Chihuahuas are wonderful little dogs. But they’re not right for everyone, and it’s important to make sure of your suitability as a Chihuahua owner before you get one — there are already too many of these sweet dogs at the shelter because they weren’t understood.
The chihuahua is a small Mexican dog, named after the city of Chihuahua. They were created to serve as household pets for the wealthiest native Mexican families. To fit into the breed standard, they must weigh between 1 and 6 pounds, but pet Chihuahuas are often larger. The spectacle type has an apple-shaped head, a stocky body, and relatively thick legs. Some pets are a type called ‘deer’ Chihuahuas, which are taller and slimmer. They come in short-haired and long-haired versions, and can be any color.
The most important thing to know about Chihuahuas is that they think of themselves as big dogs. In their minds, they are sure that they are hundred pound mastiffs and will behave like one. This makes them fearless little creatures well adapted to living with gentle children, and good watchdogs too, but it needs to be tempered by proper training and understanding.
The personality of a well-bred Chihuahua is bold. However, with the popularity of the breed comes breeders who do it just for the money. These poorly bred dogs may be genetically prone to shyness, or poorly socialized as puppies and shy because of it. A very fearful Chihuahua can be a fear biter, and should only be brought into homes with the most experience.
Young children and chihuahuas get along wonderfully. However, these pooches are rough and tumble playmates who must have someone to watch over their safety, because they don’t know they could get hurt. Small children are not recommended, because a Chihuahua is small enough to be fragile and cannot withstand the enthusiastic advances of many youngsters.
Unfortunately, Chihuahuas can be barkers. This trend seems to stem from their desire to protect the home and can be problematic in apartment buildings and other places where people come and go a lot. Some of these dogs suffer from separation anxiety and can be noisy because of it. His stubbornness sometimes makes behavior problems difficult to deal with.
In order for your Chihuahua to fit in perfectly with your family, you need to treat him like a larger dog. Because they can easily get up and move around or be carried around, many people don’t bother to train their Chihuahuas. This is a big mistake, as these dogs are bold and self-confident by nature, and can display behavioral problems if they don’t respect your leadership. Obedience training is recommended to teach your dog “pack” structure in a safe and loving way.
If you think this is the right home for a Chihuahua, check with your local animal shelter and rescue agencies. People who were unprepared for the needs of these puppies have become many unlucky puppies, languishing waiting for a home. Small, young, sweet dogs are available to caring people at most animal shelters.
