Chihuahua
Owner's Guide
The Chihuahua is more than small; he's tiny. His adorable, apple-shaped head and big moist eyes make him nearly irresistible to kids. This sassy charmer is a healthy dog, but he is fragile. He likes to bark and scamper around, but is mainly an indoor dog, not able to tolerate cold weather.
Chihuahuas become extremely devoted to their owners, enjoying a lap-perch view on social occasions. They are also smart and high-spirited, and usually don't need much obedience training. They do need house-training and socializing, so it's a good idea to set up rules for acceptable behavior. This gives Chihuahuas a sense of security.
The Chihuahua's main ancestor was probably the Techichi, who existed as early as the ninth century as a favorite dog of Central American Indians. Chihuahuas appear in numerous stone carvings, and mummies of them have been found in ancient burial sites. Somewhere in their history, the Mexican hairless dog, which originally came from Asia, was bred with the smaller Techichi. Chihuahuas can have smooth or long coats. Any color--solid, marked, or splashed--is acceptable.
Excerpts from the Standard
General Appearance: A graceful, alert, quick little dog with a saucy expression.
Size, Proportion, and Substance: Not to exceed 6 pounds.
Fun Facts
Much folklore surrounds the Chihuahua breed. The ancient Aztec culture of Central America may have used the dogs for religious sacrifice, burying them with their dead masters so the person's sins could be transferred to the dog. Some people believe the Chihuahua's small warm body can be used to relieve stomach upset and arthritis, or to discourage asthma attacks! True or not, the stories show the Chihuahua has long been a cherished companion.
Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Articles

-
- How Can I Express My Dog's Anal Glands at Home?
- Q: How can I express my Chihuahua's anal glands? More »
-
- Dog Breeds in the Toy Group
- There are small dogs in most of the groups, but the dogs in the Toy Group are the smallest. With their baby size and charming expressions, they are appealing to everybody. More »
-
- Q: Dog Has Dark Patches on Legs & Tail
- Q: My Chihuahua is developing dark skin patches under her front leg and on her tail. What causes these black patches? Could it be fleas? More »
-
- Top 5 Celebrity Pet Scandals - Paris Hilton
- Top 5 Celebrity Pet Scandals - Paris Hilton More »
Videos
What weighs just three to six pounds, stands about eight inches tall, and shivers when nervous, cold, or excited? You¿re looking at him. The infamous Chihuahua is one of the world¿s smallest and most beloved dogs.
Tunnel of Fun
Piccolo Poochini Lugini is a sweet and shy Chihuahua boy with lots of love to give. He needs a little time to get comfy--he's seen a lot in his short life after all. In early February, Lugini was rescued from a puppy mill in Mississippi. Now he's at the ASPCA in Manhattan waiting to find his forever home. Meet him today! Or to see some other cute pooches, visit www.aspca.org/animals. From: aspca Views: 14 1 ratings Time: 00:25 More in Pets & Animals
Pet Fashion
Blogs
WEEKLY CUDDLE CHAMPION: Chelsea the Chihuahua
…Congratulations Chelsea, you are this week's CUDDLE CHAMPION ! Submitted by Suzanne Sublett Pluta "Chelsea is a four year old Chihuahua who trains and competes in dog agility. She's also in training to play the bongos!" To submit a picture to "WEEKLY CUDDLE More…
…as on the set of “Beverly Hills Chihuahua.” Both got high marksas a professional hostess. Chloe, Chihuahua FASHION RATING _____ With her starring role as Chloe the Chihuahua in Disney’s new movie Beverly Hills More…
WEEKLY CUDDLE CHAMPIONS: Bailey and Fin
…week's CUDDLE CHAMPIONS Bailey, a hound mix, and Fin, a chihuahua. They look so comfortable and snuggly! Submitted by Susanvelveteen rabbit and thinks he's the size of our 17 year old chihuahua Fin, who he is seen here snuggling with:) Bailey's goal More…
Dog Strollers: What do you think?
…stroller designed for triplets. It must be really quite an eye-catcher for folks when they watch her meander about with her 18 Chihuahua -cross dogs, on her routine daily outings. What are some of your opinions regarding the use of a dog-stroller or a baby More…
Petside: Get Started
-
- 2010 NCAA Mascot Tournament
Vote for your favorite pet mascots to determine the ultimate NCAA mascot champion!
-
- Find a Breed
Browse dog and cat breeds to find your perfect pal.
-
- Diagnose a Condition
Use PetVet to research what's ailing your pet.
-
- Locate a Hospital
- Find the nearest accredited animal hospital.
Specials
Check out these deals picked by petside.com just for you!


