pose a problem. However, it is best to take it in your stride and be patient and consistent. It is imperative that you start housebreaking immediately by taking the dog outside as this will definitely help in the long run. Socialization is another important skill that needs to be taught during the early stages as this will help attune the dog to other dogs.