Chihuahua – Dog Breed Profile and Fun Facts
Did you know that Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world? But wait, don’t get trapped by the Chihuahua’s small size because this smallest dog has the biggest personality.
Named after the state and city of Chihuahua, Mexico, this small-sized dog comes in a variety of types, colors, and coats. Despite its small size, the Chihuahuas can do well as a sports dog, as well as, a watchdog.
Chihuahuas are a highly sensitive and affectionate breed and do exceptionally well with their owners, especially the children.
Given below is the Quick Profile of Chihuahua.
Table of Contents
Chihuahua Profile
| Name | Chihuahua |
| Other Names | - Chi - Chi-chi |
| Place of origin | - Mexico |
| Lifespan | 12 - 20 years |
| Weight | 1.8 - 2.7 kg |
| Height | 15 - 25 cm |
| Colors | - Black - Chocolate - Cream - Fawn - Gold - White - Several other patterns |
| Coat | Long-haired or short-haired |
| Classification | Toy Dog |
| Types | - Apple Head Chihuahua - Dear Head Chihuahua - Long-Coat Chihuahua - Smooth-Coat Chihuahua - Teacup Chihuahua - Malinois - Laekenois |
| Close breeds | - Chinese Crested Dog - Miniature Pinscher - Papillon - Toy Fox Terrier |
| Temperament | - Graceful and proud - Alert with a huge personality |
| Health-related issues | - Prone to injuries because of its size - Hydrocephalus - Moleras - Patellar Luxation - Mitral Valve Disease - Idiopathic Epilepsy |
| Litter Size | 2 to 5 puppies |
| Exercise needs | Daily short walks or recommended. |
| Price | $300 - 2000 |
| Popular Chihuahua Mixes | - Chilier (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Chihuahua) - Jack Huahua (Jack Russel Terrier + Chihuahua) - Chug ( Pug + Chihuahua) |
5 Fun Facts about Chihuahua
Longest Lifespan
Chihuahua is one of the top breeds with the longest lifespan. Although there are several factors involved in such a long lifespan, still a Chihuahua may live for up to 15 years easily. The oldest known Chihuahua on record was “Megabyte” who lived for 20 years and 265 days. Megabyte crossed the Rainbow Bridge in 2014.
Biggest Brain in all the Dog Breeds
Amazing, isn’t it? Yes, it’s true. As compared to other breeds, they have the biggest brains in their bodies.
Similarity with the Human Babies
The Chihuahuas have a soft spot on their heads just like the human babies. Interestingly, their soft spot is dependent on their skeletal structure, genetics, and size and it might be there for their whole life. That is why the vets suggest not to poke your Chihuahua’s head. This soft spot is known as Molera.
Another similarity with the Humans
The Chihuahuas and humans share the same top cause of death, i.e., Cardiovascular diseases. Yes, it’s true, like us humans, the Chihuahuas have been suffering from cardiovascular diseases and it is the top reason behind their deaths. And that is why exercise is necessary for their overall health.
The Destructive Chi
Chihuahuas are said to be among the most destructive breeds. A study says that on average a Chihuahua causes about $1300 of damage by destructive chewing, digging, scratching, and other aggressive actions.
