They are named after the largest state of Mexico – Chihuahua, where they were first discovered. In the past, they were bred for food and religious practices. Their popularity skyrocketed after being featured in Taco Bell commercials and public appearances with celebrities, movies, and even in fashion handbags have followed suit. They are often referred to as “the dog everyone wants to be seen with and own.” As per the American Kennel Club (AKC), the chihuahua has been consistently in the top 10 of most popular dog breeds for the last 10 years.
About Chihuahua (Chiwawa) Dogs
A chiwawa (Chihuahua) is a small dog that is often considered to be a toy breed. They are known for being playful, energetic, and loving. Chiwawas typically weigh between 10 and 20 pounds and stand no more than 12 inches tall at the shoulder. They come in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and beige.
A little-known fact about the Chiwawa breed of dog is that the breed’s name is often misspelled. So, how to spell chiwawa? The correct spelling of the breed’s name is ‘Chihuahuas’ but many people spell it “Chiwawa” or “Chiowawa.” The misspelling of the breed’s name likely originated when German breeders crossed the native Chihuahua with a breed of dog known as the Chinese Hairless. This is where the “wa” in the breed’s name comes from; “Chiwaawa” means “little hairless dog.”
Despite the misspelling of its name, the Chiwawa remains one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world. The small size and playful personality of the breed make it a favorite among pet owners.
Some Chihuahuas have short, smooth coats while others have long, fluffy coats.
Chiwawas are considered to be good dogs for people who live in apartments or small homes because they are relatively small and do not require a lot of exercise. They are also known for being very loyal and protective of their families.
They make good watchdogs and will bark when they see or hear something that seems out of the ordinary.
Chihuahuas (Chiwawas) are very active dogs and require plenty of exercise. Without enough activity they can become restless and destructive.
This breed makes an excellent house companion if you want something small, yet sturdy enough to play with your kids, go on long walks or simply lounge around the house with you all day. Chiwawas can be shy, so it is important for them to be socialized early in life with other people and animals.
Be prepared to have a little dog that barks at everything; Chihuahuas (Chiwawas) are notorious for being yappy, but this can easily be corrected with proper training and socialization.
Like all breeds, they can also be prone to health problems, so regular vet check-ups are important. Chiwawas are sometimes prone to health problems, including respiratory problems, eye problems, and skin allergies. They also require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and free of mats.
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are very sturdy dogs and can be quite protective of their families. They make great watchdogs and will alert their owners when someone is approaching the house. Chihuahuas are also very loyal and loving, making them the perfect pet for anyone looking for a small dog with a big personality.
How big are Chihuahua dogs usually?
The Chihuahua is one of the smallest, most attractive, and most popular breeds of dogs. Because of their size, they are often referred to as “purse dogs”, “teacup dogs”, and “lap dogs”. They stand at 5 to 8 inches tall and weigh up to 6 pounds. A chihuahua that weighs 10 pounds or more is considered to be overweight. The chihuahua is classified into two types; short-haired and long-haired. The former is the most common type. The long-haired chihuahuas only shed once every year, while the short-haired shed all year round. They have large, round and expressive eyes; prick ears, and pointed muzzles. They have “apple-head” skull conformation, and their bodies are compact and muscular. The male chihuahuas have shorter bodies than the female. Their coats come in different colors and patterns. Healthy adult chihuahuas can live between 15 to 20 years. They are considered to be one of the dog breeds with the longest life expectancy. They are sensitive to cold weather and their temperature drops in the winter.
How is it to owning a Chihuahua dog?
This tiny dog is full of personality – loving, friendly, comical, energetic, quirky. They are known for their loyalty. They like attention and spend quality time with their owner. They can even be good travel companions – as long as they stay near their owners. Just look at how clingy they can be! They are a favored pet and can get along with kids with supervision. Truly, the best things come in small packages!
Due to their size, having a chihuahua does not require outdoor exercise as they can already have enough of this inside the house or apartment. They are a perfect pet for those living in small spaces or owners who are not fond of going outside. They love to curl up in their owner’s lap and love to be warm. These cute, little creatures can easily sense when someone is coming or outside the door. This can be attributed to their ears which take up at least 20% of their bodies. Hence, they are considered to be great watchdogs. They can be borderline territorial.
Advantages and disadvantages of a Chihuahua dog?
Aside from all the adorable characteristics of this breed, it is also of utmost importance to know and understand some of the cons of owning a chihuahua. They are fragile dogs and can easily be injured. They should never be put on a leash because their necks are so tiny. Young children tend to forget how tiny they are causing them accidents and distress. Even adults need to be careful and attentive when there is a chihuahua in the house as they are squishy and can fall down from the sofa or bed. They can even be stepped on if they go unnoticed. As such, it is not a wise idea to have them sleep with you on your bed. The owner should always be mindful of the whereabouts of their chihuahua as they might ingest something poisonous such as plants and foods. A tiny amount can be fatal to them. Aside from that, this tiny dog can fall prey to bigger animals.
Chihuahua bite force?
They often have the tendency to display the “small dog syndrome” by being feisty and aggressive without realizing their size. They also tend to bite, bark, and be nasty when there are other people and dogs but this trait can be eliminated when they are properly trained to socialize at an early age. The chihuahua’s bite force in pounds is between 100 to 180 per square inch which is enough to inflict scratches and bleeding.
What differentiates a Chihuahua from other dogs?
Training them to do their business requires more time and attention than other breeds. They have small bladders that can only hold a small amount of urine so they need to relieve themselves more often. For starters, crate training or pen training are introduced. The crate should be spacious enough for the chihuahua to stand and stretch. In this method, the crate is placed where the owner is spending most of his/her time as they love to be anywhere near their owner. They need to get used to a schedule until they learn what is expected of them. The process can even take up to 6 months but being patient and well-informed will gradually bear the fruit of success.
Just like any other dog, it can be quite challenging at the beginning to groom chihuahuas but the key is to be calm and firm. Grooming them can be easy-peasy, once they have developed this habit. An owner does not need to pay for a professional to do it. They just need to be bathed, have their nails kept short, and their hair is brushed properly and regularly. Good thing is that they are not hypoallergenic. This breed can also keep their bodies clean by licking but owners need to watch out for loose furs, tangles, fleas, and ticks.
Teeth cleaning, however, needs to be done by a professional. Their small mouths cause the food to be trapped in the teeth. As such, they can be vulnerable to gum disease, tooth decay, and loss. Their overall oral hygiene needs to be monitored by a professional. As small as they are, but they have the same number of teeth as large dogs do. They need to use toothpaste that is particularly formulated for them – one without fluoride as this can really be detrimental to them. Fret not, there is a wide array of toothpaste flavors that they will absolutely enjoy such as beef, chicken, and salmon. There are also dental chew toys that will aid in cleaning their teeth. If not given proper attention, the accumulation of bacteria can cause heart, kidney, and liver disease.
An owner also needs to consider the recurring cost that comes along with having this pet. Things to consider in the budget are the food, accessories, and visit to the veterinarian. They are cheaper to feed as they only eat twice a day. A large bag of dog food can be consumed for several months. It is a sad fact that several dogs end up being abandoned because owners cannot meet the dog’s basic needs. Hence, it is important to consider all the pros and cons first instead of purchasing pets on a whim.
What about Chihuahua dogs’ mental health?
One of the chihuahua’s notorious traits is that they are stubborn and difficult to housebreak. Housebreaking is teaching your dog to pee or defecate outside the house or in a specific place.
Are there any health issues to be aware of when owning a Chihuahua dog?
Chihuahuas are a healthy breed and can outlive other dogs, however, they can also be susceptible to several illnesses such as;
- Hydrocephalus – a buildup of fluid on the brain. Chihuahuas suffering from this disease have a swollen head, bad coordination, and seizures. This is incurable but dogs can still live a long, normal life.
- Hypoglycemia – a condition where the blood sugar level is extremely low. This causes the dog to be dizzy, weak, and disoriented. Skipping a meal or two will result in blood sugar level drop.
- Collapsed trachea – this condition is very common and can be treated. Dogs with this illness have difficulty in breathing and have a chronic cough.
- Luxating Patella – this is a hereditary disease wherein the kneecap is dislocated. This can be treated by surgery.
- Spinal injuries – the small frame of chihuahuas make them prone to this condition. Owners should be extra careful of their dogs when there is a crowd or large dogs around to avoid mishaps.
- Obesity – unmonitored feeding can cause this condition. Due to this, the dog will suffer from joint and spine problems, difficulty in breathing, and even a short lifespan.
- Glaucoma – this is a harmful eye condition that can make chihuahuas blind if not treated. This is painful because of the intense amount of pressure in the eye causing it to bulge.
What kind of diet should my Chihuahua dog be on?
Chihuahuas are picky eaters. To maintain their health, they need to be fed a certain amount based on their size and age. The main ingredient in their diet should be some sort of meat. Dry foods are also preferred over wet foods. These little ones have sensitive stomachs. They react negatively to cheap, processed foods which can cause allergies and nutritional deficiency. They just cannot eat anything. They are discouraged from gaining extra weight as this may be risky for their small frame. Owners need to make sure that junk foods, grapes, candies, and chocolates are not left within the chihuahuas reach as these are harmful to them.
What do you need to know about Chihuahua dogs before getting one?
Is the chihuahua the perfect breed for you? The answer lies with the owner. He/she must be prepared and knowledgeable in dealing with a chihuahua. He/she must be committed to taking care of this breed regardless of whether the dog lives up to his/her expectations. If you are looking for the perfect pooch for your family, you need to willingly pay a generous amount to guarantee that the one you are going to buy does not have genetic defects. As soon as you decide to get one, the first appointment you will have to make is with your trusted veterinarian. Your pup needs to have a general evaluation to determine its health and signs of illness.
When a family has other dogs in the house, they must also consider the compatibility of chihuahuas with them. It is easy for them to get along well with their own breed and other small dogs especially if they are familiar with them. They are known to be wary and, in some cases, aggressive when other dogs are around. However, this behavior can still be changed if they have been taught to socialize from early puppyhood.
How much do Chihuahua dogs usually cost?
Generally, buying a chihuahua is less expensive but the cost also depends on some factors such as age, quality, gender, paperwork, where it is purchased. On average, the price ranges from $300 to $800. The rare breed can be sold for up to $10,000.
Where to get a Chihuahua dog?
The demand for fancy pet dogs has posed serious animal welfare issues such as inbreeding and inherited diseases. Due to its popularity, finding reputable chihuahua breeders have become a struggle. Here is a list of 10 best places to find Chihuahua dogs:
1. Terlingua Chihuahuas – https://www.terlinguachihuahuas.com
They are located on a farm in Middle Tennessee. They are dedicated to preserving the Chihuahua breed for future generations. As such, they conform to the highest standard set by major kennel clubs. They are proud to be a BRC Certified Code of Ethics Breeder.
2. Salem’s Finest AKC Chihuahua’s – https://www.salemsfinestchihuahuas.com
They take pride in prioritizing the health of the puppies they breed by performing genetic testing and results are posted publicly. The dogs’ patellas and hearts are examined by the Orthopedic Foundation of Animals (OFA). The DNA of male dogs is examined by the American Kennel Club of America.
3. Brislin Chihuahuas – https://brislinchihuahuas.com
They are located in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. They are home to champion dogs that have competed in breed events and shows. Their puppies come from this lineage – all of which are home-raised, indoors, and underfoot. They strive to conform to the AKC chihuahua breed standard by protecting the health and appearance of all their puppies.
4. Izzy’s Chihuahuas – https://www.izzyschihuahuas.com
They are located in southern Louisiana. They are known to breed smooth and long coat puppies. They boast to have chihuahuas that are healthy, well-tempered, and standard conformation. Vaccine shots are administered and a registered veterinarian routinely checks the health of all puppies.
5. Guichon’s Chihuahuas – https://www.guichonchi.com
They are located in a wide property in Virginia where the dogs run safely. They are proud to be an AKC Breeder of Merit – an organization that honors responsible breeders. They brag to breed puppies that are offspring of AKC Champions and Grand Champions hence they demand a hefty price for their puppies.
6. Foxfire Chihuahuas – https://jenksfoxfire.com
They are located in the northwestern hills of Connecticut. They are proud to be members of several prominent organizations such as the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America, the Chihuahua Club of America, the Heart of New England Chihuahua Club, and the list goes on. Their dogs participate in the American Kennel Club (AKC) conformation exhibits.
7. Jen-Jeans Chihuahuas – https://jen-jeanschihuahuas.com (*site is down)
They are located in Missouri. They have been recognized with the Breeder of Merit by the AKC; ensuring the health, structure, temperament, and high standard of the puppies they breed. They have also won multiple awards in conformation shows.
8. DS Darling AKC Long Hair Chihuahuas – https://dsdarlingakclonghairchihuahuas.com
They are located in Cornelius, Oregon. They are a small home breeder and have been doing so for over 30 years. They produce puppies with excellent personalities, conformation, and appearance. They specialize in long-haired chihuahuas in different colors. All puppies are checked by their veterinarian, wormed, and given appropriate shots.
9. Uey’s Chihuahuas – https://ueyshomeraisedpuppies.com
They are located in Florida. As a matter of fact, the breeder has a degree in Health Science and Genetics from the University of Florida. They raise both short and long coat chihuahuas in many colors – all of which are bred with love, care, and genetically tested. It is noteworthy to mention that they prefer to meet buyers of their puppies instead of shipping them. They also serve as a rescue center and help find the puppies a loving home.
10. Prestige Chihuahua – https://prestigechihuahuas.com
They are located on the Eastern Coast of Florida. They are a small breeder and are recognized by the AKC and the Chihuahua Club of America. Their puppies are fully-vaccinated having received three vaccines although some vets normally give two vaccine shots.
In the event that the aforementioned breeders are beyond your means, reputable breeders can also be found nearby. Rescue groups and shelters are also an option. Before bringing the adopted chihuahuas to your home, you need to pay a visit to a professional grooming shop for a basic wellness evaluation. Ticks, fleas, and mites can also be removed in this checkup.
Fun facts
1. Chihuahuas are known to have one of the largest-sized brains, as far as the body-to-brain ratio is concerned. Thus, they are believed to be highly intelligent although there is not enough scientific research to back this up yet.
2. They have the highest rate of Cesarean sections. An average chihuahua can be pregnant for around 65 days. First-time moms give birth between one to three litters. When they get older, they can give birth to larger litters.
3. The color of their nose can vary – black, pink, gray, brown!
4. According to the American Kennel Club, their color range can reach up to 29 combinations.
5. Completely white chihuahuas are the rarest.
6. They are prone to phobias such as separation anxiety and fear of traffic.
7. They can be overwhelmed by bodies of water but they are capable of swimming.
8. They are the second most euthanized breed. (This is not a fun fact though.)
