Curiosities About Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are, without a doubt, known and loved all over the world. In fact, they're one of the dog breeds most embraced by celebrities, thanks to their low maintenance, small size, and brave, good-natured temperament. But do you know the quirky facts behind this lovable breed?

Below, we'll reveal them so you're the best informed. We'll cover their origin and true name, along with quirks that go unnoticed by many. Let's get started!

Unique Fun Facts About Chihuahuas

Historians have no doubts about their Mexican origin. It's known they were captured for domestication during the Toltec civilization. The Techichi breed may have been their forerunner, and the first Chihuahuas lived in Tula, in the Mexican state of Hidalgo. The earliest specimens date back to the year 100.

Many years later, around 1325, jars depicting these dogs were found in the U.S. states of Georgia and Tennessee. There's less agreement on how they reached Europe. On that point, experts point to explorer Christopher Columbus, based on a letter to the King of Spain.

Chihuahuas Shiver a Lot

It's not hard to believe that, given their tiny size, they're especially sensitive to cold. But they don't always shiver because they're cold. It can also happen out of fear or excitement, because they're puppies, or because they're going through a hypoglycemic episode.

There Are 2 Chihuahua Varieties

Based on head shape, there are 2 Chihuahua varieties: the deer head and the apple head. The former have a narrower head and a longer muzzle, while the latter are known for a rounder head and a shorter muzzle.

Chihuahuas Are Very Brave

They're tiny, no doubt about it, but there's also no doubt about their bravery and their drive to protect their own. They're always alert to what's going on around them and can become aggressive if they see something they don't like. That's why animal behaviorists recommend socializing them from a very young age, to avoid unpleasant situations.

They love being the center of attention and form a strong bond with their owner. In fact, they don't hesitate to show their displeasure if they feel another pet or person is hogging their favorite person's attention. They'll act up, bark, and appear nervous or shaky to win back that attention and the cuddles they enjoy so much.

In 2014, they caused panic in an Arizona town. A pack of enraged Chihuahuas overran the town, and over 6,000 calls were made to animal control.

There Is No Hairless Chihuahua

Did you know you'll never come across a dog of this breed with no hair on its body at all? On the other hand, the variety of colors and combinations is unmatched among dog breeds. There are Chihuahuas in every color you can imagine, except merle.

There are also 2 varieties based on coat length: short-haired Chihuahuas and long-haired Chihuahuas, some even with a slightly wavy coat.

Their Real Name Isn't Chihuahua

They're called "Chihuahueños," named after Chihuahua, Mexico, where they're native to. In the Tarahumara language, the name means "arid, sandy place" — a clear nod to the region's terrain.

Chihuahuas Are the Smallest Dogs on the Planet

That's right. According to Guinness World Records, Milly, a Chihuahua just under two years old, took this title in 2013. Her 9.6 cm height earned her the record for smallest dog on the planet. This breed, especially females, has racked up numerous records of this kind.

They Love Hanging Out With Their Own Kind

They get along with cats and dogs of other breeds, but their own kind are their favorites when it comes to socializing with animals.

Chihuahuas Are Living Longer and Longer

Until not long ago, this breed had a life expectancy of around 12-18 years. But thanks to greater knowledge about the care they need and growing awareness of the importance of regular vet checkups, these dogs are now living past 20 years.

Chihuahua Ancestors Were Bigger

The earliest specimens of this breed are believed to have been larger, and that later crosses with similar hairless Asian dogs, like the Chinese Crested, reduced their size down to what we know today.

Chihuahuas Are Extremely Intelligent

Did you know Chihuahuas have the largest brain relative to body size of any dog? This translates into greater intelligence. It's no surprise that they're very easy pets to train, since they learn whatever they're taught very quickly. That said, never hit them on the head, since their skull bones are soft.

We're sure you didn't know all, or at least some, of these facts. We hope you found them interesting, or at least entertaining. Leave us your comments — we'd love to hear from you.