Short-haired Chihuahua

Smooth-coat Chihuahua, Chihuahua

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

The Short-haired Chihuahua is the most popular of all types of Chihuahua!

When you think of a Chihuahua, the Short-haired Chihuahua is the one that most often comes to mind. Popularized by television in cartooning and advertising, the Smooth-coat Chihuahua variety is just about the best known of all the Chihuahua toy dogs. The Short-haired Chihuahua is one of two recognize types of Chihuahuas, the other is the Long-haired Chihuahua.

There are also some other varieties of Chihuahuas that are described by their special characteristics. One is the Teacup Chihuahua, which is a common name for very small Chihuahuas. Another is the Applehead Chihuahua, so described because its head shape conforms with the AKA standards, being "a well rounded apple domeskull". However these other cute little toy dog varieties, are still simply Chihuahuas.

Full of personality, Chihuahuas have a spunky and curious nature. They make wonderful pets for good consist ant keeper. They are extremely devoted to their owner, learn quickly, and make a strong-willed yet entertaining companion. Their suspicion of strangers makes them excellent guard dogs.

Chihuahuas are the tiniest of the small dog breeds, and are the smallest breed of dog overall. These small dog breeds are classified as toy dogs. 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)

Short-haired Chihuahua, Smooth-coat Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Short-haired Applehead Chihuahua

Breed Type

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world, and is classified as a toy breed. Toy breeds are most suitable as pets. 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 Short-haired Chihuahua is are also called the Smooth-coat Chihuahua. It's name, however, is no indication of the coat texture as it can be either velvety smooth or rough.

Care and Feeding

Chihuahuas may be sensitive to some foods. They do best on a diet of things such as poultry and brown rice. Beef is not recommended for the breed. Chihuahuas should be bathed once a month, taking care to keep water out of their ears. The Short-haired Chihuahua only needs occasional brushing, or they can simply be wiped down with a damp cloth. Nails should be trimmed as needed.
Chihuahuas need annual checkups, and should 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

It's a good idea to minimize dust as much as possible around Short-haired Chihuahuas due to their predisposition to respiratory problems. They do shed moderately, so it will be necessary to vacuum or otherwise remove hair from floors and furnishings on a regular basis.

Housing Your Dog

Short-haired Chihuahuas are indoor dogs, and they need a warm environment. They appreciate a cozy place to sleep, often curling up under blankets, so it is important to keep an eye out for them. They love to play with small toys.

Social Behaviors

Chihuahuas are not especially sociable with humans who are not in their families, and they are not recommended for children. They usually get along fairly well with other Chihuahuas, but they may become aggressive around other breeds and different types of pets.

Handling and Training

Short-haired Chihuahuas are smart and learn quickly, yet their strong will may pose difficulties in training. Positive reinforcement is usually the most effective method. The breed is often difficult to housebreak.

Activities

Short-haired Chihuahuas need daily walks just as much as any other dog, but they don't necessarily have to walk as far. They also enjoy playing 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

Short-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

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