If you are looking for a tiny breed that is easily adaptable, lively and an excellent watchdog, the Chihuahua might just be the breed for you.
Origin
The Chihuahua’s history is puzzling and there are many theories surrounding the breed, but the most common and most likely theory is that Chihuahuas are descended from the Techichi, a companion dog favored by the Toltec civilization in Mexico.
Also, dogs approximating the Chihuahua are found in materials from the Great Pyramid of Cholula, predating 1530 and in the ruins of Chichen Itza on the Yucatán Peninsula. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904.
Description
Both British and American breed standards state that a Chihuahua must not weigh more than 6 lb (2.7 kg).
The American Kennel Club recognizes only two varieties of Chihuahua: the long-coat, and the smooth-coat, also referred to as short-haired, but they are genetically the same breed.
Chihuahuas come in virtually any color combination, from solid to marked or splashed. Common colors are fawn, red, cream, chocolate, brown, mixed, white, and black, while no color or pattern is considered more valuable than another.
As for the temperament, the breed can be easily provoked to attack, and are therefore generally unsuitable for homes with small children. They are extremely loyal, thus in some cases may become overprotective of the person, especially around other people or animals.
Pros
- excellent watchdogs
- cat friendly
- adaptable
- loyal
Cons
- easily provoked
- prone to epilepsy and seizure disorders
Should I adopt/buy a Chihuahua?
If you are in the need of a tiny toy breed that is loyal and excellent as watchdog, Chihuahuas are definitely the breed to consider.