Chihuahua, by the original name Chihuahua, is a relatively widespread dwarf breed of dog, originally from Mexico. Thanks to the efforts of American breeders, since 1942 the Chihuahua breed has been classified according to the FCI in group 9: social and companion breeds and in section 6.
Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed. Its name is derived from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where its occurrence was first documented. Native American legends mention the Chihuahua as the protector of deceased chiefs on their way to the spirit world. However, it is not known whether its occurrence in this area is native, or whether it did not get here with traders from Japan or China.
History
One possible history of the Chihuahua dates back to 1884, based on the ingenuity of Mexicans to sell Chihuahuas to passing tourists. In this period, there was no official name Chihuahua, but the Mexican-Texan or Arizona dog due to the place where these dogs were sold. Over time, the sale was associated with the Mexican city of Chihuahua, which is where the original name comes from. In 1904, the first Chihuahua was registered with the American Kennel Club.
Breed types
There are two types of breed namely – short-haired and long-haired chihuahua (cross Yorkshire terrier and papillon plus cross chihuahuas (judging at shows separately).
Appearance
Characteristic features are a round “apple” head with large erect ears, like a bat. Snuff small, straight at the top, rounded at the bottom. Height about 20 cm, weight about 2 kg. Tail raised, bent. He is kind, cuddly and friendly by nature.
The smallest dog in the world, height at the withers from 15 to 23/24 cm and weight from 0.5 to 2.8/3 kg. The body of the Chihuahua is characterized by a straight back, thin shoulders, and a deep chest. The appearance of the head is slightly round, elongated skull and flat cheeks. Due to the height of the Chihuahua, the eyes are large, set far apart – dark, ruby or light in color depending on the color of the fur. The ears are noticeably large and flared at an angle of 45 degrees. The short-haired Chihuahua has short fur, longer on the ears and tail. The long-haired Chihuahua has long but soft and wavy fur, which creates a kind of border on the ears, hind legs and tail. A favorite symbol is the ring on the neck. Coat colors are of various kinds.
Socialization
A sociable and devoted dog, which, despite being a dwarf breed, is able to respond quickly, distrusts strangers, and has a hunting instinct. Due to its social characteristics, it is a suitable companion for all age groups. He prefers individuals of his own breed, but has no problems with leniency towards other breeds.
Space and movement
Small requirements for space, but the necessity to place the reservoir near the owners (dependency on the owners). Although the requirements for movement are smaller compared to larger dogs, approximately 1.5 to 3 km per day is necessary. Preferred sport of agility. It is important for this breed to ensure adequate protection against winter.
Hygiene
The bath is recommended once a month, before that it is necessary to brush with a rubber brush. Daily cleaning around the eyes with, for example, boron water due to traces of tears, etc. Regular inspection of the ears, a warning is head scratching or scratching around the ears. Regular nail trimming, since the Chihuahua is light, its nails cannot be worn down by walking like larger dogs.
Nutrition
Feeding until the eighth week – 4 times a day. From the eighth week, up to six months – 3 times a day. After the sixth month – 2 times a day. It is recommended to include raw food in the dry diet. Dwarf breeds, especially chihuahuas, cannot eat ham-smoked meat due to disruption of the alimentary tract. He likes apples, bananas, and tomatoes. The need to eat grass is minimized by vegetables, and hard-boiled eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt can be used as protein. If the requirements for care are followed, the Chihuahua usually lives for 12-14 years.
