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Chihuahuas, Practically Perfect in Every Way!

The goal of my website is to create a space where you can find everything you ever wanted to know about these happy little dogs from a Chihuahua’s point of view, as transcribed by her daddy.

Also lots of helpful tips and links to great Chihuahua and other dog sites.

I’m Lucy, the Chi. I developed this website with my daddy’s help to get the word out that Chihuahuas are in charge. Ask anyone who has one in their lives.

As a rule, nobody owns a Chihuahua, they own you. You are their caretakers and in exchange you get lots of love and kisses.

Origin of the Chihuahua Breed

It is believed that the Chihuahua breed originated in Mexico. Most likely Chihuahuas are descended from the Techichi, a companion dog favored by the Toltec civilization in Mexico.

Description

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog recognized by Kennel Clubs. I, on the other hand, am a Chihuahua grande. There’s more of me to love.

There are two varieties of Chihuahuas, the Smooth Coat (short hair) and the Long Coat. Unlike people, we are not able to remove our coats and are stuck with what we have. Although you can put a coat over our pre-packaged coats for those cold winter days.

Typical Chihuahuas have apple shaped heads, which are rounded, with close-set round eyes and short ears (triangular in shape). We do not have apple stems and do not grow on trees. Most Chihuahuas’ ears stand up. Mine do not. I have lazy ear syndrome (not a real thing).

Appearance

Did you know the Chihuahua breed standard does not specify a height, only a weight and general description? Being a girl of a certain weight, I say, why is it all about the weight?

Chihuahuas range in height between 6 and 9 inches although some grow up to 12 or 15 inches, like me. Chihuahuas over 6 pounds are considered above the breed standard. I weigh 11 lbs. and am very cute.

Pet Chihuahuas are meant to be companions and not show dogs. They can be larger and heavier than what is required for show dogs. But I don’t care. I’d rather enjoy a snack or two than be in a show. Unless it’s on TV and I get lots of money for my daddy.

There is a long coat and smooth coat Chihuahua. Smooth coat means short haired, like me. I’m easy to groom and bathe. Both types are genetically the same breed. Surprisingly the long coat Chihuahuas are actually smoother to the touch and shed less than the short haired brand, like me. Typically all Chihuahuas are easy to care for and require little grooming. Easy peasy.

Another bonus with Chihuahuas are that they come in almost any color combo you can imagine, such as solid to mixed, from solid black or white, spotted or any other color or pattern. Get a bunch of Chihuahuas to match your entire wardrobe. All Chihuahuas are equally valuable, in other words, priceless. Choose from white, brown, black, fawn, red, cream, or mixed. Not available through Amazon at this time.

Temperament

A Chihuahua’s temperament depends a lot on the genetics of their parents and grandparents. Socialization has a bit to do with it too. It is said Chihuahuas can be easily provoked to attack and are unsuitable for homes with small kids. I live in a home with small children and we all get along fine

As a breed, Chihuahuas are very loyal to one person in the family and can be super protective of that person. I spend most of my time with my daddy and will always try to protect him, unless I’m napping. Then he’s on his own.

They say Chihuahuas like to stick with their own breed and do not always get along with other dog breeds. I personally dislike all dog breeds equally. I prefer people to animals, but I sometimes find cats intriguing.

Chihuahuas prefer a calm household and tend to get cranky with stressful situations. That is why young kids may get a little bitten if they play roughly with us tiny doggies. Teenagers may be a better fit. Or oldsters.

Chihuahuas, like other dogs and even children, can sometimes take on the temperament of their owner.

Chihuahuas love to have their own den. They enjoy burrowing themselves in pillows, under blankets, on purple bean bag chairs (guilty), any place warm and cozy. We also enjoy sunning ourselves whenever possible.

Chihuahua Puppy

Health

Did you know that the Chihuahua is the only breed of dog that is born with an incomplete skull? This means that the little apple head has a soft spot (as you will in your heart when you get your Chihuahua puppy). It’s called a molera. It takes about six months for this to close and become a fully formed skull.

Because Chihuahuas have large, bulging eyeballs, they are prone to eye infections and injuries. Keep a watchful eye on your Chi’s bulgy eyes. Ay yi yi.

Small breed dogs like the Chihuahua have small jaws which make for weaker teeth. Therefor they require “expert veterinary attention” in regards to their dental care. I hate getting my teeth cleaned.

Beware of hypoglycemia in your Chi puppy. Low blood sugar is common. Keep a simple sugar supplement handy in case you find your Chi puppy is lethargic, sleepy and uncoordinated while walking, as well as unfocused, fainting or seizing. Yikes! So much to know about.

Keep your Chihuahua fit and trim. You don’t want a fat Chihuahua. Obesity can result in joint injuries, tracheal issues, heart disease and bronchitis, all leading to a shorter lifespan. No one wants that. Keep the treats to a minimum and no table scraps. Just don’t tell this to my daddy.

You will notice that Chihuahuas will shake and shiver when stressed, cold or excited. We do not like the cold so please keep us warm and cozy. Keep lots of blankets and pillows for our use. Always have a lap handy for those much deserved naps.

Another common condition in Chihuahuas is a dislocating patella, which is genetic and can happen in all breeds. When the ridges of the patella groove is not shaped correctly, a shallow groove is created which causes the patella to luxe or slip out of place. This can cause pain and affect the way the Chihuahua holds its leg when flexed. I had this problem when I was younger. I often kept my leg off the ground when walking until my daddy massaged my leg and it relaxed. Unfortunately for me I had to have surgery to correct this issue, but all is well now.

Heart-related disorders are also found in Chihuahuas. This includes heart murmurs and pulmonic stenosis, an obstruction at the pulmonic valve.

The Chihuahua can live from 12 to 20 years old (human years). Little dogs live longer than bigger dogs because we’re compact and cute. At least that’s my opinion.

Lucy the Chi

All My Chihuahuas

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