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Chihuahua

Although the origin of the Chihuahua is shrouded in mystery, we do know that it is a very ancient breed. It was not until late last century that he came to prominence in Mexico and, in due course, became officially recognised as a pure breed. It is believed that the Long Coated variety was subsequently developed in the United States by crossing the Smooth variety with other Toy breeds, thought to have been the Papillon and Pomeranian. Even the Pekingese, Yorkshire Terrier and Toy Poodle have been mentioned as possibilities.

Chihuahua (Smooth coat)

Legend abounds with fabulous stories regarding the history of the Chihuahua. Exotic tales include those of single families keeping upwards of a thousand dogs (each with his own slave!), cremating them with their masters as a guarantee of eternal life, offering Chihuahuas as sacrificial food to the Aztec gods etc. What is known is that the breed was named after Chihuahua, the Mexican state where it was discovered in the late nineteenth century

The world's smallest dog, the Chihuahua is also one of the most popular. Is it any wonder when you consider that he is so portable, cheap to feed, easy to groom, requires such a small amount of room, as well as needing so little exercise! Add to that the fact that he is very clean in his habits and has no doggie odour, plus being fiercely protective and ultra alert means you have a built-in family watchdog. He is very devoted to his owner but is intimidated by young children or rough games.

Taken all round, the "Chi" is a graceful, alert, swift moving little dog with a saucy expression.

The Smooth Coat Chihuahua, as his name suggests, possesses a smooth close, glossy soft textured coat which can be of any color.

Chihuahua (Long Coat)

The Long Coat Chihuahua is basically the same dog in all respects as the Smooth Coat Chihuahua, with the obvious exception of his coat. In fact both types sometimes appear in the same litter, even though they are classified as separate breeds. His coat is long and either flat or slightly wavy with a soft texture. As with all coated breeds, the Long Coat Chihuahua requires regular grooming to keep his coat tangle free.

Like the Smooth Coat variety he is a "big dog" in a small body who completely forgets about his lack of size. Not only does he refuse to be intimidated by larger dogs, but his alert nature makes him an excellent household watchdog. He adores his owners but may be nervous with strangers, and is good with older children provided they do no use any rough-house tactics.