The Different Types of Chihuahua Dogs
Everyone is familiar with the tiny Chihuahua dog breed, but what many people don’t know is that there are different types of Chihuahua dogs. At one time these tiny canines were considered sacred to the Aztec tribes, but today they are mostly a pampered pet. Chihuahua dogs were discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico.
The Chihuahua in part due to their portable size have become quite popular lately and their popularity continues to grow. Although the Chihuahua is known as the smallest of the dog breeds, but what many people don’t realize is there are different Chihuahua types. This little powerhouse has a huge heart so don’t be fooled by its tiny size!
Chihuahua types are distinguished by their color, and the shape of their heads. They come in a variety of shades, including cream, fawn, chocolate, silver, blue, and black. Their heads are classified as appleheads, which have a round skull, close-set eyes, and a short muzzle, and deer heads, which bear a striking resemblance to a tiny Doberman Pinscher.
The American Kennel Club recognizes long-haired and short-haired types of Chihuahuas. The smooth coat of the short-haired type sheds very little. Their tail is sometimes curved. Long-haired Chihuahuas can have flat or curly hair, and it is quite soft, with extra fluff around the tail and ears.
he terms ‘teacup’ or ‘mini’ are used by many breeders for their Chihuahua types. These Chihuahua types are only tricks of the trade. Genetically all Chihuahuas are of the toy breed. The practice of breeding to get the smallest sized Chihuahua possible has developed, due to the desirability of tiny dogs. People are misled to believe ‘pocket size’ Chihuahuas rare and will pay premium prices but the truth is that the smaller dogs might come with bigger health problems.
It’s easy to understand why Chihuahuas are the 10th most popular dog in the United States, since they’re such an intelligent dog, and fiercely protective of their owners. Standard Chihuahuas today weight six pounds or less, and are six to nine inches tall. The darling tan dog that starred in the Taco Bell commercial is representative of the most popular type of Chihuahua.
If you live in an apartment, you couldn’t do better than to get one of these tiny dogs. They are wonderful companions and live a long life, in many cases getting to be 16 years or older. Shorthaired companions may need a little extra warmth, sometimes burrowing under covers to maintain their body heat while asleep. My friend has a Chihuahua that will growl whenever anyone has the audacity to uncover her.
All different Chihuahua types have spanned the centuries as a companion to man. Researchers think they may have originated in Spain and that a larger cousin already existed in the 2nd century BC and was then bred with miniature Chinese dogs which were introduced to the New World by Spain. At one time the Chihuahua types were pets for the wealthy and while many wealthy folks own them today, they make great pets for anyone who has the means to provide them with the appropriate food, attention and veterinary care!
Whatever type of Chihuahua you locate through your search, be careful not to pass up this faithful and fun-loving breed. Chihuahuas are dedicated pets and cherished companions. With a Chihuahua by your side, you will be loved and entertained for many years. Let me warn you, however - it’s hard not to want more than one!
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