The Chihuahua – tiny dog with a big heart
Who doesn’t know them, the cute Chihuahuas, these little balls of fur that have made a name for themselves as the smallest dogs in the world, weighing between 1.5 and 3 kilograms. But behind the tiny façade lies a fascinating story and a creature that is much bigger than its size suggests.
The origins of the Chihuahua
The Chihuahua originally comes from Mexico and belongs to FCI Group 9 of companion and social dogs. The history of this breed goes back a long way and it is believed that the ancestors of the Chihuahua, which were once sacred to the Aztecs and Toltecs, were crossed with Chinese dogs. These Chinese dogs were brought by Spanish traders on their journey from China to Mexico. In Mexico, these dogs then mixed with the native naked dog breeds and thus the modern Chihuahua was born.
Incidentally, the name “Chihuahua” comes from the Mexican state of Chihuahua. The breed found its way to the USA, where it quickly became the leading dwarf dog breed. The first breed standard was established in the USA in the 1930s and the Chihuahua came to Germany around 30 years later.
Smallest dog breed in the world
The Chihuahua is not only small, but also courageous and alert. With an ideal weight of 2.5 – 2.7 kg, it is a small but self-confident companion. Responsible breeding is essential to ensure a life expectancy of up to 16 years. It is important to emphasize that extreme breeding methods that aim for a weight of less than one kilogram are not in the interests of the animals.
Coat and external characteristics
The Chihuahua comes in two coat varieties: Longhair and Shorthair. Both variants allow for a variety of colors and combinations. Grooming the coat requires regular brushing to maintain its silky sheen.
The characteristic appearance of the Chihuahua is characterized by the tail curved over the back and the protruding, large-looking ears. These small dogs have an unmistakable charm that makes them popular all over the world.
The nature of the Chihuahua
Behind its dainty appearance lies a dog with a big heart and a lot of courage. The Chihuahua is an ideal companion, especially for people in cramped living conditions. It loves company, enjoys cuddling and adapts well to its human companions.
A special feature of the Chihuahua is its tendency to bark. Early training is therefore important to control unwanted barking. The Chihuahua can be jealous, especially when it comes to its human. Although small, it is not intimidated by larger dogs and combines the hunting and protective instincts of a much larger dog.
Conclusion
The Chihuahua may be small, but its character and history make it a fascinating companion. With the right care and training, the Chihuahua is a loyal and playful friend who needs lots of love and attention. Anyone looking for a loyal companion with a big heart despite its size will find the perfect companion in the Chihuahua.
New dog breed descriptions in a quick overview