The Chihuahua is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, especially in countries like Mexico, where it received its name thanks to the largest state in the Aztec country. The characteristics of this dog, both physically and in its character, make it one of the most curious and make it stand out above other breeds.
Given its high popularity, it is very possible that in addition to wanting to know how to care for Chihuahua dogs, you are interested in knowing a series of curiosities regarding this animal. For this reason, we are going to present you the 10 most interesting curiosities about the Chihuahua.
They are not officially called Chihuahua
Although everyone knows these dogs as Chihuahua, the reality is that this is not their official name, but rather Chihuahueño. However, the name Chihuahua comes from the Mexican state in which it was discovered, although it is a name of American origin.
They began to call this dog by the name of the city of Chihuahua and it ended up becoming popular.
He is one of the bravest dogs
Surely it may surprise you given its size, but the Chihuahua is one of the bravest dogs, as well as being categorized as an alert dog. This is reflected in the different standards, in addition to considering that it is a very intelligent, restless, sociable and faithful dog.
Although their character depends on each particular specimen, as a general rule they are dogs that manage to connect strongly emotionally with their owners, to whom they are usually much attached. This means that they are also considered jealous dogs.
It is the oldest breed in the American continent
According to the FCI, the Chihuahua is the oldest living dog in America. It was captured and domesticated at the time of the Toltec civilization, in the 9th century, although it is believed that they may have been present in the Mayan era.
Some theories indicate that the ancestors of this breed settled in Tula, in the state of Hidalgo (Mexico).
The tremor of the Chihuahua
On many occasions you have surely seen a Chihuahua with clothes for dogs, that is, warm. This is common, but not only for reasons of fashion and aesthetics, but also because it is a breed that is very sensitive to low temperatures.
However, you have to keep in mind that they don’t always shiver because of the cold, but rather what they do because of a period of excitement, because of fear or for other reasons.
He has a soft spot on his skull
As with humans, puppies of this breed are born with a soft spot on their skull. This is because the bones of the same do not fit together correctly at birth, so they do so as they grow.
It is a congenital defect that is usually present in breeds that have a toy size. However, it can also be due to other problems such as infections, brain tumors or various diseases.
In fact, primary hydrocephalus, which is the presence of water in the brain, is one of the congenital diseases that most affects Chihuahuas.
The world’s smallest dog
The Chihuahua is listed in the Guinness Book of Records for being the smallest dog in the world in length and height today. Specifically, a female Chihuahua 15.2 cm long is the one that holds the record. Her name is Brandy and she lives in Florida (USA).
As for height, the record is held by Miracle Millie, a female from Dorado (Puerto Rico) barely 9.65 cm tall.
Socialization with the same race
Chihuahuas are sociable dogs with other breeds at a general level and even with other animals and pets such as cats. However, they prefer to socialize with dogs of the same breed, this is one of their greatest curiosities.
One of the most popular dogs in the world
The Chihuahua is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. He became very famous in the United States thanks to television, especially for the commercials of the Taco Bell food chain.
In them this breed of dog appeared which has been seen among the pets of celebrities such as Paris Hilton or Madonna, among others.
The breed with the greatest variety of colors
According to the FCI, the Chihuahua has two varieties, short – haired and long -haired. In both cases, all kinds of colors and combinations can be found, except for hairless dogs or blackbirds.
Those specimens with short hair have a close and short coat, while those with long hair have a fine, silky and slightly wavy coat. They also have long hair especially on the neck, tail, feet, extremities and ears.
Long life expectancy
Another curiosity regarding this breed of animal is that it is one of the dogs with the longest life expectancy. In fact, although estimates suggest that they usually live between 12 and 18 years, there are specimens that even exceed 20 years of age.
Obviously, for this, good care must be maintained, which implies good nutrition and hygiene, veterinary care and check-ups.
