Mystical chihuahuas everybody loves

The Chihuahua has the most mysterious past of any breed. Their roots trace back to the Toltec and Aztec civilizations of Central America and Mexico. They were bred for a variety of purposes, and I won't go into the grim ones here. But maybe that past is why the owners of these dogs sometimes claim that their dogs "cry human tears."

The typical Chihuahua has an extremely flexible personality and is just as happy guarding the home against birds, riding in the car on long road trips, bossing you through your evening while you fix dinner, or sitting in your lap watching television. Chihuahua owners are as diverse as their little friends.

Chihuahuas bond deeply with their families. Similar in that way to the Schipperke, a Chihuahua should be with their family forever.

The Chihuahua is a tough little dog. They are saucy and quick witted, and at the same time they are demonstrably affectionate. They will want to sit in your lap any time you sit down. This makes the tiny size quite an asset.

Both the smooth and long-coated Chihuahua are members of the Toy breeds. The long-coated is an especially elegant looking Chihuahua.

They are fairly long-lived, with lives well over twelve years frequently reported. Some of them have lived into their twenties. They tend to be extremely healthy, but like many small dogs, they can dislocate their knees. This can be corrected.

If you know you will be gone most of the day, consider having two Chihuahuas. This breed does well with a similar companion and they will cuddle up together and keep each other company. A large dog is probably not a good match for the little Chihuahua. The males tend to be a little more aggressive, and may become preoccupied with flirting, lifting their legs in the house. Most of these problems can be overcome with neutering, which is highly suggested.

Something about these little dogs tends to make the owners take on more and more of them. They have been said to be addictive. Last year I was the pet sitter for three darling "Chis" and I could see why they are so hard to resist. They run gaily through the house, they let you know when they need to go out, and they seem to want to include you in all their activities.

These dogs come in an array of colors and patterns, so you can spend some time looking around for a Chi puppy that is the most appealing to you. Remember that they are susceptible to extremes of heat and cold, and plan to have them with you most of the time. Together you should be a very happy little family.