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DOGS BY BREED :: CHIHUAHUA
Chihuahua
Origins
The Chihuahua originates from Central and South America and Mexico and its ancestors were bred originally for ceremonial sacrifices by the Aztecs and Toltecs. The Chihuahua is named after the Mexican state. It's origins can be dated back to antiquity. This dog is classified as one of the Toy Dog Group which we go on to describe in detail in the section at the bottom of this page. The Chihuahua was first Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1904. Dog Name Facts and Dog Names: it is not surprising that the word Chihuahua is often mis-spelt in a variety of ways such as Chiwawa, Chihuhua, Chihauhua, Chihauhau, Chuhuahua and Chahuahua.
Coat and Colors
The Chihuahua's coat comes in variety of shades. Chihuahuas come in both short haired and long haired varieties. The short coat is dense and soft to touch.
Health: Potential Problems
All owners of dogs and puppies are concerned about the health care of their pets and just as with humans dog health issues arise from time to time. Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Chihuahua, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Diseases in dogs may occur because of trauma, infection, immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, or degenerative conditions. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Chihuahua can include:
- Patellar Luxation ( The patella, or kneecap, is part of the stifle joint (knee). In patellar luxation, the kneecap luxates, or pops out of place)
- Eye problems including Entropion (the inversion, or turning inward, of the border of the eyelid against the eyeball)
Grooming and Care
The Chihuahua requires weekly care and grooming. All dog breeds require a certain amount of grooming and care is necessary to keep dogs and puppies looking at their best. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible, especially important in puppies and older Chihuahua dogs.
Life Expectancy
The life expectancy for this particular toy breed is 14 Ð 18 years.
Age comparison between the Chihuahua Dog Breed and a Human
Age comparisons between dogs and humans are always a matter of debate - we hope that the following information clarifies the situation. After the first year of life, a dog is equivalent to sixteen human years. After two years, they are equivalent to a 24 year old, at three years a 30 year old, and each year after, add 5 human years to determine a dog's age.
The Pictures reflect the Size of Adults - not Children and Puppies!
The pictures above allow for a useful comparison of sizes providing an accurate portrait of the size of an average Chihuahua - essential information but unique to this site. It should also be noted that the pictures feature adults. The size of puppies are naturally considerably smaller and the full grown size of the animal can easily be forgotten when confronted with cute puppies! The slogan " A dog isn't just for Christmas - it's for life!" was necessitated by well meaning people buying puppies at the Christmas, unaware of the puppies growth rate. The pictures provided make it extremely clear exactly how small puppies will develop and whether it will suit the life and living conditions of the family.
Teacup Chihuahua - Dogs and Puppies - An Unofficial Term
The term 'Chihuahua Teacup' is not recognised or endorsed by any of the major Canine Associations such as the AKC (American Kennel Club) or the British KC ( Kennel Club ). It is a purely descriptive term for a Toy dog which might, or might not, be smaller than the official size standard. Whether the term 'Chihuahua Teacup' is recognised or not people obviously like using it and regardless of varying Associations the phrases Chihuahua Teacup Dog or Chihuahua Teacup puppies are, no doubt, here to stay! The Teacup Dogs Agility Association is open to all dogs, regardless of breed or pedigree, measuring 17" or less, and who are at least 12 months of age.
If you are considering buying a Chihuahua Teacup dog or Chihuahua Teacup puppy it will almost certainly bring great you pleasure but caution must be adopted when purchasing a 'Teacup'. Remember that the diminutive size of Teacup Puppies have been achieved by selective breeding - and the price should not reflect a rare or special dog.
Toy Dog Breed Information
Dogs in the Toy Group, which include the Chihuahua , were initially developed to ease the lifestyle and provide pleasure to rich people. These dogs were initially owned by the wealthy and were viewed by others as status symbols - a luxury item with little apparent purpose. Dogs in other groups had specific working roles and played a major part in providing food for the table and therefore justified the cost of their upkeep and care - these were the dogs which were commonly owned by the lower classes. Changes in the economy, lifestyles, living conditions and the environment brought the luxury and pleasure of owning a toy breed dog, such as the Chihuahua , to everyone.
The Toy dogs which includes the Chihuahua are small and even diminutive in size. Toy dogs are generally easy care pets however some do not like young children and their fragility can be a concern in large families. They have a tendency toward yappiness. Toy dogs are loyal and intelligent and especially good at learning Tricks. Toy Dog Breed Duties Characteristics and features of Toy Dogs, including the Chihuahua , have been introduced and strengthened by breeding with animals who already demonstrated the desired traits. Breeding for appearance was only introduced in the 19th Century. Before this time dogs and puppies were bred to increase useful abilities and traits helpful for the duties they were intended for. Toy Group dogs had limited duties which included the following tasks were specifically utilised in Oriental and European Courts by royalty and the nobility:
- Warmth - A dog's temperature is between 100.2-102.8 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Warmth - toy dogs sat on laps (hence the term 'lapdogs')
- Warmth - toy dogs warmed beds in cold castles and palaces
- Companionship
- Status symbols
Although toy dogs are most commonly known as lap dogs Oriental Emperors and courtiers carried them around in their copious sleeves!
