Do you love the pint-sized pooch with the big personality? Chihuahuas are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world for a reason – they’re adorable, sassy and make great companions. There is only one breed of Chihuahua, but within that breed there are two official varieties of coat length according to the AKC (and other dog kennels) breed standards – the long coat and the smooth coat. Today we’re digging into the history of the Chihuahua and the different types of Chihuahuas than fans of this charismatic breed might seek out!
The Chihuahua is believed to be the smallest breed of dog in the world and originated in Mexico. The exact origins of the breed are a bit of a mystery, but it’s thought that they were descended from the Techichi, a small companion dog favored by the Toltec civilization in Mexico. The Aztecs also had a small dog in their culture that was similar to the Chihuahua, and these dogs were often sacrificed in religious ceremonies.
When the Spanish conquistadors invaded Mexico in the 1500s, they brought with them toy Spaniels and Pomeranians. It’s thought that these dogs were bred with the Techichi and the Aztec dogs, which eventually led to the development of the Chihuahua breed as we know it today.
The first documented reference to the “Chihuahueño” was in 1850, and the AKC recognized the breed in 1904. In 2008, the Chihuahua was ranked as the 32nd most popular breed in the United States.
While there is only one breed of Chihuahua, within that breed there are two types of coats – long and smooth. The smooth coat variety is the more common of the two, and has a short, glossy coat that doesn’t need much grooming. The long coat variety has a soft, silky coat that is longer and flows over the dog’s body. Long coated Chihuahuas will need to be brushed regularly to prevent mats and tangles from forming in their fur.
When it comes to coat color, there is no limit! Chihuahuas can be found in almost any color or combination of colors, including black, white, brown, red, cream, blue and even purple.
Peer Head Chihuahua vs. Apple Head Chihuahua – What’s the Difference?
Apple-headed Chihuahuas have a rounder head with a well-defined stop (the point where the muzzle meets the forehead), while pear-headed Chihuahuas have a longer muzzle and a less defined stop. Both types of heads are considered equally standard within the breed.
When it comes to personality, there is no “type” of Chihuahua that is better than another. Each dog is an individual and will have their own unique personality traits. However, in general, Chihuahuas are known for being loyal, loving and protective of their owners. They are also known for being sassy and stubborn, and they like to do things their own way!
Is Chihuahua friendly?
While Chihuahuas can make great companion dogs, they are not the best breed for everyone. Because of their small size, they are not well suited for homes with young children who may accidentally hurt them. They are also a high energy breed that needs plenty of exercise, so they is not a good fit for someone who is inactive or does not have the time to commit to daily walks or play sessions.
Chihuahua Health Issue
Like all dog breeds, Chihuahuas are prone to certain health issues. Because of their small size, they are at an increased risk for injuries and broken bones. They are also susceptible to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), dental problems and heart conditions. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian about these health concerns and to make sure you are getting a dog from a reputable breeder who has health tested their breeding stock.
Chihuahua Grooming:
Chihuahuas are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. The smooth coat variety only needs to be brushed occasionally, while the long coat variety will need to be brushed more frequently to prevent tangles, mats and invest in a good quality groomer dog shampoo to keep their coat healthy. All Chihuahuas should have their teeth brushed regularly and their nails trimmed as needed.
If you’re thinking about adding a Chihuahua to your family, do your research to find a reputable breeder. Be prepared to groom your long-coated Chihuahua regularly, and invest in a good quality dog shampoo to keep their coat healthy and looking its best. With proper care, your new furry friend will be a loyal companion for years to come!
