DOG FAQ - Is my Chihuahua a dog or a mole?

It is a characteristic of the Chihuahua to prefer to sleep under a cloth or blanket. They will even get under pillows in order to feel snug. If you are raising a puppy, be sure to provide them with a soft towel or blanket in their sleeping area so they can burrow underneath it.

So don't be surprised if your Chihuahua scrambles under your blankets at night, even though your house or apartment may not be particularly cold. This is known as the "moley-effect."

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - Aren't Chihuahuas kind of dim?

It is understandable how this breed has developed this reputation. In public, some bark at the slightest provocation, and will not stop sometimes even when the "threat" is gone.

Chihuahuas are actually a very intelligent and alert breed.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - Are they sociable with other dogs?

Chihuahuas are very sociable with their own kind. So several Chihuahuas can be quite happy living in the same household. That includes two or more males sharing the same house.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - Is it safe to take Chihuahua on a cold weather walk?

Owners must be very sensitive to the fact that short-haired Chihuahuas, and even long-haired ones, are vulnerable to the cold. In temperatures of 35-40 degrees Farenheit, I would recommend dressing your Chihuahua in a special dog sweater for brief walks. Walking your Chihuahua in temperatures below 35 degrees Farenheit is strongly discouraged, especially when there is a wind-chill factor. In this, as in other aspects of dog maintenance, keep your dogs' health top priority, not your own desire. In some cold regions, an indoor heater will be necessary to keep your Chihuahua comfortable.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - What are the differences between the smooth coats and the long coats?

The issue of whether or not there is a difference in personality seems to be a topic of debate within the Chihuahua community. Some claim that there is no difference in personality; others swear that longcoats have a tendency to be "soft-tempered" while smoothcoats are more prone to aggressive behaviour. Let's set aside the personality issue and focus on physical and maintenance differences.

Smoothcoats tend to have coats that are much coarser than longcoats -- almost like bristles in some cases. Smoothcoats also shed more than longcoats. However, longcoats can shed as well. Heavily coated longhairs require brushing about once a month, but this can be a pleasureable exercise for both Chihuahuas and master rather than a chore.

As far as bathing is concerned, as a general rule, the longcoats will need to be bathed more frequently, and it'll be a longer process (both washing and drying). The bib -- the furry part of the chest -- can easily get irty and matted. Longcoats can also occasionally get fecal matter stuck on their "pants." You'll have to either bathe your dog or cut the bit off with scissors when this happens.

Some Chihuahua owners swear by long-hairs and wouldn't have anything else; it is as much a matter of personal taste as is coat color.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - I'm allergic to dogs, but I heard Chihuahuas won't bother me; is that true?

Opinion seems to vary on this point. Some say it's an old-wives' tale, while others swear that, although they're allergic to dogs, Chihuahuas did not bother them.

The best way for someone who has allergies to find out if they can own a Chihuahua is for them to simply spend some time around one. Some people are allergic to dog hair, while others are allergic to saliva. Since Chihuahua's are known to lick the face of their master alot, you'd best be sure you're not allergic to the latter before investing in this breed.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - I've heard they're nervous, high-strung dogs. Is that true?

Yes, Chihuahua is high-strung dogs. I define "high-strung" as follows: barks easily, does not adapt easily to change in environment, is suspicious of strangers and will growl at them, and flips in circles and jumps around when excited (like when you come home after a five-minute absence, for instance).

However, with the person that they have bonded with (i.e., their master[s]), they do not display most of these characteristics; infact, they display radically different personalities. Chihuahuas are truly the "Jekyll-and-Hyde" of dog breeds: your friends will see the worst side of them and never believe you when you tell them that your Chihuahua is really a gentle, sweet-natured dog.

There is good news, though. If you socialize your Chihuahua at an early age, they will be less stressed when new environments and people are introduced to them in adulthood. Proper socialization is critical, then, and at the earliest age possible.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - Do they require special dog food?

No. Chihuahua have the same nutritional needs as most dogs. You can feed mine regular Alpo kibbles, and, although the kibbles are large, Chihuahuas seem to sort of enjoy cracking each one with their jaws.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - How much exercise do they require?

Not much. Chihuahua has short bursts of energy each day which quickly die down. You should provide toys for your Chihuahua to keep it occupied. Old slippers are ideal, as well as stuffed toys with squeakers inside. You can certainly take your Chihuahua on walks. (You'll make many an acquaintance due to the diminutive and unusual appearance of your Chihuahua!)

When buying a leash for your Chihuahua, remember that its neck is rather small and delicate compared to other dog's necks. You cannot (and, indeed, should not) yank your dog around by the leash if s/he has a neck collar on. I recommend the body-harness for two reasons: safety and comfort. If fitted right, it will give your Chihuahua a secure and comfortable walk, and harnesses also ensure your dog cannot escape -- a real concern if you live in an urban area.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - What is their life-span?

Toy breeds live the longest of any size dog. Expect a life-span of Chihuahua is around11-18 years, although the latter is rare.

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DOG FAQ - Aren't Chihuahuas expensive?

If Chihuahuas have their American Kennel Club official certificate papers, yes --Chihuahuas can run up to $600.00. The papers (which the breeder provides) mean that the parents of your Chihuahuas are registered with the AKC and that the puppy is registerable. Additionally, some breeders provide pedigree papers which trace the family history beyond the immediate parents. These papers are vital if you plan to enter your new dog into exhibitions and competitions.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover

CHIHUAHUA AND CHILDREN

Generally, no. Be careful when walking your Chihuahua to keep your Chihuahua well away from toddlers and young children, who are often uninhibited and will approach your dog.

Again, this is general good advice; some Chihuahuas are friendly around children (usually as a result of de-sensitization). In this case and others, the master's knowledge of his or her Chihuahua and good judgement should prevail.

Chihuahua - Dog Lover