The Chihuahua Information
A pint-sized canine with a macho streak
With its big eyes, big ears, and bigger-than-life attitude,
the Chihuahua is the epitome of cocky canine in a petite
package. In other words, this pint-sized pet is master of his
universe and fears nothing, characteristics that make him
a most suitable pet for some people and the worst
possible choice for others.
1. Introduction
"To know me is to love me." -- Chihuahua's motto, if they could talk.
GUSH MODE ON: If you already own a Chihuahua, then I'll be
preaching to the converted when I say that they are one of the most
loyal,sweet-tempered, and gentle of the toy breeds. The Chihuahua,
with its apple-dome skull and large luminous eyes, can wear a remarkably
human expression at times; she or he will want
to be with you most, if not all, of the time. A warning to casual dog
owners: Don't buy a Chihuahua if you don't have the emotional real
estate in your heart or the time for the complete love and attention
of this furry little person. GUSH MODE OFF.
2. History
Carvings found in the Monastery of Huejotzingo, on the highway
from Mexico City to Puebla, give strong evidence as to the
Chihuahua's origins. This monastery was constructed by
Franciscan Monks around 1530. The Monks used stones from the
Toltec civilization. Little is known of the Toltecs, but we do know
that they existed as early as the 9th century A.D. in what is now
Mexico. The Toltecs had a breed of dog they called the "Techichi".
And the carvings on the stones at Huejotzingo give a full head view
and a picture of an entire dog that closely resembles the
modern-day Chihuahua. From this evidence, we can safely assume
that the Chihuahua is a descendant of the Techichi.
Additionally, there are remains at some pyramids and other
pointers to the early existence of the Techichi at Chichen Itza in
Yucatan. The Techichi was a religious necessity among the ancient
Toltec tribes and later among the Aztecs. Archaeologists have
found the remains of this breed in human graves in Mexico and in
parts of the United States. For more information about the religious
and mythical role of the Techichi in Toltec tribes, I recommend The
American Kennnel Club's Official Breed Book. The first Chihuahua
to be officially registered by the American Kennel Club was
"Midget" in 1904.
3. Physical Description
Chihuahuas go under the classification of "toy breeds." The
Chihuahua can be short-haired or long haired. The breed standard,
approved September 11, 1990 disqualifies any dog over 6 pounds
from the conformation ring; however, they can weigh up to 9
pounds or more.
One of the Chihuahua's most distinctive characteristics is its head,
which is well-rounded and referred to by breeders as an
"apple-dome"type skull. In contrast, its muzzle is extraordinarily
tiny in contrast. Pink noses are sometimes found on blonde
Chihuahuas.
Another distinctive physical feature of the Chihuahua is the ears:
large, held erect, and flaring to the sides at an angle of about 45
degrees, the Chihuahua uses its ears to express a variety of
emotions and responses.
The eyes, usually dark and luminous, are wide-set. Again, blondes
may have lighter eyes. Tears are often produced in abundance to
keep the large eyes lubricated, and it is not unusual for tears to fly
from a Chihuahua's face when it shakes its head during play.
The back should be level and the rib-cage rounded. Some
Chihuahuas may actually have barrel-shaped rib-cages, but
professional breeders find this undesireable. The hindquarters are
muscular and thin.
The Chihuahua has stick-like legs and dainty feet. The tail is
longish carried either in a sickle fashion or in a loop with the tip
touching the back.
Finally, coat color: there are a variety of shades, including
brindle, blonde, black, brown, fawn, blue, and "splashed." It is
interesting to note that Mexico prefers the jet black with tan
markings, and the black and white spotted; the United States
overwhelmingly prefers the solid colors, especially fawn.
4. Temperament
"Chis aren't dogs, I'm conviced -- they are four-legged babies."
-- from CHIHUA-L. I hear from experienced Chihuahua owners that
each dog of this breed has their own unique personality; this is a
very individualistic breed. However, a few generalizations can be
made. Chihuahuas are graceful, energetic, and swift-moving
canines. They have often been described as having "terrier-like"
qualities; that is, the qualities of being alert, observant, and keen on
interacting with their masters. They are extremely loyal and get
attached to one or two persons.
These tiny dogs are certainly unaware of their diminutive stature:
they can be bold with other dogs much larger than themselves, and
protective of their masters. They are fiercely loyal to their masters
and wary of any strangers or new guests introduced into the
household, which the Chihuahua considers to be its personal
domain. For these reasons, Chihuahuas make good watch dogs (not
guard dogs, though!).
The Chihuahua needs a great deal of human contact: touching,
petting, and general attention. If the Chihuahua does not get this,
she or he will use various attention-getting tricks until you give
her/him attention. (My own uses her paws to lightly scratch my
hand, a signal that says, "Pet me now!") Some owners who have
had other, more independent breeds may find the Chihuahua too
needy. However, Chis give alot of love and affection in return for
your care.
Because they are by nature gentle, loyal, and sweet-tempered,
Chihuahuas are ideal for single people, the elderly, the
handicapped, and shut-ins. They will keep you company for hours
by lying on your lap or beside your torso if in bed, and treat you like
royalty. No one with a Chi in their household will ever be truly alone!
5. Care and Maintenance
Chihuahuas are a good breed for city-dwellers, or those who just
don't have the time to walk their dogs that often. They are quite
happy in apartments, as long as there is enough to play with and
explore. (They love exploring like most dogs.)
Opinions from dog authorities differ on how often to bathe a
Chihuahua. Some say that bathing too often removes the natural
oils from the coat, and thus dandruff will result and the coat will look
dull. Others say that shampooing on occassion with certain brands
of shampoo can actually enhance the sheen of the coat. It has been
my experience that Chihuahuas should be bathed at least
once a month, otherwise they develop an unpleasant smell. This is
actually due to the skin cells that humans slough off onto the
Chihuahua! So humans are the main contributors to that smell that
can develop. When bathing, take care not to get water into their
ears, as an infection can develop.
Since the Chihuahua is mainly a housepet, you will need to trim
their nails at least once a month. On the smaller Chis, cat claw
trimmers can be used. It's good to start a nail-trimming routine
early-on so that your dog becomes accustomed to your handling its
paws (not to mention getting used to the big shiny clippers!).
You should consult your veterinarian about the nutritional needs of
your Chihuahua. According to some of the dog care books I
consulted: after weaning (up to six weeks), puppies should be fed
four meals a day until three months old; from 3 months to 6 months
they should be fed three meals a day; and from six months to a
year they should be fed twice a day. After 1 year, once a day is fine.
However, it has been my experience that even into adulthood,
Chihuahuas prefer several small meals as opposed to one big meal
per day. I have found that regular adult dog food is just fine for this
breed. Dry food or a mixture of dry food with canned food is
preferable, since in some cases canned food is difficult for this
breed to digest (resulting in diarrhea).
Like all dogs, Chihuahuas appreciate "treats." Be careful, though, in
your selection. Be sure to chose a small breed selection. However,
do be careful not to over-indulge with snacks, as overweight is a
health-hazard for dogs in general.
Consult your veterinarian on the periodic cleaning of your
Chihuahua's ears and teeth, booster shots, and vaccinations.
6. Special Medical Problems
Owners should be aware that Chihuahuas are prone to "weak
knees."This can occur as they get older. If it causes difficulty in
walking, take your dog to the vet.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Aren't Chihuahuas expensive?
If they have their American Kennel Club official certificate papers,
yes--they can run from $600.00 to $3000.00 and in some cases even
more. The papers (which the breedern provides) mean that the
parents of your Chi are registered with the AKC and that the puppy
is registerable. Additionally, some breeders provide pedigree
papers which trace the family history beyond the immediate
parents. These papers are vital if you plan to enter your new dog
into exhibitions and competitions.
These certificates and papers ensure that the dog is a purebred;
however, I hasten to add that just because a dog has papers,
doesn't mean it qualifies for exhibitions and competitions. (See
AKC Chihuahua Breed Standards.) At the least, the papers will
ensure that your Chihuahua has come from a responsible breeder.
Chihuahuas who do not have their papers are not significantly
different than those with papers. Moreover, they can be bought for
much less.
2. What is their life-span?
Toy breeds live the longest of any size dog. Expect a life-span of
11-18 years, although the latter is rare.
3. How much exercise do they require?
Not much. This little breed has bouts of energy each day which
quickly die down. They have been known to play catch with small
balls, if taught at an early age. Much of their exercise, though, is
fulfilled by pattering around the household following their master,
or playing with their toys (old slippers are ideal, as well as wooly
stuffed toys with squeakers inside.)
You can certainly take this breed on walks. You will gain much
attention and make many an acquaintance due to the diminutive
andunusual appearance of your Chihuahua.
When buying a leash for your Chihuahua, remember that its neck is
rather small and delicate compared to other dog's necks. You
cannot (and, indeed, should not) yank your dog around by the leash
if s/he has a neck collar on. And choke chains should definitely NOT
be used on Chihuahuas! I recommend the body-harness. If fitted
right, it will give your Chi a secure and comfortable walk.
The body harness goes over the head of the dog and buckles under
the torso in an H-design. I highly recommend these for Chihuahuas,
since they ensure that your dog cannot escape (a real concern if
you live in an urban area) and don't have the potential to harm the
dog like neck leashes.
4. Do they require special dog food?
No. They have the same nutritional needs as most dogs.
Chihuahuas prefer several small meals per day, rather than one big
meal. I leave a bowl of kibbles out for my Chi and she seems to eat
about three small meals a day.
5. I've heard they're nervous, high-strung dogs. Is that true?
Yes, they are high-strung dogs. I define "high-strung" as follows:
barks easily, does not adapt easily to change in environment, is
suspicious of strangers and will growl at them, and flips in circles
and jumps around when excited (like when you come home after a
five-minute absence, for instance).
However, with the person that they have bonded with (i.e., their
master[s]), they do not display most of these characteristics;
infact, they display radically different personalities. Chihuahuas
are truly the "Jekyll-and-Hyde" of dog breeds: your friends will see
the worst side of them and never believe you when you tell them
that your Chi is really a gentle, sweet-natured dog.
6. Are they good with children?
Generally, no. However, They do better when raised around
children. Be careful when walking your Chihuahua to keep your
Chi well away from toddlers and young children, who are often
uninhibited and will approach your dog.
Again, this is general good advice; some Chihuahuas are friendly
around children (usually as a result of de-sensitization). In this case
and others, the master's knowledge of his or her Chihuahua and
good judgement should prevail.
7. I'm allergic to dogs, but I heard Chihuahuas won't bother me; is
that true?
Opinion seems to vary on this point. Some say it's an old-wives'
tale, while others swear that, although they're allergic to
dogs, Chihuahuas did not bother them.
The best way for someone who has allergies is to spend some time
around a Chihuahua. Some people are allergic to dog hair, while
others are allergic to saliva. Since Chihuahua's are known to lick
the face of their master alot, you'd best be sure you're not allergic
to the latter before investing in this breed.
8. What are the difference between a long-haired and a
short-haired Chihuahua?
I am told that there is no difference in personality, only in the
amount of time you'll spend grooming and cleaning up after the
dog.Long-hairs can shed alot; and they'll need regular brushing.
Their bib (the furry part of the chest) can get dirty and matted.
Additionally, long-hairs can occasionally get fecal matter stuck on
their "pants" which will require snipping off. As for bathing, the
long-hairs will need it more frequently, and it'll be a longer
process (washing & drying).Some Chihuahua owners swear by
long-hairs and wouldn't have anything else; it is as much a matter
of personal preference as coat color.
9. Is it safe to take your Chihuahua on a cold weather walk?
Owners must be very sensitive to the fact that short-haired
Chihuahuas, and even long-haired ones, are vulnerable to the cold.
In temperatures of 35-40 degrees Farenheit, I would recommend
dressing your Chihuahua in a special dog sweater for brief walks.
Walking your Chihuahua in temperatures below 35 degrees
Farenheit is STRONGLY discouraged, especially when there is a
wind-chill factor. In this, as in other aspects of dog maintenance,
keep your dogs' health top priority, not your own desires. In fact, in
some cold regions, an indoor heater will be necessary.
10. Are they sociable with other dogs?
Generally speaking, no. However, there are many exceptions and
many people have written me telling me of just how sociable their
Chihuahua is with other breeds. So I'm inclined to say that
Chihuahuas can be very curious and friendly towards other dogs.
Chis are very sociable with their own kind. So several Chihuahuas
can be quite happy living in the same household. That includes two
or more males sharing the same house.
11. Aren't Chihuahuas kind of dim?
It is understandable how this breed has developed this reputation.
In public, they bark at the slightest provocation, and will not stop
sometimes even when the "threat" is gone. Chihuahuas are
actually a very intelligent and alert breed.
12. Can Chihuahuas be trained?
As you might suspect from number 9 above, yes, they can be
trained. This topic is extensively dealt with in the document,
"Training Your Dog," which can be found at
http://www.zmall.com/pet_talk/dog-faqs/training.html.
13. Is my Chihuahua a dog or a mole?
It is a characteristic of the Chihuahua to prefer to sleep under a
cloth or a blanket. They will even get under pillows in order to feel
snug. If you are raising a pup, be sure to provide them with a soft
towel or blanket in their sleeping area so they can burrow
underneath it. So don't be surprised if your Chihuahua scrambles
under your blankets at night, even though your house or apartment
may not be particularly cold. This is known as the "moley-effect."
14. Does my Chihuahua expect a suntan?
Chihuahuas are quite the sun-worshipers. They prefer to bask in
the sun for hours and have been known to lie in a spot of sun no
larger than the size of a half-dollar.
Unfortunately, they are not sensible in this regard and will stay in
the sun even when panting begins. Watch your Chihuahua in hot
weather to be sure that they don't suffer from heat stroke.
15. My Chihuahua's shivering--is this because s/he's cold?
Chihuahuas shiver when they are wary, unhappy, or frightened.
Usually, it has nothing to do with the temperature, and is a normal
characteristic of this breed.
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CHIHUAHUA INFORMATION