Pet Dogs and Cats

By Disease Information Health Tips on Nov 29, 2009

wow at the end looks like a picture taken but this look way better Nice!

By saugerties12477 on Nov 29, 2009

Do you need it to be a book? There are a lot of websites that have a lot of information on them. Just do a search on the "history of the chihuahua". If you need it to be a book, I would suggest going to a library. Why does it need to be old?

By Chrisblacknativeg G on Nov 29, 2009

"CHIHUAHUA -
A HISTORY OF THE
SMALLEST CANINE
by Lee Weston
As with any breed of dog, there is speculation, a great deal of paperwork, detective work, and logical deduction involved in what has occurred in the past to understand the present. Archeology and paleontology is used heavily in determining what type of relationship existed between the canine and the human population. This is the case with the history of the Chihuahua.
The Chihuahua received its name from the northern part of Mexico bearing the same name, that borders on the Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico boundary lines. But that is not the limit of its history. There are many theories regarding the development of this tiny breed of dog. Following is just a few of these theories, call them speculations, but all possible.
Through archeological digs and the work of paleontologists, they have pieced together a history that goes back at least to 5th century A.D. and to show the existence of the Chihuahua's ancestors not only in the central and southern regions of Mexico, but also in South America as well.
The Mayan Indians of South America made clay sculptures of small dogs that resemble a Chihuahua "type". These sculptures are dated back to the 5th century A.D. Were they the first to develop a relationship with one of the Chihuahua's ancestors?
A native people of Mexico, known as Toltecs, were known to have conquered the southern and central parts of Mexico by 1100 A.D. They possessed a dog of small stature, but at the same time it was heavy-boned and long-coated. This dog was known as a Techichi. It is described as being long-legged, with a thin body, almost fawn-like, and a humped back. The Techichi was kept by the Toltecs as a pet, and interestingly, this dog was used as part of the religious rites as well. There is a question as to whether or not the Toltecs crossed the Techichi with a dog that inhabited the mountains of Chihuahua, called the Perro Chihuahueno. It is said that the Perro Chihuahueno was a foraging type of dog, that lived in holes in the ground. They had round heads, long nails, and short, erect ears.
When the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs and became the ruling class, they also used the dog as pets and in a religious function. From remains found at pyramids and in graves, it is believed that these people thought that the dog would function as guides for the human soul. Another ritual that was practiced was the burning of a dog with a human corpse. This was done in the belief that the deceased human's wrong-doings would be transferred to the dog.
The story continues with the Spanish conquerors that invaded Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America. It is conjectured that they had with them a small, black and tan, terrier type dog. These Spanish dogs were far more friendly with the native dogs than the Spanish conquistadors were with the native peoples. Due to this crossing of the black and tan terrier type dog with the Techichi, it is surmised that the Chihuahua resulted.

Another theory put forth is that the Chihuahua is actually of European descent. That it was the Spanish conquistadors that brought this dog with them to the New World. For proof, the people who support this theory point to the island of Malta where a small breed of dog existed that possessed a natural molera. A molera is like an open fontanel in a human child, a soft spot on the top of the skull where the three sections of the skull bone meet. The molera is extremely rare, and uncommon to other breeds of dog. The Chihuahua, however, does possess this natural molera, it is believed that this points to its descendants as being from Malta. Further proof is offered in of all places, the Sistine Chapel. A painting by Sondro Botticelli, completed in 1482, depicts a dog that is very much like today's Chihuahua. Since this painting was completed before Columbus sailed for the New World, it offers proof that the dog is of European ancestry.

One last theory that we will put forth, is that it is known that the Chinese were adept at developing miniatures of larger breeds of dog. It may be possible that the Chinese developed a dog similar to the Chihuahua, the Spanish traders came to possess this dog, and from China, traveled to Mexico with it. As the Spanish traders crossed Mexico, they had contact with the native population, both the traders and the dogs.

In any case, after the Spanish were finished with destroying the Aztec culture, buildings, and as many people as they could, the fate of the dogs were left to the native people that adopted it into their families, and nature.

When people from the United States first "discovered" this tiny dog, they were referred to as "Texas Dogs" or "Arizona Dogs" probably because that is the border that was used to bring the dogs from Mexico to the U.S. Americans fell in love with the little critters and ever since the Chihuahua has been a favorite. Interestingly, the "Chis" have undergone a great deal of change since the 1950's. Breeders have made great strides in improving the temperament, the number one concern, and type. Today's kennels are noted for different characteristics and bloodlines, so when shopping for a puppy, it is important for the prospective buyer to understand and know expectations of the bloodlines. The only way to find out is to go to the dog shows, talk to owners, handlers, breeders and ask lots of questions. Read books about the Chihuahua, educating yourself can be time consuming, but can also save a lot of headaches and heartaches in the future.

In the United States, the American Kennel Club exhibited Chihuahuas for the first time in 1890. The first Chihuahua was registered in the U.S. in 1903. However, the Chihuahua Club of America was not established until 1923, along with a written breed standard that has not changed significantly since. In 1952, the Chihuahua Club of America did vote to split the Chihuahua into two varieties. The two are judged on the same standard, the difference being is that one variety is smooth coated and the other is long coated. "

By Health Tips and Advice on Nov 29, 2009

impossible

By Scrapbooking on Nov 29, 2009

wowza. frickin wowza. youre amazing.

By MiLeY CyRuS' ##### 1 FaN! on Nov 29, 2009

SO WHAT IS A CHIHUAHUA?

1. Introduction

"To know me is to love me." — Chihuahua's motto, if they could
talk.

This FAQ is written for both the experienced owners and casual readers
in mind. Please note that The Chihuahua FAQ is a guide only, and
should NOT replace veterinarian advice and/or more authoritative
published works written on this breed. Since I only have the
experience of owning one Chihuahua, I would appreciate feedback from
other Chihuahua owners.

GUSH MODE ON: If you already own a Chihuahua, then I'll be preaching
to the converted when I say that they are one of the most loyal,
sweet-tempered, and gentle of the toy breeds. The Chihuahua, with its
apple-dome skull and large luminous eyes, can wear a remarkably human
expression at times; she or he will want to be with you most, if not
all, of the time. A warning to casual dog owners: Don't buy a
Chihuahua if you don't have the emotional real estate in your heart
or the time for the complete love and attention of this furry little
person. GUSH MODE OFF.

2. History

Carvings found in the Monastery of Huejotzingo, on the highway from
Mexico City to Puebla, give strong evidence as to the Chihuahua's
origins. This monastery was constructed by Franciscan Monks around
1530. The Monks used stones from the Toltec civilization. Little is
known of the Toltecs, but we do know that they existed as early as
the 9th century A.D. in what is now Mexico. The Toltecs had a breed
of dog they called the "Techichi". And the carvings on the stones at
Huejotzingo give a full head view and a picture of an entire dog that
closely resembles the modern-day Chihuahua. From this evidence, we
can safely assume that the Chihuahua is a descendant of the Techichi.

Additionally, there are remains at some pyramids and other pointers
to the early existence of the Techichi at Chichen Itza in Yucatan.

The Techichi was a religious necessity among the ancient Toltec
tribes and later among the Aztecs. Archaeologists have found the
remains of this breed in human graves in Mexico and in parts of the
United States.

For more information about the religious and mythical role of the
Techichi in Toltec tribes, I recommend The American Kennnel Club's
Official Breed Book (see Books).

The first Chihuahua to be officially registered by the American
Kennel Club was "Midget" in 1904.

3. Physical Description

Chihuahuas go under the classification of "toy breeds." The Chihuahua
can be short-haired or long haired. The breed standard, approved
September 11, 1990 disqualifies any dog over 6 pounds from the
conformation ring; however, they can weigh up to 9 pounds or more.

One of the Chihuahua's most distinctive characteristics is its head,
which is well-rounded and referred to by breeders as an "apple-dome"
type skull. In contrast, its muzzle is extraordinarily tiny in
contrast. Pink noses are sometimes found on blonde Chihuahuas.

Another distinctive physical feature of the Chihuahua is the ears:
large, held erect, and flaring to the sides at an angle of about 45
degrees, the Chihuahua uses its ears to express a variety of emotions
and responses.

The eyes, usually dark and luminous, are wide-set. Again, blondes may
have lighter eyes. Tears are often produced in abundance to keep the
large eyes lubricated, and it is not unusual for tears to fly from a
Chihuahua's face when it shakes its head during play.

The back should be level and the rib-cage rounded. Some Chihuahuas
may actually have barrel-shaped rib-cages, but professional breeders
find this undesireable. The hindquarters are muscular and thin.

The Chihuahua has stick-like legs and dainty feet. The tail is
longish carried either in a sickle fashion or in a loop with the tip
touching the back.

Finally, coat color: there are a variety of shades, including
brindle, blonde, black, brown, fawn, blue, and "splashed." It is
interesting to note that Mexico prefers the jet black with tan
markings, and the black and white spotted; the United States
overwhelmingly prefers the solid colors, especially fawn.

4. Temperament

"Chis aren't dogs, I'm conviced — they are four-legged babies."
— from CHIHUA-L

I hear from experienced Chihuahua owners that each dog of this breed
has their own unique personality; this is a very individualistic
breed. However, a few generalizations can be made. Chihuahuas are
graceful, energetic, and swift-moving canines. They have often been
described as having "terrier-like" qualities; that is, the qualities
of being alert, observant, and keen on interacting with their
masters. They are extremely loyal and get attached to one or two
persons.

These tiny dogs are certainly unaware of their diminutive stature:
they can be bold with other dogs much larger than themselves, and
protective of their masters. They are fiercely loyal to their masters
and wary of any strangers or new guests introduced into the
household, which the Chihuahua considers to be its personal domain.
For these reasons, Chihuahuas make good watch dogs (not guard dogs,
though!).

The Chihuahua needs a great deal of human contact: touching, petting,
and general attention. If the Chihuahua does not get this, she or he
will use various attention-getting tricks until you give her/him
attention. (My own uses her paws to lightly scratch my hand, a signal
that says, "Pet me now!") Some owners who have had other, more
independent breeds may find the Chihuahua too needy. However, Chis
give alot of love and affection in return for your care.

Because they are by nature gentle, loyal, and sweet-tempered,
Chihuahuas are ideal for single people, the elderly, the handicapped,
and shut-ins. They will keep you company for hours by lying on your
lap or beside your torso if in bed, and treat you like royalty. No
one with a Chi in their household will ever be truly alone!

5. Care and Maintenance

Chihuahuas are a good breed for city-dwellers, or those who just
don't have the time to walk their dogs that often. They are quite
happy in apartments, as long as there is enough to play with and
explore. (They love exploring like most dogs.)

Opinions from dog authorities differ on how often to bathe a
Chihuahua. Some say that bathing too often removes the natural oils
from the coat, and thus dandruff will result and the coat will look
dull. Others say that shampooing on occassion with certain brands of
shampoo can actually enhance the sheen of the coat.

It has been my experience that Chihuahuas should be bathed at least
once a month, otherwise they develop an unpleasant smell. This is
actually due to the skin cells that humans slough off onto the
Chihuahua! So humans are the main contributors to that smell that can
develop.

When bathing, take care not to get water into their ears, as an
infection can develop.

Since the Chihuahua is mainly a housepets, you will need to trim
their nails at least once a month. On the smaller Chis, cat claw
trimmers can be used. It's good to start a nail-trimming routine
early-on so that your dog becomes accustomed to your handling its
paws (not to mention getting used to the big shiny clippers!).

You should consult your veterinarian about the nutritional needs of
your Chihuahua. According to some of the dog care books I consulted:
after weaning (up to six weeks), puppies should be fed four meals a
day until three months old; from 3 months to 6 months they should be
fed three meals a day; and from six months to a year they should be
fed twice a day. After 1 year, once a day is fine. However, it has
been my experience that even into adulthood, Chihuahuas prefer
several small meals as opposed to one big meal per day. I have found
that regular adult dog food is just fine for this breed. Dry food or
a mixture of dry food with canned food is preferable, since in some
cases canned food is difficult for this breed to digest (resulting in
diarrhea).

Like all dogs, Chihuahuas appreciate "treats." Be careful, though, in
your selection. The following treats, in small quantitites, are
useful as rewards when training or as general special snacks: cheese,
Alpo snacks, raw-hides, Bonz, peanut butter. However, do be careful
not to over-indulge with snacks, as overweight is a health-hazard for
dogs in general.

Consult your veterinarian on the periodic cleaning of your
Chihuahua's ears and teeth, booster shots, and vaccinations.

There is an excellent web resource for general health care for dogs,
called "Health Care Issues," which can be found at
http://www.zmall.com/pet_talk/dog-faqs/health-care.html. However,
please note this document isn't a substitute for regular veterinary
check-ups and attention for health problems.

6. Special Medical Problems

Owners should be aware that Chihuahuas are prone to "weak knees."
This can occur as they get older. If it causes difficulty in walking,
take your dog to the vet.

—————————————————————–

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Aren't Chihuahuas expensive?

If they have their American Kennel Club official certificate papers,
yes–they can run up to $600.00. The papers (which the breeder
provides) mean that the parents of your Chi are registered with the
AKC and that the puppy is registerable. Additionally, some breeders
provide pedigree papers which trace the family history beyond the
immediate parents. These papers are vital if you plan to enter your
new dog into exhibitions and competitions.

These certificates and papers ensure that the dog is a purebred;
however, I hasten to add that just because a dog has papers, doesn't
mean it qualifies for exhibitions and competitions. (See AKC
Chihuahua Breed Standards.) At the least, the papers will ensure that
your Chihuahua has come from a responsible breeder.

Chihuahuas who do not have their papers are not significantly
different than those with papers. Moreover, they can be bought for
much less. (I bought mine for $200.00 without papers.)

2. What is their life-span?

Toy breeds live the longest of any size dog. Expect a life-span of
11-18 years, although the latter is rare.

3. How much exercise do they require?

Not much. This little breed has bouts of energy each day which
quickly die down. They have been known to play catch with small
balls, if taught at an early age. Much of their exercise, though, is
fulfilled by pattering around the household following their master,
or playing with their toys (old slippers are ideal, as well as wooly
stuffed toys with squeakers inside.)

You can certainly take this breed on walks. You will gain much
attention and make many an acquaintance due to the diminutive and
unusual appearance of your Chihuahua.

When buying a leash for your Chihuahua, remember that its neck is
rather small and delicate compared to other dog's necks. You cannot
(and, indeed, should not) yank your dog around by the leash if s/he
has a neck collar on. And choke chains should definitely NOT be used
on Chihuahuas! I recommend the body-harness. If fitted right, it will
give your Chi a secure and comfortable walk (see photo).

The body harness goes over the head of the dog and buckles under the
torso in an H-design. I highly recommend these for Chihuahuas, since
they ensure that your dog cannot escape (a real concern if you live
in an urban area) and don't have the potential to harm the dog like
neck leashes.

4. Do they require special dog food?

No. They have the same nutritional needs as most dogs. I feed mine
regular Alpo kibbles, and, although the kibbles are large, my
Chihuahua seems to sort of enjoy cracking each one with her jaws.

Chihuahuas prefer several small meals per day, rather than one big
meal. I leave a bowl of kibbles out for my Chi and she seems to eat
about three small meals a day.

5. I've heard they're nervous, high-strung dogs. Is that true?

Yes, they are high-strung dogs. I define "high-strung" as follows:
barks easily, does not adapt easily to change in environment, is
suspicious of strangers and will growl at them, and flips in circles
and jumps around when excited (like when you come home after a
five-minute absence, for instance).

However, with the person that they have bonded with (i.e., their
master[s]), they do not display most of these characteristics;
infact, they display radically different personalities. Chihuahuas
are truly the "Jekyll-and-Hyde" of dog breeds: your friends will see
the worst side of them and never believe you when you tell them that
your Chi is really a gentle, sweet-natured dog.

6. Are they good with children?

Generally, no. Be careful when walking your Chihuahua to keep your
Chi well away from toddlers and young children, who are often
uninhibited and will approach your dog.

Again, this is general good advice; some Chihuahuas are friendly
around children (usually as a result of de-sensitization). In this
case and others, the master's knowledge of his or her Chihuahua and
good judgement should prevail.

7. I'm allergic to dogs, but I heard Chihuahuas won't bother me; is
that true?

Opinion seems to vary on this point. Some say it's an old-wives'
tale, while others swear that, although they're allergic to dogs,
Chihuahuas did not bother them.

The best way for someone who has allergies is to spend some time
around a Chihuahua. Some people are allergic to dog hair, while
others are allergic to saliva. Since Chihuahua's are known to lick
the face of their master alot, you'd best be sure you're not allergic
to the latter before investing in this breed.

Ernest Lowell (elowell@ix.netcom.com) cautions:

If a Chihuahua happens to "work" for some allergic individuals,
great, but it's more likely that an allergic person will need a
breed with a wiry/curly coat plus no undercoat: poodles, bichons,
and some terriers. Even those breeds don't work for some allergic
people, so it depends on the individual.

8. What are the difference between a long-haired and a short-haired
Chihuahua?

I am told that there is no difference in personality, only in the
amount of time you'll spend grooming and cleaning up after the dog.

Long-hairs can shed alot; and they'll need regular brushing. Their
bib (the furry part of the chest) can get dirty and matted.
Additionally, long-hairs can occasionally get fecal matter stuck on
their "pants" which will require snipping off. As for bathing, the
long-hairs will need it more frequently, and it'll be a longer
process (washing & drying).

Some Chihuahua owners swear by long-hairs and wouldn't have anything
else; it is as much a matter of personal preference as coat color.

9. Is it safe to take your Chihuahua on a cold weather walk?

Owners must be very sensitive to the fact that short-haired
Chihuahuas, and even long-haired ones, are vulnerable to the cold. In
temperatures of 35-40 degrees Farenheit, I would recommend dressing
your Chihuahua in a special dog sweater for brief walks. Walking your
Chihuahua in temperatures below 35 degrees Farenheit is STRONGLY
discouraged, especially when there is a wind-chill factor. In this,
as in other aspects of dog maintenance, keep your dogs' health top
priority, not your own desires. In fact, in some cold regions, an
indoor heater will be necessary.

10. Are they sociable with other dogs?

Generally speaking, no. However, there are many exceptions and many
people have written me telling me of just how sociable their
Chihuahua is with other breeds. So I'm inclined to say that
Chihuahuas can be very curious and friendly towards other dogs.

Chis are very sociable with their own kind. So several Chihuahuas can
be quite happy living in the same household. That includes two or
more males sharing the same house.

11. Aren't Chihuahuas kind of dim?

It is understandable how this breed has developed this reputation. In
public, they bark at the slightest provocation, and will not stop
sometimes even when the "threat" is gone.

Chihuahuas are actually a very intelligent and alert breed.

12. Can Chihuahuas be trained?

As you might suspect from number 9 above, yes, they can be trained.
This topic is extensively dealt with in the document, "Training Your
Dog," which can be found at
http://www.zmall.com/pet_talk/dog-faqs/training.html.

13. Is my Chihuahua a dog or a mole?

It is a characteristic of the Chihuahua to prefer to sleep under a
cloth or a blanket. They will even get under pillows in order to feel
snug.

If you are raising a pup, be sure to provide them with a soft towel
or blanket in their sleeping area so they can burrow underneath it.

So don't be surprised if your Chihuahua scrambles under your blankets
at night, even though your house or apartment may not be particularly
cold. This is known as the "moley-effect." (1).

14. Does my Chihuahua expect a suntan?

Chihuahuas are quite the sun-worshipers. They prefer to bask in the
sun for hours and have been known to lie in a spot of sun no larger
than the size of a half-dollar (2).

Unfortunately, they are not sensible in this regard and will stay in
the sun even when panting begins. Watch your Chihuahua in hot weather
to be sure that they don't suffer from heat stroke.

15. My Chihuahua's shivering–is this because s/he's cold?

Chihuahuas shiver when they are wary, unhappy, or frightened.
Usually, it has nothing to do with the temperature, and is a normal
characteristic of this breed.

By pmmeicher2002 on Nov 29, 2009

MOVE out from under the tree to another lot maybe it will calm her a little more becouse they are nervous dogs anyway……………..

By Desktop Wallpaper on Nov 29, 2009

I love johnny Depp!!!and this painting is awesome!

By Ashley on Nov 30, 2009

Hey there Ashley'
Definitely go with the boxers… I grew up with them, I cant say enough about them!! I'd tell you for all my great experiences with them but i have a broken finger , Sorry doll! Boxer Boxer Boxer.. got it!

By Desktop Wallpaper on Dec 1, 2009

SPECTACULAR!

By Health Tips and Advice on Dec 1, 2009

hahahaha
yes it would have been kind of creepy
thanks for watching and for the awesome comment
have an awesome weekend
- Willy

By Healthy Topics on Dec 1, 2009

Would’ve been really spooky if his little finger moved to hit the last note at the end.

You’re a fantastic artist!

By Wedding on Dec 2, 2009

that painting looks really real! good job man thats so awesome!!!

By dazedreamr on Dec 2, 2009

The difference, however, is that pure breds were created with a specific purpose and design in mind. Mutts are not.

The reason we study our breed's history is so that we can better understand what the original creators had in mind, and can better apply the standard. It's not enough to know the standard, we must know WHY the basset is required to have short legs and heavy bone, WHY the ears must reach past the nose, WHY the skin is loose and elastic, and how much is too much. When you understand your breed's purpose and history, when you've seen them doing the job they were bred for, it helps you to breed better dogs.

Knowing the breed's history and purpose also helps you to understand your dog's behavioral quirks. Bassets are not Labradors are not Shelties. They each think and behave in ways dictated by their purpose.

By Anonymous on Dec 2, 2009

O.o