The Chihuahua - A Faithful Companion
by Penny Taylor
The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the world and is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, where it was discovered in 1850. Some scholars believe the Chihuahua to be descended from Chinese hairless dogs-who may have crossed over from Asia to Alaska on a land bridge before continental separation created the Bering Strait and bred with the ancient Techichi dog, creating the modern-day Chihuahua. But due to the lack of archaeological proof to support this theory, it was later believed that Chihuahuas were brought to Mexico by settlers from Spain. The American Kennel Club registered its first Chihuahua in 1905.
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Size Doesn't MatterThere are two types of Chihuahua. One of which has a smooth, soft glossy coat, which covers the whole body except head and ears. The other version has a long coat with an undercoat. This type of coat could be curly or flat. The Chihuahua falls under the AKC's toy category. Generally their height is 6 to 10 inches at the shoulders and their weight is 2 to 6 pounds. Chihuahuas come in various colors, from plain white, to solid black and spotted, or other colors like silver, blue or gray, chocolate, fawn or tan, tricolor-chocolate, blue or black with tan or white markings, merle and brindle, and each of the colors vary in tone and shade. Chihuahuas are mostly known for their small body and large, sharp ears. A Chihuahua's nose is usually short and slightly pointed. They have lean jaws and cheeks and blue, mole or chocolate colored noses. However a pink nose is permissible in blonde Chihuahuas. The tail is either up or curled in a loop with the tip of it slightly touching the back.
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Chihuahua Upset?
Many Chihuahua owners often are confused by the variety of dog foods available on the market. They often complain that their pets suffer from intestinal disorders, itching, dandruff, allergies etc. As a responsible Chihuahua owner, you should provide your pet with meals containing proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, fatty acids and minerals. A proper balance of these components will not only keep the dog healthy and happy but it will also save you from the hassles and frustration of frequent vet visits and costs. Dry foods usually help to keep the dog's teeth clean and also, help to work his jaws. This kind of dog food is easily digestible. Aside from a few premium quality dog foods , you should avoid branded food items or commercial dog food. They contain preservatives, additives, artificial colors, non-nutritive residues, etc. and can adversely affect your dog's health. The chihuahua's diet also must contain vitamin and mineral supplements in balanced concentrations.You can safely give your Chihuahua a normal lamb and rice combination. This not only takes care of the nutritional needs of your Chihuahua, it reduces the risk of allergies and other health disorders. Due to lack of proper nutrition, Chihuahuas can suffer from vomiting, belching, loose stools, gassiness and stomach ache after meals. Some foods commonly enjoyed by humans are dangerous to Chihuahuas like, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, macadamia nuts, alcoholic beverages, salmon (sometimes triggers allergies), etc. Also, do not overfeed your Chihuahua. Obesity is dangerous. In order to give your Chihuahua a long, happy, healthy life, you need to be conscious about what you are feeding it.
Chihuahua Loyalty
Chihuahuas are prized for their devotion, ferocity and personality. Their curious nature and small size make them easily adaptable to a variety of environments, including the city and small apartments. Chihuahuas are usually intelligent and independent by nature. Some dogs are bright and can learn quickly, while others are more stubborn and obstinate. Some are outgoing and friendly towards strangers while others are withdrawn and aloof. Whatever your Chihuahua's attitude now, your love, care and training can change your dog completely, from an unruly, out-of-control dog to the best dog in the neighborhood. Chihuahuas, in general, are delightful characters, and are lively, entertaining, and very loyal. They crave for constant love and attention from you and your family members.Chihuahuas are not well-suited as small children's pets because of their size, temperament and tendency to bite when frightened. It is recommended that children be school aged or older before adding a Chihuahua to one's home. Also, many Chihuahuas focus their devotion on one person, becoming overly jealous of that person's human relationships. This can be nipped in the bud through proper socialization. Chihuahuas also tend to have a clannish nature, often preferring the companionship of other Chihuahuas over other breeds of dogs. Chihuahuas seem to have no concept of their own size and may fearlessly confront larger animals, which can result in injury.
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