History of The Chihuahua



The Chihuahua is recognized as one of the oldest dog breeds in existence. Through historical facts concerning the Cholula Pyramids and Chichen Itza ruins there is an indication that the Chihuahua has existed prior to the 16th century. Legends suggest that the ancestors of the Chihuahua were companions of the Toltecs during the 9th century and were used as part of their religious observances. No one knows exactly when Chihuahuas came into existence but it is believed that they existed before the Mayans.

Despite time and origin doubts, it is clear that the Chihuahua, dog owners have come to love today, originated in Mexico. The ancestors of the Chihuahua were larger than the current Chihuahua, and this is thought to be the result of breeding the original breed known as Techichi with the Chinese Crested dog.

Chihuahua were discovered by explorer Christopher Columbus, who brought the breed to Europe's attention in the 1500's. However, it is interesting to note that the Chihuahua were not introduced to North America until the 18th century. They were finally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904.

The name Chihuahua was given to the breed because it was found in the Mexican State of Chihuahua.

Basic Chihuahua Facts

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds and are part of the Toy group. They stand only 6-9 inches at the shoulders and weigh 2 ? 4 pounds. Chihuahua make excellent companions and are extremely devoted to their owner. They show plenty of affection towards their owner and will follow them everywhere.

Chihuahuas are one-person dogs. They are known to establish a close, trusting relationship with one person, and will be suspicious of everyone else. For this reason, they don't make the best family pet but make great companions.

The Chihuahua does not require much exercise, which makes them perfect for small spaces. However, they should still be taken for walks at least once a day for 10-15 minutes to give them the exercise they need to keep their muscles strong and prevent obesity. More Chihuahua facts can be found at.

Chihuahuas and Chihuahua puppies do not get along well with children under the age of 10. It will not tolerate any form of teasing and won't think twice about snapping at children if it feels threatened or is annoyed. As for other family pets, Chihuahuas tend to only get along well with their own kind. However, they can be accepting of other family pets if they are raised with them from puppy hood.

Chihuahua's make excellent watch dogs because they love to bark and are not overly accepting of strangers. Chihuahua ?s are a clever breed but are not easy to train. Chihuahua can be temperamental, jealous and territorial if given the chance. For this reason, it is extremely important that Chihuahua are well socialized when puppies and training is pursued. It is possible to raise a friendly Chihuahua if it is well socialized among people as a puppy, but this does take time and needs your constant reinforcement. At DJ Chihuahua we socialize all of our puppies properly as can be seen at.

Chihuahua's shed and come in two coat varieties: short hair and long hair. The short coat Chihuahua are easy to groom, and can be brushed once a week to keep their coat shiny. Long coat Chihuahua need daily brushing in order to keep their hair free of mats and tangles.

Chihuahua's are one of the longest living dog breeds, and can live up to 18 years or more. However, they are also prone to certain health problems such as hypoglycemia and patellar luxation. Additionally you should also know that the skull of a Chihuahua never fully develops, leaving a soft spot on their heads. This spot is known as molera. If a Chi is struck on the soft spot of their skull they could die as this area is unprotected.

If you are a first time dog owner or are looking for a companion who will never leave your side and is good company then a Chihuahua is the perfect breed for you. Just remember that this breed needs your constant care and attention.