Home & Family Facts and Notes

Everyone is familiar with the tiny Chihuahua dog breed, but what many people don’t know is that there are different types of Chihuahua dogs. At one time these tiny canines were considered sacred to the Aztec tribes, but today they are mostly a pampered pet. Chihuahua dogs were discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico.

The Chihuahua in part due to their portable size have become quite popular lately and their popularity continues to grow. Although the Chihuahua is known as the smallest of the dog breeds, but what many people don’t realize is there are different Chihuahua types. This little powerhouse has a huge heart so don’t be fooled by its tiny size!

Chihuahuas come in all sorts of colors, including chocolate, cream, silver, blue, black and fawn. Their heads can be shaped like deer or they can have apple heads. Applehead Chihuahuas have a very round head, a small snout, and close-set eyes. The ones with deer heads have an elongated nose similar to Doberman Pinschers.

The American Kennel Club recognizes two types of Chihuahuas: the shorthair and the longhair. Shorthairs have a smooth coat may have a curved tail. Shorthairs often do not shed. The longhair, on the other hand, has a soft hair, which may or may not be curly, with longer hair on their ears and tail.

The terms “teacup” and “mini” when applied to Chihuahuas are merely commercial designations used to try to elicit high prices from the buyer. All Chihuahuas are genetically a toy breed, and breeding to produce the tiniest dog possible is a long-established custom. Don’t be fooled into paying more for a Chihuahua merely because of its description.

The 10th most popular breed in the US is the Chihuahua. They are an intelligent breed. They weigh six pounds or less. They are six to nine inches tall. They are very protective of their owners and their territory, despite their small size. The most popular Chihuahua type is the tan shorthaired, which was made popular because of the Taco Bell commercials.

Chihuahuas are perfect for people who don’t have large yards or much room for large dogs. Chihuahua are long lived, some living for 16 years or more. Shorthaired Chihuahuas adore burrowing under the covers with you to keep toasty. I have a friend whose Chihuahua who seems to think she’s a pitbull when anyone pulls the covers off of her. She growls her little head off.

It is believed that Chihuahuas may be the oldest breed of dog to exist in the American continents. A slighter larger breed of Chihuahua existed in the 2nd century BC, and was known as a symbol of the upper class. It was probably bred with miniature Chinese dogs which the Spanish introduced to the New World.

Whatever type of Chihuahua you locate through your search, be careful not to pass up this faithful and fun-loving breed. Chihuahuas are dedicated pets and cherished companions. With a Chihuahua by your side, you will be loved and entertained for many years. Let me warn you, however - it’s hard not to want more than one!

Tags: home, shelter