The Different Types of Chihuahua Dogs

by: LeeDobbins
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Have you wondered where your adorable little Chihuahua dog breed was first discovered? The word Chihuahua actually means "dry and sandy place", and you would be correct if you guessed Chihuaua, Mexico. The cute short-legged breed is noted as once being sacred to the Aztec Indian tribes and although we typically think of the Chihuahua as one type of dog, there are actually several types of Chihuahua.

The smallest of dog breeds, there are far more Chihuahua types than people realize. Their popularity has really grown in recent years with all the publicity of celebrities and their pet Chi's. Although these dogs are small in stature small, they have quite a big personality!

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 both longhaired and shorthaired types of Chihuahua dogs. Shorthaired Chihuahuas can be identified by a smooth coat and generally experience limited shedding or malting. They also are likely to have a slight bend or curvature in the tail. Longhaired Chihuahuas have ears that are fringed with fur, a long fluffy tail and have a soft coat that can have either flat or curly hair.

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.

The 10th most popular breed in the US, the Chihuahua is quite intelligent. Standing 6-9 inches tall they weigh up to six pounds. Although short in stature they are very protective of their owners and territorial. The Taco Bell commercials has made the tan shorthaired Chihuahua, most popular Chihuahua type.

Chihuahuas are great if you live in a small residence. They are long-lived (16 years or more). The shorter-haired Chihuahuas need to keep warm, especially while sleeping, so they like to sleep under a blanket. One friend has a Chihuahua that is so emphatic about being covered that he growls at her if uncovered!

It is believed that Chihuahuas may be the oldest breed of dog to exist in the American continents. A slighter larger breed of Chihuahua existed in the 2nd century BC, and was known as a symbol of the upper class. It was probably bred with miniature Chinese dogs which the Spanish introduced to the New World.

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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