Basic Information To Know About The Chihuahua

The Chihuahua (named after the Mexican state and sometimes called the "New Yorker" in Mexico) is the smallest of all dog breeds and can either feature a long or short coat that comes in a wide variety of colors. The breed has origins dating back to as far as the 9th century, and they were first bred for the main purpose of acting as companion dogs.

A few of their most recognizable features include their small size, high sense of importance and intense attachment to their owners - which help make the Chihuahua one of the most popular companionship dogs that is highly suitable for smaller households and apartments.

The Chihuahua's history is largely based on speculation but is believed to have descended from the Techichi which was a breed kept by the Aztecs for the purpose of companionship. The modern breed is believed to be a result of crossing this native dog with dogs introduced by the New World explorers.

The Chihuahua is well-known for their lively, alert, self-confident and often devoted temperament. They are generally suspicious of strangers, which can make them suitable as a watch dog but their size lessens their suitability as a guard dog.

The Chihuahua is not known to be highly intelligent - ranking 67th compared to other dogs based on their ability to learn obedience commands. They are also known to be easily injured by young children - making them not the best choice for families with young children. The Chihuahua is generally not very compatible with other animals due to the devotion to their owner who they may be unwilling to share and they may be particularly aggressive with other dogs.

Grooming the Chihuahua is a relatively simple task - though this may vary somewhat depending on whether they are short-coated or long-coated. They require an occasional amount of brushing two or three times a week and complete grooming every 6 to 8 weeks.

The Chihuahua is happiest with a small yard to run around in, but doesn't require much space and they can be a very good choice for apartment living if they are exercised enough. They enjoy warmer temperatures, and can be uncomfortable if gets too cold - they will need a jacket when venturing outside in cooler weather.

The Chihuahua can make the perfect dog for a gentle owner who will give them plenty of companionship. They are suitable for anyone who is willing to commit to a small amount of grooming and take time to give them firm and consistent training with early socialization as well as take them for short daily walks and give a very high amount of companionship and attention. Though they might be somewhat unsuitable for families with young children, if you are able to meet their need for human contact and careful attention to ensure they don't injure themselves then the Chihuahua could make the ideal dog breed for you and act as a devoted companion for many years.

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