Who Should Own A Chihuahua?

After the release of the movie “Beverly Hills Chihuahua,” it’s likely lots of dog lovers hounded pet stores in search of the tiny breed, charmed by its petite stature and tiny bark.

And although they are the world’s smallest dogs, Chihuahuas have big personalities, which can catch an owner off guard if they are not prepared. High strung and nervous, the Mexican-born Chihuahua is not an ideal choice for homes with small children, since the dog has no idea how small it is, and is quick to attack when provoked by sudden movements.

Chihuahuas tend to become focused on their owner, and can be territorial and overly jealous of their owner’s other relationships. They don’t deal well with strangers, but if you socialize your dog at an early age it will be less stressed in new environments and not as prone to behaving aggressively. On the plus side, Chihuahuas are very affectionate and love attention, so a sedentary person with a willing and comfortable lap would be an ideal owner, making the Chihuahua a perfect pet for the elderly. Chihuahua is a fiercely loyal dog, and will spin and leap into the air with excitement when you come home, making it an ideal pet for someone who lives alone and needs some affection when they come home from work.

Inside or Outside?

Apartments are great homes for the tiny Chihuahua, but the breed is quick to shiver when cold and fares best in warm climates, so it’s a good idea to keep a sweater handy if the air conditioner is set too low. Also a plus for some people, Chihuahuas don’t require too much exercise, and keeping a variety of toys around the house for your pet to play with might be enough activity for this breed.

Chihuahua Appearance

Chihuahuas range in color from tan to black, and can include brindle patterns. They also can have smooth or long coats, and the longhaired Chihuahua is believed to be mellower than its smooth-coated cousin. Chihuahuas weigh less than six pounds, and can live from 10 to 17 years.

Care and Possible Health Problems

Chihuahuas with smooth coats need little grooming, and while the longhaired Chihuahua requires a little more maintenance, it is not a daily requirement. Nails should be trimmed once a month, since the house pet rarely has a chance to grind down its own nails by walking on pavement or other hard surfaces.

They are prone to hypoglycemia, especially when they are young, so make sure your picky eaters are taking in enough nutrition by feeding them at regular intervals, as well as eye infections because of their round, protruding eyes.

Notable Chihuahuas:

The tiny Taco Bell dog Gidget and Paris Hilton’s famed dog Tinkerbell are Chihuahuas, as is dog expert Cesar Millan’s pack member, Coco. Sharon Osbourne has a Chihuahua named Mimi, and Reese Witherspoon made Chihuahua Bruiser famous in the movie “Legally Blonde.”

Fast facts:

• Chihuahuas tend to fare best in warmer climates, since their tiny frames can shiver when cold. Stress can also account for the shivering.
• Nerves and anxiety can lead the Chihuahua to be a bit snappy, so it is not a breed well suited to small children.
• Chihuahuas love to sleep burrowed under blankets, so outfit your pet’s bed with a blanket or soft towel to keep it feeling warm and secure.

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