Chihuahua Characteristics: The frisky and faithful Chihuahua is a breed of small dog classified as a member of the Toy Dog Group (AKC:1904). The Chihuahua, is characterized by its little, dainty appearance with a rounded, domed head and cheeky expression. Other characteristics include light colored, round, large eyes; large, erect ears; an over back (sickle or single curl tail), and a brisk, even gait. The temperament of the Chihuahua can be described as Lively, Devoted, Courageous. The coat type of the Chihuahua is described as short, smooth coat in assorted colors. Due to its characteristics and qualities, the Chihuahua demonstrated the desired traits of a Ceremonial dog and is known by its nick name the "Smallest Dog in the World". The origin of the Chihuahua dog breed was in Mexico where it was developed in the 1500's. Fast Facts about the Chihuahua: The following facts provide fast information about the Chihuahua breed. Size: Small *** Breed Group: Toy Dog Group (AKC:1904) *** Nick name: "Smallest Dog in the World" *** Origin: Mexico *** Male Height: 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) *** Female Height: Slightly Less *** Male Weight: 2-6 pounds (1-3 kg) *** Female Weight: Slightly Less *** Coat Type: short, smooth coat *** Coat Colors: assorted colors *** Litter Size: 2-4 puppies *** Health Problems: Patellar Luxation, Eye problems *** Lifespan: 14-18 years *** Hypoallergenic: No Chihuahua Breed Group and Dog Type - Toy Dog Group (AKC:1904): The Chihuahua is one of the many breeds of dogs that belong to the Toy Dog Group (AKC:1904). Other names for the Chihuahua: The Chihuahua is known by the nickname of the "Smallest Dog in the World". Other names for this breed of dog include the Mexican Dog, Chiwawa and Taco Bell Dog. Origin of the name: The origin of the name "Chihuahua" derives from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, that borders Arizona, Texas and New Mexico of the United States. Chihuahua History and Origin: The country of origin of the Chihuahua breed was in Mexico during the 1500's. The Chihuahua is believed to be descended from ancient native desert dog called the 'Techichi' around the 5th century AD. The Techichi dog was first known to the ancient civilization of the Mayans who domesticated the Techichi and then to the Toltecs and the Aztecs. The Toltecs cross bred the Techichi with a dog breed called the 'Perro Chihuahueno' (that translates as 'Chihuahua dog') that inhabited the mountains of Chihuahua. References to the original dog were found in the writings of the ancient civilizations and the dogs were portrayed in carvings in the ancient temples and pyramids. The carvings and drawings show two types of dogs; one with an apple shaped head and another with a deer shaped head. The wealthy, ruling elite of these civilizations viewed the dog as sacred and used the Chihuahua in various religious ceremonies, often involving sacrifices. The poor, lower classes had a different attitude and saw the dog simply as a food source. The Chihuahua was also used as a companion of the wealthy and these pet dogs were used in Aztec burial rituals. The Aztecs believed that the sins of a dead person were transferred to their dog, so when a person died their dog was also killed and buried in the tomb of their master. The remains of these dogs have enabled DNA testing that has proved that the Chihuahua shares a DNA type unique to the Mexican pre-Columbian DNA samples of the ancient dogs. Christopher Columbus encountered the Chihuahua dog and noted in his journal that the dog was extremely shy and quiet. Early reports of the 'shy and quiet' dog were exaggerated and this led to the myth that the Chihuahua is mute, barkless dog. The tiny Chihuahua was exported to Europe and across the Mexican border to the United States during the 1890's. The Chihuahua was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1904. Chihuahua - Apple Head Chihuahua and Deer head Chihuahua: The Chihuahua typically has an "apple head" with a short nose and rounded skull. The rarer "deer head" Chihuahua has a longer, narrower head with a longer nose. Chihuahua Modern History: According to the Guinness World Records the world's smallest Chihuahua dog measured just 9.65 cm (3.8 in) tall. The Chihuahua is enjoyed as a lovable companion that often becomes very attached to its owner. The modern history of the Chihuahua moved on and the appealing, tiny dog became highly popular and featured in movies and various advertising campaigns. Chihuahua - Oliver & Company (1988 movie): One of the most famous Chihuahua dogs is the cartoon character "Tito" who features in the 1988 Walt Disney feature animation 'Oliver & Company' . The pushy, tough and temperamental cartoon character "Tito" is voiced by actor Cheech Marin. This famous, mischievous Chihuahua proved to be a firm favorite with kids and adults alike. The little dog also featured in the 2008 movie "Beverley Hills Chihuahua". Chihuahua - The Taco Bell™ Chihuahua: In 1997 a female Chihuahua called "Gidget" was chosen as the mascot for the Taco Bell, the Tex-Mex food chain. The famous Taco Bell advert had a male voice over with a 'Mexican' accent. The brand became hugely popular and made Gidget a superstar and she went on to feature in the 2000 movie 'Legally Blonde 2: Red, White, & Blonde'. Chihuahua Height: The Chihuahua breed is classified as a small sized dog. The height to the shoulder of a male dog is 6-9 inches (15-23 cm). The height to the shoulder of a female dog is slightly less. Chihuahua Weight: The weight of this small sized dog, in a male dog is 2-6 pounds (1-3 kg). The weight of the smaller female dog is slightly less than the male. Chihuahua Coat Type - LOW shedding coat: There are two main varieties: short-haired and long-haired. The most common coat type is described as a short, smooth coat. Chihuahua Coat Colors: The colors of this dog breed consist of assorted colors consisting of black, blue, brown and chocolate. N.B. The word "Blue" is used to describe a cool-toned, metallic gray color. Chihuahua Grooming - LOW Grooming Needs: The grooming needs of the Chihuahua are categorized as Low in order to maintain a healthy, tangle-free coat and reduce the risk of skin infections. Both coat types need only minimal grooming. The limited grooming needs of the Chihuahua are considered to be low maintenance, requiring limited attention to grooming where brushing and combing, is concerned. Grooming Requirements should include bathing the dog on a monthly basis and making regular inspections of the nails, teeth, eyes and ears. Chihuahua Litter Size: The litter size of this dog breed ranges from 2-4 puppies. Chihuahua puppies for sale can be obtained reputable breeders and from rescue centers. The cost of Chihuahua puppies varies depending on location, pedigree history and the dog breeder. Chihuahua Puppies have a soft spot on the top of the skull called a "molera", which usually closes by the time the Chihuahua becomes an adult. Chihuahua Temperament and personality: The temperament and personality of this popular dog breed is described as Frisky, Lively, Devoted, Courageous and Faithful. Chihuahua Exercise Requirements - LOW Exercise Requirements: The exercise requirements of the Chihuahua breed of dog is low. The Chihuahua requires regular daily exercise consisting of approximately 30 minutes every day. This small dog has a brisk, even gait with small strides and only requires a fairly slow speed by the owner to meet the dogs exercise requirements. Remember that it would take a lot of extra steps by your dog to keep up with your normal walking pace. Chihuahua Diet: A fully grown Chihuahua should be fed twice a day. A diet consisting of a premium dog food can be balanced with fresh food eaten by the family. The question is What Can Dogs Eat?. Check out our comprehensive list of what dogs can and what dogs cannot eat. Chihuahua Health Problems: Potential health problems of the Chihuahua breed include Patellar Luxation, Eye problems. Resolving health problems can prove to be expensive and it is always wise to obtain pet insurance or dog health insurance when buying a dog. Is the Chihuahua dog breed said to be Hypoallergenic? Answer: No. Chihuahua Lifespan: The life expectancy of dogs vary according to the size, breed of dog and any serious health problems. The typical lifespan of the Chihuahua breed is 14-18 years. Chihuahua Male Dog Names: Male Dog names are most often chosen to reflect favorite names of the owner or the strength, size, coloring and country of origin of the Chihuahua breed. To give you some inspiration regarding good male Chihuahua names our small selection might be of help with naming boy dogs. Our top male dog names are: Juan *** Miguel *** Ramiro *** Felix *** Raul *** Carlos *** Rafael *** Victor *** Ramirez *** Spiro *** Cesar. Chihuahua Female Dog Names: Female Dog names tend to be softer, prettier and reflect the temperament of the girl dog. Our top choice of good female Chihuahua names are Aura *** Beatriz *** Marilu *** Rosa *** Marlina *** Inez *** Liliana *** Manuela *** Maria *** Irma. Fast Facts about the Chihuahua: The following facts provide fast information about the Chihuahua breed. Scientific name: Canis lupus familiaris *** Dog Breed Group: Toy Dog Group (AKC:1904) *** Size: Small *** Country of Origin: Mexico *** History / Date: 1500's *** Male Height: 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) *** Male Weight: 2-6 pounds (1-3 kg) *** Coat Type: short, smooth coat *** Litter Size: 2-4 puppies *** Chihuahua Health Problems: Hip dysplasia, thyroid, and joint problems *** Lifespan: 14-18 years *** | 