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Facts about Chihuahua Puppies
Are you unsure how to care for Chihuahua puppies or just want to learn more about the breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a dog and want to know if this is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
Considering how popular this breed is, we know surprisingly little about its origin.
We know that Toltec and Aztec Indians had a small dog. Some experts believe that a modern day Chihuahua is a descendent of that dog while others think it's a descendent of dogs introduced to North America by Chinese travelers.
What we do know for sure is that the breed as we know it today was discovered in the Mexican state of Chihuahua in 1850s and was brought to the United States around the same time.
Physical Characteristics of Chihuahua Puppies
The Chihuahua is one of the most recognizable breeds in the world. It's also the smallest. Some dogs can fit in a palm of a hand!
It has a body that is longer than it is tall and its head appears large for its body. It has large, slightly bulging eyes and large ears. The tail curls over its back. The coat can be long or short. The long haired Chihuahua is not as common as the short haired variety.
Some people erroneously think that different sized dogs belong to different types of the same breed. For example, they use the term Teacup Chihuahua to describe the smallest dogs.
According to the Chihuahua Club of America, there are just two types of Chihuahua - the short haired and long haired Chihuahua. All other terms, such as a Toy Chihuahua or a Teacup Chihuahua are just misleading.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 6 to 9 inches | 2 to 6 pounds | |
| Female | 6 to 9 inches | 2 to 6 pounds |
Temperament
Chihuahua puppies are NOT the friendliest dogs!
They dislike dogs of other breeds and are not fond of strangers and children.
These dogs are alert, devoted to their owners and can be... ferocious! They have sharp teeth and will use them when provoked. They are also known for attacking dogs several times their size.
A Chihuahua will pick its favorite family member and will channel 100% of its devotion to that person. It can even get jealous over that person's human relationships!
In short, it's a prime candidate for socialization training!
Best Owner
Chihuahua puppies are well suited for an apartment lifestyle. Their activity level is low, making them perfect pets for elderly and inactive owners. They are not advised for people with small children.
Some Chihuahua breeders may interview prospective owners to make sure they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
Though this is not a very active breed, Chihuahua puppies still need to exercise.
Playing with and taking your pet for a walk will keep him healthy and lean (this breed tends to gain weight quite easily).
Grooming
A short haired Chihuahua needs to be brushed only occasionally while a long-haired will need to be brushed two or three times a week. There is no need to bathe Chihuahua puppies unless they get dirty or smelly. Under normal circumstances, bathing once a month is sufficient.
In addition to brushing and bathing, check the ears for wax build up and clip the nails when necessary. You may also want to pay special attention to his teeth and gums.
Here is an interesting fact...
Did you know that a long haired Chihuahua actually sheds less than a short-haired one?
Health Concerns
Chihuahuas are predisposed to rapid weight gain, so make sure not to overfeed your pet and provide him with plenty of exercise.
This breed also requires professional help with birthing and dental care (visit dog teeth cleaning to learn more).
Other health concerns include heart problems, collapsed trachea, epilepsy and seizures.
To avoid the above and many other problems, buy only from reputable Chihuahua breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy for the Chihuahua is 15 years but some dogs can live up to 20 and even 22 years.
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