by R. R. Fritz

Created on: November 03, 2008   Last Updated: November 24, 2008

From celebrity purses to the silver screen Chihuahua's are everywhere, capturing the hearts of many. Before opening up your heart and home to one of these pint sized pups, its best to learn as much as possible about the breed.

Chihuahua's are the smallest breed of dogs weighing up to 11-12 pounds, with most weighing much less. There are long haired and short haired varieties but all have large erect ears and big expressive eyes. It is believed that they are one of the oldest breeds, originating in Pre-Columbian Mexico.

While their size makes them look like a cuddly toy, Chihuahua's are feisty little dogs with a lot of energy and a seeming ignorance of their small stature. Most are fiercely loyal and protective of their person. They tend to bond with only one or two people in the household, generally adults. Because of this they can appear snappy or standoffish with other people and small children.

Other dog breeds are of little interest to most Chihuahua's, but they get along with other Chihuahua's. Many towns have regular get-togethers for Chi owners and their dogs.

They tend to be high energy but do not need a lot of exercise. This, along with their compact size, makes them good companions for people who live in apartments and for older, less active people.

A relatively hearty breed, many live into their late teens, with 18 and 19 year old dogs not being uncommon. When you make the decision to add a Chihuahua to your life, be sure that you are willing to commit to their care for the next 20 years.

Every breed of dog has health issues that often plague the breed and for Chi's it is eye problems and seizure disorders. In addition, Chihuahua's are born with an incomplete skull which takes about 6 months to close and in some instances, never does close completely. It is important that the dog is gently cared for in the first year of its life.

They can be stubborn but are trainable with love and praise. Most love to be held and cuddled like a baby by their person, and it is one of the reasons that they travel well.

Unfortunately, they cannot talk like their television and movie counterparts, but they can provide you with years of love and devotion. That's worth more than all the words in the dictionary!

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