CHIHUAHUA’S
THE CHIHUAHUA IS NONE FOR IT APPLE DOME HEAD AND IT’S BARREL CAGED BODY.To know me is to love me." – IS WHAT A Chihuahua's motto WOULD BE if they could talk.THE CHIHUAHUA CAN BE TRACED BACK Rich with history and legend, the tiny Chihuahua dates back to pre-Columbian Mexico, and is the oldest breed in the Americas. Chihuahuas are believed to descend either from the Techichi, mute companions to the Toltecs, or from small Chinese dogs brought to the Americas by the Conquistadors; it is also possible that both theories are accurate and the Chihuahua is a mix. The Techichi historical record only goes back to the ninth century but it is likely that the Chihuahua’s ancestors predate the Mayans. The remains of dogs resembling the Chihuahua have been found in the Pyramids at Cholula on the Yucatan Peninsula, which predate the 16th century. The Aztecs, who eventually conquered the Toltecs, adopted the Chihuahua as a sacred icon of the upper class. It is said the dogs were used in religious ceremonies to redress sins and as guides for the spirits of the dead. Christopher Columbus refers to the tiny dog in a letter to the King of Spain. Without doubt, the Chihuahua’s principle home was present-day Mexico, but the breed’s immigration to Europe may have been Columbus’ doing.
The present day Chihuahua is far smaller than its forebears. Some believe that the Chinese Crested Dog was responsible for the reduction in size, a smoother coat, and the Chihuahua’s voice. Modern Chihuahuas come in a plethora of colors and in both long and shorthaired varieties. Rediscovered in Chihuahua, Mexico in 1850, the dog has remained consistently popular to this day, and is among the most common breeds seen in American homes. The first Chihuahua to be officially registered by the American Kennel Club was "Midget" in 1904. This is a long-lived breed, often achieving 16 or more years of age. However, there are some genetic diseases that can cause problems. Like most toy breeds, the Chihuahua is susceptible to a knee injury caused by joint weakness and fractures and may suffer from jawbone disorders, eye problems, heart disease, and tooth and gum complaints. HERE IS AN EXAMPLE ON HOW TO AVOID HARMING YOUR CHIHUAHUA. For example, Chihuahuas should not be allowed to jump off high furniture or out of your arms as the impact on landing could fracture a leg. Children should not be allowed to carry a Chihuahua or to play roughly with one for the same reason.The Chihuahua is also born with a soft spot on the top of his head that may not fully close, so a blow here could kill him.The Chihuahua tendency to shiver or tremble is not a health issue but takes place when the dog is excited or stressed. One explanation is the toy dogs have a higher metabolism and so dissipate body heat faster than larger dogs. Shivering helps to generate body heat – that’s why people shiver when we are cold. However, rapid dissipation of body heat is a distinct disadvantage in cool or cold climates, so Chihuahuas should always be protected when taken outdoors in these areas. Fortunately, there are dozens of styles of protective sweaters available.YOU SHOULD ALWAYS KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON YOUR CHIHUAHUA WHEN IT IS PLAYING OUTSIDE SO IT DOESN’T GET SNATCHED BY AN EAGLE, HAWK,AND OWLS OR GET EATEN BY A COYOTE.YOU SHOULD ALSO HAVE YOUR CHI CHI ON A LEASH OR IN YOUR ARMS AROUND BIG DOGS TO INSURE YOUR DOG DOES NOT TRY TO DOMINATE . THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF CHIHUAHUAS SMOOTH-HAIRED AND LONG HAIRED. THEY COME IN A variety of shades, including brindle, blonde, black, brown, fawn, blue, and "splashed." It is interesting to note that Mexico prefers the jet black with tan markings, and the black and white spotted; the United States overwhelmingly prefers the solid colors, especially fawn. YOU SHOULD NOT GET A CHIHUAHUA IF YOU HAVE OTHER DOGS.THEY PREFUR THEIR OWN KIND. Chihuahuas are graceful, energetic, and swift-moving canines. They have often been described as having "terrier-like" qualities; that is, the qualities of being alert, observant, and keen on interacting with their masters. They are extremely loyal and get attached to one or two persons. These tiny dogs are certainly unaware of their diminutive stature: they can be bold with other dogs much larger than themselves, and protective of their masters. They are fiercely loyal to their masters and wary of any strangers or new guests introduced into the household, which the Chihuahua considers to be its personal domain. For these reasons, Chihuahuas make good watch dogs (not guard dogs, though!).The Chihuahua needs a great deal of human contact: touching, petting, and general attention. If the Chihuahua does not get this, she or he will use various attention-getting tricks until you give her/him attention. Some owners who have had other, more independent breeds may find the Chihuahua too needy. However, Chis give alot of love and affection in return for your care.Because they are by nature gentle, loyal, and sweet-tempered, Chihuahuas are ideal for single people, the elderly, the handicapped, and shut-ins. They will keep you company for hours by lying on your lap or beside your torso if in bed, and treat you like royalty. No one with a Chi in their household will ever be truly alone!