Should You Buy a Chihuahua?

The Chihuahua dog is one of the smallest dog breeds in the world.

If you watch television, you've probably seen celebrities like Paris Hilton toting around tiny dogs with big poppy brown eyes. This dog first appeared in Mexico and does well in warmer climates. Of course, a doggy sweater can make one of these small dogs feel warm and cozy during winter months.

It weighs in as a lightweight at one to six pounds and stands only about five inches high. These little dogs come in a wide range of colors, although tan or black and tan dogs are most common. They have prick ears, an alert expression, and big, slightly poppy eyes. This breed has both short haired and long haired varieties.

The American Kennel Club considers this breed to be part of the Toy Group. These dogs were bred to be companion dogs and they excel at this task. This breed hates to be alone and thrives when it is in the thick of things.

The Chihuahua and People

This is an ideal apartment dog, since it does not take up much room and does not need a ton of exercise. Some people even train these little guys to use a litter box. This doesn't mean that it won't enjoy living in a house with a yard, though. This breed enjoys exercising and playing outdoors on warm days.

It can sometimes be nippy with small children, especially if it is accidentally injured and has reason to fear being handled by them. This breed also tends to be bossy and easily spoiled, especially if the dog's owners allow it to get away with aggressive or angry behaviors.

If you have other breeds, you will need to be sure that your dog does not bully them. These dogs will pick a fight with much larger dogs, since they sincerely believe that they have the size and strength of a Rottweiler. In fact, this dog is a wonderful guard dog and will also take on human intruders.

Because they have a tendency to be self centered and badly behaved, the puppy should receive obedience training. After all, even a tiny tyrant can be unpleasant to be around. Puppy classes will help your dog to learn basic obedience, but they also have another important purpose, socializing your puppy.

Your dog will learn at an early age to get along with people and other dogs. Despite their size, these dogs are quite intelligent and do well with obedience training. Some of them even go on to take agility classes.

The Chihuahua and Health

The Chihuahua eats very little, but feeding costs can still be a bit high, since these dogs are often picky eaters. Also, this breed is so delicate that some dogs have trouble eating hard, dry food. These dogs can be prone to dislocated jaws, fractures, epilepsy and rheumatism.

The Chihuahua and Grooming

The short haired breed requires very little care but a long haired type will need a bit more grooming, but still will not need to be brushed more than once a week. With their tiny jaws, it is no surprise that some of these dogs have dental problems, so you may also want to brush your dog's teeth daily.

If you want a dog who is small enough to tuck into your pocket, but has the heart of a much bigger dog, then a Chihuahua may be the right dog for you.

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