Chihuahua Tips and Tidbits

Male and Female chihuahuas are equally affectionate and generally take the same length of time to house break. As long as the pet is spayed or nuetered there are no down sides to either sex.

The Chihuahua is a wash-and-wear breed. This means they are not plucked, trimmed, shaved or stripped. Also, tails and ears are left the way they are and not docked or clipped.

Long coats and short coats are often brothers and sisters born in the same litter.

Most chi's are not the stereotypical "fussy" or "picky" eaters. In fact, keep a close watch so that your chi baby doesn't get overweight and unhealthy.

A mature female dog is called a bitch all the time, no matter how sweet she is.

Chihuahuas are one of the longest living breeds, lasting well into their late teens and occasionally into their early twenties.

When arranging to visit a litter of puppies ask the breeder what time you can come when the pups will most likely be awake and playful. It is difficult to determine the personality of a sleeping puppy!

Before going puppy shopping take the time to picture your ideal dog, especially the personality you are looking for. Make sure you inform the breeder of your expectations, they will be able to tell you which puppy will best suit you or which set of parents will most likely produce your perfect puppy.

No matter how good your kids are with the family chihuahua ALWAYS supervise visits and playtimes.

If Fifi can't jump up by himself he shouldn't be allowed to jump down by himself. And never turn your back on a chihuahua who is up on something high.

Dogs are omnivores.

Never buy a dog food because it is the cheapest or even because it is the most expensive. Buy it because if it's balanced nutritional value. A good food should have little or no 'space fillers' such as high amounts of grain products. Ask your vet or breeder about good quality foods and what to look for.

Long coats have fringes on their ears, pants or furnishings on their hind legs, and a plume on their tail.

A chi is considered a senior at 11 years old. Most dogs are seniors at age 7.

A dog owner's research is never done. Educate yourself on everything chihuahua including health problems and how to fix them and the different training methods so you can find one that works for you and Pedro. Read about common vaccines. Also, learn about other toy breeds. Your vet will thank you for knowing how to take the best care of you dog and your Pedro will thank you for being the best owner you can be.

Never use toothpaste, soap, or shampoo meant for humans on Fluffy. Our toothpaste can upset her stomach, and our soaps and shampoos dry out her coat and skin and strip it of it's natural healthy oils.

Never pet or coddle your puppy when she is scared, this is praising nervousness. Instead, reassure her in a relaxed voice and tell her you are having fun. Your emotions will rub off on your chi. On the other hand, praise your chi when she is brave.

Although a new puppy will change things in your life DO NOT stop everything to cater to your little one. Sticking to your usual daily routine will help her learn your schedule and she will soon fit herself in without a problem.

A harness is often better for a chi because it does not put any pressure on their neck. Even slight pressure on a collar may cause temporary tracheal collapse in their tiny throat and your pup may cough.

Crate training speeds up housebreaking.

Disipline after the fact is pointless. Dogs live in the moment and will not connect your anger to the pee they did on the rug 10 minutes ago. Next time catch them before a mistake happens or in the act so that you can direct them to the correct behavior. Lavish praise when a task is preformed correctly.

Is jumping up ok? That's up to you. Just remember, Chichi doesn't understand the difference between jeans and pantyhose so if you do allow jumping make sure you change before your little mexican jumping bean intices you to play tug with your ex-best-pair of leotards!

Learn to read your puppy's bathroom language. He will tell you when he has to go and you will be able to wisk him to the proper place.

Don't apologize before leaving your dog home and try not to make a big commotion when coming home. This behaviour encourages anxiety and nervousness while you are gone. Therefore, come and go quietly and calmly.

* Along with my own experience these tips were compiled with the help of other chihuahua breeders and books such as Chihuahuas For Dummies, Jacquline O'Neil, 2001 Wiley Publishing Inc. , Shelby Marolo's New Art of Dog Training, Shelby Marlo and Taura S. Mizradi, 1999 Contemporary Books , DOG The Complete Guide, Sarah Whitehead, 1999 Team Media Ltd.

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