Chihuahua (Smooth Coat)
Although the Chihuahua is the smallest of dogs it is a sturdy breed. They have large, apple shaped skulls with a smooth, fine short haired coat. Their ears are wide set and erect. This pint-sized pal has become a very popular breed in the Western world over the years.
Country of Origin
Mexico
Colour
The Chihuahua comes in a combination of fawn to black. They can also come in black and white.
Size
Small
Height / Weight
This breed measures 15 – 23cms and weighs 1 – 3kgs.
Health
As the Chihuaha is particularly petite, their bones can be easily broken. Jumping off of high furniture can cause dislocated knees as this is an enormous jump for such a small dog. They are prone to epilepsy and gum diseases in older dogs. Heart valve problems, eye problems and tracheal collapse are also seen in Chihuahuas.
Life Span
15 - 20 years
Intelligence
Chihuahuas are clever and can be trained to be very obedient if training begins early. Due to their intelligence and tiny size it is common for this breed to be trained to use a cat litter and become indoor pets.
Exercise
Low
Suitability (Children)
Low
Feeding
These dogs are prone to hypoglycemia, because of this it is better to give two or three small meals a day rather than one large one. Dry, crunchy foods are recommended for this breed as it is good for their teeth.
Feeding Cost
Up to $5 p/w
Other Cost
Excercise
Chihuahuas usually have bursts of energy where they want to play but do not need a lot of exercise. A brisk walk is healthy for the Chihuahua but not too much as they will get tired easily due to their little legs.
Hair Shed
Moderate
Ailments
As the Chihuaha is particularly petite, their bones can be easily broken. Jumping off of high furniture can cause dislocated knees as this is an enormous jump for such a small dog. They are prone to epilepsy and gum diseases in older dogs. Heart valve problems, eye problems and tracheal collapse are also seen in Chihuahuas.
Grooming
A daily brush of the coat and teeth of the Chihuahua is all that is needed for this breed. Although Chihuahuas do shed it is not a large problem as they do not have much hair to lose.
Grooming Frequency
Daily
Trimming
None
Chihuahuas history dates back to the 5th century in the Mayan Civilization. The dogs were used as spiritual guiders and were cremated with dead bodies so that the person could enter the next world without angering the gods. Today’s Chihuahua however comes from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico and was developed in 1850 and was first exported to U.S.A in 1898. This breed was recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1904.
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