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Dog Breeds - Chihuahua

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The Chihuahua is considered the oldest breed of dog originating from North America. The breed is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, though it is not clear as to where in Mexico the breed was originally from. The Chihuahua is famously known as the smallest dog breed in the world! This breed makes a great companion and does well in an apartment or smaller space but should be allowed to get exercise in larger spaces as well to keep fit.

Chihuahua’s bond deeply with their owner and can quickly show signs of separation anxiety if parted from their owner. They can also become jealous towards their owners other relationships. This breed is naturally very suspicious of strangers and must be socialized with other pets and people at a young age to avoid behavioural problems as they get older. Although they are extremely small in size, Chihuahua's have a very strong and lively personality. Their size does not affect their bravery and they may confront animals of much larger size which can become a dangerous situation for them. Because of this, owners should be cautious when introducing an un-socialized Chihuahua’s to other animals. They tend to get along better with their own breed then other breeds, although a well-socialized Chihuahua can get along with other breeds and pets quite well.

Chihuahua’s are not be the best breed for younger children as they will snap if they are teased or surprised. They are quick to use their sharp teeth as a defense mechanism. They are fairly intelligent, but can prove to be difficult to train. A gentle, patient approach with a lot of positive reinforcement must be taken when training this delicate breed. The smaller this breed is the more valuable it is considered. Some reach merely 2 ¼ lbs! Because of its small size Chihuahua's are very temperature sensitive and if living in a colder climate, owners may consider investing in the latest doggy fashion to keep this breed warm when heading outdoors!

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Chihuahua Breed Information

Breed Group

Toy Group

Coat

Smooth Coat – straight, soft, shiney, and short
Long Coat -  straight or slightly curly, and soft

Color(s)

Any color and markings

Size

6-9 inches

Weight

Up to 6 lbs

Exercise:

Does not need a great deal of exercise

Temperament

Lively, loyal, Brave, Affectionate, Stubborn

Trainability

Can be difficult to train

Average Lifespan

15+ years

Common Health Problems

Eye problems, Gum problems, Collapsed trachea, Hemophilia A, Hydrocephalus, Hypoplasia of dens, Mitral valve defects, Patellar luxation, Pulmonic stenosis, Epilepsy, Seizure, Hypoglycemia

Most 24PetWatch Clients Insure Chihuahuas with:

QuickCare Gold for Dogs


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After doing my research, I picked 24Petwatch Pet Insurance for my dog, Hugo, because not only do you offer many choices about costs and plans, you also offer an automatic monthly payment that is debited from my credit card - payments I hardly noticed! I also opted for the most extensive coverage; coverage I feel is not offered by other pet insurance companies. A few months after enrolling, I found some 'lumps and bumps' on Hugo that needed surgery. There was blood work, operating room expenses, lab fees and surgical fees. Following a report from my veterinarian, which I submitted to 24Petwatch Pet Insurance, I was reimbursed for all expenses per my policy and received this within a timely fashion. A few months after that, I had an accident resulting in a torn hamstring muscle and I was admitted to the hospital. Hugo was taken to a pet care facility and it was three weeks before I was able to resume caring for him. The cost was several hundred dollars. Fortunately, I'd chosen a plan with 24Petwatch Pet Insurance that reimbursed me for just this kind of occurrence; a situation I could never imagine happening! By the way, Hugo has just passed the national Delta Society qualifying test as a certified Therapy Dog. 24Petwatch Pet Insurance has made it possible for Hugo to give something back to the community, too!

Client: Rose Klevansky, Philadelphia  Pet: Hugo - Poodle - 8 years old   Conditions: Mass removal; boarding kennel fees
Claim Paid: $661.93