The Chihuahua – As Small as It Gets
Most people associate the chihuahua with the infamous Taco Bell commercials.
They see a little dog with a big personality and think it will be the
perfect companion for them. This is not always the case. For those with
small children or even a house that is constantly being visited by guests,
the chihuahua can be a poor choice of pet. While this is an intelligent and
loyal breed, it can also be a snappish and suspicious one. You have to
understand how the chihuahua's temperament will apply to you before
purchasing one.
To understand any breed, you should first start with its history. Often, a
dog's abilities and character will come from what it was originally bred
for. No matter how many years pass, the natural instincts and original
purpose will appear. The chihuahua is no different. These small dogs are
thought to have been made for companionship. Through breeding, they were
made into the perfect size pet. Their origins are unknown, with varying
theories on lands. Still, there are notes of similar dogs being worshipped
in ancient communities so, besides a companion, you would also have a king.
Which easily describes the chihuahua's personality. This dog has no concept
of his size. Instead, he is lively, loyal and intelligent, thinking he is
the "top dog" of the household. While this can be an endearing quality, it
can also be an annoying one if you happen to have other pets or children.
The chihuahua demands to be the center of attention. If you cannot make him
that, his natural instinct to snap at other dogs or loud guests will become
more apparent. This breed must be well-socialized and well-prepared to deal
with other contenders for your affection. He can be trained but it takes
patience and an ability to busy a too-intelligent mind.
That is not to say that the chihuahua is a poor breed. Quite the contrary,
this is an affectionate dog and one that loves his owners. He requires
little grooming or exercise, and can easily accompany you on trips and
occasions. He is compact, economical and an ideal companion--for those with
the time. The chihuahua is best suited to families who have the energy and
ability to train and play with him. He needs attention but, when you have
the time to give it, he is well worth the effort.
Due to his small size, the chihuahua has a longer life expectancy than other
breeds. Most live fifteen or more years. But that small size also comes with
its own health problems: they do not do well in the cold, their short noses
can cause breathing problems and they have less to protect them in rough
play is initiated. You have to protect your chihuahua from the elements
since he is unable to do so himself.
As we have mentioned before, the chihuahua is an intelligent breed. They can
also be a stubborn one.
This may make training difficult, especially if you are not used to dogs.
For a first time owner, the chihuahua may be too much. For those who have
experience dealing with canine temperaments, however, he can be handled. You
simply need time and patience. Oh, and a very good training class to get him
used to other dogs. Socialization is the most important elements of a
chihuahua's training. You have to get him involved with others to curb the
more suspicious elements of his nature. Enroll him immediately.
The chihuahua is not the breed for everyone. But, for those with the energy
to devote to this demanding--though very loyal and energetic--breed, the
payoff is well worth it.
