The chiuahua or chihuahueño is a small breed of dog Very popular due to its small size. In addition to being an adorable pet, it is an intelligent, restless and curious companion that will offer all its love to those who take care of it.
It comes from Mexico, specifically from Chihuahua, the state where it was discovered for the first time and its meaning is literally "arid and sandy place". Keep reading to know everything about the chihuahua dog. It was captured and domesticated by indigenous people at the time of the Toltec civilization, today we can find figures of a dog that lived in Tula, very similar to a current chihuahua.
Chihuahua physical characteristics
As we have already mentioned, it is a small dog, compact and fast moving. Their measurements at the withers vary between 15 and 25 centimeters, although some can reach 30. In addition, they usually weigh between 1.5 and 4 kg.
Types of chihuahua
These measurements may vary when we meet the two breeds of Chihuahua dogs that differ basically in size and in some physical aspects:
- The apple head chihuahua: It is the most common, its head has, as its name indicates, a shape similar to that of a apple that gives it a sweet and careful appearance. It has two large and separated ears, almost always in a straight position. In contrast to a large head and bulging eyes, its body is small and slim. At the end of its body we find a small tail that turns on its back.
- The deer-head chihuahua: It is somewhat larger than the previous chihuahua. The shape of the head is more elongated and in some cases resembles that of a small deer. They are somewhat taller and more stylized although they also show a delicate and sweet appearance that will make us fall in love.
In addition to the physical characteristics, there are also two different types of fur:
- Long-haired Chihuahuas.
- Short-haired Chihuahuas.
Colors of chihuahuas
Chihuahuas can be of infinite colors such as:
- White.
- Coffee.
- Black.
- Chocolate.
- Cream.
In addition to being able to be tricolor, with lines and specks.
Chihuahua Character
The chihuahua does not have a defined personality typical of the breed and depending on its education we can speak of an affectionate and tender dog or of a somewhat malicious and cunning race. He is a very intelligent and observant dog who likes to get his own way. He is a very brave and devoted dog despite the small size of him. He is very dedicated to the family and is always alert and restless, vigilant against any intruder.
Sometimes they can show jealous attitudes towards the relationships of those they consider their owners, although it is usually an easy problem to deal with. The Chihuahua seems to be unaware of his small size and may face people or large dogs just to defend those he loves.
The chihuahua will show devotion, in general, to the person who takes care of him the most on a daily basis and it is a very affectionate dog that will ask you for attention throughout the day. In general, he tends to be distrustful of strangers, he is a territorial dogand possessive of his owners, but he does not usually show surly or violent attitudes. He is a curious dog that will readily accept love and care
The chihuahua dog does not always accept the company of other pets although in general He usually gets along wonderfully with dogs of the same breed or size. To encourage a sociable dog we must start the game with other pets since this is a puppy, although it does not matter if we start his education late, with patience we can achieve great goals.
Chihuahua care
It is a dog that adapts perfectly to urban life and it will have no problem living in a small apartment. Even so, the chihuahua is very restless and nervous, we should take him out for a walk at least twice a day to exercise as well as play with him inside the home.
In general, and especially those with short hair, they are sensitive to cold due to their small size. You can buy clothes in his size to keep him warm in winter, especially if he lives in a cold environment.
Do not pamper him excessively, the chihuahua is a very smart dog that will not hesitate to become fragile, capricious or extremely nervous if we give in to all his requests
Finally we add that the chihuahua is a dog that has tendency to obesity, for this reason it is important that we know the type of diet that this pet requires to prevent future illnesses or problems.
If you want to know more about how to care for a chihuahua dog, we recommend you read this other article on Chihuahua care.
Chihuahua He alth
This is a long-lived dog as they can live up to 18 years or more if they are kept he althy and fit. In any case, there are a series of diseases that can affect him throughout his life, we will detail the most common diseases of chihuahuas:
- Broken palate.
- Epilepsy.
- Herniated disc.
- Secondary glaucoma.
- Dislocation.
- Hydrocephalus.
- Hemophilia A.
- Heart problems.
It requires a regular veterinarian who is aware of its needs as a pet, for this reason we recommend taking it regularly and following its vaccination calendar.
In the brain we find the fontanelles, a soft spot on the skull that is born with it incomplete, which is formed during its growth. It is also important that you monitor your eyes to avoid eye infections.
Chihuahua Education
The basics of raising a he althy and social Chihuahua begin with socializing them from an early age both with people and with other pets. It is super important that you follow this advice to avoid an antisocial dog, with improper behavior and sullen. You must learn to live in harmony with animals, children and adults. This will help you enjoy the beach, the mountains and leaving it with the children without any worries.
Remember that for a dog to be calm and behave well, the people in its household must encourage this climate of harmony and mental well-beingthat every living thing needs.
It is important that you decide when to eat, walk or sleep, the chihuahua is a smart dog that will try to receive endless prizes and attention. Set limits and reward him only when he deserves it and behaves appropriately.
Where to adopt a chihuahua?
Are you thinking of adopting a chihuahua? As we have seen, Chihuahuas can be exceptional dogs if we provide them with the necessary care, both physical and emotional.
If you are looking for chihuahuas for adoption, we encourage you to ask at the shelters and associations of animals in your area. In addition, it is possible that there are organizations specialized in collecting and adopting Chihuahua dogs.
