The Chihuahua is one of the most beloved pets today. Their tiny, adorable appearance and gentle nature make them irresistible. Don’t skip this article to find out why this dog breed is so popular!
1 All About the Chihuahua Dog Breed
Origin of the Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a small dog breed originating from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico and is considered one of the oldest breeds in the Americas. However, they gained recognition when the Chinese introduced them to Europe in the late 19th century. Since then, Chihuahuas have become widely popular and sought-after.
Named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico
Classification of Chihuahuas
There are two types of Chihuahuas: those with short hair and those with long hair. In Vietnam, the short-haired Chihuahua is more common, but in other countries, both varieties are equally popular. Chihuahuas have been crossbred with various other dog breeds, resulting in slight variations in their appearance, but they always retain their adorable tiny stature.
Chihuahuas come in two varieties: short-haired and long-haired
Chihuahua Coat Colors
Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat colors, with the most common being chestnut brown, light brown, steel gray, silver, and golden.
Chihuahuas have a diverse range of coat colors
Physical Characteristics of Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas are known for their small and adorable physique. Despite their tiny heads, they have large, round eyes that are typically a deep brown or ruby red color. Their ears are large and erect, and they have a short muzzle. Chihuahuas have a sturdy build, with their body length exceeding their height, and they always stand tall and straight.
Chihuahuas have a small and adorable appearance
Personality Traits
Chihuahuas are beloved by their owners for their affectionate nature and their ability to express their love for their owners. This creates a strong bond between the dog and its owner. Chihuahuas are also extremely clingy and demand their owner’s attention at all times. They love to be petted and cuddled.
Chihuahuas can be extremely aggressive towards strangers who are not friendly towards them and may even attack. They have sharp teeth and will bite if provoked.
Chihuahuas love to be petted and cuddled
Reasons to Own a Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are absolutely loyal to their caregivers, and they only recognize one owner. In many cases, a Chihuahua will pass away not long after its owner’s death, which is a truly touching display of their devotion.
Chihuahuas are absolutely loyal to their owners
2 How to Care for a Chihuahua
Chihuahua Diet
Look for foods that are high in protein and low in fat, such as lean meats, heart, and liver, and combine them with carbohydrates and vegetables like rice, sweet potatoes, and broccoli.
Feed your Chihuahua a diet rich in protein
Nutritional Needs of Chihuahuas by Life Stage
- First two weeks: When you first bring your puppy home, maintain their existing eating habits.
- Three months old: At this stage, introduce soft foods and divide their meals into 3-4 smaller portions per day. Each meal should be rich in protein and fat.
- Over six months old: You can reduce the number of meals to 2 per day but increase the portion size. This ensures that your Chihuahua receives adequate nutrition for healthy development.
- From 13 months old onwards: Monitor their nutrition intake and adjust accordingly. Reduce fatty and protein-rich foods if your Chihuahua shows signs of weight gain. Instead, increase their fiber intake with vegetables and fruits.
Nutritional needs vary depending on the life stage of your Chihuahua
Grooming and Hygiene for Chihuahuas
Although Chihuahuas have smooth coats, it’s important to brush their hair once a week using a natural-bristle brush.
Bathe your Chihuahua once or twice a month using a dog shampoo and warm water. Avoid getting them thoroughly wet, and always dry them with a towel afterward.
Grooming and hygiene tips for Chihuahuas
Common Health Issues in Chihuahuas
Due to their small noses, Chihuahuas often experience respiratory issues and can easily suffocate from a tight collar. Their large eyes make them prone to eye problems such as epiphora and secondary cataracts.
Chihuahuas have large heads, so assistance from an experienced veterinarian is necessary during birth to prevent complications. Their skulls are slightly concave due to incomplete bone development, resulting in a soft spot on the top of their heads.
Chihuahuas need to be vaccinated when they are young
3 Tips for Buying a Chihuahua
Chihuahua Price Range
- 1,000,000 VND: Non-purebred Chihuahuas
- 3,000,000 to 5,000,000 VND: Purebred Chihuahuas born in Vietnam or China
- 5,000,000 to 10,000,000 VND: Chihuahuas imported from Thailand with complete paperwork, including health records and vaccination certificates
- 20,000,000 VND: Chihuahuas imported from Europe or the USA with a pedigree, health records, and parent photos
Chihuahuas come at various price points depending on their origin and paperwork
Things to Consider When Buying a Chihuahua
To choose a healthy, active, and agile Chihuahua, opt for a puppy that is at least two to three months old so you can provide them with the best care.
We hope that through this article, you have gained a better understanding of Chihuahuas and that you will become a wonderful owner of a loving, intelligent, and agile Chihuahua.
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