Mary Allen
Everything you need to know about the feisty Chihuahua:
- The breed comes from Mexico, but there are doubts about its actual origin
- The little four-legged friend is named after the province of Chihuahua.
- He was a Toltec and Aztec dog.
- With a height of about 20 cm at the withers, it is the smallest dog in the world.
- It is also the longest-lived breed in the world with a life expectancy of up to 20 years.
- There is the Chihuahua in a short-haired and a long-haired variant.
- All coat colors – except merle – are allowed.
- The Chihuahua is affectionate, lively, alert, and sometimes stubborn.
- The breed requires consistent training.
- He usually chooses a favorite person and likes to be the center of attention.
- They are not suitable for families with very small children (risk of injury).
- It is suitable for apartment or city maintenance.
- Caution is required at home: the little dog is quickly overlooked and can be accidentally injured.
- Because of their small size, some Chihuahuas are prone to hypoglycemia.
- Diseases typical of the breed include tooth and eye problems, but also patellar luxation, heart problems, or hydrocephalus.
- Stay away from Teacup Chihuahuas and Mini Chihuahuas. Bred to be particularly tiny, these dogs are usually sickly and don’t live very long.
- The Chihuahua is not a handbag dog, but very agile and willing to run. He, therefore, needs daily walks, exercise, and activity.
- Mental engagement is also important for the intelligent Chihuahua.
- The breed is suitable for dog sports.
- Grooming shorthaired cats is pretty easy. The long-haired variety needs to be brushed a little more often.
What else is there to know about the Chihuahua? Leave a comment.