Origin and Purpose The world’s smallest dog, the Chihuahua is a breed of dog considered indigenous to the Western Hemisphere. The breed’s name indicates its ancestors came from the State of Chihuahua in Mexico. However, the breed’s origins more properly belong to the whole of the country. It is said that the Long Coat variety was developed entirely in the United States by crossing the Smooth Coat to the Papillon and the Pomeranian. The Chihuahua has evolved primarily as a human companion.
Size A well-balanced little dog not to exceed 6 lb (2.7 kg).
Coat and Colour Coat: In the Short Coat (also referred to as Smooth Coat in the USA), the coat should be soft in texture, close, and glossy (heavier coats with undercoats permissible). In the Long Coat, the coat should be of a soft texture, either flat or slightly wavy, with undercoat preferred. Colour: A solid colour, marked (a solid colour with markings of other colours), or splashed (irregular, patched solid colour on white or white on a solid colour).
Temperament A graceful, alert, swift-moving little dog with saucy expression. Compact and with terrier-like qualities. Superior intelligence and generally reserved towards strangers.
Training and Obedience; Chihuahuas possess loyalty and charm, but even tiny dogs require training. Compact and confident, Chihuahuas can be ideal city pets. They are too small for roughhousing with children, and special care must be taken in cold weather, but Chihuahuas are adaptable —as long as they get lots of quality time in their preferred lap. The Chihuahua is a very alert little dog of high intelligence. They are eager to please their humans and respond well to positive training practices. Chihuahuas seem well aware of how cute they are and learn how to get their way. They can excel in obedience training and other canine sports.
Activity: The Chihuahua loves to run and play and can often get enough exercise in a small space. Short walks will help to keep your dog in good weight and condition.