Do you have a chihuahua or a mix of this breed? Do you want to know more about them? In this AnimalWised article, we will share ten things you didn’t know about chihuahuas (or might not know). Don’t miss out!
The Chihuahua is, by far, one of the most popular Mexican dog breeds. In fact, they get their name thanks to the largest state in Mexico. Probably due to their character, the physical traits they possess, or the joy they convey have made them stand out enormously.
1. Their origin goes back to the Toltec civilization
According to the FCI standard [5], the Chihuahua was a wild dog captured and domesticated during the Toltec civilization. They are one of the pre-Columbian cultures living during North America’s Xth and XIIth centuries.
Some theories point out that the ancestors of the Chihuahua as we know it today inhabited Tula (Tollan-Xicocotitlan) in Hidalgo, Mexico. This is due to the well-known figure of “Techichi,” which is considered the precursory breed of the current Chihuahua.
2. They are one of the bravest dogs
The Chihuahua stands out for being an alert [6] and courageous dog[5], as indicated by the FCI and AKC standards. They are also considered inteenergeticvivacious, devout, friendly, pleasant, and youthful dogs.
Although each dog is different, the fact is that t usually, this breeda powerfully strong bond with its owners, becoming very attached. It is also common to try to get attention or be jealous.
3. They tremble
Have you ever seen a chihuahua all wrapped up? You probably have, especially during winter, and it is not fashionable. This is because this is susceptible and sensitive to low temperatures, as the AKC highlights[6].
Does your Chihuahua Trembles a lot? You must know that they do not always tremble because of the cold. Sometimes the source of the trembling is due to excment, the fact that they are still in their pupillage, to fear or to possible hypoglycemia. There are many causes!
4. Chihuahua is not their original name
Indeed, the actual name of this breed is “chihuahueño” or Chihuahian,” which means “arid and sandy place” in Tarahumara (Utoazteca language). Chihuahuas are named after the place where they were found, Chihuahua, Mexico.
5. They are born with a soft spot on their skull
Like human babies, chihuahua puppies are born with a soft spot on their skulls. That’s because their front panels (the bones of the head) have not connected yet, and they should end up doing so during their adult stage.
It is usually a congenital disability [1] common in toy-sized and teacup dog breeds, such as the shih tzu, the Yorkshire terrier, or the Maltese. Still, it can also be caused by hydrocephalus, an infection in the brain, a brain tumor, or a disease that blocks cerebrospinal fluid drainage.
In an article [2] by the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare on genetic problems of Chihuahua, it is stated that primary hydrocephalus (presence of water in the brain) is one of the most common congenital diseases.
Hydrocephalus causes pressure and pain in the dog’s brain, as well as thinning in the bones of the skull. This disease is associated with the size of certain breeds.
6. It is the smallest dog in the world
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog in the world, both in height and length. According to Guinness World Records, the smallest living dog (in the distance) [3] is Brandy, a female chihuahua that measures 15.2 centimeters (5.98 in) from the tip of her snout to the tail. She lives in Florida, United States.
It also records the smallest living dog (in height) [4]. Another female chihuahua named Miracle Milly measures 9.65 centimeters (3.79 in). She lives in Dorado, Puerto Rico.
7. They prefer the company of their breed
If properly socialized, the Chihuahua is a dog that relates wonderfully with virtually all breeds of dogs, even with cats. However, it is common to observe how Chihuahua dogs prefer others of their species to socialize. Perhaps this is why it is among the curious facts stated by the AKC.
8. It is one of the most popular dogs in the world
The Chihuahua is one of the world’s most popular and beloved dog breeds. It began to be known in the United States after the broadcast of the Taco Bell ads, in which Gidget the dog appeared (which replaced Dinky). Paris Hilton, Hillary Duff, BritneandSpears, and Madonna are some celebrities who have decided to adopt a dog of this breed.
9. It is a breed broadest, most comprehensive range of colors
According to the FCI standard, the Chihuahua has two varieties: short-haired and long-haired. In both specimens, we can find all stains of colors or combinations except the blackbird or hairless dogs.
The long hair specimens have silky, delicate, and slightly wavy fur and an inner layer. The most notable feature is the presence of long hair in their ears, neck, extremity, ies, feet, and tail. Those with short hair show short and stuck fur, which sometimes has an inner layer.
10. They have a great lifespan
The Chihuahua is one of the dogs with the longest life expectancy. A few years ago, it was estimated that they lived between 12 and 18 years, but currently, we can find Chihuahua dogs over 20 years old.
If you offer them a good diet, veterinary visits every 6-12 months, good care, and much affection, your Chihuahua can reach this incredible number.
What more can you ask of this adorable breed?
If you want to read similar articles to 10 Things you didn’t Know about Chihuahuas, we recommend you visit our Facts about the animal kingdom category.
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