| AKC Group: | Toy |
| A.K.A.: | N/A |
| Functions: | Companion |
| Year of Origin: | 1500s |
| Country of Origin: | Mexico |
| Life Span (yr): | 14 - 16 |
| Colors: | Black, Brown, Gold, Red, Silver, Gray, White, and Fawn |
| Height (Inch): | 6 - 9 |
| Weight (lb): | 3 - 6 |
| Size: | Very Small |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
Famous for his small size and recently for his companionship towards Hollywood celebrities, the Chihuahua is one of the most adorable breeds of dogs. Although he looks dainty, he is actually a fairly sturdy breed of dog. He has a narrow, tapered muzzle that ends in a point. He also has dark eyes that are rather large fro the size of his body. His ears are also large is size. His tail has a slight curve to it and is long. He holds it over his back. The Chihuahua also has a level back and straight legs, making him appear almost square.
Temperament:
Although Chihuahua is a toy breed, he has a temperament similar to many terriers. This means that he has plenty of self-confidence, cockiness, and an independent spirit. He is joyful and attentive – but can be snippy if provoked. He loves attention but can also be rather stubborn. He is willing to befriend most people and animals – but will also try to be the boss of them. He is brave and without fear, but will also be wary, if the situation calls for reservation. He loves to play with children and is quite patient - but should always be supervised with them. The Chihuahua is a natural performer but without the proper socialization can become a natural tyrant.
Health:
When discussing the health of the Chihuahua, the first thing that comes to mind is the structure of his short face. The way it is designed, it causes him to have difficulties breathing and may cause him to snore and snort. The other significant and unique condition that the Chihuahua faces is a soft spot on his head – much like that of a baby – called a molera. It closes up as he reaches adult head, but special attention must be paid to it as a puppy to make sure that he does not receive an injury to the brain at that spot.
Maintenance:
Size is everything when it comes to maintaining the Chihuahua. In fact, even if he needed to be groomed every day – which he does not – it would not take long because he is so small. He should be brushed as needed and wiped down with a towel if he is dirty. He gets cold very fast, so the less often he gets a bath, the better. He should get a walk every day, but keep in mind his small size and short legs when doing so. A trip around the block may be enough exercise for the Chihuahua – certainly never take him jogging or let him fend for himself at a dog park.