Why Get a Chihuahua?

A Chihuahua is known as the smallest dog breed in the world.  But it's not only its size that captures one’s attention – it is the whole package.  Just take time to look at the Chihuahua and you would see a dog bigger than any other dog. Well, that is my opinion and everyone is entitled to his own.

At this time, I have five Chihuahuas. Two are “long coats” while the rest are “shorthaired”.  Four are female and one male.  They are “Jewel”, “Gem”, “Sarge”, “Kernel” and “Mayjor”. Jewel and Gem are sisters while Sarge, Kernel and Mayjor came from different breeders.

What I like most about Chihuahuas are their eyes – those very expressive eyes that convey their feelings and emotions.  Somehow their eyes create that unexplainable connection between us.  I think the Chihuahua is one of the most irresistible dogs around. The breed is naturally adorable and it is difficult not to snuggle and treat it as a member of the family.  With its cute antics and often convincing “guilty charades”, the Chihuahua provides a certain allure that cannot be found in other dog breeds.

Health Issues

One good thing about the Chihuahua is that it has very little health issues. It is one healthy dog breed that with proper care and attention can live for several years. Its expected lifespan is said to be within 12 to 20 years – which means a Chihuahua can be a companion during your child’s formative years. But in order for a Chihuahua live its full life expectancy, it has to receive all the necessary care and attention.

While the Chihuahua is a small breed it does not mean that it deserves a lesser amount of care and attention compared to other bigger dog breeds. A Chihuahua - like any other dogs - has to be vaccinated for rabies and other diseases. It has to be taken to a veterinarian regularly to ensure that it is healthy and free from ailments.

In most cases, Chihuahuas are without birth defects. They, however, are naturally fragile. They can easily suffer from broken bones due to mishandling and rough playing making the Chihuahua not advisable as a pet for families with small children.

Temperament

Every Chihuahua has its own temperament either due to genetics or as a result of its environment.  But in general, Chihuahuas are very sociable, friendly and can adapt in almost every situation.  The key is proper socialization and training.  What I have observed from my Chihuahuas is that once they are brought to a new place, they shiver and seems to adjust to their new environment. After the adjustment period, the canine would spring back into form and return to its usual playful self.

A Chihuahua is a brave breed. Actually, it has a false sense of its size and will not hesitate to attack a German Shepherd, Pitbull, Siberian Husky or even a Belgian Malinois. I sometimes think that a Chihuahua has not taken time to look at a mirror and see its size. A Chihuahua seems to think that it can stand up to all other dog breeds.

A Chihuahua is a very good guard dog or to put it more accurately an “alert dog”. With its territorial nature, the Chihuahua immediately checks any form of disturbance and noise. It barks incessantly to warn the owner of an upcoming intrusion or simply to get attention.

If you need a good companion dog, seriously consider a Chihuahua as the breed usually bonds with the owner. It has a “one owner type personality. It exhibits a trait that endears the Chihuahua to its owner such as its constant longing for warmth, following you wherever you go, showing a sad emotion when you leave and waiting anxiously until your return.

A Best Friend

And best of all, a Chihuahua can be your best friend. A Chihuahua can listen to your problems and what you feel about everything. It can give “emotional calmness” and instantaneous relief from stress. Feelings of isolation and loneliness are greatly decreased by just having a Chihuahua.

The Chihuahua may be a small dog but what it gives in return is much bigger and something that money can’t buy.