Have you wondered where your adorable little Chihuahua dog breed was first discovered? The word Chihuahua actually means “dry and sandy place”, and you would be correct if you guessed Chihuaua, Mexico. The cute short-legged breed is noted as once being sacred to the Aztec Indian tribes and although we typically think of the Chihuahua as one type of dog, there are actually several types of Chihuahua.

The Chihuahua in part due to their portable size have become quite popular lately and their popularity continues to grow. Although the Chihuahua is known as the smallest of the dog breeds, but what many people don’t realize is there are different Chihuahua types. This little powerhouse has a huge heart so don’t be fooled by its tiny size!

Chihuahua types are distinguished by their color, and the shape of their heads. They come in a variety of shades, including cream, fawn, chocolate, silver, blue, and black. Their heads are classified as appleheads, which have a round skull, close-set eyes, and a short muzzle, and deer heads, which bear a striking resemblance to a tiny Doberman Pinscher.

The American Kennel Club recognizes both longhaired and shorthaired types of Chihuahua dogs. Shorthaired Chihuahuas can be identified by a smooth coat and generally experience limited shedding or malting. They also are likely to have a slight bend or curvature in the tail. Longhaired Chihuahuas have ears that are fringed with fur, a long fluffy tail and have a soft coat that can have either flat or curly hair.

The terms ‘mini’ or ‘teacup’ are regularly used by breeders. While this is useful for marketing, technically all Chihuahua types are toy varieties. Because tiny dogs sell so well, breeders have been competing to get the smallest dog possible. People sometimes get duped into paying a fortune, thinking that the ‘pocket size” ones are extra rare and, in fact, these smaller dogs might have additional health issues.

The 10th most popular breed in the US, the Chihuahua is quite intelligent. Standing 6-9 inches tall they weigh up to six pounds. Although short in stature they are very protective of their owners and territorial. The Taco Bell commercials has made the tan shorthaired Chihuahua, most popular Chihuahua type.

Chihuahuas are great if you live in a small residence. They are long-lived (16 years or more). The shorter-haired Chihuahuas need to keep warm, especially while sleeping, so they like to sleep under a blanket. One friend has a Chihuahua that is so emphatic about being covered that he growls at her if uncovered!

It is believed that Chihuahuas may be the oldest breed of dog to exist in the American continents. A slighter larger breed of Chihuahua existed in the 2nd century BC, and was known as a symbol of the upper class. It was probably bred with miniature Chinese dogs which the Spanish introduced to the New World.

If you are looking for a loyal and playful breed of dog, you should dedicate some time researching the type of Chihuahua dog you want. They are well known for offering great companionship. Purchase a Chihuahua and you will have a entertaining friend for years to come. However, once you have one, you will likely be tempted to buy another!

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