Dog Breeds :: Chihuahua

Characteristics
A graceful, alert, swift-moving little dog with saucy expression, compact, and with terrier-like qualities of temperament.

Did you know?
The Chihuahua comes in two varieties: long and smooth coat. The Chihuahua is graceful, alert, and swift. This breed is clannish, recognizing and preferring his own kind. As a rule, he does not like dogs of other breeds. Legend and history are rich in tales of the ancestors of the present Chihuahua. He is described as a popular pet, as well as a religious necessity, among the ancient Toltec tribes and later among the Aztecs. Archaeologists have discovered remains of this breed in human graves in Mexico and in parts of the United States. The modern Chihuahua is quite different from his early ancestors, with his variegated colors ranging from snow white to jet black. Mexico favors the jet black with tan markings, and the black and white spotted. The United States prefers the solid colors.

AKC Recommends
The American Kennel Club recommends that anyone interested in a breed should take the time to thoroughly learn about that breed, talk to responsible and knowledgeable breeders and seek out the resources of the AKC national club formed by individuals devoted to preserving and protecting their breed for future generations. The AKC offers links to the official national Club of this breed - the club's officers, breeder referral, and breed rescue contact persons.