Chihuahua

The origin of the Chihuahua dog breed is uncertain. The presence of Chihuahuas in pre-Columbian Mexico is certain because it was already the subject of a sacred cult by the Aztecs and representations of tiny dogs very similar, called "Techichi", adorn the city of Tula, the capital of the Toltecs. But it is possible to trace back to an older Chinese origin. In reality, according to archaeologists, modern Chihuahuas descend from Eurasian breeds introduced to America from the fifteenth century onward, causing the disappearance of local dogs due to disease or breeder selection. However, the Chihuahua is one of the rare species that retain three to four percent of genes from their Amerindian ancestors. It was not until the end of the eighteenth century that this dwarf breed was introduced to Europe.

It is a dog with a strong temperament that can be stubborn, which is why it must be trained like a "real dog", otherwise it can easily become irritable. The Chihuahua understands orders very well. A brief order like "no" (by teaching it otherwise it will have no educational value), possibly repeated, is sufficient for it to understand and receive its education. When the Chihuahua is alone with its owner a close bond is often observed. The dog is often with its owner, protects him and loves his presence. It understands most of the intonations of its owner's voice and can respond to them. It can understand most of its owner's commands. The Chihuahua knows how to adapt to many situations because it is a rather intelligent dog. Like all dogs, it must be socialized young to learn to behave well in the presence of strangers. It will bark to defend its resources, but will then accept the presence of strangers provided it is not being held at that precise moment. Finding itself reassured and at the same height as its adversary, it could then show aggression. When well-trained and has a close relationship with its owner, the Chihuahua is a dog that can understand many directives. It is not stubborn if made to understand from a young age. It is a very cuddly dog that loves children. It is always ready to play. Despite its small size, it is a dog that is not easily intimidated. It likes to spend time with other Chihuahuas or small dogs. Outside, the Chihuahua can play with other dogs as it loves being in a pack. It knows how to use its charm with its peers, as well as with humans. The Chihuahua is very cuddly and often loves to snuggle in the arms of its owner. One of the Chihuahua's favorite activities is to enjoy the sun. This is why they are often found lying in sunny places.

The Chihuahua is classified, in the nomenclature of the International Cynological Federation (FCI), in group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), more specifically in section 6 (Chihuahueno), which brings together short-haired Chihuahuas and long-haired Chihuahuas. It is very resilient despite its apparent fragility. Its average lifespan is estimated at around fourteen years and can reach in some cases around twenty years. Although it is often presented as an apartment dog, it is a tonic dog, capable of enduring long walks, perfect companion for hiking. Free in nature, it loves to run with other dogs.