Chihuahua
Group 1: Toys
Weight: Up approx. 2.5kg.
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Original Function: Companion
Lifespan: 10 – 14 yrs
Recommended for: Most people, not suitable around very young children
Note: No such breed as a “Tea Cup Chihuahua”
About This Breed
Chihuahua pronounced ‘chi-wah-wah, originated from Mexico. This is the smallest breed of dog in the world, and what they lack in size they make up in spirit. Although not the best dog for young children, they fit in well with families and are perfect for apartment living.
Personality wise, the Chihuahua tends to bond closely with one or two people. With its master/mistress the Chihuahua will be curious, lively and intelligent, as well as deeply and constantly affectionate.
However, the breed does not take kindly to strangers and can appear nervous, yappy and even snappy with the uninitiated. Chihuahuas must be socialized as early as possible or will become very anxious in new environments and will not get along with other pets (including dogs) and will be risky business around children.
On the plus side, the dog is very territorial and will make a good guard dog, although some find the Chihuahua’s barking excessive. They are a clannish breed and enjoy being a pack of Chihuahuas. They adapt quite well to apartment dwelling and make excellent, loving companions for single people and the elderly.
General Characteristics
Temperament: Spirited and intelligent, neither snappy nor withdrawn.
Characteristics: Alert, little dog, swift moving with brisk forceful action and saucy expression.
Coat: Smooth Coat – Smooth, of soft texture, close and glossy, with undercoat and ruff permissible.
Long Coat – Long, soft texture (never coarse or harsh to touch) either flat or slightly wavy. Never tight and curly. Feathering on ears, feet and legs, pants on hind quarters, large ruff on neck desirable. Tail long and full as a plume.
Grooming: The smooth coated variety can be groomed using a rubber grooming comb/brush now and again. The long coated needs a good brushing and combing once a week. The bib or ruff of the long coats may need a wash as it can attract food leftovers.
Unfortunately, Chihuahuas do shed, but being small, there isn’t that much hair to lose. It is a good idea to brush a Chihuahua’s teeth daily as, with all small breeds, they are prone to a heavy tartar build up.
Colour: Any colour or mixed colours.
Exercise: Although it is tempting to carry them everywhere, regular walking is needed to keep them fit. The Chihuahua can adapt to however much exercise you would like to give it, within reason.
Chihuahuas tend to have bursts of energy where they play excitedly, but do not need a lot of walking. It is recommended that Chihuahuas wear harness instead of collars due to their fragile tracheas (windpipes.)
Health: This Breed is reasonably healthy, but some can suffer with eye problems, collapsing trachea, dislocating kneecaps and heart problems.