Chihuahua Breed In Brief:

Made famous in the 1990's by the precocious "Taco Bell Dog" and his trademark "Drop the Chalupa" remarks, this adorable, itty bitty breed was discovered in the late 1800's by American tourists in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, after which the breed was named. The Chihuahua's origins are not exactly known;  theories range from the Chihuahua being of Chinese ancestry - brought to Mexico by Chinese only 100 years ago, to it being the descendant of an ancient Egyptian breed. As the world's smallest dog (weighing in at just 2 to 4 pounds), the Chihuahua doesn't require a lot of space and does very well in an apartment setting. The Chihuahua breed is alert, intelligent, playful, affectionate and loyal, and makes an excellent companion for elderly or disabled people or families with well-behaved, older children. The Chihuahua coat comes in both long and short variations, and may be any color. Short-coated Chihuahuas should don a tiny sweater when venturing out for a walk in winter to keep them warm. Booties are also a good idea for all Chihuahuas in cold temperatures.

 

Chihuahua Breed History:

The origin of the world's smallest dog is one of the world's biggest puzzles. Some say the Chihuahua's ancestors lived in Egypt some 3,000 years ago and point to mummified remains of small dogs. Others state that the Chihuahua was domesticated in Mexico prior to 1519 and played a part in religious ceremonies. They believe the Chihuahuas were taken back to Spain after the Spanish Conquest and then spread throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. And finally, it has also been theorized that the Chihuahua breed was brought to Mexico by Chinese traders. Take your choice. Whatever the Chihuahua's beginnings, it was discovered late in the 19th century by American tourists in Mexico who took some of these dogs back to the States and it is from these that the Chihuahua breed developed. They were named for the Mexican state, Chihuahua, where they were found.

Up until its time of development as a pure breed in the United States, the origin of the long-coated version of the Chihuahua is identical to that of the short-coated variety. The long, soft coat is thought to have been achieved by crossbreeding the Short Coat Chihuahua with other Toy breeds. The Papillon, Pomeranian, Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier have been suggested as possible crosses.

Chihuahua Breed Description:

Height/Weight: The diminutive Chihuahua dog may weigh from 1-6 lb (.5-3 kg) but dogs weighing 2-4 lb (1-2 kg) are preferred.

Coat: In the Smooth Coat Chihuahua, the coat should be soft in texture, close and glossy.

Soft in texture, the long coat is either flat or slightly curly. The ears are fringed and there's a ruff on the neck. Feathering is found on the feet and legs and a plumed tail finishes the picture.

Color: Any color is permitted in the Chihuahua breed.

Chihuahua Breed Temperament:

Alert and spirited, the Chihuahua is personality in a small package. Chihuahuas become very attached to their owners and are very willing to please. Very much a lap dog, the Chihuahua enjoys being pampered. But don't let the small size fool you into thinking these dogs lack spunk! They are affectionate but they're also alert and make a fine little watchdog.

Chihuahua Breed Exercise Requirements:

This swift-moving little dog with its saucy expression, rounded skull and flaring ears is so small that it can get the exercise it needs just by running around the house or apartment. A sprightly pet, the Chihuahua is an ideal companion for an apartment dweller or a couch potato who doesn't care to indulge in long, outdoor walks.

Chihuahua Breed Grooming Requirements:

Chihuahua grooming needs are minimal. Long coat Chihuahuas do require regular brushing.

Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Good with Children: If raised around children, they are great! They will get attatched to the child and be a good companion.
Dog Breed Group: Toy Group
Size Group: Toy
Other Commonly Used Names: Tea Cup Chihuahua, Teacup Chihuahua, Chiwawa