Especially if you live in an apartment or a flat and you are thinking of a four-legged companion with whom you share many years of your life, there is nothing quite like choosing a small dog, such as For example pure or cross chihuahua .
This furry, despite the fact that he has a reputation for being very nervous and barking, is a piece of bread that needs patience, affection, and respect from his humans. In fact, with good education and training, it won’t be difficult for you to convince him. To know
Origin and History
The Chihuahua or Chihuahuano is a dog believed to originate from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, although this is a hypothesis that has not yet been confirmed. What if we found its roots in Mexico, but it is not known exactly where. (1)
What we can say with certainty is that the earliest records come from the Teachi, a dog with very similar characteristics, dating from the XNUMXth century, but it is possible that he may have already accompanied the Maya. Was living. (2) Inscriptions were also found in the ruins of Chichen Itza (Yucatan Peninsula), and among the pyramids of Cholula.
The Chihuahua we know today is much smaller than its predecessor. Researchers have shown that the fur that makes up the present day was crossed with European dogs . (3)
What is the breed of Chihuahua dog?
The Chihuahua is a small animal: males measure between 15,2–20,3 cm in height with a height of 15,2 to 22.9 cm, although some can reach up to 30 cm. Its weight is between 1,5 to 3 kg. You can have long or short hair, which can be any color (black, chocolate, cream, white, or brown…). Its life expectancy is 12 to 20 years.
What are the types of Chihuahua dogs?
There are two varieties:
- Apple Head Chihuahua: Most common. Its ears are large and wide, almost always straight. The body is short, and its tail is turned at the back. (4)
- Deer Head Chihuahua: This one is slightly larger than the previous one. The head is longer, and it has a longer and more slender body. (5)
behavior and/or personality
This is a dog very intelligent and attentive, which prefers to stay away from it. But he is also brave, also loving. He enjoys being the center of attention, but precisely because of this and how easy it is to fall into their network, you need to start educating him from day one when he comes home with respect and patience.
caution
ALIMENTACION
Given that it is a carnivorous animal, the natural thing for him is to give him barf or homemade food. But, although this is the best option, it can cause health problems if it is not done well, so if you decide to give it a natural diet, consult a veterinarian. He will examine your Chihuahua and prepare a special diet for your friend.
Still, if you don’t want to complicate it too much, you can always feed the yam diet (it will be very similar to ice but with chopped and mixed ingredients), or feed without grains.
Health-science
The hair of this little boy can be short or long in any case, you have to comb it once every day of his life. When you notice it sheds more often, as will be the case in molting season (spring), brush it out twice a day. This will help him stay cool, and you won’t have to vacuum as much.
exercise
Despite its size, this is a dog with high energy levels. For this reason, it is not an animal that you can always hold in your arms or within four walls. So, pass it every day, at least once, but it is advisable to have three or more.
If you spend a long time doing nothing, you will get bored. And if he’s bored, he’ll have unwanted behavior, like barking a lot or chewing on things.
Health
This is a breed that is in very good health. Of course, you have to take it with you to get all the necessary vaccines, as well as the microchip. And if you don’t want it for breeding, ask your vet what options you have.
How to teach a Chihuahua puppy?
Always with patience, affection, and respect. None of the three things can be missing. It’s true that Chihuahuas can be very stubborn, and sometimes unruly, but you can set boundaries in a good way without yelling or hitting (by the way, remember that misbehaving with an animal) Doing so is a crime in many countries, as in Spain).
He has to create his own routine, and you should be in it. So teach him basic tricks, like “sit” or “come,” make sure he exercises and has fun, and then at home, you’ll see that he’s calm.
worth
A purebred Chihuahua puppy costs around €300 but if you don’t care too much about the purity of the breed, you can visit an animal shelter or shelter, as Chihuahuas are usually looking for a family that loves them.