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Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas are prized for their devotion, ferocity, and personality. Their curious personality and small size make them easily adaptable to a variety of environments, including the city and small apartments. Chihuahuas are often stereotyped as high-strung, though it has been shown that correct training and socialization can result in an outstanding companion animal. They can also be quite affectionate with their owners. Very quick to learn commands, the clever Chihuahua is easily trained to perform tricks.

One unique trait in most chihuahuas is the tendency to "burrow" into blankets or clothing in order to sleep. This can prove a danger if a person sits on a bed or sofa without checking for sleeping dogs. This behavior is attributed to the belief that pre-domesticated chihuahuas lived in underground burrows.

Chihuahuas are not well-suited as small children's pets because of their size, temperament, and tendency to bite when frightened. It is recommended that children be school aged or older before adding a Chihuahua to one's home. Also, many Chihuahuas focus their devotion on one person, becoming overly jealous of that person's human relationships. This can be mitigated through socialization. Chihuahuas also tend to have a "clannish" nature, often preferring the companionship of other Chihuahuas over other dogs.

The Kennel Club (UK) and American Kennel Club (USA) only recognize two varieties of Chihuahua: the long-coat and the smooth-coat, also referred to as short-haired. They are genetically the same breed, and are often present in the same litter, though in many kennel clubs, including the KC and AKC, they are judged in separate categories. The term smooth-coat does not mean that the hair is necessarily smooth, as the hair can range from having a velvet touch to a whiskery feeling. Long-haired Chihuahuas are actually smoother to the touch, having soft, fine guard hairs and a downy undercoat, which gives them their fluffy appearance. Unlike many long-haired breeds, short-haired Chihuahuas require no trimming and minimal grooming. Contrary to popular belief, they also typically shed less than their short-haired counterparts. It may take up to two or more years before a full long-haired coat develops.

 

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