Use These Chihuahua Dog Facts to Decide if They Are the Breed For You!

While it is popularly believed that Chihuahuas originated in Mexico, there is contradicting evidence of their presence in other geographic areas. For instance, mummified remains of Chihuahua dogs have been found in Egypt and Malta.

The Chinese were known for developing small breeds of dogs and may have contributed to the dog we know today. There is a Boticelli painting in the Sistine chapel that depicts a Chihuahua.

Like many dog breeds, the specific origin and ancestors of these dogs may never be known. However, there is one fact on which most experts agree on.

Tammy Gagne, in her book The Chihuahua, says it best: “This is ironic, for when the proper research is done, what is learned is that the Chihuahua is one of the oldest dog breeds on the American continent, and in this sense, one of the most authentic of all dogs.”¹ Let's take a look at a profile of one of America's most popular dogs.

How many of these interesting facts about Chihuahuas did you already know?

• Place of Origin: Mexico

• Nickname/alternative names: Texas dog, Arizona dog, purse dogs, el Chihuahueno

• Group: AKC Toy—First registered dog in 1904—Midget (82291 AKC number)

• Use: Religious and companion dogs

• Lifespan: “Chihuahuas have one of the longest life spans of all dog breeds.”²

• Height/weight: Six to nine inches tall; four to six pounds

• Color/Coat: Any color is acceptable; short and long coats

• Personality: Loyal, affectionate, highly trainable but extremely stubborn

• Eyes: Round but not protruding dark or ruby eyes

• Grooming: Low for short coat types, medium for long coat types

• Need for attention: High; shouldn’t be left alone for long periods of time

• Known Health Problems/heritable diseases: Cleft palate, collapsed trachea, hydrocephalus, hypoglycemia, luxating patella, snoring, retaining baby teeth, cherry eye, cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), progressive retinal degeneration (PRD)

• Intelligence: Highly intelligent but strong willed. Early socialization and obedience training are recommended.

• Social skills: Clannish and prefers other Chihuahua dogs; not recommended with younger children; not good with strangers; bonds with one person. Chihuahuas may bite if frightened or startled.

• National Breed Association: The Chihuahua Club of America, Inc.

Next, let's talk about the characteristics of this toy breed dog.

In spite of their diminutive size, Chihuahuas are muscular dogs that seem not to realize they are tiny dogs. Their bodies are longer than tall, with round apple shaped heads that are larger in proportion to the body.

The large ears set erect and should not drop; long coats should have ear fringes, and ruffs. Long coats have an undercoat and coats should be full and glossy, not thin. Interestingly, the short coat types shed more than the long coats.

An unusual characteristic of Chihuahuas is the molera on the top of the head. The molera is comparable to the fontanel in humans, and usually does not fuse in Chihuahuas. Because of this “soft spot,” care needs to be taken to protect these dogs from any injury to the head.

While many breeders advertise deer type, teacup, apple heads, or miniature Chihuahuas, there are only two registered types of Chihuahuas – the long coat and the short coat. Buyers should be on the alert for unscrupulous sellers who use these terms.

Because of their tiny size, owners need to take special precautions to protect their pets. They must be protected from weather extremes—cold and heat—and falls.

While carrying them is hard to resist, imagine what would happen if one tripped and fell while carrying one of these tiny dogs? An excellent way to carry and transport these tiny beauties is in a purse style dog carrier or specially designed tote.

Larger dogs and small children can injure a Chihuahua accidentally.

If you are looking for a tiny bundle of energy and personality, the Chihuahua may be just the dog for you. While they are small, they do need some daily exercise just like any other breed, but take care not to tire them out.

Now that you know more Chihuahua facts, you may be interested in owning one. The American Kennel Club breeder classifieds are a good place to start your search.

1 - The Chihuahua, Tammy Gagne & Wayne Hunthausen, D.V.M., consulting veterinary editor

2 - The Complete Dog Book, Official Publication of the American Kennel Club

The Original Dog Bible, Edited by Kristin Mehus-Roe