Chihuahua
Temperament:
The Chihuahua is a small dog with a strong character. They are the national symbol of Mexico. These very alert, curious and amusing pocket dogs are one of the oldest breeds in the Americas. They are temperamental as well as affectionate and have nestled in many people's hearts.
Characteristics
The Chihuahua is a dog breed with Mexican origin. They are recognized by the FCI and are classified in group 9. Their coat comes in many colors and patterns, and they can be long or short. The short haired variety is shiny and soft, with or without an undercoat. The longhair breed is smooth or wavy, silky and with undercoat.
The Chihuahua is a balanced, graceful dog. Its behavior resembles that of the terrier type. A full-grown male weighs no more than 3 kg. However, besides its small size, it is very strong in character. The rounded apple head is a trademark of the breed. The erect ears and full, bright eyes are very expressive.
The little Chihuahuas have loyalty, charm and are very affectionate. However, they need to be trained as early as puppyhood. Without an education at a young age, the clever little guy will otherwise rule your household. Their compact size makes Chihuahuas ideal city dwellers. They are also very adaptable - as long as they are in close association with their caregivers.
The Chihuahua loves to run and play. As a rule, even the movement in a confined space is enough for him. Just trotting around and their Master/Master following is usually enough exercise for this happy breed. Short, slow walks will keep your dog in healthy condition. You should avoid overworking your Chihuahua. When your pet starts panting and he has trouble following your steps, it's time to pick him up and carry him home.
A very special feature of this breed is also that, the Chihuahuas are very intelligent and sensitive. This makes them very good to be trained as therapy dogs. With a little patience, you can teach these dogs many things. Because of their social bond, they often want to be kept busy. If this is not the case, they often become unhappy.
In nursing homes, as an example, this breed is often kept as therapy dogs. Because of their small size, the residents often do not feel fear of them. Chihuahuas trained as therapy dogs like to be taken on the lap and stroked. This allows elderly people who cannot bend down to the animals to make contact with them and pet them. This in turn does their soul good.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
When it comes to nutrition, the Chihuahua has almost the same requirements as other breeds. It is important that your pet likes the food and that it contains all the important nutrients. You should make sure that the content of meat is relatively high. In addition, no unnecessary additives and fatteners should be included.
A quality dog food should contain all the essential nutrients according to the age. Some of the Chihuahuas are prone to obesity. This obesity can damage their physical structure. For this reason, it is important to monitor their calorie intake and weight.
If you choose to give your dog treats, you should do so in moderation. You should be just as sparing with table scraps. If anything, it should be especially free of cooked bones and high-fat foods. In any case, you should find out which foods are safe for your pet. We have put together a quick guide for you.
If you are unsure how much your Chihuahua should actually weigh, feel free to ask a veterinarian.
Chihuahua care
The two coat varieties of the Chihuahua have slightly different grooming needs. If you have a smooth Chihuahua, you only need to brush and bathe it occasionally. The long-haired breed, on the other hand, you should brush intensively at least once a week. This will prevent fur balls and vermin.
However, for both breeds you should cut the claws regularly. For this purpose, there are claw trimmers for small dogs in the appropriate accessory stores. Good dental care is also necessary. The vet can recommend treats developed as part of a dental care program for this purpose.
Also regularly check the ears of the Chihuahua. Try to regularly remove excess wax or foreign objects. This will help prevent ear infections.
Suitable accessories
As accessories for your little darling are suitable accessories articles for small dogs. Here, however, there is then limitless choice. Bags, clothes or leashes are available in every size. A few Dog treats as a reward are also a great idea.
Origin & History
How the Chihuahua type got its origin from the Mexican peoples is a mystery from prehistory. The Techichi, a weighty ancestor of today's Chihuahuas, were the favorite breed of the Toltecs. The Toltecs ruled Mexico about a thousand years ago.
The Aztecs conquered the Toltecs in the 12th century. Historians attest that the Aztecs continued to breed the breed into a smaller dog. In the 1500s, Spanish conquistadors overthrew the Aztec civilization. The Techichi was an important part of the Aztec culture, which the Spanish took with them to their own lands.
The robust little dogs continued to live in remote villages. In the middle of the 19th century, Americans became interested in this breed. They found many specimens in the state of Chihuahua. Thus, this survivor of two lost civilizations became known worldwide as the Chihuahua. The first AKC-registered Chihuahua, a little guy named Beppie, was registered in 1908.
