Long Hair Chihuahua
The Long Hair Chihuahua is almost as common as the short hair Chihuahua, as these are just two types of the same breed. Both have the same physical and temperamental characteristics, and it is not unusual for litters to contain both long-coated and smooth-coated puppies. Chihuahuas are the smallest, the sauciest and therefore the cutest dogs on the planet. If you ever see one, chances are you will become infatuated with the breed for the rest of your life.
The Chihuahua breed originated in Mexico. These dogs are thought to be related to the ancient Techichi dog, which was very similar to the Chihuahua in appearance and bore a huge ritualistic meaning for ancient Toltecs and Aztecs. Those dogs used to be buried with their dead owners, because they were thought to have the power to guide people’s souls in life beyond the grave. Archaeologists have found skeletons of these dogs in ancient graves. The modern Chihuahua is believed to have sprung from the Techichi dog, which was crossed with some other small dog brought along by the Chinese. There is still much uncertainty as to the dog’s exact origin. However, the Chihuahua is considered to be the oldest dog in Americas. Long Hair Chihuahuas look particularly admirable, and many dog fanciers fall in for them immediately.
Chihuahuas are superb family companions. They are very intelligent and communicative, and they seek action all the time. Although they are best suited for indoor life, they need to be taken outside regularly. Chihuahuas cannot do without interaction. Bored or neglected Chihuahuas can be extremely vocal and destructive. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are not very easy to handle, because they are very sensitive and vulnerable. Improper training may lead to serious neurotic disorders, which can make your little friend into a sheer little nuisance in the aftermath. Although some believe that Long Hair Chihuahuas tend to be less rambunctious than their smooth-coated brothers, this is not true, because their behavior depends on upbringing and genetic heritage. Chihuahuas should be trained in a consecutive and positive way.
Chihuahuas are extremely fragile dogs, and they are very susceptible to injuries. Puppies are prone to head injuries, because they have “moleras”. A “molera” is an unclosed spot on the skull, which usually closes by the time a dog reaches maturity. However, sometimes moleras remain unclosed for lifetime, so even a seemingly light head injury may end lethally. Chihuahuas can come in all possible color permutations except merle. They stand 6-10 inches high at the shoulder. Both long-coated and smooth-coated Chihuahuas are very popular among Chihuahua lovers and breeders. However, the length of the coat is not indicative of a dog’s quality. A Long Hair Chihuahua is not likely to take a winning position against a smooth-coated one in the show ring, should he have a serious genetic or behavioral defect.
