Chihuahua
Chihuahua Dog Breed Information
| Size | 6-9 in (15-23 cm) |
| Weight | 3.3-6.6 lb lb (1.5-3 kg) |
| Origin | Mexico |
| Color | Brown and white; red and white; black, white and brown |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Suitable as | Family dogs and therapy dogs |
| Personality | Brave, confident, suspicious, friendly |
| Exercise |  |
| Drooling |  |
| Shedding |  |
| Fur care | |
= very/a lot; = not very/a little
Breed Characteristics
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. It looks incredibly cute, gets on well in an apartment and can even learn to use a litter box.
Although this dog is so small, it is surprisingly brave and even makes a good watchdog. Whenever a stranger is at the front door, the "Chihuahua" alarm (= barking) starts.
While they’re quite reserved with new people, they are open hearted and friendly to other pets and dogs in the house. In puppy age, they can be become quarrelsome, so it is very important for them to be socialized properly.
Little dog, short walkies? It is true that they don’t need a lot of exercise, and because of their small size. But Chihuahuas want to go for a walk, too. They want to breathe fresh air, romp around outside and run. Sure he does not run as long distances as a Jack Russel, but you should not underestimate his need for exercise either.
There is one thing we still have to clarify: How do you pronounce Chihuahua? The Chi is like a soft „She“. The „h“ is very soft and rather breathy. The „a“ is almost an o (like in palm). The u is almost not heard. So you could write it down like this: She(h)a(h)a.
Chihuahuas have set all kinds of records. The smallest police dog was Midge. He helped as a narcotics detection dog and was 11 in (28 cm) at its withers. The "shortest" Chihuahua had a body length of 6 in (15.2 cm) from nose to tail tip. The smallest dog in the world is Chihuahua lady Milly. She measures only 3.8 in (9.65 cm) at its withers.
Appearance
Chihuahuas have either an apple or a deer shaped head. It is more bulbous and rounded (apple) or narrow with a long nose (deer). The dogs have large ears.
Their coat can be short or long and their colors are are diverse. They can be white, black, cream, tricolor etc. Chihuahuas were bred smaller and smaller over time. Originally Chihuahuas were significantly larger.
History
It is known that the Chihuahua originates in Mexico. Everything else has yet to be established. It might have descended from the Techichi, a companion dog of the Toltecs (a culture in Central America, 10th-12th century).
Where Does the Name Come From?
The breed was named after the largest state in Mexico.
Health and Care
Grooming a Chihuahua is uncomplicated and requires a minimum of time. Comb the coat once a week and you're done.
Did You Know?
In relation to its body size, Chihuahuas have the largest brain of all dog breeds.
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