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Thinking About Buying A Chihuahua Online
The origin of the Chihuahua breed is shrouded in mystery, but is commonly believed to be Mexico and potentially the Aztecs. Ancient pre-Columbian pottery portrays a roundbellied little dog with large ears and a pear-shaped head. No matter where the exact origin though, the important breeding was done in the United States. A dog fancier and judge at dog shows by the name of Watson was fascinated by the Chihuahua breed and purchased his first in 1888. Over the years he purchased several more Chihuahuas from Mexico usually from the border along the Rio Grande, and shared his experiences in several articles. In those days the smaller the dog the higher the cost, and there was very little standardization.
The Chihuahua Kennel Club was formed in 1923 and defined the first breed standards for the chihuahua. Two types of Chihuahuas are recognized, the smooth (or short) and the long coat. The smooth-coated Chihuahua is characterized by a close, glossy, soft textured coat. The long-coated Chihuahua exhibits either a straight, or slightly curly, coat with feathering on the feet and legs. Another characteristic of Chihuahuas are their size; small! The show specifications for a smooth-coated Chihuahua is one to six pounds with two to four pounds being ideal. The long-coat Chihuahua tends to be a little heavier with two to eight pounds being acceptable while two to five pounds is preferred.
The Chihuahua is not a "Mexican Hairless". This breed is called the "Chinese" dog my many Mexicans, and it may have originated in China. The Mexican Hairless is mute, while a Chihuahua barks often and happily. Also the Chihuahua does have hair, either a smooth-coat or a long-coat as discussed previously.
Your new Chihuahua will form a strong attachment to you, this is one of the most determinedly one-man dogs there is. As a result your Chihuahua will want to associate with your odor; thus sleeping on your chair, your bed, your shoes. Also be aware that Chihuahuas have a higher metabolic rate than most dogs, and thus tire more quickly. With their happy spirits they usually do not know when to quit, so you will need to curb the excitement for them.
Whatever the cautions might be, your Chihuahua will "get away" with more things than your average dog will. Your Chihuahua will demand attention from you and your family. They love to be coddled, and they get lonely if they are not. Special training to overcome this should begin in their puppyhood, for your sake as well as theirs. Chihuahuas are extremely faithful and despite their size, make great guard dogs. The breed is known for their alertness and keen sense of hearing and will let you know when someone approaches by barking furiously.
