SO YOU WANT TO GET A CHIHUAHUA?

I will start off by saying that the Chihuahua breed is NOT for everyone. I have known quite a few Chihuahuas in my lifetime, and each one had it's own unique traits. I presently share my home with four "individuals". I say individuals, because that's what they are. Every dog has it's own unique personality and traits, so I will try to give you some general information that may or may not apply to each dog. They are known to be the ultimate loyal companion. They are highly protective of their "owner" or "owners" and are not afraid who or what knows it. Sometimes it is questionable who "owns" who. Thus, sometimes they will show just how bold and fierce that they can be. This holds true no mater who or what they are facing, even if it is another dog as big as the Old English Mastiff. The Chihuahua is, after all, the smallest (and the oldest) breed known to man. For this reason your Chihuahua needs to be protected from it's own follies when going on a walk where it may encounter other dogs. The chihuahua loves attention, just as most breeds do. If you leave the room for a few minutes, when you return your Chihuahua will probably act like you've been gone a week. Oh, yes, and let it be known that Chihuahuas expecially love other Chihuahuas. This is at least a good excuse when you try to tell any other people in your household that you have been thinking that it would be a very good idea to get another Chihuahua. Watch out, they WILL grow on you. (Actually, I really don't think two Chihuahuas are any more trouble than one Chihuahua. Actually, it may evenbe easier to have more than one. They just seem to thrive better. However, they will do fine even if you only have one. Another thing to consider when obtaining a Chihuahua is that it may even outlive you. It is not too uncommon for them to live to be fifteen years old or older. When it comes to possible health problems, the Chihuahua can suffer from several different ones. Because of their small frames and bones, they are more prone to accidents, especially involding broken limbs. That is one reason that Chihuahuas, especially the ones that are sometimes sold as "teacup" are really not the ideal pet for households with youngand/or rowdy children, or other pets that like to get rough even when playing. Chihuahuas are know for loosing their teeth when they get to be seniors and will probably require special nutrition. Another thing that some Chihuahuas suffer from is bad knees, eith ones they obtained genetically or from jumbing off high objects. As far as grooming, the Chihuahua does not require very much upkeep. Even the long coated ones only require minimal daily brushing. And usualy Chihuahuas are not known to shed too much. The only time I noticed slightly more sheding was during the first part of my females pregnancy, probably caused from hormal changes. Some people say the long coats usually shed even less than the smooth coats. The Chihuahua is known to be especially easy to housebreak, although this too can vary, depending on each household situation. I have had pretty good luck with the litter box. However, for some people this is not an option. I will say that Chihuahuas travel pretty easy. The ones I've known have mostly loved to ride in the car. Also, keeping them overnight in a hotel is pretty easy, unless you have a yapper, which some Chihuahuas are known to be. Again, that usually depends on the individual household situation. But if you want a whole lot of dog for the package the Chihuahua just may be the dog for you!