The world's smallest breed, Chihuahua dogs are believed to have originated in the Mexican state of Chihuahua in the 1850's. Today, the breed has spread worldwide and gained international acceptance, first being recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the year 1904.
Chihuahua Origins
There are several different theories as to how Chihuahua dogs originated. Some believe that they were bred from the ancient, wild Teichi dogs by the Mayans. Others believe that they are the descendants of Asian dogs brought by Spanish colonists in the early days of the age of exploration. Perhaps the most accurate story is a mix between these two, that the dogs represent a cross between these breeds. Regardless, their first documented discovery occurred in the mid 1800's, when a group of explorers found them amongst a ruined Mayan temple. Now they have grown to become the twelfth most popular breed.
Small Size
Chihuahua dogs are the smallest dogs that are currently bred. The breed standard includes many sizes, from its smallest members that are hardly larger than a human hand to those that stand up to fourteen inches tall. There is considerable debate over the validity of so called "teacup" Chihuahuas. Many breeders claim that they have produced incredibly small Chihuahuas, but their assertions are usually exaggerated and always irresponsible. Chihuahuas of an excessively small size are prone to many health issues and extremely delicate.
Chihuahua Behavior
The common perception of Chihuahua dogs is that they are mean, unfriendly creatures with little love for anyone other than their masters. This is true some of the times, but this simple characterization overlooks many of the qualities that make Chihuahuas so beloved by so many.
It cannot be denied that Chihuahua dogs often have a self- important attitude that makes them difficult to control, but these problems can usually be rectified by a strict obedience course. What's more, many owners express a certain fondness for their dog's independent spirit.
Chihuahuas also have many purely positive traits, such as playfulness, curiosity and loyalty. These characteristics make them ideal companions for certain personalities and ideally suited to particular living situations.
Health Problems
There are numerous health issues to which Chihuahua dogs have a particular susceptibility. Owners must take care to learn about these potential problems and take steps immediately after noticing any symptoms.
A molera, or soft spot on the head, is a condition found in human babies. It does not, however, commonly occur in dogs, except in the case of Chihuahuas. All Chihuahua puppies are, like humans, born with one or more moleras. Care must be taken in the first months of life, to ensure that the moleras are not subject to excessive stimulation. In most cases these soft spots disappear with time, but unfortunately this is not always the case. Certain Chihuahua dogs have moleras their entire life and must always be carefully handled.
Chihuahuas are prone to many other diseases such as Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, heart murmers, Cystinuria and Luxting Paletta. It is important for Chihuahuas to have regular checkups with the vet in order to prevent these diseases from progressing into serious stages.
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