If you are a Chihuahua owner, you might think you know everything about your tiny pup. However, Chihuahuas are full of surprises, and there is always something new to learn about them. So, whether you're a seasoned Chihuahua owner or considering getting one, keep reading to discover some fascinating Chihuahua facts.
1. They Come From Mexico
Chihuahuas originally come from Mexico in North America. They've been around for hundreds of years, and Christopher Columbus even recorded seeing them!
2. They Are Named After a State
Chihuahuas are named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. What a surprise! Researchers believe this is because that's the state where the pups were first bred.
3. They Have Been Around for 100s of Years
Chihuahuas date back hundreds of years. Columbus met Chihuahuas in the 16th Century, and the Mayans and Aztecs bred them. They were first introduced as a show dog breed at the beginning of the 20th Century, and the rest is just history.
4. They Are One of The Smallest Breeds
Chihuahuas are the most miniature dogs around. They are so tiny that there were rumors of them cross-breeding with rodents at one point! Most Chihuahuas don't weigh more than about 6 lbs and are only about 9 inches tall.
5. They Became Popular in the 19th Century
Chihuahuas became famous during the 19th Century, which saw a fashion for lapdogs. Dogs that were there to sit on your lap and be petted were an absolute craze back then, and all rich folk had them as a signature of status.
6. They Can Live for Up to 20 Years
A Chihuahua's lifespan is one of the longest in the dog kingdom. While not all Chihuahuas can make it to 20, they usually live about 12-15 happy years.
7. Some of Them Are Very Famous
Chihuahuas are popular pets for the rich and famous and are often seen as status symbols. They also appear in film and TV, like Elle Woods's Bruiser in Legally Blonde and the pups in Beverly Hills Chihuahuas.
8. They Usually Have Health Problems
Like many dog breeds, Chihuahuas often suffer health problems due to their limited gene pool. These include eye problems, joint issues, and heart issues.
9. They Are Very Clever Dogs
They may look small and silly, but Chihuahuas are brilliant. Besides being highly intelligent, Chihuahuas are also super loyal and can be quick to defend their owners. That's why you might see them yapping at people!
10. They Don't Like the Cold
Chihuahuas were initially bred in hot climates, so they don't do well in cold weather. People who own Chihuahuas should put them in jumpers and warm clothing during cold weather while limiting their time in the snow.
11. They Are All Born With Floppy Ears
Chihuahuas are all born with floppy ears. As they get older, their ears will start to stand up. And if they haven't, they will probably stay floppy after about six months!
12. White Chihuahuas Are The Rarest Ones
Chihuahuas come with dozens of different color markings, but white ones are the rarest of them all. Then come blue merle, blue, and black Chihuahuas.
13. The Aztecs Believed They Had Powers
The Aztecs considered Chihuahuas sacred and would often keep them as pets. They loved pampering them and giving them special treatment, even burying the pups with their owners after death.
14. They Get Snatched by Other Animals
Because Chihuahuas are so light, they've been known to get kidnapped by bigger animals like crows, eagles, and hawks. That's why you should be extra careful, especially when going out without a leash.
15. They Descended from Techichi Dogs
The Techchichi dog was an ancient dog breed in Mexico, which is where Chihuahuas really come from. They looked very similar but were slightly more prominent. These are 15 Facts for your lovely dog.
Wrapping Up on Fun Chihuahua Facts
And there you have it, a delightful romp through some fascinating Chihuahua facts! From their tiny yet tenacious nature to their astounding diversity in coat patterns, these little pups are a bundle of surprises.
So, dear reader, how many of these quirky facts did you already know about our pint-sized pals? It's time to spread the Chihuahua love! Share these Chihuahua fun facts with your friends and family and let's marvel together at the wonder of these pups.
