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Chihuahua |
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Additional information supplied
by...
Jann Lee (Secretary)
Casino and District Kennel Club Inc
Theresa Creek Road, Theresa Creek, NSW 2469
gumbarlee@dodo.com.au
Ph: 0266647222 or 0438647221 |
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Description... |
 The
Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the world, and in fact,
are the only "natural" toy breed, which means that their small
size is not attributable to "breeding down." The average height of
these dogs is 27cm and their average weight is between 1 to 3kg.
Their coats are soft with colours including white, blonde, fawn,
black-and-tan, patched, and a few others. There is a smooth, or
short-haired variety and a long-haired one. The two types are
distinguished primarily by the long-haired variety having longer
hair on its ears, chest, stomach, legs, and tail. Chihuahuas come
in 2 coat types long and smooth, they are suitable for just about
every one. They have a terrier like temperament and love to be
with you no matter what you are doing. |
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History...
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This breed is believed to have its origins in the
late Palaeozoic period. Originating in Mexico as the Techichi
breed, it was bred with small, hairless dogs to produce the modern
Chihuahua. Its name comes from the Mexican state of Chihuahua.
Carvings on stones resembling the modern-day Chihuahua
were found in the Monastery of Huejotzingo, on the highway from Mexico
City to Pueblo. Tourists travelling through Mexico immediately fell in
love with the breed.
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Traits...
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Chihuahuas like to sunbathe. They also prefer to
sleep under a cloth or blanket. They're great little walking
companions, although the short-haired varieties do not like, nor
tolerate, cold weather. Chihuahuas love to be with you and beware
they can bewitch and convert big dog people to chihuahuaism. |
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Good aspects...
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 The
Chihuahua is a swift moving, graceful, and energetic dog. Alert
and observant, they exhibit many terrier-like qualities. These
dogs are a good breed for city and apartment dwellers, and remain
extremely loyal to their masters, sometimes protectively so. They
are content as long as they are occupied with toys and
exploration. Minimal grooming is required for those with smooth
coats, but twice a week is recommended for those with longer
coats. These dogs are highly companionable and don't need much
obedience training, and are so tiny that they can be trained to
use a litter box like a cat does. In addition, these pets make
excellent watch dogs and have the longest life-span of any breed
of dog. Chihuahuas are small so can be taken with you to almost
anywhere. |
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Health...
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These dogs are susceptible to slipped stifle, a
joint disorder. In addition, as they age they are also prone to
weak knees. Fractures, jawbone disorders, rheumatism, eye
problems, heart disease, and tooth and gum weaknesses may also be
associated with aging. These dogs are often born with a soft spot
on top of the head that doesn't always close. Luxating patellas
are also a problem with small breeds but buying from a reputable
breeder you shouldn't have many problems |
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Be aware...
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These dogs are high-strung, and bark easily. In
addition, they don't adapt easily to new environments or to new
people, which often leads to the barking. When this dog is
provoked, it can be bold with much bigger dogs. Chihuahuas tend to
be vulnerable to the cold, and can also be hard to housebreak.
If they are not properly and frequently socialized, they
can be nippy with strangers. Often, they are not good with children unless
they were raised with them. Because these dogs are small, they may not be
good to have with small children, since they could be easily injured from
any rough playing. If these dogs are socialized well, and are given short,
frequent and gentle obedience sessions, they will often be much calmer and
more confident.
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Summary...
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Owners often tend to carry these little toy dogs
around so much that the dogs can become timid and snappish if they
are out of the owner's arms. Proper socialization of the pup
cannot be stressed enough. Socializing your dog often, including
having others handle it frequently as a pup. Take your Chihuahua
for frequent walks (yes, that does mean letting it walk on the
ground), so that it remains confident when it is out of your arms.
Chihuahuas are happy just to be with you and doing what you are
doing and love to be nursed and fussed over they make ideal
companion dogs as they are always at your side. |
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source: petcare information centre-
petcare.umn.edu
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Further resources... |
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