Chihuahua (dog)

A chihuahua is a very small kind of dog and is bred to be a pet.

Chihuahua

Country of origin	Mexico
Traits Weight 1.8–2.7 kg (4–6 lb) Height 15–25 cm (6–10 in) Coat Short-haired (smooth coat) and long-coat Color Any color Litter size usually 2–5 Life span 12–20
Classification & standards FCI Group Section {{{fcisection}}} #{{{fcinum}}} standard

Appearance

They can reach a height of 6-9 inches (12.7–20.3 cm) and a weight of 2–6 pounds (0.9–2.7 kg). Chihuahuas can have a long or short coat, and come in many different colors. They only need grooming once a week if short coat or it may be twice if you have a long coat.

Origins

The Chihuahua's start goes back to Mexico as the descendants of the Techichi, a short haired and silent dog. The Techichi was liked by the Toltec people, one of the indigenous (original) people of Mexico. Chihuahuas are believed to have been made by breeding the Techichi and Chinese Crested Dogs (a type of small hairless dog) to form today's Chihuahuas.

Another possible start for Chihuahuas was the breeding of Techichis with Phalène terriers, which were well liked at the time and were known for their small body and black and tan colors. Mating with another type of dog increased the loudness of the Techichi's bark while making it smaller.

Chihuahuas were named after the Chihuahua state in Mexico. The word Chihuahua comes from the Na'huatl word "xicuagua", which means "sandy, dry place".