Chihuahua
Group: Toy
Lifespan: 15 Years
Pups per Litter: 1-4
Average Weight: 2-6 lbs.
Average Height: 6-9 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: HIgh
Temperment with:
Children 
Other Dogs 
Other Animals
History
The Chihuahua originated in Chihuahua, Mexico. This breed is the smallest dog that exists today and some lines when they become full grown, will fit standing up, in the palm of a persons hand. They became popular all over the world due to people who traveled to different countries and continents with this breed and distributed them.
Traits
The Chihuahua is a sweet little companion breed of dog that is for that purpose solely, companionship. They are loyal and affectionate to their owner and only them. Chihuahuas are known well for their cheeky attitude and entertaining personality and they prove that the smaller the dog does not equal the smaller the personality. They do not do particularly well with other dogs as every other dog is going to be larger than they are, and do not do well with young children as they are the size of toys.
Appearance
Weighing in at a whopping 2-6 lbs (1-3 kgs) and averaging 6-9 inches high, the Chihuahua is a small bundle of energy with a large head! They have an “apple shaped” head that looks to big for their body. The Chihuahua’s coat comes in two varieties, short & smooth, and long haired. The colours for the coat, come in blue, silver, fawn, and black & tan. Their eyes are small and dark and their ears are large and pricked upward. The Chihuahua’s body is small structured and their legs are frail. Their tail is thin yet slightly curves to the back.
Health
The Chihuahua is prone to Molera, which is a condition of the skull not connecting together, leaving a soft spot on the head, also Corneal dryness and wheezing occur with some. As a precaution, owners need to be constantly on their guard as these little guys have small bone that are frail and will break easily. They are also prone to slipped Stifles and the common doggie cold!
Training
The Chihuahua is an intelligent little dog! They need very gentle and consistent training and with this, will do well as adults. They need to be socialized well as pups, especially with other dogs and people because the breed is notorious for being weary those they do not know. They are also one of the tougher breeds to housetrain as they can be a bit stubborn.
Care
The Chihuahua is a lower maintenance dog. The short haired variety only needs to be brushed weekly, and the long haired variety needs to be brushed daily just to avoid tangles and mats. Bathing should be done about once every month or two and special attention should be brought to their ears to ensure they are clean.
Breed
This breed is categorized in the Toy Group. They will do well in an apartment as they do not require a household of space as they are quite tiny. The Chihuahua will need to be walked daily, not carried around. It is important that they get to have physical activity as well, even if they are small. The lifespan of the Chihuahua is around 15 years. They have on average 1-4 pups per litter and it is not uncommon for the mother to have a cesarean section, as these puppies will have large heads. When obtaining a puppy Chihuahua, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
Reference pages for Information:
http://puppydogweb.com/caninebreeds/chihuahu.htm Chihuahua Information
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/chihuahua.htm Chihuahua Breed Information
http://www.akc.org/breeds/chihuahua/ Chihuahua AKC Standards
http://www.chihuahuarescue.com Chihuahua Rescue
http://www.chihuahuaclubofamerica.com Chihuahua Club
