No matter who you are, you’re well-aware of the pint-size pooches the American Kennel Club describes as “graceful, charming, and sassy.” You know that their pocket-sized portability and irresistible cuteness make them popular pets among celebrities. You know they give you those “yo quero” cravings for Taco Bell. And if you have one in your life, you know how loving these little balls of energy can be!
But do you know how popular they are among dog owners in America, where they originated, or that they come in more colors than you’ll find in a bag of M&M’s? If not, read on. If all this is old news to you, let me be the first to say: I am thoroughly impressed.
1. Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed in the world; they’re usually between two and six pounds. So if you’re looking for a pint-sized, portable buddy to take wherever you go, this pooch may be the right pal for you!
2. But their big personalities compensate for their size. In fact, these feisty fuzzballs can even be aggressive! It’s recommended that Chi owners socialize them as pups (as all dog breeds should be) so they can learn to put their best paw forward when making new friends.
3. And so do their brains. In relation to their bodies, Chihuahuas’ brains are the biggest amongst dog breeds. But be careful with that noggin; Chi puppies have a molera, or soft spot on the skull (like human babies do). Some grow out of it, but some have it for the rest of their lives.
5. Chihuahuas are the spice of life. Talk about variety! This breed’s coat comes in a variety of styles; nine colors and six types of markings, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Also, they can be either long or short-haired. Sounds like choosing a Chihuahua is like shopping at your favorite designer boutique…except way more fun!
5. And they are popular pets in America. On the AKC’s”Most Popular Dog Breeds In America” list, Chihuahuas rank 24 out of the 178 breeds listed. Not too shabby!
6. They most likely came from Mexico, and were named after the Mexican state Chihuahua. It is hypothesized that Christopher Columbus brought them to Europe, as he made mention of a small dog in a letter to the King of Spain.
7. So make sure to keep them warm! This peanut-sized pooch wasn’t bred for arctic temperatures. If you live in a chilly climate, make sure to get your Chi some extra layers for sweater weather. A romp in the snow is fine for petite pooches who enjoy it, as long as they’re monitored and don’t stay outside for too long!
8. Their life expectancy is high in the canine kingdom. Are you a long-term relationship kind of person? This dog has a long life expectancy, meaning the companionship with your Chi can last from 15-17 years (or more!).
Sources:
- “10 Feisty Facts About Chihuahuas” via Mental_Floss
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“25 Interesting and Fun Facts About the Chihuahua Dog” via Pet Chi Dog
- American Kennel Club’s Chihuahua page
- (Scroll down on the picture below to learn more about the breed standard, according to the AKC website.)
