Is the Chihuahua Right for You?
- 1Chihuahua dogs are known for their excessive aggressiveness and are not ideal companions for children.
- 2They require a gentle and positive approach to training.
- 3The Chihuahua breed tends to become obsessive towards their owner and demand much attention.
HISTORY
Boasting a long and rich legacy of 100 years, the Chihuahua takes the credit of being one of the oldest breeds in the whole of the Americas. Considered a sacred animal, they are also the most favored pet of North America. Though commonly considered as a native of Mexico, another theory of origin states that the dog is from Egypt. They are named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico.
Quick Facts
Size
Toy/Small
Lifespan
14-18 years
Hair Length
Long, Short
Male Height
6-9 inches at the withers
Male Weight
No more than 6 pounds
Female Height
6-9 inches at the withers
Female Weight
No more than 6 pounds
Litter Size
1-4 puppies, with 2 being the average
Personality
Despite their diminutive size, the Chihuahua has a very large personality. Brave, lively, adventurous, and strong willed, the Chihuahua can be a handful if not properly socialized. They often catch a bad rap for being yappy, but most times this is a result of poor parenting. It may not seem like a big deal since they are so tiny, but they should be reprimanded for anything a larger dog would be. Also, just because they are tiny doesnt mean they dont require daily walks..
Color
The coloring of a Chihuahua can be any solid, marked, or splashed color.
Health Concerns
With an average lifespan of 15 to 17 years, the Chihuahua breed grows up to an average height of 6-9 inches and weighs 2-6 pounds. To keep them in good health, it is ideal to take them for long walks. Chihuahuas are prone to:
- glaucoma
- corneal dryness
- respiratory problems (brachycephalic)
Appearance
Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs on earth, which makes them extra appealing for people who live in apartments. They have a head that is somewhat larger than the proportions of their body, making them look a little like a walking bobble-head. That, in concert with their even larger eyes and ears, make the Chihuahua seem like it was almost engineered to be adorable.