And Chihuahua dog adoption is an easy way to bring one into your home. Before you do though, it’s very important to understand both the Pros and the Cons of ownership before proceeding adoption or rescue.
The Pros:
Chihuahuas are adorable. They are the perpetual puppy.
These little guys are perfect for apartment dwellers. Because of their pocket size, an apartment provides plenty of room for a Chihuahua to move around during the day. You’ll still need to take them out for walks though!
Known for being “yappy”, Chihuahua’s make great watchdogs. They are territorial, and although not physically frightening, their consistent warning alarm can be very foreboding for a potential burglar.
Chihuahua puppies can be taught to use a litter box or artificial grass area. This is a huge advantage in the middle of the night or on a rainy day! There is also a wonderful Dog Training Pad that can be purchased that uses “puppy pads” that are scented to encourage your puppy to go.
The short hair variety are easy to groom. The long hair type isn’t that difficult either. They need to be bathed and have their nails clipped monthly, but that is about it.
In general, when these little guys have good health and feel loved and cared for by their owners, they have a long lifespan. They can live anywhere from 10-14 years.
The Cons:
Due to their tiny size, Chihuahuas can injure easily. Owners must be very careful not to step on, drop or drop something on top of their little Chi.
Chihuahuas and toddlers don’t mix. Young children may not realize how fragile they are, or may think it is a toy. It’s easy to accidentally drop or step on one. Care must always be taken due to their being so fragile.
These dogs do not like cold weather. They are considered “hairless” and they are true heat-seekers. MostChi’s hate cold or wet weather and will do just about anything to avoid it. Care must be taken to ensure your dog has a COVERED bed to snuggle in and warm clothes if brought outside in bad weather. We like this one. We like this one best because the top part of the bed, the cover, is heavy enough for the dog to burrow for warmth, and it stays covered. Some others are too light and do not stay covered. Or they have a foam insert and it doesn’t actually cover the dog well.
Same as number 3 above, these guys duetend to bark – A LOT. If you live close to neighbors, or can’t tolerate the “warnings”, then this breed may not be your best choice.
Generally, Chihuahuas are friendly, cuddly and fun! Take care to ensure they are the right choice for your family. They are one of the most popular breeds abandoned to shelters. This can be avoided with doing your adoption homework before bringing a puppy home.
Asthma is an inflammatory disorder of the bronchial tubes that affects more than 17 million Americans and causes more than 5,000 deaths per year. It is also the most common chronic childhood disorder, affecting 6.3 million children (approximately 1 in 13 school-aged kids). How did the idea begin that a dog could cure such a serious disorder? Can a chihuahua cure asthma?
The rumor is surprisingly widespread. That is, that the Chihuahua dog can cure Asthma. There seem to be two versions of this rumor. One being that something unique about these dogs “kills” asthma. The other is that somehow Chihuahuas act in regards to Asthma the way a sponge acts in regards to water. Namely, that it “pulls” out the illness in some fashion and transfer it to themselves. As a result, many families of asthmatic children have purchased these little dogs as family pets. It is said that for this “cure” to work, the sick child must sleep with the Chihuahua. Others stating that the dog must actually lie on the child’s chest.
At least part of the rumor stems from the belief that this passed down from from the Aztecs, where the Chihuahua dog has its origin. Some say that the Aztecs revered the Chihuahua as the “ruler of the nose” and believed it had certain power to cure various ailments, as well as Asthma. Impressive as that sounds, there’s little proof that states the Aztecs had anything to do with the origins of this rumor. There is much proof showing the Aztecs had Chihuahua dogs in their daily life. And while there is evidence that at one time Chihuahuas provided a food source for the Aztecs, there is also proof that Chihuahuas were regarded as a type of spiritual guide that could assist an Aztec in the afterlife. This process involved the dog “absorbing” the sins of the person who’d died. This information is similar to the notion that Chihuahuas absorb the Asthmas out of the sick person. It is likely that this may be where the Aztec connection to the rumor stems from.
A more common explanation of the rumor may stem from the fact that many Chihuahuas appear to wheeze and honk while breathing and it sounds like the definitive “wheeze” some an Asthmatic trying to catch his breath. For the superstitious or for those desperate to help a loved one, the belief that the dog is drawing the asthma out of their family member and taking it on himself might have been very comforting.
The belief about chihuahuas curing Asthma has been around for a very long time. It has even been noted in medical journals in the 1950’s. One of the reasons this rumor persists may have to do with the fact that many children “outgrow” their Asthma symptoms by the time they are adults. Looking for reasons why this would occur, lead some to assume that it occurred more frequently in the homes of people who happened to own Chihuahuas.
Unfortunately though, the Chihuahua cure doesn’t work. Due to Chihuahuas having less hair, it is true that they are less likely to provoke allergies than some other breeds, however, owning a Chihuahua will not cure Asthma. Luckily however, there are several medications that are very effective at both preventing the onset of an Asthma attack and minimizing the effects during.
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Over the past few years Chihuahuas, particularly the type with the nickname of the Teacup Chihuahua, have shown an amazing growth in popularity. Many people tend to have a keen interest in these cute little guys. The Chihuahua breed is the smallest of the toy breeds and it looks like a puppy all it’s life. This makes a lot of people fascinated by them. If you are on of them, here are a few facts about the so-called “Teacup” Chihuahua dog including teacup chihuahua characteristics and traits.
Firstly however, you should know that the “Teacup” Chihuahua is not really a specific breed. In reality these mini dogs are actually the ones that never reached the ideal body weight of a normal Chi or were puppies that were specifically bred to be that small. Some unprofessional breeders may try to have you believe otherwise, and pay much more for a “teacup”, but actually, it is only a nickname. So buyer beware. If you have your heart set on buying one (as opposed to obtaining one through a Chihuahua rescue organization) it’s always beneficial to do your research and find a reputable breeder, not just seller you might find in the classifieds who may be underfeeding puppies in an effort to keep them “teacup” sized. While some sellers may be honest and genuinely concerned about the health of your puppy and your purchase, many others are more interested in selling potentially ill dogs to unsuspecting families. One last point on “teacup” Chi’s. Some people think that if both parents of the puppy are both “teacup” sizes, then the puppy will be as well. It’s possible, however, there is no guarantee that those pups will be that small as well. It’s a gamble.
Chihuahua dogs are lively and energetic and generally a sturdy dog, even though they are so small. They do have a few health issues consistent with the breed and it’s a good idea to be educated on any possible health issues that may occur. Do to there small size, Chihuahuas can become dehydrated very easily. Especially young pups. Common sense dictates that you must ensure they always have clean, fresh water available 24 hours a day. I always make it easy on my Chi’s and have water in all the rooms I allow my dogs access to, especially if they are still puppies. They can also fall prey to low blood sugar very easily. This is mainly an issue for the pups again, so having small amounts of food available when they are young is a good idea – especially if you have your dog with you on a trip or outing.
New puppy owners may be surprised on day to hear their little dog making a sound that is reminiscent of a barking seal. This “honking” sound is a symptom of a very common issue for small dogs called a “collapsing trachea”. It is usually not a serious condition, although in some dogs it can become life threatening. In our dogs case, he usually “honked” when he got too excited, and simply calming him down was the key to minimizing any distress. However, since you should always have any puppy evaluated by a good veterinarian, that would be a great time to ask their opinion. They can fully guide a new owner on what to look for and how to treat this condition, should it arise.
While all these warnings may sound dubious, the reality of having a new Chihuahua is a wonderful event for a well prepared household. With a lot of care and bit of wariness, you will make this an easy transition for your new teacup.
Are Chihuahuas Good Dogs? Yes! They are friendly little guys and they really want to please you. He’s famous for being the smallest of the toy breeds, but he has a ton of personality in his tiny little body. His diminutive features makes him look like a puppy forever, but it’s his great big attitude that makes devoted fans of everyone.
He is clever and and a fast learner. He’ll do well at shows, displaying enthusiasm and pride in a job well done. Depending on your particular dog, he can also be stubborn – and may require you to persuade him with treats or “clicks” to do as you ask. If you are using a positive reward system, your friend is likely to do as you ask. While he will shy away from any type of harsh training, he will LOVE to please his owners and receive the praise he earned.
He is fun loving and zippy. While it may seem at times that all he wants to do is sleep all day in any sunny window he can find, he is generally social and loves to get out and meet and greet. He will likely have a tendency to want to go everywhere you go. Due to his small size, he will love to be carried around in a soft lined dog carrier, bag or car seat made just for him! He may form a connection with either a male or a female in your home, but they usually will pick one person as their “go-to” human. He will love nothing more than to snuggle under a warm blanket with his human of choice anytime, anywhere.
He’s a little escape artist.Sometimes even the most “dog proof” fence proves too easy for our little explorer. Many a Chi has met a cruel fate with a car, motorcycle or larger dog on what was meant to be a joyful escape outing. Great focus must be placed on providing your puppy with a SAFE place to romp around and explore without the possibility of injury or escape.
Chihuahuas and toddlers don’t mix.Small children aren’t able to understand just how fragile their little bones are. Far too many Chi’s have been injured or killed by children who mistakenly shook, dropped or choked a puppy by accident.
His pocket size and perky personality will make him the perfect “take everywhere dog”. People who own them adore them, even if they have never had a small dog previously. It’s very common for owners to bring more Chi babies into their homes soon after their first.
He’s likely a yapper. Yes, it’s true, but that makes him a vigilant watch dog to protect the one he loves, YOU!
Chihuahua or Chiwawa? – Which is the correct spelling? Well, since the history of the breed stems from Chihuahua, Mexico, this spelling is correct. However, much of the world spells it Chiwawa. You will see both spellings referenced in our articles just to be friendly. Enjoy!
“Teacup”, “Apple Head” and “Deer Type” – They sound completely different, but really, they are describing one breed of dog. The Mighty Chiwawa! In this article we will discuss Deer Type Chihuahua dogs. Different types of Chiwawa dogs have different physical features. The “deer type” type of Chiwawa is arguably considered the closest ancestor of the origin of the Chiwawa breed. Chiwawa dogs have their lineage in Mexico.
The “Techichi” was a sturdy little ancestor of today’s Chiwawa dog that had it’s head and legs shaped like a tiny deer. This dog would not look like the standard AKC (American Kennel Club) “apple head” Chiwawa. Although, the deer type chiwawa can technically be AKC, we don’t see many of them in shows for this this reason. As a rule of thumb, a deer type chiwawa is usually taller in size than all other Chiwawas. It’s height makes it the biggest of other Chiwawa dogs.
A male chiwawa of this type might measure 12” in average whereas a standard Chiwawa might average about 5”. The female deer head may measure up to 10”. If well fed (perhaps overfed would be a better term), they can weigh up to twenty pounds. They are generally a healthy dog, and many can live well up to 20 years. They may look fragile, but they can make wonderful companions.
As with most chiwawa dogs, they have an active and friendly personality. However, they always seem to be cold and have a constant desire to find heat. Your Chiwawa is a social animal as well, and it is often ready to snuggle up with you or the other pets they share their home with. Most of them are very lovable and loyal to their owners. Having a Chiwawa in your home, whether a deer type or not, is always a wonderful thing to me.
If you are planning to adopt a puppy from a Chihuahua Rescue, you should know you’ll be saving a life – and getting a great lifetime companion. The Chihuahua is a super friendly little pup and he wants very much to empress you. He’s famous for being the smallest of the toy breeds, but he has a ton of personality in his tiny little body. His diminutive features makes him look like a puppy forever, but it’s his great big attitude that makes devoted fans of everyone.
He is clever and and a fast learner. He’ll do well at shows, displaying enthusiasm and pride in a job well done. Depending on your particular dog, he can also be stubborn – and may require you to persuade him with treats or “clicks” to do as you ask. If you are using a positive reward system, your friend is likely to do as you ask. While he will shy away from any type of harsh training, he will LOVE to please his owners and receive the praise he earned.
He is fun loving and zippy. While it may seem at times that all he wants to do is sleep all day in any sunny window he can find, he is generally social and loves to get out and meet and greet. He will likely have a tendency to want to go everywhere you go. Due to his small size, he will love to be carried around in a soft lined dog carrier, bag or car seat made just for him! He may form a connection with either a male or a female in your home, but they usually will pick one person as their “go-to” human. He will love nothing more than to snuggle under a warm blanket with his human of choice anytime, anywhere.
He’s a little escape artist.Sometimes even the most “dog proof” fence proves too easy for our little explorer. Many a Chi has met a cruel fate with a car, motorcycle or larger dog on what was meant to be a joyful escape outing. Great focus must be placed on providing your puppy with a SAFE place to romp around and explore without the possibility of injury or escape.
Chihuahuas and toddlers don’t mix.Small children aren’t able to understand just how fragile their little bones are. Far too many Chi’s have been injured or killed by children who mistakenly shook, dropped or choked a puppy by accident.
His pocket size and perky personality will make him the perfect “take everywhere dog”. People who own them adore them, even if they have never had a small dog previously. It’s very common for owners to bring more Chi babies into their homes soon after their first.
He’s likely a yapper. Yes, it’s true, but that makes him a vigilant watch dog to protect the one he loves, YOU!
Chihuahua or Chiwawa? – Which is the correct spelling? Well, since the history of the breed stems from Chihuahua, Mexico, this spelling is correct. However, much of the world spells it Chiwawa. You will see both spellings referenced in our articles just to be friendly. Enjoy!
that can be purchased that uses “puppy pads” that are scented to encourage your puppy to go.
We like this one best because the top part of the bed, the cover, is heavy enough for the dog to burrow for warmth, and it stays covered. Some others are too light and do not stay covered. Or they have a foam insert and it doesn’t actually cover the dog well.
