Chihuahua Information
 Photo taken at the Old Fort Cluster Dog Show in Fort Wayne, Indiana. |
The Chihuahua is the smallest of all dog breeds. They are companion dogs, and adore their families. Though they're small in size, they're very courageous and strong willed. They become so attached to their owners they get jealous very easily if their owner is showing someone else any attention.
Be sure to socialize your Chihuahua as a pup to avoid excessive aggressiveness with other dogs as well as with strangers. They tend to be fairly dog-aggressive. Chihuahuas generally recognize their own breed, but sometimes disapprove of other breeds. However, a "very" well-socialized Chihuahua can be friendly with strangers and other dogs.
This breed trembles a lot from cold, excitement, and/or a high metabolism. They do not like cold or rain and should wear a sweater in cold conditions. Blues may have skin/coat problems.
An open molera (soft spot on the head) and honking sounds after eating or drinking are common breed traits, not health problems. Individuals under three or four pounds are more susceptible to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and a host of other health problems.
Because of his short nose, the Chihuahua tends to wheeze and snore. Their large eyes are susceptible to corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma. Prone to slipped stifle, gum problems, colds, stress, and rheumatism.
Chihuahua puppies are born with large heads, frequently needing cesarean deliveries by a veterinarian. They are vulnerable to fractures and other accidents in puppy hood. Some of the breed have a molera, an unclosed section of the skull which can remain open throughout life.
The Chihuahua is not a breed that should be handled roughly or with young children who are unstable in their movements. Chihuahua's can be injured easily just in casual play or by being stepped on/fallen on by innocent actions by youngsters.
Many Chihuahua's tend to have "little dog syndrome" and think they're bigger (and tougher) than they really are- and will not think twice about jumping off of a porch, steps, etc., and can injure themselves.
The Chihuahua is a toy breed, however there are no "toy Chihuahua's", nor teacups or any variation of the term. A Chihuahua is a Chihuahua, and breeders who market them as being anything but a Chihuahua is most likely a tad on the shady side. There are some smaller sized Chihuahua's, however they are still a Chihuahua, and not a "tiny" version of one. Keep in mind that the smaller versions may suffer more from health issues, especially joint problems.
Chihuahua's should be fed small meals several times a day to prevent their blood sugar from dropping too low. This is a common problem in small breeds, and low blood sugar can be fatal to them in a short period of time.
Ad rate is $15 per month.
Build Your Ad Today!
