About the Chihuahua

Chihuahuas were made famous recently by the precocious “Taco Bell Dog” and his trademark “Drop the Chalupa” remarks. This adorable small dog breed was discovered in the late 1800′s by American tourists in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, after which the breed was named. The Chihuahua’s origins are not exactly known; theories range from it being of Chinese ancestry – brought to Mexico by Chinese only 100 years ago, to it being the descendant of an ancient Egyptian breed.

As the world’s smallest dog (weighing in at just 2 to 4 pounds), the Chihuahua doesn’t require a lot of space and does very well in an apartment setting. This breed is alert, intelligent, playful, affectionate and loyal, and makes an excellent companion for elderly or disabled people or families with well-behaved, older children. The coat comes in both long and short variations, and may be any color.

Short-coated Chihuahuas should don a tiny sweater when venturing out for a walk in winter to keep them warm. Booties are also a good idea for all Chihuahuas in cold temperatures.