Ever wonder why actor Mickey Rourke or heiress/model Paris Hilton are rarely seen without a beloved chihuahua in tow? There is an incredible amount of charm packed into these little packages for the quintessential lapdog who has an insatiable need for love and affection. When you consider that this consummate companion can easily fit in your pocket or purse, well, it’s just too tempting not to take it everywhere.
Chihuahua’s recent history easily dates back to the mid-1800s in Mexico; however, Chi Chi seems to have much deeper roots. The Chihuahua may have originated as early as the 9th century, developing from a toy breed that was revered by the Toltec Indians of Central America during that time. They named the dog “Techichi”. Other important pre-Columbian civilizations, the Mayan and the Aztec, also show a close association with a small, sand-colored dog. It is quite certain that these dogs were mixed to various degrees with a small hairless dog originating from Mexico and bearing a name straight out of Star Wars. . . Xoloitzcuintli, thus becoming the forerunners of the Chihuahua we know today.
The smallest breed in the world, the Chihuahua comes in two coats: smooth and short, or long and flat, or slightly curly. The long, curly version features a ruffled neckline and a feathered tail. Otherwise, the dogs are identical and can occur within the same litter. (There are places, the UK for example, where the two versions are considered separate and never interbred.) All coat colors and combinations can be seen. The most common are red, beige and black and tan. The apple dome shaped head, along with the large bat ears, are the most recognized features of this breed. Males measure 6 to 9 inches and 2 to 6 pounds. Females measure 6 to 8 inches and 2 to 6 pounds.
The Chihuahua is an alert, intelligent and lively breed. He is intensely loyal, growing attached to his owner, even to the point of jealousy. They are notorious diggers and like nothing more than to snuggle under pillows, cushions, and best of all, sheets. It responds well to training, especially if started early, although it can be difficult to house train this little dog.
When frightened, these little guys may snap or snap, but they are by no means cranky dogs. Chihuahuas seem to have acquired the stigma of being “barking” dogs, but in reality most chihuahuas simply bark to announce the arrival of a visitor or when greeting other dogs.
Despite their enormous self-esteem, the Chihuahua’s physique may make the breed unsuitable for families with young, active children. They can be easily injured by being stepped on, sat on, or dropped.
Obviously, no dog is “maintenance free,” but the Chihuahua comes remarkably close, particularly the short-haired variety.
The short coat requires only occasional gentle brushing, while the long coat should be brushed daily with a soft-bristled brush. Bathe both types about once a month. Check ears regularly and keep nails trimmed. That’s pretty much all there is to grooming your Chihuahua.
As mentioned above, it is quite tempting to carry these little dogs, but the Chihuahua is content with a short daily walk and will benefit from it. His diminutive stature makes the Chihuahua ideal for apartment living. They are definitely not considered “outdoor” pets. While they may enjoy a romp in the garden, they are more than happy to return to the comfort of the sofa or, better yet, bed.
The popularity of this breed has skyrocketed over the past decade, likely due in large part to Taco Bell featuring a Chihuahua as its media mascot hungry for familiar Mexican fast food.
His need to love and be loved is an endless quest. In fact, these dogs like nothing more than being with their owners, or more precisely about them. They make great companions, perhaps ideal for older adults who are often at home and have plenty of time to give them the care they crave.
If you are looking for a dog to patrol the yard or run 5 miles, then the Chihuahua is not the dog for you. However, any true animal person around one long enough will hook up with one of these little lovers. And once they take hold of your heartstrings, they will never let you go.