Chihuahua Online Community

Make a page for your chihuahua.

Add your photos to the chihuahua picture gallery.

Share chihuahua rescue stories.

Free Advertising for Chihuahua Breeders



Lend Us A Paw: Now that the chihuahua movie has made everyone fall in love with chihuahuas, please help to stop impulse purchases of chihuahuas as christmas gifts. The decision to get a dog is not something to be taken lightly. An adorable puppy can tug at our heartstrings but, in the end, will require a significant investment of your time and money for a significant number of years. Socializing and training a new puppy is time consuming and, occasionally, frustrating. It can increase the amount of stress on the family, and the dog, working to provide the constant supervision, socialization, and training that is necessary to successfully integrate a dog into a family environment. This is especially true if the primary caregiver(s) are working outside of the home and/or have young children, an elderly parent, or other persons and/or pets to care for. This does not mean that it cannot be done. But, prospective dog owners often underestimate the investment of time, energy, and money, required. Additionally, depending upon what breed or mixed breed you ultimately select it may take some time to find the right breeder and/or the right puppy/dog. Reputable, ethical breeders do not breed frequently. And, they only breed when they have found a pair who has been proven to possess the health and temperaments required to insure, to the extent possible, healthy, well tempered, offspring. Making this decision impulsively, can lead to frustration, disappointment, and eventually, may result in the surrender of the dog to a shelter or rescue. In the US, the tragic fact is that, millions of the dogs are prematurely euthanized, annually. And, most often, it is the owners, not the dogs, who are responsible for their premature deaths. Impulsive or poorly thought out decisions; the selection of a difficult or headstrong breed because it is 'popular' or you like how it looks; or, for that matter, any dog selected for looks rather than temperament, 'match' to your lifestyle, and your ability to provide proper care and environment; the lack of consideration of the lifestyle changes you may experience over the next 12 to 14 years; as well as the lack of proper socialization, training, physical activity, and attention -- these are all major contributors to the need for so many shelters and rescues. And, results, all too frequently, in premature euthanasia.
WHY DO YOU WANT A DOG?
The first question you should ask yourself, honestly is . . . Why do I (we) want a dog? If your answer is: For my son/daughter/children . . . Trust me, this will be YOUR dog! After the 'honeymoon period', the kids may only play with the dog, occasionally. They may groan and grumble about any dog-related responsibilities, doing them, begrudgingly, only after significant prodding from you. As children's interests and activities change, over the years, their level of involvement with the dog will most likely be, inconsistent, at best. Additionally, your children, especially, young children, will need to be 'trained' in how to behave with the dog and will need to be supervised when with the dog. For protection . . . I know some may disagree but, it is my opinion, that the only time is it a good idea to get a dog for the purpose of protection is in professional or agricultural situations and only when the owner/trainer is humane and knowledgeable of dog behavior and dominant dog training/handling. In all other situations - probably 99.9% - an alarm system, security fence, or other measures are much more appropriate and effective. To breed puppies . . . If you've read the third paragraph of this piece and still feel this way, there is probably little I can offer to change your mind. But, just in case, let me restate the case a little more thoroughly. The breeding of dogs is a responsibility not to be taken lightly. If it is not your intention to remain responsible for all of your puppies for their entire lives, including being willing to take back and care for those who may find themselves homeless, do not enter into this endeavor. If you are planning on breeding for profit, understand that there are much easier, more profitable and ethical ways to make a buck. Dogs are living beings and dog breeding requires a significant investment of time, money, labor, knowledge, both academic and practical, patience, and emotional fortitude, to be done responsibly and humanely. Please visit a few of the shelter and rescue websites, or your local shelter, and witness the problem yourself. View the faces of the homeless dogs and talk to the volunteers and staff who, all too often, must take that 'final walk' with them. Because BreedX (Chihuahua) is 'Cool', was in a movie you saw, is unique and exotic, is free/cheap, or other such nonsense . . . One of the WORSE reasons to get a dog, or any other animal, for that matter, is because of their physical appearance or popularity due to a movie, TV show, or other publicity. Often, these venues feature exotic, rare or unique breeds that are, in the overwhelming majority of pet situations, unsuitable as companions. This visibility may also draw out those 'breeders' whose primary motivation is profit versus health, temperament, structural soundness and the welfare of their dogs. And, remember to incorporate the same thoughtful consideration on whether or not to get a dog, and which breed or mix, when your friend, coworker or relative offers you one of Fluffy's puppies. Dogs are never really 'free' or 'cheap' and, in reality, require significant financial, physical, time, and environmental resources. At a minimum, none of these, or other such reasons, are sound selection factors for getting a dog and selecting a particular breed or mix. And, remember, if it is difficult for you to find information on a particular breed, or a breeder of the breed, it follows that you will most likely also have difficulty finding local support services that are familiar with the training, health care, and maintenance needs of that breed.
THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF DOG OWNERSHIP However, if you are interested in getting a dog for the RIGHT reasons, please ask yourself the following 10 questions, prior to selecting a breed and breeder or visiting your local shelter or rescue facility:
1) Are you, and all those who live with you, committed to spend 12+ years providing health care, food, grooming, training and attention to a dog? Do the people who live with you also want a dog? 2) Do you have the time and/or resources available . . . To take your dog for walks and to the vet? To bath, brush, clip, and, otherwise, groom your dog as often as necessary? Will you want to play and, perhaps, work on training daily, with your dog? Are you willing to take your dog to puppy socialization, kindergarten, and basic obedience classes? 3) Are there lifestyle-altering events that could occur in your foreseeable future? - A baby, caring for an elderly family member, a divorce, job uncertainty, etc. And, how would you deal with these changes as they impacted your ability to care for a dog? 4) Is your personality conducive to dog ownership? Do you often feel 'stressed out'? Do you like to have total control over your environment or 'space'? Are you a 'neat freak'? Are you flexible? Patient? Answer honesty - nobody but you will know AND, more importantly, nobody but you will have to live with the results of your trying to 'fit' your personality to a dog. 5) Are you physically able to care for a dog? Are you economically able to provide care for a dog? 6) Is your environment prepared for a dog and/or are you willing to make the investment of time and money necessary to insure that it does? Is there a yard or park-like area for your dog to walk and relieve him- or her- self? Is your yard, or a portion of it, fenced? If your dog will be outside for any period of time, will you provide a secure and comfortable shelter for your dog? Although you may have a secure and comfortable location for your dog while it is outdoors, dog should not be left outdoors, unattended, for extended periods of time. They can be taunted, released, stolen, or worse. Tethering can cause serious physical harm or death in the event of an entanglement or other such accident. Further, prolonged tethering can cause undesirable behavioral and personality traits to surface. Additionally, garages may contain chemicals, tools and other items that can be dangerous and/or harmful to your dog. 7) Will your dog be alone for long periods of time, daily? Can you arrange for the dog to be let out for a romp, given water, medication, and playtime, as necessary, during the day? Or, will you become angered and frustrated by behavioral issues that may arise due to the fact that your dog is alone for long periods of time? (i.e., relieves him or herself indoors; chews up a blanket, your shoes, your favorite chair cushion; barks incessantly, causing your neighbors to become angry or, perhaps, even call animal control on you; etc. Do not plan to leave your dog outdoors or in a garage all day while you are away! If this is in your plans, I suggest you revisit the question "Why do I/We want a dog?" 8) Are you willing to spay/neuter your dog, as soon as possible, to reduce the chance of an accidental breeding? 9) Do you travel frequently? Will it be difficult for you to find quality care for your dog when you are away? 10) Do you really LOVE dogs? If you are truly motivated by your love of dogs, or a particular dog, you most likely don't need this page. You've done your homework and are ready for a lifelong commitment. You will train and play with your dog, provide appropriate veterinary care and nutrition, you will bath and groom him or her, happily, and the occasional behavioral problem won't throw you for a loop. If this is the case, please visit the other related sections of the library for helpful articles on breed or mix selection, puppy or adult?, adoption or breeder, finding a breeder, preparation for your dog, training care, and more. CLOSING THOUGHTS

While there are a few breeds, especially exotic or rare breeds, which I would not recommend to people considering dog ownership, there are several shared traits and needs that are basic to all dogs. All require socialization, training, a secure, comfortable and safe environment, grooming and health maintenance, professional health care, a quality diet, companionship, attention, and love. All dogs are canines and think like canines. It is important that you educate yourself through books, training classes, etc., so that you will be able to interpret and understand their behavior and respond appropriately.

SO WHAT IS A CHIHUAHUA?
1. Introduction
"To know me is to love me." -- Chihuahua's motto, if they could talk. This FAQ is written for both the experienced owners and casual readers in mind. Please note that The Chihuahua FAQ is a guide only, and should NOT replace veterinarian advice and/or more authoritative published works written on this breed. Since I only have the experience of owning one Chihuahua, I would appreciate feedback from other Chihuahua owners. GUSH MODE ON: If you already own a Chihuahua, then I'll be preaching to the converted when I say that they are one of the most loyal, sweet-tempered, and gentle of the toy breeds. The Chihuahua, with its apple-dome skull and large luminous eyes, can wear a remarkably human expression at times; she or he will want to be with you most, if not all, of the time. A warning to casual dog owners: Don't buy a Chihuahua if you don't have the emotional real estate in your heart or the time for the complete love and attention of this furry little person. GUSH MODE OFF. 2. History
Carvings found in the Monastery of Huejotzingo, on the highway from Mexico City to Puebla, give strong evidence as to the Chihuahua's origins. This monastery was constructed by Franciscan Monks around 1530. The Monks used stones from the Toltec civilization. Little is known of the Toltecs, but we do know that they existed as early as the 9th century A.D. in what is now Mexico. The Toltecs had a breed of dog they called the "Techichi". And the carvings on the stones at Huejotzingo give a full head view and a picture of an entire dog that closely resembles the modern-day Chihuahua. From this evidence, we can safely assume that the Chihuahua is a descendant of the Techichi. Additionally, there are remains at some pyramids and other pointers to the early existence of the Techichi at Chichen Itza in Yucatan. The Techichi was a religious necessity among the ancient Toltec tribes and later among the Aztecs. Archaeologists have found the remains of this breed in human graves in Mexico and in parts of the United States. For more information about the religious and mythical role of the Techichi in Toltec tribes, I recommend The American Kennnel Club's Official Breed Book (see Books). The first Chihuahua to be officially registered by the American Kennel Club was "Midget" in 1904. 3. Physical Description
Chihuahuas go under the classification of "toy breeds." They are the smallest breed of dog in the world. They are, in fact, the only "natural" toy breed. That is, they are naturally small and aren't a result of "breeding-down" larger breeds, as were other toy breeds. Chihuahua can be smoothcoats or longcoats. Interestingly, there is no breeding distinction made between the two in the United States, since in the States, both smoothcoats and longcoats can occur in a litter; however, in the United Kingdom, smoothcoats and longcoats are considered two different breeds and are never interbred. The breed standard, approved September 11, 1990 disqualifies any dog over 6 pounds from the conformation ring; however, they can weigh up to 9 pounds or more. One of the Chihuahua's most distinctive characteristics is its head, which is well-rounded and referred to by breeders as an "apple-dome" type skull. In contrast, its muzzle is extraordinarily tiny in contrast. Pink noses are sometimes found on blonde Chihuahuas. Another distinctive physical feature of the Chihuahua is the ears: large, held erect, and flaring to the sides at an angle of about 45 degrees, the Chihuahua uses its ears to express a variety of emotions and responses. The eyes, usually dark and luminous, are wide-set. Again, blondes may have lighter eyes. Tears are often produced in abundance to keep the large eyes lubricated, and it is not unusual for tears to fly from a Chihuahua's face when it shakes its head during play. The back should be level and the rib-cage rounded. Some Chihuahuas may actually have barrel-shaped rib-cages, but professional breeders find this undesireable. The hindquarters are muscular and thin. The Chihuahua has stick-like legs and dainty feet. The tail is longish carried either in a sickle fashion or in a loop with the tip touching the back. Finally, coat color: there are a variety of shades, including brindle, blonde, black, brown, fawn, blue, and "splashed." It is interesting to note that Mexico prefers the jet black with tan markings, and the black and white spotted; the United States overwhelmingly prefers the solid colors, especially fawn. 4. Temperament
"Chis aren't dogs, I'm convinced -- they are four-legged babies." -- from CHIHUA-L I hear from experienced Chihuahua owners that each dog of this breed has their own unique personality; this is a very individualistic breed. However, a few generalizations can be made. Chihuahuas are graceful, energetic, and swift-moving canines. They have often been described as having "terrier-like" qualities; that is, the qualities of being alert, observant, and keen on interacting with their masters. They are extremely loyal and get attached to one or two persons. These tiny dogs are certainly unaware of their diminutive stature: they can be bold with other dogs much larger than themselves, and protective of their masters. They are fiercely loyal to their masters and wary of any strangers or new guests introduced into the household, which the Chihuahua considers to be its personal domain. For these reasons, Chihuahuas make good watch dogs (not guard dogs, though!). The Chihuahua needs a great deal of human contact: touching, petting, and general attention. If the Chihuahua does not get this, she or he will use various attention-getting tricks until you give her/him attention. (My own uses her paws to lightly scratch my hand, a signal that says, "Pet me now!") Some owners who have had other, more independent breeds may find the Chihuahua too needy. However, Chis give alot of love and affection in return for your care. Keeping more than one Chihuahua can greatly ease the dog's stress when left alone each day if the owner works. (They will compete for your attention when you get home, though!) Because they are by nature gentle, loyal, and sweet-tempered, Chihuahuas are ideal for single people, the elderly, the handicapped, and shut-ins. They will keep you company for hours by lying on your lap or beside your torso if in bed, and treat you like royalty. No one with a Chi in their household will ever be truly alone! 5. Care and Maintenance
Chihuahuas are a good breed for city-dwellers, or those who just don't have the time to walk their dogs that often. They are quite happy in apartments, as long as there is enough to play with and explore. (They love exploring like most dogs.) Opinions from dog authorities differ on how often to bathe a Chihuahua. Some say that bathing too often removes the natural oils from the coat, and thus dandruff will result and the coat will look dull. Others say that shampooing on occassion with certain brands of shampoo can actually enhance the sheen of the coat. It has been my experience that Chihuahuas should be bathed at least once a month, otherwise they develop an unpleasant smell. This is actually due to the skin cells that humans slough off onto the Chihuahua! So humans are the main contributors to that smell that can develop. When bathing, take care not to get water into their ears, as an infection can develop. Since the Chihuahua is mainly a housepets, you will need to trim their nails at least once a month. On the smaller Chis, cat claw trimmers can be used. It's good to start a nail-trimming routine early-on so that your dog becomes accustomed to your handling its paws (not to mention getting used to the big shiny clippers!). You should consult your veterinarian about the nutritional needs of your Chihuahua. According to some of the dog care books I consulted: after weaning (up to six weeks), puppies should be fed four meals a day until three months old; from 3 months to 6 months they should be fed three meals a day; and from six months to a year they should be fed twice a day. After 1 year, once a day is fine. However, it has been my experience that even into adulthood, Chihuahuas prefer several small meals as opposed to one big meal per day. I have found that regular adult dog food is just fine for this breed. Dry food or a mixture of dry food with canned food is preferable, since in some cases canned food is difficult for this breed to digest (resulting in diarrhea). Like all dogs, Chihuahuas appreciate "treats." Be careful, though, in your selection. The following treats, in small quantitites, are useful as rewards when training or as general special snacks: cheese, Alpo snacks, raw-hides, Bonz, peanut butter. However, do be careful not to over-indulge with snacks, as overweight is a health-hazard for dogs in general. Consult your veterinarian on the periodic cleaning of your Chihuahua's ears and teeth, booster shots, and vaccinations. There is an excellent web resource for general health care for dogs, called "Health Care Issues," which can be found at http://www.zm all.com/pet_talk/dog-faqs/health-care.html. However, please note this document isn't a substitute for regular veterinary check-ups and attention for health problems. 6. Special Medical Problems
Owners should be aware that Chihuahuas are prone to "weak knees." This can occur as they get older. If it causes difficulty in walking, take your dog to the vet. [ Top ] FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Aren't Chihuahuas expensive?
If they have their American Kennel Club official certificate papers, yes -- they can run up to $600.00. The papers (which the breeder provides) mean that the parents of your Chi are registered with the AKC and that the puppy is registerable. Additionally, some breeders provide pedigree papers which trace the family history beyond the immediate parents. These papers are vital if you plan to enter your new dog into exhibitions and competitions. These certificates and papers ensure that the dog is a purebred; however, I hasten to add that just because a dog has papers, doesn't mean it qualifies for exhibitions and competitions. (See AKC Chihuahua Breed Standards.) Additionally, papers do not necessarily insure that the breeding Chis were well cared for or that they are free from genetic defect. Chihuahuas who do not have their papers are not significantly different than those with papers. Moreover, they can be bought for much less. (I bought mine for $200.00 without papers.) Marli Medinnus, who has been breeding Chihuahuas for 16 years, emailed me: Papers are not important, but meeting the breeder and seeing the conditions in which the dog was raised is. You should also expect to see the parents (or at least the mother) of the puppy you are thinking of buying so that you can verify that the parents are sound and of good temperament. 2. What is their life-span?
Toy breeds live the longest of any size dog. Expect a life-span of 11-18 years, although the latter is rare. 3. How much exercise do they require?
Not much. This little breed has short bursts of energy each day which quickly die down. You should provide toys for your Chi to keep it occupied. Old slippers are ideal, as well as stuffed toys with squeakers inside. You can certainly take your Chi on walks. (You'll make many an acquaintance due to the diminutive and unusual appearance of your Chihuahua!) When buying a leash for your Chihuahua, remember that its neck is rather small and delicate compared to other dog's necks. You cannot (and, indeed, should not) yank your dog around by the leash if s/he has a neck collar on. I recommend the body-harness for two reasons: safety and comfort. If fitted right, it will give your Chi a secure and comfortable walk, and harnesses also ensure your dog cannot escape -- a real concern if you live in an urban area. There are two kinds of body harnesses: one kind goes over the head of the dog and buckles under the torso in an H-design. This is good, but an even better harness is the Y-design, which doesn't touch the throat at all. 4. Do they require special dog food?
No. They have the same nutritional needs as most dogs. I feed mine regular Alpo kibbles, and, although the kibbles are large, my Chihuahua seems to sort of enjoy cracking each one with her jaws. Chihuahuas prefer several small meals per day, rather than one big meal. I leave a bowl of kibbles out for my Chi and she seems to eat about three small meals a day. 5. I've heard they're nervous, high-strung dogs. Is that true?
Yes, they are high-strung dogs. I define "high-strung" as follows: barks easily, does not adapt easily to change in environment, is suspicious of strangers and will growl at them, and flips in circles and jumps around when excited (like when you come home after a five-minute absence, for instance). However, with the person that they have bonded with (i.e., their master[s]), they do not display most of these characteristics; infact, they display radically different personalities. Chihuahuas are truly the "Jekyll-and-Hyde" of dog breeds: your friends will see the worst side of them and never believe you when you tell them that your Chi is really a gentle, sweet-natured dog. There is good news, though. If you socialize your Chi at an early age, they will be less stressed when new environments and people are introduced to them in adulthood. Proper socialization is critical, then, and at the earliest age possible. 6. Are they good with children?
Generally, no. Be careful when walking your Chihuahua to keep your Chi well away from toddlers and young children, who are often uninhibited and will approach your dog. Again, this is general good advice; some Chihuahuas are friendly around children (usually as a result of de-sensitization). In this case and others, the master's knowledge of his or her Chihuahua and good judgement should prevail. 7. I'm allergic to dogs, but I heard Chihuahuas won't bother me; is that true?
Opinion seems to vary on this point. Some say it's an old-wives' tale, while others swear that, although they're allergic to dogs, Chihuahuas did not bother them. The best way for someone who has allergies to find out if they can own a Chihuahua is for them to simply spend some time around one. Some people are allergic to dog hair, while others are allergic to saliva. Since Chihuahua's are known to lick the face of their master alot, you'd best be sure you're not allergic to the latter before investing in this breed. I had an email note from Ernest Lowell on this subject, who adds: If a Chihuahua happens to "work" for some allergic individuals, great, but it's more likely that an allergic person will need a breed with a wiry/curly coat plus no undercoat: poodles, bichons, and some terriers. Even those breeds don't work for some allergic people, so it depends on the individual. 8. What are the differences between the smoothcoats and the longcoats?
The issue of whether or not there is a difference in personality seems to be a topic of debate within the Chihuahua community. Some claim that there is no difference in personality; others swear that longcoats have a tendency to be "soft-tempered" while smoothcoats are more prone to aggressive behaviour. Let's set aside the personality issue and focus on physical and maintenance differences. Smoothcoats tend to have coats that are much coarser than longcoats -- almost like bristles in some cases. Smoothcoats also shed more than longcoats. However, longcoats can shed as well. Heavily coated longhairs require brushing about once a month, but this can be a pleasureable exercise for both Chi and master rather than a chore. As far as bathing is concerned, as a general rule, the longcoats will need to be bathed more frequently, and it'll be a longer process (both washing and drying). The bib -- the furry part of the chest -- can easily get dirty and matted. Longcoats can also occasionally get fecal matter stuck on their "pants." You'll have to either bathe your dog or cut the bit off with scissors when this happens. Some Chihuahua owners swear by long-hairs and wouldn't have anything else; it is as much a matter of personal taste as is coat color. 9. Is it safe to take your Chihuahua on a cold weather walk?
Owners must be very sensitive to the fact that short-haired Chihuahuas, and even long-haired ones, are vulnerable to the cold. In temperatures of 35-40 degrees Farenheit, I would recommend dressing your Chihuahua in a special dog sweater for brief walks. Walking your Chihuahua in temperatures below 35 degrees Farenheit is strongly discouraged, especially when there is a wind-chill factor. In this, as in other aspects of dog maintenance, keep your dogs' health top priority, not your own desire. In some cold regions, an indoor heater will be necessary to keep your Chi comfortable. 10. Are they sociable with other dogs? Generally speaking, no. However, there are many exceptions and many people have written me telling me of just how sociable their Chihuahua is with other breeds. So I'm inclined to say that Chihuahuas can be very curious and friendly towards other dogs. Chis are very sociable with their own kind. So several Chihuahuas can be quite happy living in the same household. That includes two or more males sharing the same house. 11. Aren't Chihuahuas kind of dim?
It is understandable how this breed has developed this reputation. In public, some bark at the slightest provocation, and will not stop sometimes even when the "threat" is gone. Chihuahuas are actually a very intelligent and alert breed. 12. Can Chihuahuas be trained?
As you might suspect from the answer to number nine above, yes, they can be trained. The purpose of this FAQ is not to outline or advocate any training method, especially since there are other resources on the internet that deal with this topic extensively. One such document, "Training Your Dog," can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.k9web.com/dog-faqs/training.html. 13. Is my Chihuahua a dog or a mole?
It is a characteristic of the Chihuahua to prefer to sleep under a cloth or blanket. They will even get under pillows in order to feel snug. If you are raising a pup, be sure to provide them with a soft towel or blanket in their sleeping area so they can burrow underneath it. So don't be surprised if your Chihuahua scrambles under your blankets at night, even though your house or apartment may not be particularly cold. This is known as the "moley-effect." (1). 14. Does my Chihuahua expect a suntan?
Chihuahuas are quite the sun-worshipers. They prefer to bask in the sun for hours and have been known to lie in a spot of sun no larger than the size of a half-dollar (2). Unfortunately, they are not sensible in this regard and will stay in the sun even when panting begins. Watch your Chihuahua in hot weather to be sure that they don't suffer from heat stroke. 15. My Chihuahua's shivering. Is this because s/he's cold?
Chihuahuas do shiver when they're cold, but they also shiver when they are wary, excited, unhappy, or frightened. This is a result of having a high metabolism, and is a normal characteristic of this breed. [ Top ] Famous and fictional Chihuahuas
Boo Boo, a 4-inch (10.16 cm) tall long-haired female chihuahua who weighs only 1 1/2 lbs. (AWWWW!) (675 g) was named the World's Smallest Living Dog by the Guinness Book of World Records in May 2007. Records are determined by height from toe to shoulder. Boo Boo, who weighed only one ounce at birth, succeeded another chihuahua named Ducky who stood 4.9 inches. (Ducky in turn had succeeded Danka Kordak of Slovakia, yet another Chihuahua who measured 5.4 inches tall.)[11][12]
Bruiser (real name: Moonie), Elle Woods' companion in the Legally Blonde movies.
Celine, Mr G's pet chihuahua from the ABC's tv series Summer Heights High.
Coco, Donna Cabonna´s dog from the Disney Channel Original Series That's So Raven.
Coco, featured in the television series Dog Whisperer and owned by Cesar Millan.[13]
Enrique, Hector Con Carne's pet chihuahua from Evil Con Carne.
Geraldo, Max Shreck's chihuahua in Batman Returns.
Lou, a chihuahua featured on the television show The Soup.
Madame Shirley the Medium, an old-fortune teller chihuahua featured in a TV Show Cartoon, Courage the Cowardly Dog.
Mammoth Mutt, from the cartoon series Krypto the Superdog.
Mimi, Sharon Osbourne's chihuahua.
Mojo, Samuel Witwicky's chihuahua from Transformers.
Naughty But Nice, a champion Bramerita and the most successful show dog of any breed in history. Named Doughnut at home, this dog is a British born Chihuahua ***** of the long-coat variety and to date she has won in excess of 100 challenge certificates and championship wins internationally at both breed specialist and all breed shows including wins for seven consecutive years at Crufts dog show in England.
Pepito, Xavier Cugat's chihuahua immortalized in the children's book Pepito the Little Dancing Dog: The Story of Xavier Cugat's Chihuahua.
Ren Hoek, of Ren and Stimpy fame.
The Spooky Chihuahua from Invader Zim.
The Taco Bell chihuahua.
Tinkerbell and Bambi, companions of Paris Hilton. Tinkerbell is the "author" of "Tinkerbell Hilton Diaries".
Tito, from Oliver & Company.
Wheely Willy, a paraplegic chihuahua from Long Beach, California who has become a celebrity as the subject of two bestselling children's books.
An unnamed chihuahua dog belonging to Pedro "Bumblebee Man" from The Simpsons RESOURCES
A Note about Resources
I regret that most of these resources are U.S.-based, and some of them may be out of date. Please email me if you see inaccurate information. Imagine the prestige of being listed on this FAQ's Acknowlegements section! 1. Internet
rec.pets.dogs.activities
rec.pets.dogs.behavior
rec.pets.dogs.breeds
rec.pets.dogs.health
rec.pets.dogs.info (moderated)
rec.pets.dogs.misc
rec.pets.dogs.rescue
For information and discussion of dogs. Please choose the newsgroup that is appropriate if you are posting a question. If unsure, post to rec.pets.dogs.misc. The Breed FAQ Homepage:
http://www.k9web.com/dog-faqs/breeds/ This page houses or has links to all the breed FAQs on the net. Dog Resources:
http://www.k9web.com/dog-faqs/ Contains inforation to everything from kennel clubs to getting a new puppy to training. A valuable resource on the Web. The Dog Owner's Guide:
http://www.canismajor.com/dog/ The electronic version of the tabliod newspaper, this site has articles that ran in previous issues. (For information on how to subscribe, see Magazines.) 2. Books
American Kennel Club, The Complete Dog Book 17th Ed., Howell Book House Inc., 1985. (ISBN 0-87605-463-7) Bulanda, Susan, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Dogs, Doral Pub. Inc., 1992-93 edition. (ISBN 0-944875-26-2) Coile, D. Caroline, PhD., Chihuahuas: A Complete Pet Owner's Manual, 1995 Barron's Educational Series. Harmar, Hilary, The Complete Chihuahua Encyclopedia, Arco Publishing Company Inc., New York. (might be out of print) (ISBN 0-668-02910-2). Kay, William J., The Complete Book of Dog Health, Howell Book House, 1985. (ISBN 0-87605-455-6) Nicholas, Anna Katherine, The Chihuahua, T.F.H Publications, Inc., One T.F.H. Plaza, Neptune City, NJ 07753. Pisano, Beverly (Ed.), Chihuahuas, T.F.H. Publications, Ltd., 1983. (ISBN 0-87666-701-9) Terry, E. Ruth, The New Chihuahua, Howellm Bookhouse, Mcmillian Publishing Co., 866 Third Avenue, New York, New York 10022. Thurmer, Tressa E., Pet Chihuahuas, All-Pets Books, Inc. Watson, James et. al., The Complete Chihuahua, Howell Book House Inc., (might be out of print) (ISBN 0-87605-100-X) 3. Clubs
NOTE: If you see an error or missing information, please email me at: melinda@badger.idiscover.co.uk. Thank you. CHIHUAHUA CLUBS
Chihuahua Club of Canada
Angela Bartnik
2114 Dublin St.
New Westminster, BC
Canada V3M 3A9
Tel: (604) 521-0922 Chihuahua Club of Alabama
Helen J. Herron
Tel: (205) 661-6097 The Chihuahua Club of America, Inc.
Ms. Lynnie Bunten
Secretary
5019 Village Trail
San Antonio, Texas 78218
(210) 657-9462 (voice or fax) Chihuahua Club of Greater Phoenix
Brook Kay Albright
Tel: (602) 820-9706 Chihuahua Club of Atlanta
Deb Barnett
Tel: (404) 924-1434 Chihuahua Club of British Columbia
Edna St.Hilaire
2114 Dublin St.
New Westminster, BC V3M 3A9
Tel: (604) 521-0922 Chihuahua Club of Northern California
Jo Anne Beams
Tel: (160) 991-0127 Southern California Chihuahua Club
Galann Lease
Tel: (909)928-1108 The Tampa Bay Chihuahua Club
Myrle Hale
Tel: (813) 986-2943 Land of Lincoln Chihuahua Club of Illinois
Pat Feller
Tel: (217) 243-2050 Chihuahua Club of Mid-Jersey
Annette Mellinger
Tel: (908) 583-3887 Ponchartrain Fanciers
Kristin P. Musgrove
Louisiana
Tel: (504) 751-8074 Chihuahua Club of Maryland
Susan Ritenour
Strasburg, VA
Tel: (703) 465-4738 Chihuahua Club of Michigan
Margaret Head,
Tel: (517) 531-5828 Chihuahua Club of Greater Milwaukee
Linda George
Tel: (414) 542-3213 Heart of New England Chihuahua Club
Nancy Shonbeck
New Hampshire
Tel: (603) 352-6752 Chihuahua Club of Greater New York
Viola Burgos
Tel: (516) 928-4312 Chihuahua Club of Oklahoma
Betty Greenwood
Tel: (918) 371-4570 Nashville Chihuahua Club
Judy Nelson
Nashville, TN
Tel: (615) 361-5348 Dallas Chihuahua Club
Neta Lee Wizig
Tel: (214) 691-0891 Houston Chihuahua Club
Randall L. Carr
Tel: (713) 391-1431 Texas Chihuahua Club
Lynnie Bunten
San Antonio, TX
Tel: (210) 657-9462 Central Virginia Chihuahua Club
Sandra M. Whittle
Tel: (804) 790-1618 Evergreen Chihuahua Club
Anita Noll
Yakima, WA
Tel: (509) 965-0694 If you don't see a club for your state, post your question to rec.pets.dogs.breeds or write to a national dog association. [ Top ] GENERAL DOG CLUBS
American Kennel Club
5580 Centerview Dr.
Raleigh, NC 27606
Tel: (919) 233-9767 Dog Lovers Club
Fran Frolich
PO Box 59
Bellrose, NY 11426-0059 New York City Coalition For Dogs
51 MacDougal St. #120
New York, NY 10012
Tel: (212) 243-5460 Owner Handlers Association of America
RD 1 Box 755
Millerstown, PA 17062
Tel: (717) 589-3098 USA Loves Dogs Club
2537 Wells Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34232
Tel: (800) 553-6475 4. Magazines
NOTE: Some people have emailed me about The New Chihuahua magazine, telling me that they subscribed to the magazine by sending their checks, and have not received any issues. I'm removing them from this list until I can ascertain what's going on with this magazine.
Terrier & Toy Magazine
Southern Publishing
PO Box 20
Holly Hill, FL 32117-0020
$20.00/year for a subscription. Top Notch Toys Magazine
Doll-McGinnis Enterprises
8848 Beverly Hills
Lakeland, FL 33809
(813) 858-3839
$40.00/year for a subscription.
1 breed highlighted each month; Chihuahuas featured once a year. Dog World
PO Box 6500
Chicago, IL 60680
(800) 247-8080 (credit card orders)
US: $28.00/yr. (12 issues). "The World's Largest All Breed Dog Magazine" PetDogs
P.O. Box B163
Hudderfied HD4 7YZ
ENGLAND
"The Magazine for Owners of Mixed-breed and Pedigrees"
6 issues per year. (About $5.50 at magazine racks in the U.S.)
UK: #10.50/yr.; Europe: #21.95/yr.; Worldwide: #24.95/yr. Good Dog!
511 Harbor View Circle
Charleston, SC 29412
"The Consumer Magazine for Dog Owners"
(800) 968-1738 for new subscriptions. To subscribe by mail, use same address as above but replace 2nd line with "P.O. Box 31292."
Email: gooddogmag@aol.com
6 issues per year.
US-$18.00/yr.; Canada: $36.00 per yr.; Great Britain: #28.00/yr.; All other countries: $40.00/yr. (in U.S. currency). Dogs Today
Pet Subjects Ltd.
6 Station Parade
Sunningdale, Berks SL5 OEP
ENGLAND
Phone: 01344 875442
#2.25/issue. (About $5.50 at magazine racks in the U.S.) Los Chihuahuas
c/o Myrle Hale
12860 Thanotosassa Road
Dover, FL 33527
Subscription: $20/year. Dog Owner's Guide (Note: This is a color newspaper tabloid.)
Canis Major Publications
8461 Denallen Dr.
Cincinnati, OH 45255
$10.00/yr (6 issues) or $5.00 for a 3-issue trial subscription. For a limited time, if you mention you're subscribing because of the Canis Major Publications web site, you'll receive a free issue. 5. Videos
The American Kennel Club offers a video on Chihuahuas for about $35.00. Specify VHS or Beta. (Also available in the European PAL format). For further information, contact: AKC, Attn: Videos, 5580 Centerview Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606 (919) 233-9767. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Many, many thanks go to the following helpful people (listed in no particular order): Cindy Moore
Kathy Nicklas-Varraso
Cynthia Charleville
The subscribers on CHIHUA-L.
Chris Faron
Marli Medinnus
Lynnie M. Bunten
FOOTNOTES
(1) "moley-effect": I made this term up, and if you use it in front of veterinarians or other Chihuahua owners, you may receive a blank stare. (2) Pisano, Beverly (Ed.), Chihuahuas (p. 9), 1983. (see REFERENCES) [ Top ] Holiday Dog Gifts
Halloween Dog Costumes| Christmas Dog Gift Baskets| Valentine Dog Gift Baskets| Valentines Dog Gifts | Christmas Dog Gifts | Dog Christmas Stocking | Easter Dog Gifts | St Patrick's Day Dog Gifts | 4th Fourth of July Dog Gifts Bath & Grooming Supplies
Dog Spritz | Dog Shampoo Dog Toys
Plush Dog Toys | Talking Dog Toys | Unique Dog Toys | Novelty Dog Toys | Vinyl Dog Toys | Rubber Dog Toys | Squeaker Dog Toys Dog Dining & Dog Treats
Unique Dog Treat Jars | Dog Bowl Place Mats | Raised Dog Food Bowls | Gourmet Treats for Dogs | Doggie Birthday Cakes and Treats | Carob Dog Treats | Organic Dog Treats | Peanut Butter Flavored Dog Treats | Dog Treats For Easter | Valentine Treats for Dogs | Easter Dog Treats | Holiday Dog Treats | Traveling With Your Pet
Dog Purse Carriers | Dog Strollers Dog Furniture & Accessories
Beds For Pampered Pooches | Unique Designer Dog Beds | Rectangular and Round Pillow Dog Beds | Unique Plush Dog Beds | Wooden Beds For Dogs

Know about these dogs? Click EasyEdit to add info anywhere on this page.



Chihuahuas have always been iconic and easily recognizable creatures, but they gained superstar status when Taco Bell introduced the now famous "Yo quiero Taco Bell" Chihuahua as the chain's spokesdog in the late '90s. Their popularity only increased when mega celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Spears spotted everywhere with their own pampered pups in hand.

Short History of the Breed

Chihuahuas are the oldest breed in North America and date back to the ancient Aztecs and Toltecs, and archaeologists believe they were considered sacred by these tribes. Chihuahuas evolved into companions and pets and were introduced to Europe in the 19th century, where they quickly gained popularity as exotic pets.

Physical Description & Size

Chihuahuas are the smallest of all AKC-recognized breeds, and tend to be about six to nine inches tall and weigh between two to six pounds. Chihuahuas can have either a long or a smooth coat. The coat comes in variegated colors ranging from snow white to jet black, with solid-colored coats being preferable by most American breeders.My dog Coco is awesome.My name is Sarah Batson and I love my mom and dad!

Temperament

Chihuahuas are notoriously high-strung and irritable, yet can also be very loyal, intelligent, and affectionate, and can make great companions in the right environment. They generally don't get on well with dogs of other breeds and can be nippy with small children.

Dog Care (exercise, grooming, diet)

Because of their small size and limited exercise needs, Chihuahuas make great pets for apartment dwellers. Chihuahuas are not intended to be outdoor dogs and need to live indoors, ideally in a household without small children or other dogs.

Because Chihuahuas can have behavior problems, consistent and thorough training is important to stamp out tendencies towards misbehaviors such as barking and biting. Most trainers agree that reward training works best for this type of dog.

This dog is considered an average shedder and should be brushed on a regular basis, and bathed about once a month, taking care to avoid damaging the delicate ear area.

Health Issues, Life Expectancy

Chihuahuas can live to be more than 15 years old with proper care. Due to their diminutive size, however, Chihuahuas are prone to fractures, particularly puppies. They are also susceptible to cold, and can have wheezing and snoring problems. Watch for arthritic problems in older Chihuahuas.

AKC Group

The AKC recognizes the Chihuahua as a breed in the Toy group. Other breeds in this group include the Toy Poodle, Pug, and Yorkshire Terrier.

Additional Resources on Chihuahuas

• Free advertising for dog breeders

• Chihuahua Pictures & Breed Information - PurebredPups.org
• Chihuahua Online Community - DogBreed.org
• Dog-Obedience-and-Training-Review

Chihuahuas on WikiFido

• Chewy
• Lil Lulu
• Lucreasha
• Moo Moo
• Adrien Brody and Ceelo Vicious
• Paris Hilton and Tinkerbell
• Britney Spears and Bit Bit
• My sweetie pie!
• Bo's Page