Chihuahua

From Pet Encyclopedia

Chihuahua

Origin of Breed

Mexico

Breed Nick Names

Chi

[edit] Introduction

The Chihuahua dog is the smallest breed of dog and the breed orginates from Mexico where it was discovered in 1850 in the state of 'Chihuhua'.

In the UK Kennel Club the Chihuahua dog breed is categorised in the Toy Dog Group.

[edit] Origin and History

One way a Chihuahua is different from any other dog are the fact they are so small and tiny and there is no other dog in the world as small as they are. The second things that sets them apart is their physical features, they have big huge eyes and large erect ears. These dogs are considered breed able dogs but there are certain standard you have to follow before you can breed a dog. The American Kennel Club or AKC only recognizes two types of Chihuahuas in the breeding process.

[edit] Temperament

When you are choosing to bring a Chihuahua into your home, make sure you know all about their temperaments before you buy. This may be true to any breed you select. The more you know about that animal before you take it into your home, the more comforted you and your puppy will be in the acquaintance process. Chihuahua temperaments are a lot different from other breeds, and you need to know if it will be a good fit in your home.

Chihuahuas are very smart dogs. They can sense things. They are very willing to please their owners, and Chihuahuas are very trustworthy companions. They can be a very clingy dog, they tend to like to follow you around. Chihuahuas also like to be carried around, and are often classified to be lap dogs. They like to curl up in your lap on the couch and have you pet them. If you want more of an independent animal, a Chihuahua is not for you.

Chihuahuas have a tendency to be a very hyper dog. They are very eager puppies, and if not properly trained they may bark a lot. They get very excited, you can feel their heart beating rapidly when you hold them. This is very common of the breed, as to be expect with all small dogs. Some people classify them is very "yippee", but all dogs can be like that if not properly trained.

Chihuahuas like to stick to just one family. If you are looking at a humane society for a Chihuahua, I would think again before making that purchase. I have heard that Chihuahuas have a real hard time adapting to major changes, such as going to a new place. If you are taking your puppy on a vacation with you, make sure you spend time with them in the new place so they feel comforted when they are in their new environment. Giving them the attention that they need will help with all these problems.

Chihuahuas also like to have other companions, such as another dog of the same size or breed. They make great playmates with other animals. At one time we had one Chihuahua and two short haired cats, all male. I was so amazed at how well they played with each other. At first, the cats did not want anything to do with the dog, and now all they want to do is play around and roll on the ground together. Who would of knew?

[edit] Appearance

[edit] Health

Luxation of the Patella...

Luxation of the patella, or dislocation of the kneecap, is a common hereditary problem with chihuahuas and other small breeds. Patellar luxation can occur in varying degrees from minimal to debilitating. Very young dogs may be able to compensate for this deformity, but the condition tends to worsen over time. Most of the time the chihuahua is older before symptoms of patellar luxation are obvious.

The dislocation is most commonly found on the inner side of the patella. The attached ligaments become stretched over time until the patella is rarely where it is supposed to be, and may "pop" in and out of place very easily.

Recent studies have shown that immediate treatment is recommended, rather then waiting until the dislocation has crippled the dog. The reasoning is that, while the knee is dislocated, the entire body of the dog is compensating for it, causing deformations of many other skeletal areas.

Research has definitively shown that patellar luxation is an inherited trait, and dogs with this genetic problem should not be used in breeding programs.

Reverse Sneeze"...

Occasional bouts of sneezing, snorting, honking and wheezing are not unusual in chihuahuas, and is sometimes called a "reverse sneeze". This is usually caused by a elongated soft palate that is thought to become temporarily misaligned. It is a common trait in toy breeds. Pulling hard on a leash, drinking too fast or getting overly excited can lead to an episode of reverse sneezing. Reverse sneezing SHOULD NOT be confused with a different condition called "collapsed trachea".

Although reverse sneezing may appear to be scary, it only lasts a short time and can be ended by massaging the dog's neck and throat and encouraging the dog to swallow or lick. Another way to slow the reverse sneeze is to clap your hands to distract the dog, or pinch closed the dog's nostrils with your fingers, forcing it to breathe through its mouths and to swallow.

[edit] External Links

Chihuahua Puppies for sale
Chihuahua Dogs for Sale

[edit] References