CUSTOM CAT CARE FROM SLEEP-EAS-ZZ…

The Chihuahua the smallest of the dog breeds, but don’t tell your Chi.  When this fearless little dog looks into the mirror it sees a Great Dane looking back!

Description:

Chihuahua’s are one of the toy breeds and originally come from Mexico.  You are probably already familiar with this breed from the “Yo Quiero Taco Bell” television commercials.  The Chihuahua is a small-boned but muscular breed.  Hallmark characteristics of these dogs include their large round large eyes and ears that stand straight up.  There are 2 head shapes in Chihuahuas, the apple head and the deer head.  Apple head Chihuahuas have a dome shaped head and a short nose.  Deer head Chihuahuas have just that, a deer shaped head, with a longer nose.  However, only the apple head variety is recognized by the American Kennel Club.  Apple heads are smaller at 2-6 lbs, while deer heads tend to be larger at 7-10 lbs.  Chihuahuas come in both long and short hair varieties and their coat can be of any color or pattern.

Apple head			Deer head

Temperament:

Chihuahua’s are overconfident, spunky, energetic, and alert.  Chihuahuas are generally friendly and are completely devoted to their “people.”  Chihuahuas are a loyal breed that will fiercely protect their home from invaders by barking intensely and threatening mayhem.  Once the Chihuahua has deemed a newcomer “OK” the barking will cease.  Chihuahuas make excellent watch dogs, but they have no real guard dog capability. This breed is ideally suited for couples and the elderly, but may not do well with small children as they can become quite nasty if provoked.  Chihuahuas also do very well with other pets in the home.  Although these personality traits are common among Chihuahuas, every Chi is still an individual and there are exceptions to every rule.

Care:

Chihuahuas are a long-lived breed.  They can live 15-18 years. Monthly bathing is recommended but remember to keep their ears dry.  The Chihuahua fits well in the kitchen sink which makes bath time easy.  Chihuahuas can get cold easily so blow drying after a bath is helpful.  During the winter they may appreciate a sweater when outside and many Chihuahuas like to sleep under the covers with their people or in a dog bed with high sides that they can snuggle against for extra warmth.  Long coat Chihuahuas need daily brushing while those with short coats do not.  The breed is an average shedder whether long or short furred.  Be careful allowing your Chihuahua to jump off of high furniture as the impact could hurt their small bones.  Chihuahuas are a good breed for apartment living but will need regular walks to maintain a healthy weight.  One extra pound on a Chihuahua can make a big difference.  Chihuahuas are generally a healthy breed but do have some special health concerns including patellar luxation (slipping knee caps), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and hydrocephalus (water on the brain).  Although most Chihuahuas will never have these problems they are at an increased risk.  Your Chihuahua should be seen annually by a veterinarian for well checks and immunizations.

CHIAUAHUA FACTS…The Aztecs Adopted the Chi after they conquered the Toltecs…they were considered SACRED to the upper class and guides to dead spirits!

The Chi is thought to be a cross between the ancient Techichi belonging to the Toltecs and a small dog with out hair from the Orient.

It is recorded to be the oldest canine to North America

Socially the Chihuahuas are upset by children, tend to be clannish with each other and shake when excited or cold.

The AKC registered it’s first Chihuahua in 1904.

Hard to believe but Cats and Chihuahua’s love each other!

Chihuahua’s had a medical use in ancient times…can you guess?  they were used for heating pads to sooth your aches and pains.

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