Chihuahua dog breeds are cute and popular around the world, thanks to their small size. Chihuahuas make excellent companions for single people, and in some cases for families. However, there is more than just looks when we think of this breed. This time we will talk to you about why these dogs are so amazing and why you should probably have one.
They are the Smallest Dogs in the World
Chihuahuas are small dogs, they are between 15 and 23 cm tall. The American Kennel Club established a standard weight of less than 2.7kg for this breed, but some may be slightly larger.
However, there are no required minimum dimensions mentioned for these dogs. In fact, the smallest chihuahua that lives is 9.65 cm tall and weighs around 0.90 kg, making it the smallest dog in the world.
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Chihuahuas Live Longer Than any other Breed
If you plan on getting a Chihuahua, then you should know that this will be a very long-term relationship. These dogs have the longest life expectancy of all dog breeds - 15-20 years.
Despite their fragility, Chihuahuas are healthy dogs that appear to be prone to a very small number of inherited diseases. Some of the most common diseases include:
-Knee problems (patella dislocation)
-Dry eyes
-Hypoglycemia
-Liver shunt
-Allergies
To help your dog live a long and healthy life, you need to provide high-quality dog food and plenty of exercises. Chihuahuas don't eat much, so two small meals a day are enough for your dog. To provide all essential nutrients, choose special foods for small breeds.
These dogs need daily exercise. Start off by walking for 15 minutes twice daily, and if you still have extra energy, continue with a short play session.
Their Colored Coats Don't Need Much Grooming
Chihuahuas can be any color, including black, tan, blue, chocolate, cream, fawn, white, silver, red, and any combination of these. Their layers can be short or long, and in any case, they need to be brushed three or four times a week.
If you brush their hair regularly, you won't spend too much time cleaning the extra coat, as these dogs shed moderately. It will need extra grooming during the shedding season, especially in spring. A Chihuahua does not need to be washed too often, and it does not have the specific dog scent either. Once a month or as needed, you will need to take your dog in to have his nails trimmed.
You should brush his teeth 3-4 times a week and periodically take him to a specialist for a professional dental cleaning. In this way, you will avoid oral diseases that have become a common problem for this breed.
Chihuahua Dog Breed Have Big Brains.
When comparing the size of the skull to the rest of the body, chihuahuas have enormous heads. However, this does not mean that they are not smarter than medium or large breeds.
In reality, you'll need a lot of patience to train your dog to obey you because they are independent and stubborn when it comes to doing as they're told. During training sessions, tasty rewards and positive reinforcement are typically helpful, but professional help is sometimes required.
Potty training is generally difficult as well because Chihuahuas have small bladders that are difficult to control. However, most owners say their dogs are smart enough to ask when they need to relieve themselves.
There is Lots of Aggression Behind all that Cuteness
Chihuahuas can be aggressive dogs. You may be tempted to ignore the problem, considering its size, but it is not behavior that you should accept. These dogs develop a habit of biting, if you are not firm and allow them to ignore the rules.
Your aggression can also harm them. These dogs tend to attack larger dogs, a dangerous attitude when you consider how delicate they are. You have to start with socialization at an early age, always watch your chihuahua when you leave him outside, and keep him on a leash when he meets other dogs, to avoid unpleasant incidents.
Their aggression makes them a poor choice for families with young children. Most Chihuahuas like to be the center of attention and out of jealousy, they could harm young children.
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Despite their Size, they can Function as Service Dogs
Chihuahuas are more than cute in fancy dog clothes. When properly trained, they can do a great job as service dogs.
They make excellent companions for those with chronic diseases. They can be taught to signal people when their owners need medical help, to make sure their owners wake up when the drug alarm goes off, and even to identify specific substances for allergic owners.
They Have Cute Baby Heads
This means that they are fragile and have a soft spot on the head, just like human babies. This stain is called molera, and in some cases, it remains soft throughout their life.
Molera can be present in any Chihuahua, whether it has the head of a deer or an apple. In actuality, these are just breed-specific variances, but there is no scientific proof that a different head shape makes a Chihuahua healthier or stronger. The American Kennel Club prefers apple-headed dogs when it comes to standards, though.
Translated and adapted by The Cop Cart Staff.
Sources: Facilisimo
