It's time to learn all about Chihuahuas with these 15 facts! These calm dogs aren't just cute and cuddly – so find out what makes them unique!
Chihuahuas originally come from Mexico in North America. They've been around for hundreds of years, and Christopher Columbus even recorded seeing them!
The state of…Chihuahua! What a surprise! This is probably because this is where they were first bred.
Chihuahuas date back hundreds of years – Columbus met them in the 16th Century, and the Mayans and Aztecs bred them. They were first introduced as a show dog breed at the beginning of the 20th Century.
Chihuahuas are the most miniature dogs around. They are so tiny that they were cross-bred with rodents at one point! Most Chihuahuas don't weigh more than about 3kg and are only about 9 inches tall!
During the 19th Century, a fashion for lapdogs – dogs that were there to sit on your lap and be petted – and so lots of chihuahuas started appearing, often being bred with other small dogs.
Most Chihuahuas don't live as long as that. They usually live about 12-15 years, but they can also live for up to twenty years!
Chihuahuas are popular and famous pets for the rich and famous and are often seen as status symbols. As well as this, they also appear in film and tv, like Elle Woods's dog Bruiser in Legally Blonde and the Beverly Hills Chihuahuas!
Like many dog breeds, Chihuahuas often suffer health problems due to their limited gene pool. These include eye problems, joint issues, and heart problems.
They may look small and silly, but Chihuahuas are brilliant! They are also super loyal and can be quick to defend their owners, which is why you might see them yapping at people!
Chihuahuas were initially bred in hot climates, so they don't do well in the cold! Most people who own chihuahuas put them in a jumper in cold weather and limit their time in the snow.
