The Chihuahua is a small breed of dog, very popular precisely because of its size. In addition to being an adorable pet, they are intelligent, restless and curious companions. And he will offer all his love to those who take care of them.

Unsurprisingly, they get their name from Chihuahua, Mexico, the state in which they were first discovered. The meaning of chihuahua is literally “an arid and sandy place”. They were captured and domesticated by natives at the time of the Toltec civilization. At present, we can find figures of a dog that lived in Tula, very similar to the current Chihuahua. Read on to know everything about the Chihuahua dog!

Physical appearance of the Chihuahua

As we have already mentioned, they are small dogs. Their height varies between 15 and 25 centimeters although some can reach 30. In addition, they usually weigh between 1.5 and 4 kg. These measurements may vary when we find the two types of Chihuahua dogs that differ by size and in some physical aspects:

• Apple-headed Chihuahua: They are the most common. Their head has, as the name suggests, a shape similar to that of an apple that gives them a sweet and cared appearance. They have two large, separated ears, almost always in a straight position. In contrast to a large head and bulging eyes, its body is small and slender. They have a small tail that curves towards the body.
• Deer Head Chihuahua: They are slightly larger than the previous Chihuahua. The shape of the head is longer and in some cases reminiscent of a small deer. They are somewhat taller and more stylized, but they also show a delicate and sweet appearance that will make you fall in love.

In addition to the physical characteristics, we also find two different types of fur:

• Long hair.
• Short hair.

The chihuahua can be of different colors such as white, brown, black, chocolate, cream … In addition to tricolor, striped or marbled.

The Chihuahua Personality: Are They Really As Grumpy As They Say?

Is the chihuahua a barking dog? Generally, yes, but it is not due to their race, but to their education and their experiences. Those who bark too much do so in response to fear, not as an intention to attack. They are small and in many cases can feel defenseless, by those who believe that their only way to “defend” is to stand up and bark.

They can be cuddly and loving dogs or somewhat malicious and cunning. They are very intelligent and observant and they like to get away with it. They are seemingly daring dogs despite their small size. Chihuahuas are always alert and anxious, particularly in the face of any intruder.

Sometimes they can show jealous attitudes towards the people around their owner. Although this is usually an easy problem to solve. The chihuahua does not seem to realize its small size and can take on large dogs or dogs just to defend whoever it wants.

Chihuahua dog behavior

The Chihuahua will show devotion, in general, to the person who takes care of him every day. They are very affectionate dogs that will ask for your attention throughout the day. In general, they tend to distrust strangers. They can be territorial and possessive dogs with their owners, but they do not usually show offensive or violent attitudes. They are curious dogs that will easily accept affection and care.

Chihuahuas don’t always accept the company of other pets. However, they can usually coexist wonderfully with dogs of the same breed or size. To encourage a dog socially, we must always allow him to play with others when he is a puppy. Although it doesn’t matter if we start your education late, we can achieve great results.

Caring for a Chihuahua

They are dogs that adapt perfectly to urban life so you will not have problems living in a small apartment. Even so, the Chihuahua can live very restless and nervous. We should take them out for a walk at least twice a day to exercise and play with them indoors.

Generally, and especially short-haired Chihuahuas, are sensitive to cold due to their small size. Find clothes in his size to protect him in winter, especially if you live in a cold environment.

The Chihuahua is a very intelligent dog that will not hesitate to become fragile, capricious or extremely nervous if we give in to all its requests.

Finally, it must be said that the Chihuahua is a dog that has a tendency to obesity. Therefore, it is important that we know the type of diet that this breed requires to prevent future diseases or problems.

The health of the Chihuahua breed

They can live up to 18 years or more if they stay healthy and fit. In any case, there are a series of diseases that can affect them throughout their lives, we detail the most common:

• Palatine myoclonus.
• Epilepsy.
• Herniated disc.
• Secondary glaucoma.
• Dislocation (luxated patella).
• Hydrocephalus
• Hemophilia A.
• Heart problems.

They require a regular vet who is aware of their needs. For this reason, we recommend that you visit them regularly and follow their vaccination schedule.

In addition, it is also important that you take care of your eyes to prevent eye infections.

Training a Chihuahua

The basis of education for a healthy and sociable Chihuahua begins by socializing it from an early age, both with people and with other animals. It is crucial that you follow this advice to avoid an antisocial dog, with inappropriate and severe behavior. They must learn to live in harmony with animals, children and adults. That will help you enjoy the outdoors while leaving them with the kids without any worries.

Remember that for a dog to be calm and behave well, the people in your home must promote this climate of harmony and mental well-being.