Chihuahuas are small but strong dogs who have won the hearts of numerous dog enthusiasts all over the globe. Chihuahuas are among the most famous dog breeds, known for their fiery temperament and attractive appearance. They may be small, but they are lovable and make excellent pets despite their diminutive size.
This article will discuss some of the qualities of chihuahuas that make them ideal dogs, including their intellect, flexibility, and loyalty. You’ll immediately understand that Chihuahuas are a breed that may significantly improve your pleasure and satisfaction in life, whether you are a first-time dog owner or an experienced expert. Keep reading to learn more about why a Chihuahua is the best dog.
History of Chihuahua
Uncertainty surrounds the Chihuahua’s past. The dog was found in the Mexican state of Chihuahua about 1850, thus its name. Some experts believe that the Incas or Aztecs created the dog, while others claim that the breed may be traced back to Spanish canines as early as the 1500s. It also needs to be clarified how the Chihuahua was used in the past.
Some speculate that Central American Indians may have utilized chihuahuas as food, while others believe the dogs had significant religious significance. Early in the 19th century, the first Chihuahuas are said to have arrived in the United States. The Chihuahua was introduced to the public in peculiar ways. When the Mexican President gave opera diva Adelina Patti a Chihuahua hidden in a bouquet, she helped popularize the breed in 1890.
Bandleader Xavier Cugat was well-known for leading the band in the 1940s while holding a Chihuahua under his arm. The breed has recently gained popularity and admiration thanks to the stylish Chihuahua in Taco Bell advertisements.
The Chihuahua Breed Characteristics
Chihuahuas are lovable, wise, and spunky. Chihuahuas are cherished by their owners for their distinctive looks and amusing personalities despite their small stature. Find out more about how to live with this little breed. This article offers specifics and information on the breed, including physical characteristics, personality qualities, care needs, history, and more, if you’ve been considering having a pet Chihuahua but are still determining whether it’s the ideal dog for you.
⭐Appearance
When it comes to the appearance of Chihuahuas, variety is king. There are primarily two coat varieties: long & smooth. Shiny and close-fitting, smooth coats have a ruff of dense, long hair around the neck. Softer, flat, or slightly wavy fur with a hair fringe around the ears & a plumed tail are characteristics of long coats. In addition to having longer hair on their paws, legs, and tummy, large-haired Chihuahuas also possess a ruff on their necks.
Additionally, there are many variations in their colors and markings. Chihuahuas come in various hues: solid white, black, chocolate, fawn, gray, & silver. They may also be brindle, spotted, merle, or multicolored (for example, in shades of black, chocolate, or blue with tan & white).
Chihuahua skulls may also differ: they can have a narrower deer-shaped head with a long nose or a rounder, more apple-like head. In addition, Chihuahuas have large brains despite their tiny size (they weigh from three to six pounds), making them intelligent and simple to teach. However, their tiny bladder and independent nature make it difficult to house trains.
⭐Temperament
Chihuahuas are devoted lapdogs that like spending time with their owners. They could be in a corner or beneath a blanket if they aren’t curled beside you. Or they’ve able to locate a sunny area where they can relax. According to their owners, Chihuahuas are excellent conversationalists and will alert you to any excitement or irregularities in the home. Since of their outgoing personality and terrier-like attitudes, they make great watchdogs since they are wary of strangers.
As with other breeds, socialize your Chihuahua puppies so they may learn to feel at ease in various settings and environments as an adult and stop being so yappy. Chihuahuas often have a close attachment to a single person. Once properly acquainted, they may become friends, but only when it suits them. Chihuahuas are also aware of their attractiveness and the attention it attracts. So be sure to establish your authority with your Chi right away.
Never allow your Chihuahua puppy to act in a way that will be seen negatively once they are adults: If you allow them, their strong personalities might cause them to take control of your life. Be consistent in what you expect, and use positive reinforcement training. If they are bored, they may start to exhibit unwanted habits and may start to exhibit fussy eating. Early on, establish home rules and teach your child consistently.
⭐Personality
The disposition of the Chihuahua makes for an excellent companion dog. They may be snarky but are highly devoted and like the spotlight. They may be wonderful family pets, but they can also be aggressive against people they don’t know or kids who seem dangerous due to their small size. Use care if your Chihuahua is introduced to strangers or small children for the first time to protect everyone’s safety and your dog’s comfort.
Despite being seen as lap dogs, chihuahuas are highly energetic and like being entertained. Like other small-breed dogs, they could be susceptible to barking, particularly if they are bored and overstimulated.
⭐Lifespan
Chihuahuas often live longer than medium- to large-sized breeds like the Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd. Chihuahuas have a long lifespan, with a median lifespan of about fourteen. When given the right care, certain breed members may live longer. Megabyte, a 20-year-old Chihuahua that died in 2014, held the record for the oldest Chihuahua in the world.
⭐Behavior
Chihuahuas are renowned for their lively, sometimes rebellious, temperament. They are often characterized as little people with enormous personalities. Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas are self-assured and may be very territorial, making them unduly protective of their owners. They have a reputation for being highly noisy and, if untrained, may bark excessively.
Socialization is crucial for Chihuahuas to become well-mannered among strangers, kids, and other animals. Chihuahuas love, are devoted to their owners, and like being the center of attention. For individuals who value their distinctive personalities and spirit, Chihuahuas may be wonderful companions with the right training and socialization.
⭐Living Needs
In a sense, chihuahuas will unquestionably rule the roost. As with any dog, remember that if they aren’t socialized from an early age, Chihuahuas may get into trouble. They are spirited dogs that won’t back down when they get into a barky quarrel with another dog, even if that other dog is considerably bigger. But with the right socialization, they can get along with cats, other dogs (particularly other Chihuahuas), as well as other dogs in the house.
Chihuahuas are adorable with those who own them, yet they might be wary of strangers. They are also not the best dog for families with young children since they are too frail for toddler fun, even if they get along with older kids. If a Chihuahua is not handled properly, she may jump from children’s hands & hurt herself, so keep an eye on your kids around these little puppies and educate them on how to behave around small animals.
Reasons Why Chihuahuas are The Best Breed
The Chihuahua, a little dog breed with a huge personality, has won the hearts of dog enthusiasts from Mexico to Manitoba. Chihuahuas continue to be a well-liked breed in the United States, having been made famous in the minds of Americans by Hollywood (and, let’s face it, Taco Bell). The American Kennel Club describes the Chihuahua dog as “charming, elegant, and spunky” and notes that it is one of the oldest dog breeds in the Americas. You will undoubtedly relate to why chihuahuas are the best, regardless of whether your Chihuahua is a saucy purebred or a spicy mix.
☑️They have a fascinating and long history.
Although numerous myths surround the beginnings and past of these little dogs, we know that they are one of the continent’s oldest breeds. Although the breed is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, its exact origins still need to be discovered. According to the AKC, the breed most likely originated from a mix between the hairless Asian dog that crossed the land bridge to Alaska and the Techichi, the favorite dog breed of the ancient Toltec people.
The Aztecs were still breeding smaller Techichis after they had conquered the Toltecs, as well as when the Spanish overran the Aztecs, and they, too, developed a passion for the little Techichis. These dogs got the breed name we know today when American visitors discovered them in the nineteenth century in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Even though the breed’s precise ancestry is uncertain, several instances exist in the written & archaeological, historical records that date as far back as 300 BC.
☑️Pet chihuahuas are portable.
Chihuahuas fit neatly into the toy dog category, weighing in at a formidable 3.3 to 6.5 pounds, and are quite portable. That enormous personality can easily fit in a little carry-on for a first-class journey to grandma’s home or a day excursion around the neighborhood. The Chihuahua is renowned for its confidence and propensity to rule the roost, so while their compact size makes them an excellent option for a travel companion, keep that in mind.
Early obedience training will ensure that your transportable dog remains a simple and fun travel companion. The Chihuahua Club of America emphasizes that a chihuahua is noisy since they are related to terriers. You may better prepare a Chihuahua for life on the road & all the experiences you can have by being aware of this propensity in advance.
☑️Everyone can own a Chihuahua.
Most kennel clubs recognize two distinct Chihuahua breeds: the long-coated (also known as longhaired) and the smooth-coated (also known as short-haired) varieties. However, even within these two categories, the breed is known for a wide range of hues (including chocolate, cream, and red) and markings (including masks, bridling, and spots).
The fact that Chihuahuas may have either an “apple” or a “deer” shaped head creates a variety of Chi’s, each more adorable than the last. You may need some help finding the ideal name to fit your Chi since there are so many different appearances.
☑️Chihuahuas like wearing accessories.
Do you like purchasing dog clothes? You could have met your soul mate! Dressing your Chihuahua for the weather is advised, especially if the forecast calls for freezing temperatures or rain. Chihuahuas are recognized to shiver or shudder when cold, terrified, or aroused. It’s a great justification for accessorizing! Remember also to outfit your Chihuahua with essential owner accessories!
☑️Willing to learn
Chihuahuas’ high activity levels may translate into outstanding training results in the appropriate conditions, and their desire to please and learn can help you raise a fantastic companion dog. Positive reinforcement alleviates some of the most common issues that Chihuahua owners report, such as barking, aggression, and resource guarding. This lives off of it.
Getting your Chihuahua puppy socialized can help you raise a good adult Chihuahua. Remember to expose your puppy to bigger dogs as well. The little breeds of Chis can’t handle too many additional calories without gaining weight, so go easy on the goodies. Chis react well to rewards, sometimes a bit too well. Chihuahua owners are not afraid to express their affection for these little dogs, regardless of whether they have had a Chihuahua before or not.
☑️Small but strong
Despite being a little breed, Chihuahuas have a lot of energy, so be ready for some zoomies! However, they are simpler to exercise than bigger dogs and may even be trained indoors. Meeting your Chihuahua’s activity demands is crucial because, like other dogs, a happy Chi is an active Chi. They are excellent companion dogs when trained correctly and socialized, which is why so many people like their warm and lovable nature.
☑️Can exercise indoors
Despite their small stature, Chihuahuas have a lot of energy. If you’re a first-time pet owner, you’ll be relieved to hear they won’t consume much of your energy and time. Chihuahuas need twenty to thirty minutes of exercise every day. To burn off surplus energy, dogs may run from room to room or even follow the people who own them around the home. As a result, Chihuahuas are excellent pets for those with hectic schedules.
Chihuahua breed doesn’t need you to leave home for exercise since it can burn off energy indoors. They are so little that even a little home or apartment provides them with ample room to move about freely. This eliminates the need to rush outside in the cold with your dog!
If you take your Chihuahuas for a walk, a quick lap around the block would be enough to burn off some energy. Chihuahuas are calm pets who may loiter in one place for hours while at home. When I’m at work or out grocery shopping, our Chihuahua will sleep on her dog bed for hours.
☑️Requiring less upkeep than other dog breeds
There are two varieties of Chihuahua. The longhaired Chihuahua is the original variety. The second kind is the short-haired Chihuahua, which you often see. A Chihuahua with long hair has a lengthy coat—the silky coat of the short-haired Chihuahua. The coats of these two varieties of Chihuahuas come in a range of hues. This dog’s coat likely caught your eye, whether it was cream, white, red, tannish brown, or chocolate. Some may have stripes that resemble tigers, spots, masks, brindling, or other patterns.
The care and grooming demands of Chihuahuas with short, silky coats are minimal. You must clean them once every few months if Chi has a short coat. Just bathe them every few months when it comes to bathing. This will maintain their glossy, silky coat healthy. Brushing your Chihuahua’s coat once a week if you have longer haired Chihuahuas is important to avoid matting and tangles.
☑️Long-lived companion animals
The American Kennel Club claims that a dog’s size impacts how long they live. Numerous studies have shown that smaller dog breeds, like Chihuahuas, often live longer than their bigger counterparts.
Scientists discovered that a dog’s life expectancy is reduced by around one month for every 4.4 lbs or two kilograms of body mass. Chihuahuas often live between 14 and 16 years since they weigh around 6.5 pounds. Therefore, pet owners with tiny dogs should anticipate spending much time with their canines.
☑️There are several breeds & breed mixes of chihuahuas.
The chihuahua breed is quite diverse, and that is the last point. There are seven distinct chihuahua breeds, as well as several hybrid varieties. Chihuahua physical traits often predominate in breed mixtures, and mixed-breed pets frequently benefit from the parent breed’s genetic advantages (such as better health).
Chihuahuas & chihuahua mixes are the greatest choice if you seek a simple pet to adore and live with! They are not only dependable and entertaining, but they are also inexpensive and low-maintenance.
Proper Caring of a Chihuahua
Having a dog is a duty as well as a responsibility. They deserve much more since they rely on us for at least their food and shelter. You must be aware of the commitment required of dog owners before bringing a dog into your life.
👉Grooming
The grooming requirements for the two Chihuahua coat types are somewhat different. The longhaired version should have his coat combed at least once a week to prevent tangles or mats. While the smooth-coated kind will need occasional brushing and routine baths to appear spiffy. The nails of both kinds should be cut often. Brushing your dog’s teeth is an important component of dental hygiene, and your veterinarian may also suggest giving your dog treats made specifically for tooth care. To prevent ear infections, routinely check your Chihuahua’s ears and clean out any wax or debris buildup.
👉Health
Most Chihuahuas are small, healthy dogs. However, the breed is susceptible to various hereditary disorders. To guarantee that the pups they produce are as genetically healthy as possible, pick your chihuahua dog from a breeder that consistently tests genetic health on all breeding stock. Potential heart problems, eye illness, and patellar luxation (loose kneecaps) are a few conditions that may impact Chihuahuas. The breed known to have idiopathic epilepsy.
👉Exercise
The Chihuahua loves to run and play and can usually get enough exercise in a very small space. This joyful breed gets enough exercise by just jogging after its owners. Short, leisurely walks can help your dog maintain a healthy weight & condition. If your dog is panting and working hard to keep up, it’s time to pick him up and carry him home.
👉Training
The Chihuahua is a little, very intelligent dog that is incredibly vigilant. They are willing to please their owners and take positive training methods effectively. Chihuahuas seem aware of their cuteness and learn how to obtain what they want. It would be best if you made it clear from away that you are in command. Never let your Chihuahua puppy act in a way that would be inappropriate for an adult. When teaching them, use a strong yet soft touch since they tend to have a little of a “terrier” disposition. They may succeed in canine sports & obedience training.
👉Nutrition
All the nutrients a breed requires will be present in high-quality dog food suitable for the dog’s age (adult, puppy, or senior). So keep an eye on your dog’s calorie intake and weight since certain Chihuahuas are prone to obesity. Treats may be an effective training tool, but too many might result in obesity. If at all, scraps from the table should be provided sparingly, and bones that are cooked & high-fat foods must be avoided. Learn which foods are OK for canine ingestion and which are not. See your veterinarian if you worry about your chihuahua’s weight or nutrition.
Chihuahua Common Health Issues
Chihuahuas are more likely than other dog breeds to have certain health issues. To assist you in understanding a few of the health conditions we find more often in Chihuahuas compared to other dog breeds, we’ve included an overview of some of our most current claims data. When purchasing a puppy, you may improve your chances of getting a healthy and happy dog by selecting a reliable Chihuahua breeder.
◾️Seizures
Some illnesses may damage the spine, the brain, and several nerves in chihuahuas. Fits or seizures caused by the brain condition epilepsy may start in puppies as early as six months old. Although they seem unpleasant, epileptic convulsions usually are not. To guarantee a happy, normal life, they may need to be managed with medicine throughout the dog’s life, depending on their severity.
◾️Dental Problems
Like other toy breeds, chihuahuas are more vulnerable to oral and dental problems, especially gum disease. When the part (or all) of the deep supporting components of a tooth become inflamed, gum disease results, this starts when food, bacteria, & minerals build up at the gum line, resulting in the development of tartar, a brown scale. Smaller mouths of toy breeds, like Chihuahuas, might make them more susceptible to crowding & foster the ideal environment for tartar buildup.
◾️Patella Luxation
The femur’s (the thigh bone) end has a groove where the kneecap, often known as the “patella,” rests. A kneecap that jumps out of its groove is dislocating (or “luxating”). A dislocation occurs when the alignment of bones from the hip to the knee to the ankle isn’t straight, pulling the kneecap to one side. This issue is rather frequent in Chihuahuas and other tiny breeds. Treatment options depend on the problem’s severity, but surgery may be necessary to lessen the risk of arthritis and provide the dog with a normal life.
◾️Heart Problems
Congenital heart disease, which means a dog has it from birth, and acquired heart disease, which appears later in life, are the two categories of heart disease in canines. Both of these flaws may result in “heart failure,” in which the heart struggles to circulate blood throughout the body. Chihuahuas are particularly vulnerable to valve dysfunction, often resulting in heart failure. Early detection of cardiac issues is essential because if they worsen to “heart failure,” ongoing care will be required for the rest of the dog’s life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes chihuahuas excellent dogs?
Chihuahuas are devoted and caring dogs who make ideal companions for new owners. They might be fiery, boisterous, timid, and quiet, but these small dogs have tremendous personalities. Chihuahuas are intelligent companions that are passionately devoted to the people they love. They will go anywhere with their owners.
Do Chihuahuas get along well with kids?
Chihuahuas are not recognized as the calmest breed and may not get along with kids, particularly if they are rowdy. Because of their reputation for being a touch sharp, this breed thrives in calmer homes without young children. Every time your Chihuahua interacts with kids, like with any dog, ensure everyone’s safety and happiness.
Are Chihuahuas aggressive dogs?
Chihuahuas are feisty, independent, and highly talkative canines. The Chihuahua, a large dog trapped in a little dog’s body, is quick to express their displeasure and, if necessary, will become outspoken and aggressive. It’s necessary to remember that for this little breed, anti-social behaviors are often brought on by your Chihuahua being frightened or intimidated. As a result, early socialization and frequent exposure to people and other dogs are key for raising a well-rounded & confident companion.
What are chihuahuas best known for?
The most distinguishing characteristics of chihuahuas are their tiny stature, large, round eyes, and inclination to tremble. But apart from their history and reputation as celebrity pets, there are many fascinating Chihuahua facts about this little dog species.
Is the Chihuahua the most intelligent dog?
Chihuahuas have the highest brain-to-body size ratio among any dog breed, although they are not the smartest. In reality, they rank approximately 67th on the list of clever dogs.
Why are Chihuahuas so popular?
Chihuahuas are playful, clever, and highly loving dogs like nothing but cuddling with their owners. They are good apartment inhabitants since they can receive most of their exercise inside and often prefer the ease of home to the vast outdoors.
Final Thoughts
There are several reasons why many pet owners believe Chihuahuas to be the finest or best dog breed. They are ideal for apartment life because their petite size, aggressive personality, and devotion make them fantastic companions. Chihuahua’s are also well-known for their trainability, intelligence, and ability to create deep attachments with their owners. They are generally courageous and make good watchdogs despite their little stature. Overall, Chihuahuas are a breed with a lot to offer and are an excellent option for anybody searching for a loving and affectionate companion. Do you want to know why do chihuahua dogs shake? Click Here!
Here at ILoveChihuahua, we share our personal experiences as owners of this feisty breed. We talk about recommended methods, dog supplies picks, and advice on common Chihuahua problems. Our goal is to promote responsible dog ownership, so there would be fewer Chihuahuas in shelters.
