Long-haired Chihuahua

Chihuahua

Family: Canidae Canis lupus familiarisPhoto © Animal-World: Courtesy Justin Brough

   The Long-haired Chihuahua is a classy little dog, full of personality and spunk.

The Long-haired Chihuahua is one of two recognize types of Chihuahuas, the other is the Short-haired Chihuahua or Smooth-coat Chihuahua. There are some other names applied to these toy dogs with special characteristics. These include the term Teacup Chihuahua for very small dogs, and Applehead Chihuahua for those with the AKA standards preferred head-shape, being "a well rounded apple domeskull". However all of these cute little toy dogs, are still simply Chihuahuas.

The Chihuahuas are the smallest of all types of dogs, and are the tiniest of the small dog breeds. They are classified as toy dogs. They make wonderful pets for good consist ant keeper. These are dogs with a strong-will, yet are extremely devoted to their owners. They are quick learners with a curious nature and make for an entertaining companion. Their suspicion of strangers makes them excellent guard dogs as well.

There are some important things to be aware of when selecting a dog of this breed. They have large and prominent eyes, so they are prone to eye problems. These little toy dogs are also susceptible to respiratory problems. To protect them and to keep them healthy, Chihuahuas need to be kept in a clean environment.

Common Name(s)

Long-haired Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Teacup Chihuahua, Long-haired Applehead Chihuahua

Breed Type

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. Classified as a toy breed they make a most suitable pet. The Chihuahua is most comfortable in warm climates.

Background

The Chihuahua is said to have been discovered in Mexico in 1850. They were sometimes bred for food, but they were also used in religious ceremonies and prized by royalty. It is speculated that Chihuahuas are descended from Chinese hairless dogs and ancient Mexican breeds. There are only two recognize types of Chihuahuas, the Long-haired Chihuahua and the Short-haired Chihuahuas, but no distinction is made for registration purposes.

Description

Chihuahuas are small dogs with large heads and pointed muzzles. They have prominent, dark eyes, and may have short or long hair. They come in a variety of colors, and all are acceptable according to breed standards. Puppies sometimes have a molera, or soft spot in their skull, which may or may not close when they get older. The sizes of males and females are similar, with an average height of 6-9 inches and weight of 2-6 pounds.
The Long-haired Chihuahua has a fluffy sleek appearance due to soft, fine guard hairs padded with a soft undercoat..

Care and Feeding

Chihuahuas do best on a diet that is composed of poultry and brown rice. They can be sensitive to some foods, and beef is not suggested for their diet. Give your Chihuahua a bath monthly, but be careful not to get water into its ears. Nails should be trimmed as needed. The Long-haired Chihuahua requires no trimming of its coat, which can actually take up to two years to fully grow out, and needs very little grooming.
Chihuahuas should have annual checkups, and receive vaccinations as follows:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
• Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster

The Long-haired Chihuahua does shed, but it actually sheds less than it's Short-haired counterpart. But because they are prone to respiratory problems, try to keep dust to a minimum. It will be necessary to remove hair from the furniture and vacuum on a regular basis.

Housing Your Dog

Long-haired Chihuahuas are indoor dogs. They enjoy playing with small toys and they need a warm environment. They will often find a cozy place to snuggle up in and go to sleep. Keep an eye out, as they are very small and that place may be under blankets.

Social Behaviors

Chihuahuas are very loyal to their family but not so sociable with other humans. They can get along with other Chihuahuas fairly well, but around other dogs and other types of pets they may become aggressive. They are also not recommended for children.

Handling and Training

Long-haired Chihuahuas are intelligent and fast learners, but they are also strong willed. Sometimes this can make them difficult to train. Using positive reinforcement is the most effective method, and patience, as this breed is often difficult to housebreak..

Activities

Much like other dogs, Long-haired Chihuahuas need daily walks, but these can be short walks. They also enjoy playing both indoors and out.

Breeding/Reproduction

Mates for Chihuahuas should be examined for gum problems, rheumatism, and eye problems. Females sometimes need Cesarean sections due to the size of the offspring's heads.

Common Health Problems

The design of the Chihuahua's eyes and nose make both susceptible to problems, including wheezing, colds, and glaucoma. They may also suffer from rheumatism and stress. They should be seen by a vet if they display signs of these problems.

Availability

Long-haired Chihuahuas can be obtained from breeders or in pet stores. Prices vary greatly, but are generally in the $500-$800 range.

References

• “Chihuahua”, Dog Breed Info Center, Copyright 1998-2008
• “Chihuahua (dog)”, Wikipedia, Copyright 2008
• “Chihuahua Puppies for Sale”, Copyright PuppyFind.com, LLC, Referenced online, 2008

Lastest Animal Stories on Long-haired Chihuahua View (180) Animal Stories on Long-haired Chihuahua View (37) Buy/Sell requests on Long-haired Chihuahua