This chi type is characterized by a short and smooth coat. Smooth-coat chihuahuas are also known as short-haired chihuahuas. The lack of shedding is relative, though, and if you suffer from allergies, this breed is inadvisable. You should brush long-haired chis daily, and trim and bathe them frequently to keep them looking like a show-stopper rather than a ragged ball of fur. Beyond these two main types of the chihuahua breed, you can also find other sub-types, even if these are not officially recognized by the AKC.
Sadly, past breeding methods have led to some of these dogs suffering from fluid on the brain hydrocephalus.
Deer headed chihuahuas are slightly less common. They have elongated snouts and long, slender heads. This sub-type often has longer limbs and a longer body. These chihuahuas are not accepted as true breeds by most dog societies and kennel clubs.
On the plus side, they suffer from far fewer health problems than apple headed chis, making them easier pets and ideal for first-time owners. The least desirable sub-type of chihuahua, the pear headed variety is the result of breeding apple headed and deer headed chihuahuas. They are excellent watchdogs—thanks to their bold personalities and terrier-like attitudes—as they are suspicious of strangers. As with all breeds, socialize your Chihuahua puppy so she can grow up to be comfortable around new people, animals, and situations — and not be so yappy.
Typically, Chihuahuas bond to an individual person. They can warm up to others once properly introduced , but they do so on their own timeline. Chihuahuas also seem to be in touch with their good looks and well aware of the attention it draws to them. So from the get-go, make sure you let your Chi know you're in charge. Never let your Chihuahua puppy do something that will be considered unacceptable as they reach adulthood: Their big personalities can lead them to dominate your life, if you let them.
So be consistent in your expectations and use positive reinforcement training. They can develop undesirable behaviors if they're bored, and even become picky eaters. Establish house rules early on and be consistent in your training. Thanks to their petite size, Chihuahuas are ideal pets for apartment dwellers , students Elle Woods was on to something! Of course, having to take a dog outside when it's cold and wet is never any fun, and Chihuahuas could not agree more.
When you do take them out to do their business or to get some exercise , don't leave them alone in the yard: They could be attacked by a bird of prey or other larger animal. Chihuahuas will definitely rule the roost, so to speak.
Keep in mind Chihuahuas, as with any dog, can get into trouble if they haven't been socialized from a young age. If they get into a yappy argument with another dog, even a much larger one , their spunky nature means they won't back down.
But if they are properly socialized, they'll do well with other dogs in the home especially other Chihuahuas , and even with cats. As charming as Chihuahuas are with their owners, they can be suspicious of humans they don't know.
And although they can get along with older children , they're not an ideal dog for families with super young kiddos, as they are just too fragile for toddler playtime. A Chihuahua may leap from a child's hands and injure herself if she's not being held correctly, so make sure to supervise your kids around these tiny pups and teach them how to interact with small animals.
Chihuahuas are natural performers and have appeared in many TV shows and movies, including Beverly Hills Chihuahua. George Lopez voiced the film's four-legged star, Papi. Long-haired Chihuahuas should be brushed once a week to avoid tangles or matted fur. Both coats don't shed much , except minimally once or twice a year. George also recommends brushing their teeth at least every other day, as poor dental care can lead to other health problems.
Thier nails, which grow quickly, should be trimmed regularly for all Chihuahuas. And if your pup develops tear stains beneath her eyes, you can carefully wipe them to remove discharge. Their tiny size doesn't do much to keep them warm, so naturally, Chihuahuas don't tolerate the cold well. You may also see them shiver when they're overly excited or stressed. But they're also born fashionistas, and your Chihuahua won't mind being dressed up in a sweater or coat.
When it comes to dinner time, make sure you provide high-quality food in the right amount for your Chihuahua's age, as they are prone to becoming overweight. Check with your veterinarian for guidance. Exercise will help as well, as even older Chihuahuas may surprise you with their energy level. Up for playing as long as you want, Chihuahuas enjoy walks, supervised romps around the yard, and retrieving toys. They can go-go-go until they drop, so don't let them tire themselves out too much , especially on hot days.
Chihuahuas need 20—30 minutes of exercise daily, but this need can be met by them just following you around the house all day which just so happens to be a favorite pastime. Chihuahuas are also fast learners: They can compete in agility and obedience trials with just as much enthusiasm and success as larger dogs, and remain curious and bold throughout their life.
That breed of dog does not weigh more than 6 pounds. Its name is derived from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where the earliest specimens of the breed were found, the American Kennel Club site states. We rate the claim that Chihuahuas are not dogs but a large breed of rodent as FALSE because it is not supported by our research. The rumor appears to stem from the urban legend of the "Mexican Pet" and an online satirical piece dating back to Laura Peters is a trending topics reporter for the News Leader.
Reach her at lpeters newsleader. Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or electronic newspaper replica here.
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