Chihuahua Dogs

You’ve seen them on TV shows.  You’ve seen them on Commercials. Tiny Chihuahua dogs have received a lot of attention from the media lately due to their participation in various television programs and movies. In addition, certain unnamed celebrities, (cough – Paris Hilton) popularized this trend by carrying a cute little white Chi around as a fashion accessory. This helped to popularize the notion of the chihuahua dog as docile little “toys”. Easy to handle. Never making a fuss. And always cute. Afterall, you can literally fit one into a handbag. You can’t really blame us for falling in love them I guess. These little dogs are simply adorable.

You’ve probably heard people talking about Chihuahuas and using terms like: ‘teacup chihuahua’, ‘mini chihuahua’, ‘deer head’, ‘apple head’ and ‘toy’. You might be thinking that there are many different types of Chihuahuas however, these terms are only casual terms and not used formally. Teacup Chihuahua generally being the most common.  This term is generally used to describe the smallest version of a Chihuahua. However, the truth is there is no official recognition given to the term “Mini” Chihuahua or “Teacup” Chihuahua.. The only officially recognized breed of Chihuahuas are the short hair and long hair exclusively.

So the truth about Chihuahuas is, yes, they’re cute and they’re small but they are also they’re loyal, playful, smart and they make great companions. All in all, few can ever say no to these wonderful little doggies.

Before adopting a teacup chiwawa, however, its a good idea to learn some of the advantages and drawbacks of owning one. Although teacups are small in size, it doesn’t mean they’re necessarily easy to handle. In fact, some can create a lot of chaos in a small package.

Mini Chihuahua care can be a breeze if you are aware of a few of the drawbacks ahead of time:

• One, they can become rather possessive. They love their owners and their toys.  They love their other dog companions very much.
• Two, while not consistent in all dogs, some have the tendency to bark in excess. They have a reputation of being “A yapper”.
• Three, sometimes it proves a bit tricky to train one.
• Four, they can become ill rather easily.
• Five, they can be vulnerable to injury due to their tiny size.

All warnings aside, owning a mini Chihuahua brings with it many more joys than disadvantages. They are loyal companions and friends. They are loving and lovable little clowns. Some, despite their diminutive size become perfect watchdogs. They are social animal and love attention.  And, they are perfect for those who live in apartments. And much more, of course. This is just a small taste of all the joy you can likely expect from your new little Chiwawa dog.

Chiwawa Dogs

They are so cute!  And yet you hear yourself saying: “I don’t know how to do this….he’s too small. How To Train My Chihuahua? Help!”  Let’s take a look at some Chihuahua training tips to get you rolling.

Of course due to its tiny size, you must treat your little guy differently than if he was a larger breed. Also, due to it’s smaller size some Chihuahuas startle very easily, and you might startle too if a gigantic human was looming over you in a threatening manor. Since we can be a bit intimidating to such a tiny guy, maybe just putting yourself down on the ground with your student might be the best way to begin. Once he is comfortable with you, and your different tones of voice, you’ll find it’s an easy segue way to more vertical training standing up. Although, since you are training a Chi, there will always lots of bending over to reward and praise your baby.

Chihuahuas are very intelligent and they want to please their owners. Nevertheless, if you are trying to train a dog that is timid, or perhaps previously mishandled, you may be required to be a bit more patient with your Chi.

I have personally tried a technique called “Clicker Training” with my little puppy, Frisco. Clicker training, just as it sounds, uses a little plastic “clicker” as a signal to your dog of positive reinforcement. There are many books which claim it is very effective. It is said to be more effective than providing tasty treats. However, to me it was just a replacement for saying “good dog” and a nice pat on the head. Also, if I didn’t happen to have the clicker in my pocket, Frisco, would look at me like, “Well, where’s my “good dog” click sound/”. So, for me, I just use regular old verbal reinforcement, and the occasional treat in my pocket as a surprise.

One of the areas where a Chi dog needs to receive training that is frequently overlooked is socialization. A Chihuahua must be exposed to other dogs and people as early as possible. It is best to teach your pet how to socialize when he is still very young. They may be timid, but it’s important. When socializing your pet to mingle with other dogs, please always be nearby, because your little Chi may be socialized, but the other dog may not. And take it slow, you want this process to be a good experience for your dog.

Here are some ideas on ways to begin to socialize your Chi:

• Ask your friends to come over and meet your pet.

• Bring your pet to crowded places.

• Take your dog with you while driving in the car

• Get him used to being bathed and brushed regularly.

• Expose your little guy to any experience that you might want him to feel comfortable being surrounded by.

Gentle training is necessary if you want your Chiwawa dog to grow up as a well-balanced pet. You can still and should discipline your dog of course, but you must show a lot of gentleness, patience and love. Obviously, never do anything that can hurt your puppy such as slapping, kicking or pinching. Being so small, these dogs are  fragile with tiny bones. He may act tough, but if you treat him rough, he might even develop anxiety or aggression. You don’t want that.

Look for opportunities to say “Good Dog!” and reward your dog for his good behavior. He will enjoy small treats and praise.  If you start your training early, before 3 months, with consistency and care you will soon see a well behaved Chiwawa dog looking back at you very soon!

Chiwawa Dogs

“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.

Chiwawa Dogs

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!

 Chiwawa Dogs

Chihuahua dogs are so cute, they are hard to resist. No matter what color combination, it’s hard not to love the silky coat on a long haired Chi. However,  grooming for the long hair variety is a bit more complicated than that of their short hair counterparts. If their coats are neglected they can develop mats or tangles, and neither  of you want that.

The best way to take care of your long-haired dog is to decide to follow a regular maintenance routine which includes:

Brushing: Long-hair Chiwawa dogs don’t necessarily shed more than their short-haired friends, but it may feel like it.  However, they do have long strands of hair. This hair is much easier to see on your clothes or the furniture. Especially if you have a lighter Chiwawa. You can keep shedding under control with frequent brushing. A weekly brushing routine will help your dog rid itself of any loose or excess fur before it ends up on your couch, or you!  And when shedding does get the better of you, this little gizmo works great.  We love it. It’s cheap and it works!

Shampooing: You may be tempted to think that due to its long hair, you should bathe your dog more frequently. Actually, for best results, the ASPCA recommends that you bathe your dog only about once every three months! We bathe our dogs about once a month in the spring and less during the winter. And not before your dog is at least about 4-5 months old. A bath helps remove irritants to her skin, but too many baths can remove all the natural oils that your dog needs for her coat to shine. Use a gentle dog or baby shampoo and warm water. If you begin bathing your Chi when it is a puppy, they actually take a liking to their bath time because it is so warm!  Chihuahua dogs seek heat! A helpful tip is to also use a conditioner to deal with tangles. Rinse thoroughly to remove all shampoo and conditioner. Towel dry thoroughly or blow dry on low heat if needed.

Healthy Diet: As far as food is concerned, the Chihuahua dog in general has a sensitive digestive tract, and they don’t really enjoy when you change their food. Also, their teeth are tiny in size. When preparing food for your pet, you need to shred it into small pieces or at least purchase a small dog size food. This is done to ease up the chewing and digestion process.  Chihuahuas tend to need their teeth cleaned more than other dogs.  If you provide chew treats for small dogs, it can help keep their teeth in great shape.  We like the natural ones.

For a puppy, the ideal feeding frequency would be two to three meals a day. Your puppy can tend to develop low blood sugar is they go without food for to long. Make sure that you only put out fresh food for your new baby. It is easy for a puppy to become sick from food contamination. The dog should also have consistent supply of fresh water so that it can drink to keep its body hydrated. Just go easy on the snacks, even if your doggie is begging.  Chi’s can gain and show excess weight very easily.

Long hair or short hair, care for your Chihuahua doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little effort and time you will be the proud owner of a healthy dog with a shiny coat.  Now who wouldn’t be proud of that?

Chiwawa Dogs