When it comes to small pooches, there are several smaller breeds that you can choose from. But, did you know that the Chihuahua is the only toy breed of dog that is naturally this small where other toy breeds are bred down to a toy size. So, you will never have to worry about any Chihuahua being over 6 pounds naturally. The problem is that since they are so small, they cannot be left alone outside for any length of time since larger animals can mistake them for prey. For those wanting to get a Chihuahua, you need to make sure that you will not be leaving them outside unattended.

As far as colors go on Chihuahuas, there are so many different color combinations that it could make your head spin. The good news is that Chihuahuas are only minimum to average shedders and you can find them with both long and short hair. If you are planning to purchase a show dog, then you will want to make sure that you read up on the different preferences for both the long hair and the short hair Chihuahuas. Other than that, there are a wide variety of color combinations that you can choose from and each different dog has it’s own unique look. From brown to white, black to multi-toned, each Chihuahua is beautifully marked and it is all a matter of personal preference to which one you choose.

Chihuahuas are known to be an extremely intelligent breed and are very devoted to their owners. Of course, they are very demanding as well, and you should be prepared to pamper them and give them constant affection. They are very curious and can be really creative when faced with a problem, such as how to escape a room they are in, and they will constantly find ways to gain your attention. Parents that are considering getting a Chihuahua should only get a puppy of this breed when their children are older, as the small nature of the dog can cause serious injury if they are mishandled.
Chihuahuas are actually best for people that are older or those that just love to cuddle for long periods of time, as they love the affection. They are actually the perfect breed for elderly, handicapped, or people that live alone as they never want to leave their owner’s side and they are generally very sweet and gentle. And, they get enough exercise just running around a home or apartment due to their small size so they are perfect apartment dogs. But, they do prefer to be with other Chihuahuas, and it can be hard to introduce one into a home where there are other dogs, especially if the other breeds are larger.

Just like any breed, the Chihuahua is prone to a few health problems. Some of the most common health problems that Chihuahuas face include: patellar luxation (where their tiny kneecaps slip out of place), hypoglycemia, eye problems, epilepsy, dental problems, heart murmurs, and even seizure disorders. Make sure that you read up on different health problems that also occur in the breed and how to deal with them if they arise in the pup you choose.

Before choosing this breed over another, make sure that you fully read up on everything about the Chihuahua breed, such as: full range of health problems that can occur, training (they are extremely smart dogs and take well to training), grooming, and more. This way, you and your family will know exactly what you are going to get when you bring an adorable Chihuahua pup home to love.


This entry was posted on Friday, August 20th, 2010 at 2:05 am and is filed under Dogs Profile, I want a dog, Pets Industry, Small Dogs. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.