Chihuahua
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 Description:
There is no arguing that the Chihuahua is the
smallest of all dogs, but there is plenty of disagreement
about its origins. Some claim that the breed was
developed in Egypt over 3000 years ago, while
others claim he is native to the Western hemisphere
and evolved in Mexico. Some argue that perhaps
the dog came to Mexico from the Mediterranean
area during the Spanish Conquest, and yet others
believe it arrived in Mexico as litttle as only
100 years with Chinese traders. Despite the confusion,
the breed was discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico
by American tourists in the 19th century who then
brought the breed back to the States. It was later
crossed with other toy breeds (possibly the Pomeranian
or the Pekingese) to create the Long-Coated variety.
The Chihuahua enjoys the pampered life and is
content in an apartment with occasional exercise.
Height: The
height of a Chihuahua is between 6 - 9" (15.2
- 22.9cm)
Weight: Average
weight for a Chihuahua is just 2 to 6 pounds (1-3
kg), although some are only 1 lb (0.5 kg).
Coat Type: The
original short-coated Chihuahua variety has a
short, smooth, glossy coat. The long-coated variety
has a longer, soft coat which may be straight,
wavy or curly. Grooming needs for the short-haired
variety are minimal; the long-haired coat does
require occasional brushing to keep the coat clean
and free of mats. The short-coat Chihuahua needs
extra protection from the elements in harsher,
colder environments.
Temperament:
The Chihuahua was developed primarily as a human
companion, and as such he makes a good pet for
the stay-at-home type. He is a jaunty, clever
little dog and makes a good watch dog as well.
Health Problems: Chihuahuas
are prone to several health issues which include
hydrocephalus, epilepsy, seizure disorders, hypoglycemia
and eye infections / injury among others. This
breed is the only one to have a molera - or soft
spot on its head which the Chihuahua is born with.
Over time, it should come together, but not always,
therefore extra care and caution is needed. The
average life span of a Chihuahua is between 10
- 17 years.
Special Interest: Archaeologists
have discovered the remains of dogs very similar
in structure to the Chihuahua in ancient Egyptian
tombs. One distinctive feature, shared by both
today's dog and the mummified remains, was the
"molera" or soft-spot on the front of
the skull, not unlike that of the newborn baby.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 5 - Toys
ANKC: Group 1 - Toy
CKC: Group 5 - Toys
FCI: Group 9 Section 6 Chihuahueñ o
KC: Non-Sporting - Toys
NZKC: Toy
UKC: Companion Breeds
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