Chihuahuas are unique for a variety of reasons. The first way that this breed of dogs is unique is that they are the smallest breed of dog in the entire world. Named after Chihuahua, Mexico, where they were first discovered in 1850, this compact dog weighs from two to twelve pounds and stands just six to nine inches tall.

There are two types of Chihuahuas ? long haired and short haired. They have apple shaped heads with a pointed muzzle and large bulging eyes. Chihuahuas live to be about fifteen years old, but can live as long as 22 years. Chihuahuas have an incredible amount of energy, and many bark excessively, but can be trained to stop barking on command. They are highly intelligent dogs, and there is a myth that they are hard to train, but in reality, this only refers to housebreaking, as both males and females are…

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If you’ve ever seen a Taco Bell commercial, you may assume that you already know what Chihuahuas look like. That particular Chihuahua is called a short haired Chihuahua. Some Chihuahuas are bigger than that dog, and others are smaller.

These dogs are very small and compact. They weigh no more than twelve pounds, although a twelve pound Chihuahua would be considered big, and the breed standard for Chihuahuas, established by the American Kennel Club is no more than six pounds. The Chihuahua may stand anywhere from six inches to nine inches tall.

If the Chihuahua is a short haired dog, his coat is very short, and has a wiry feel to it. Short haired Chihuahuas may be referred to as smooth haired Chihuahuas. Long haired Chihuahuas have hair that grows to be one to two inches long, and is very soft and fine. Long haired Chihuahuas do not require hair…

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Many people mistakenly think that Chihuahuas have bad tempers. This really isn’t the case, although it may appear to be. For the most part, Chihuahuas are viciously loyal and protective, and of course they will always attempt to defend their territory.

But for the most part, Chihuahuas are sweet, loving little dogs. With that said, however, it is easy to understand why people may think of the Chihuahua as a bad tempered dog. It is a given that they are a suspicious breed. In fact, it is agreed that they are suspicious of everyone except their owner, but if you consider their small size, you might understand why this is a necessity for them.

When a Chihuahua is provoked, he will have a bad temper. Again, he is quite small, but he has a brave heart, and when you have so much bravery, in such a small body, one must…

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There is a myth about training Chihuahuas. Most people believe that Chihuahuas are one of the hardest breeds to train, but in reality, this only refers to housebreaking, due to the fact that Chihuahuas have an overwhelming need to mark their territory. However, when it comes to obeying commands or doing tricks, Chihuahuas are highly trainable, and quite intelligent.

Consistency and treats are the keys to successful training. Like most other animals, Chihuahuas respond to positive results. If they do something and get a positive result, such as praise and a treat, they are likely to repeat the action in an attempt to get the same positive result.

However, if they get negative results, they are not likely to try something a second time. This is why it is essential that you understand that discipline should not be used when it comes to training your Chihuahua. It simply is not…

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