---

History

Much of the history of the Chihuahua is speculation and theory, but it is widely believed that they date back to Mexico before Christopher Columbus traveled to America. It is also believed that they are the oldest breed in the Americas. Chihuahuas are believed to have either descended from the Techichi, mute companions to the Toltecs, or from small Chinese dogs brought to the Americas by the Conquistadors. The remains of dogs resembling the Chihuahua have been found in the Pyramids at Cholula on the Yucatan Peninsula. The Aztecs, who eventually conquered the Toltecs, adopted the Chihuahua as a sacred icon of the upper class. It’s believed that the dogs were used in religious ceremonies to make amends for sins and as guides for the spirits of the dead.

Appearance

The Chihuahua is compact and well proportioned. The standard size of the Chihuahua is 6 pounds and is around 6-9 inches in height at the shoulders, although the size can vary. Chihuahua coat colors vary greatly. Chihuahua coats can be brindle (gray or brown streak or a pattern or a patchy coloring), blond, black, brown, fawn (brown-yellow) or blue. Chihuahuas have a rounded head and dark, bulging eyes, with erect ears that are quite large in proportion to the rest of the head. There are two varieties of Chihuahuas, the long haired variety and the short haired or smooth variety.

Amount of Shedding

Unfortunately, Chihuahuas do shed. You will find hair on their bedding and furniture, as well as other items around your home. Chihuahuas shed year round, but shed more heavily in spring and autumn. Brushing your Chihuahua weekly will help greatly reduce the amount of hair that they shed. Pet hair rollers are also a great tool for picking up hair that has been already dropped.

Daily Exercise Required

Chihuahuas are great for apartments and usually get enough indoor activity just playing inside. They really don’t need any regular exercise. If you do take them outside for a walk, they may require a warm jacket in winter.

Ease of Training

Chihuahuas are stubborn and obstinate and training can be difficult. With consistent and firm training, Chihuahuas can be one of the best dog breeds you can have.

You can begin housebreaking Chihuahuas at about 7 weeks old. Even though it has been reported that some Chihuahuas can be difficult to housebreak, they can be trained fairly easily if you use positive reinforcement, consistency and patience. Read more about housebreaking Chihuahuas.

Energy Level

Chihuahuas can have a high level of energy, but it tends to come in short bursts. After experiencing one of these energy bursts, they usually want to take a nap.

Good with Children

Chihuahuas can be temperamental and may snap at children if they are being teased. We would not recommend Chihuahuas for homes with small children but rather households with older, gentle children or no children at all.

Health

Chihuahuas are sensitive to the elements and must live indoors. They love the sunlight and should be monitored so that they don't suffer heatstroke by lying in the sun for extended periods of time. On the other hand, Chihuahua have a very low tolerance for cold weather. Precautions should be taken in the winter months to ensure that they are kept warm.

Luxating patellas, dental problems, heart murmurs and collapsing trachea are among the more common health concerns with Chihuahuas. Because they may be prone to collapsing tracheas, harnesses are recommended instead of collars and leashes.

Lifespan

Chihuahuas can live between 11 and 18 years. We highly recommend that you pamper your pooch and provide them with excellent health care in order to guarantee a high quality long life. If you plan to adopt a Chihuahua, keep in mind that you are making an 18 year commitment when you bring home that puppy.

Loyalty to Owner

Chihuahuas are extremely loyal to their owner or family. They are often referred to as "one person dogs" because they tend to attach themselves to one person in the home that they prefer. Chihuahuas need attention from their owners, prompting some people to call them "velcro pets", because they want to be everywhere with their owner.

Temperament

Chihuahuas have a saucy personality and are very devoted to their owner. They are confident, animated, spirited, curious, alert and interested in everything happening around them. Chihuahuas are usually reserved with strangers and can often become jealous, but are generally good with other dogs and pets that live with them. They should be socialized from a very early age in order to prevent them from being aggressive with other dogs and timid with strangers. Chihuahuas are loyal and intelligent dogs that are quick to learn. You should provide gentle, positive training practices.

Watchdog

Chihuahuas make good watchdogs although their excessive barking can be annoying.