Available Variations: Many other colours as well as coat length
History: The Chihuahua is most often believed to have originated in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico, from which it derives its name. Other authorities dispute this and some even believe the origin was in Malta. There is archaeological evidence that ancestors of the breed were kept as early as the 9th century in Mexico by Toltecs and later Mayans.
Characteristics: Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog and they can vary greatly in both colour, patterns and length of coat. There are two main varieties, the short hair and long hair varieties. Here in Canada, the short coat and long coat are often seen as two distinct breeds, but that is not the case in the United States. There are two distinct head shapes, "applehead" and "deerhead" which refers to the either a short nose with rounded head or a dogs with a longer nose and much more elongated head.
Temperament: Chihuahuas may be the smallest recognized breed, but they make up for their small size with an abundance of confidence. They are alert and active, fiercely loyal to their owners and protective of their territory. It is common for them to face down much larger dogs or strangers. They make excellent watch dogs as very little will get past them unnoticed.
Space requirements: Chihuahuas are the classic companion dog, requiring very little in the way of territory or other open spaces. They can be easily kept in the confines of an apartment
Recognized Group:
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Toy
American Kennel Club (AKC): Toy Group - recognized in 1904
United Kennel Club UKC): Companion Breeds - recognized in 1948
Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): Standard No. 218
