Species: chihuahua

post #387128

The Chihuahua is the smallest recognized breed of dog, and is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. However, its exact origins are convoluted and shrouded in mystery.

The Chihuahua comes in a variety of colours, with two coat lengths. Dogs of either coat type may be referred to as "apple head" or "deer head" Chihuahuas. Apple heads have rounded heads, close-set eyes, and relatively short ears and legs. Deer heads have flat-topped heads, more widely set eyes, larger ears, and longer, more slender legs. While deer heads were popular in the mid-20th century, current breed standards defined by registries such as the AKC specify the apple head conformation. Chihuahuas can live anywhere between 12-20 years on average, depending on their types.

Chihuahuas are often seen in shows. Kennels do not generally specify a height for Chihuahuas; only their weight range and overall proportions. Although Chihuahua puppies can vary in size, even amongst the same litter, show dogs are generally between 15-25 cm at the shoulder and 1.8-2.7 kg, though non-show pet Chihuahuas can often be larger. Larger Chihuahua females also generally have less problems related to giving birth.

Although Chihuahuas were once primarily bred as a food source and were unknown to much of the world, they are far more common nowadays, and often seen as lapdogs or showdogs, with a fair few celebrities owning or having owned Chihuahuas. There are still countries that breed them for food, however.

Chihuahuas are often subsceptible to "small dog syndrome", in which owners feel they do not need the training and socialisation often given to larger dogs, and as a result, the dog develops behaviour problems. However, early training can overcome this, though their temperament often depends on the genetics of their parents or grandparents and thus varies between individuals.

Some examples of famous Chihuahuas are Ren Hoek from Ren and Stimpy, Shirley the Medium from Courage the Cowardly Dog, and Mammoth Mutt from Krypto the Wonderdog. In addition, works of fiction will often depict rich ladies with evil or bad-tempered Chihuahuas.