Chihuahuas are bold, energetic dogs.
The term "mini chihuahua" does not refer to a specific breed or variety of chihuahua. Some breeders and pet stores call exceptionally small chihuahuas miniatures or teacups. Most chihuahuas labeled as mini or teacup mature at a weight of three pounds or less. American Kennel Club breed standards specify that all pure-bred chihuahuas should weigh six pounds or less. Because of their small size, all chihuahuas belong to the toy dog group.
Chihuahua Varieties
Naturally curious, chihuahuas love to investigate new places and objects.
The American Kennel Club divides the chihuahua breed into two recognized varieties: long-haired chihuahuas and short-haired chihuahuas. Othere than their coat type, these two varieties have the same physical attributes. They display large upright ears, an apple-shaped head, a short muzzle and a bold intelligent personality. Both varieties come in many coat colors and color combinations. Meeting the breed standard is not necessarily important for the owners of pet chihuahuas, but people interested in breeding or showing chihuahuas should pay close attention to the standard when choosing dogs to work with.
Breeding for Size
Most chihuahua breeders choose breeding pairs with the intention of promoting breed standard traits and reducing common breed flaws. Sometimes when a breeder becomes focused on one desirable trait, he overlooks physical flaws present in his breeding program. Because exceptionally small chihuahuas sell at higher prices in some markets, breeders may feel pressure to sacrifice quality in order to produce smaller dogs. Wise shoppers consider a chihuahua's physical soundness and health first and the desired size second when choosing a pet.
Common Health Issues
Common inherited health issues present in the chihuahua breed include heart problems, eye deformities and poorly formed knees that result in luxating patellas. When inherited, these flaws reduce the quality and length of the chihuahua's life, and can lead to costly surgeries. Well-bred chihuahuas usually do not suffer from all of these health problems. A small dog veterinarian can examine a puppy and identify potential problems during a pre-purchase or pre-adoption exam.
Care
Because all chihuahuas are quite small, they need some special care. In cold environments, they need help regulating their body temperature and will require warm places to rest. Trips outdoors should be of short duration in the cold. They need to eat often to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and they need frequent potty breaks, especially when very young or very old. Jumping from high locations and rough handling can result in broken bones. The smaller the chihuahua, the easier it is to cause a broken bone.
Cost
Chihuahua puppies sell for anywhere between a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. High price does not always mean the puppy is of a higher quality, so it is best to have a veterinarian or an expert help to ensure that a puppy is healthy and sound. Chihuahua adoption and rescue programs are available all over North America and Europe. These programs place puppies and adult dogs in permanent homes.
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