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The best of dogs and the worst of dogs, the Chihuahua could be easily described and through no fault of its own! This breed is so small, pocket sized even, that those who have no business with a dog at all, are drawn to it,.. seeing in its diminutiveness something "easy to manage". This is grossly unfair! The Chihuahua requires greater and more careful handling than many dogs. A jump down from furniture can result in a broken leg, casual handling by some inconsiderate individual (like a child) can lead to serious injury as well. If this doesn't deter you, then read on! Because the Chihuahua can truly also be the best of dogs when in the best of care.
Colors: any color including solid, marked and splashed
Coat type: soft textured smooth coat, glossy
Recognized Registries: AKC, NCA and others
Overall Appearance: Alert, saucy expression with natural ears and compact, muscular body. The Terrier ancestry is clearly apparent and very generous in the agility and speed of this little dog.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: can be high
General Nature:
good but generally they are very aware of their vulnerability and can be fearful of movement and noises
with Children: not a good choice because of the overall fragility
with other pets: can be excellent but good judgment must be exercised
with dogs: excellent with dogs of similar size and nature, due to fragility, supervision is mandatory even with another dog that weighs 15 pounds
Socialization requirements: moderate, owners can fall into the trap of overindulging and creating little tyrants
Ideal home characteristics: dedication and commitment is required in being and creating a safe and happy environment for these little dogs as they either don't seem to know their size and take on the world, or tend toward a bit of fearfulness
Temperament Notes: wonderful attitudes, greatly entertaining and devoted
Training requirement: socializing and some basic manners make for an exceptional pet, but don't overlook this dog because of its size, even though small, the Chihuahua is very intelligent and quite capable of learning virtually any skill a trainer can offer.
Trainer notes: A certain amount of creativity and/or access to some excellent books on training small dogs is helpful when working with a Chihuahua. Gentle, quiet methods are recommended to help build up confidence. Later a more experienced dog will need to be worked heavily around noisy, large and moving distractions so that the confidence and trust will outweigh a sense of defense or anxiety over their vulnerability. Remember, size is relative, so if your Chihuahua exhibits courage unbound, working for consistency so that they don't run pell mell into trouble would be needed as well.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: 1850s
Country of Origin: Mexico
Original Function: companion
History: Discovered in the Chihuahua region of Mexico, its history potentially includes being a companion to the royalty of the Aztecs, contributions by the hairless dogs of Asia and a trip across the Bering Straits.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard: oversized, incorrect head, poor dentition, incorrect tail
Health Notes: slipped stifles, jawbone, eye and heart disorders, dental issues
Will you place your puppies in homes with children under the age of 12 (very few responsible breeders will)?
What titles do you seek for your breeding stock?
What health clearances do you require for your breeding stock?
Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
What do you consider to be the proper Chihuahua temperament?
What health problems are you aware of in the breed?
What training/socializing tips can you offer?
Web Sites:
http://www.chihuahua-rescue.com/- National Rescue and Transport Group for Chihuahuas, very well organized, excellent source of support and information for those seeking a Chihuahua
www.PetWearUSA.com - Custom design your Yorky's collar or harness from over 10,000 possibilities! Free Shipping.
http://www.AdogableApparel.com - Our hand-knit, custom made sweaters for your Chihuahua are GUARANTEED to fit! Adogable Apparel offers everything Chihuahua from beds to pocketbooks. Visit and use coupon code DIGITALDOG for FREE SHIPPING on your total order.
