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Four Things to Consider Before Buying a Chihuahua
When considering whether
or not to buy a Chihuahua, whether it be for a pet or
for showing, there are at least four considerations.
Hype - Don't be drawn to the Chihuahua
simply because they are so small. You may have heard
of phrases like: teacup Chihuahua, pocket Chihuahua
and miniature Chihuahua, amongst many others. These
phrases are sometimes used by breeders and pet shops
as a marketing play; to make more sales. These phrases
do not apply to Chihuahuas; they do not exist in the
breed standard. Implying that a Chihuahua pup is a teacup
Chihuahua is simply a device to entice the customer
into purchasing the pup with the hope of getting a very
small Chihuahua.
Fragility - Chihuahuas are not usually
suited to small children. They can actually be killed
or badly injured if they are stood on or dropped, or
even crushed in a well-meaning cuddle. Being such a
small dog, the Chihuahua needs constant supervision,
and should always be kept on a lead when taken outdoors.
Behaviour - It's not often that you
will come across an overly docile Chihuahua. Most are
loud and dominant, trying to run the entire household,
your other pets included. It's not unheard of for a
Chihuahua to boss around a Boxer or even a Rottweiler,
without any concern for their own safety. What they
lack in size, they make up for in spirit. You need to
be firm with some consistent training to help gain the
upper hand. This is also necessary if the Chihuahua
has developed the bad habit of what is sometimes called
'yapping'. They tend to bark at almost anything that
moves or frightens them, and can sometimes become quite
aggressive towards strangers. This behaviour could lead
to biting and needs to be controlled.
Housebreaking - Of all the dog breeds,
the Chihuahua would have to be one of the hardest to
train. This is especially the case if the Chihuahua
suffers from extreme shyness. Raising your voice and/or
losing your temper will not help the matter as sometimes
the deed is done on the carpet before they even get
to the litter tray. Patience and easy access to facilities
are the only avenues, and even then this task may never
be accomplished.
Though there are a few downsides to
owning a Chihuahua, there are many more upsides, like:
a friend for life (can live well into their teens);
a great travelling companion (travels light); loves
to snuggle (with no expectations); doesn't need much
exercise or space and will gladly give its life for
you. What more could you ask for?
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