The Chihuahua is the smallest known breed of dog in the world and is named after the Mexican state Chihuahua.
However, do you know about its history or how to properly take care of them? Perhaps you don't have a lot of Chihuahuas information.
It's a good thing, though, that you have the following to help you increase your knowledge about them.
History The most popular theory of the origin of this breed of dogs is that it is a descendant of the Techichi.
Techichis are dogs of the Toltecs in Pre-Columbian Mexico.
Techichi dogs are described as small, heavy boned, and long coated.
One distinct feature of the Techichis is that they are mute.
It was believed that Techichis were bred with miniaturized Chinese dogs such as the Chinese Crested Dog, thus resulting to the present-day Chihuahua.
The Techichis are larger than the present-day Chihuahua, though.
After the Toltecs were conquered by the Aztecs, it was theorized that the Chihuahua was adopted as a symbol of the upper classes.
According to archaeologists, these dogs were used in religious ceremonies as a symbol for the forgiveness of sins and were used as guides to spirits of the dead.
In 1850, a progenitor of the breed was found in the old ruins near Casas Grandes in Chihuahua, Mexico, where it got its name.
Fifty years later, in 1904, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Appearance As the smallest breed of dog registered in the AKC, it stands at six to ten inches tall and weighs two to six pounds.
Some Chihuahuas grow as tall as twelve to fifteen inches.
There are two basic body types of purebred Chihuahuas, the Apple headed and the Deer headed.
Apple-headed Chihuahuas have short noses, apple-shaped heads, and close-set eyes.
Deer-headed Chihuahuas, on the other hand, have elongated noses that look like Doberman Pinschers.
Both, though, have the chance of being miniature in sizes.
The UK Kennel Club and American Kennel Club recognize two varieties of Chihuahua: the long coat and the smooth coat.
They are of the same breed, but you will never find both varieties in the same litter, unless the parents were from different varieties, of course.
Smooth coat does not necessarily mean that the hair is smooth, as others may have a whiskery feeling.
The coat is usually of a dark or solid color.
Generally, Chihuahuas may look very small, but they are muscular dogs with round-shaped skulls, big eyes, and huge ears that stand upright when they are alert.
The muzzle is a bit pointed and short.
Temperament Usually described as alert, graceful, and lively, these of dogs may be grumpy and nasty and are also easily provoked.
Temperament is similar to that of the terriers.
Chihuahuas are clannish dogs, and they only like to mingle with dogs of their own breed.
They are suspicious of other people except of their master.
Because of this, they are not suitable in homes with children but can be very favorable for the elderly or those living alone.
Attachment is limited to one or two people.
Chihuahuas can live up to sixteen years.
Common problems for this breed include weak bone joints, jawbone disorders, and tooth and gum problems.
Because of its weak joints, it is advised not to let the dog jump from a very high place.
The soft spot on their head should also be protected from physical trauma as this part is very fragile.