The Chihuahua is a perfect pet for you

You have decided that a small dog is your best choice.

 

It's important to keep in mind, however, that although he's tiny in size, the Chihuahua is not a wimpy dog. He's tough, can be aggressive and will not back down in most situations. Due to his size, he's also extremely fragile so this breed is not recommended for households with toddlers. The Chihuahua can easily suffer broken bones if he's stepped on or dropped. Although he's extremely playful, the Chi is not sturdy enough for rough and tumble activity with his owner. If you want a dog to wrestle with, you'll want to choose one with a sturdier build. The Chi is also a good choice for the elderly or handicapped as his size makes him easy to walk and pick up. The Chi is an excellent pet for apartments with size restrictions for pets.

 

You enjoy cuddling and don't mind when your pet invades your space.

 

The Chihuahua is a very affectionate pet and is considered a lap dog. He loves attention and if you're not giving it to him, he will simply insert himself into whatever activity is keeping you from him. If you're the type of person who is easily irritated by a pet that is often underfoot, you may want to reconsider your choice. If companionship is one of the top reasons you've decided to get a pet, however, the Chi is perfect. He will prefer your presence to that of other animals and is quite social. Although the Chi may originally be standoffish to guests, he usually makes friends quickly and is willing to share his affection with anyone he feels will return it. The tiny Chi does have a jealous streak and without the opportunity to socialize with others may become overly protective of his owner.

 

You're looking for a dog that requires a minimal amount of grooming.

 

Although a Chihuahua will shed year-round, basic grooming needs are fairly simple. While a long-coat will require a little more care, both varieties are considered “wash and wear� pets. In other words, give him a bath, clean his eyes and ears, trim his nails and he's good to go. Due to his small size, the Chihuahua will fit in your sink making bathing a breeze.

 

You're considering more than one dog.

 

As we mentioned earlier, the Chihuahua is a very social animal and gets along well with people as well as other dogs. Although the best combination is another Chi, the breed has coexisted with other large and small dogs with very few problems. In most cases, two female dogs will be better partners than two males or a male and a female. Having both pets spayed or neutered is a must. If you're adding a Chihuahua to a household that currently has a pet, he may not be the best choice if you also have a very large dog. Larger breeds can accidentally harm the Chi if they play too rough.

 

Space is a problem but you'd like a dog that will offer some protection.

 

Although the Chi's small size prohibits him from being much help in the case of an attack, his bark alone is often enough to warn off any potential intruders. The Chihuahua has an excellent sense of hearing and will quickly alert you to potential problems long before you'd identify them yourself. The Chi's bark is loud and shrill, however, they are easily trained to be quiet on command. In most cases, once the Chihuahua knows that he has alerted his owner to potential danger, he'll immediately quiet down. Most Chi owners have reported that the dog has an uncanny ability to actually determine the difference between a squirrel on the patio and real danger, and rarely barks needlessly.

 

You don't have the desire or the time to exercise a dog.

 

Again because of his size, the Chihuahua usually gets enough exercise simply romping around your home. Although he enjoys an occasional walk, if he doesn't get it - his health will not suffer. The Chi can keep up with his owner for short periods of time but is not a breed suited to be a running or jogging partner. In most cases, he'll tire before you will and you'll often see Chi owners carrying them back home.

 

You enjoy traveling and would like your pet to be a traveling companion.

 

The Chihuahua loves to ride in the car and is easily transported in a dog or even a cat carrier. Although the Chi adjusts fairly well to changes in the climate, it will be your responsibility to make sure that he stays warm when traveling. A coat is a necessity if he's going to be outside in cool or cold weather for any length of time.

 

You're willing to be patient when housebreaking your pet.

 

Although the Chihuahua is considered to be an extremely intelligent and highly trainable breed, because of the small size of his bladder, housebreaking him can present a challenge. When he's a puppy, it's important that someone will be available to take him outside on a regular basis. Once trained, however, the Chi rarely has accidents. Crate training is usually the best option if you can't take him along with you during the day.

 

About the Author

 

Gregg Dickson, co-founder of The Chihuahua Fanatics Club at www.chihuahuafanatics.com  is an avid Chihuahua owner, trainer and care-taker. He has developed chihuahuafantics.com as an an online community; a place where people who care for Chihuahuas are joining together to share insights, information and Chihuahua pet care tips.