Pronounced Chih-wah-wah. This little dog was named after the state of Chihuahua, in Mexico.

The Chihuahua is a graceful, alert, swift-moving little dog with a saucy expression, and a terrier-like attitude and temperament.
Chihuahuas are usually quite reserved with strangers, and they have a preference for their own breed rather than other dogs. Although they can live quite happily with other dogs and cats.

There are two varieties of Chihuahuas, the smooth coat and the long coat. The Chihuahua is compact with a well rounded “apple-dome” skull. His eyes are full, set well apart, luminous, dark or ruby. His ears are large, held erect, and flare slightly to the sides His body is well balanced, and should be slightly longer than he is tall. A Chihuahua should never exceed 6 lb.

Did you know?

Legend and history are rich in tales of the ancestors of the present day Chihuahua. He is described as a popular pet, as well as a religious necessity, among the ancient Toltec tribes and later among the Aztecs. Archaeologists have discovered remains of this breed in human graves in Mexico and in parts of the United States.

The modern Chihuahua is quite different from his early ancestors, with his variegated colors ranging from snow white to jet black. Mexico favors the jet black with tan markings, and the black and white spotted. The United States prefers the solid colors.

So you want to own a Chihuahua?

The Chihuahua’s size makes it a wonderful dog for people who live in small city apartments. The breed is very hardy and adaptable, but it must live inside a home or an apartment, the Chihuahua should not live outside. Chihuahuas are good travelers and can easily go anywhere with their owners.