The Chihuahua dog took its name from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. It was first observed there in 1850. Presumably a wild dog, it is the smallest confirmed pedigree dog, but its name is borrowed from the largest Mexican state. It's the most ancient breed endemic to America, the continent. Statues and paintings of something similar to the Chihuahua appear in Old World artifacts from ancient South American civilizations. It appears to have fostered a sacred sentiment to them. Like a variety of toy dogs, it has a lifespan approaching 15 years. Chihuahuas can form a strong attachment to their masters that can approach jealousy. It always has a watchful eye on its master. It can be fairly feisty toward other dogs. It tends to be spunky, saucy, and aggressive toward other dogs, despite its small size. The dog weighs 2 to 12 pounds, and it sports a height of 6 to 9 inches. There is a wide variable range of weights. Some Chihuahuas are portable, hand-held dogs. People in apartments, as well as senior citizens, seem to enjoy Chihuahuas. Keep it safe from predators, birds of prey, and other big animals with a watchful eye when it’s outside. The Chihuahua has bulbous dark eyes, a sickle or scimitar tail, pointy big ears, straight legs, a diminutive frame, an apple-shaped head, and a varied coat of one or more colors. It's either shorthaired or longhaired. Sable, brindle, fawn, red, cream, ginger, chocolate, tan, blue, and black are coat colors. Teacup, pocketsize, and tiny toy are terms that are misleading, according to the Chihuahua Club of America, because they seem to denote a higher value in terms of money. They have no greater monetary value, however. They have personalities like Terriers. They're alert, spunky, vibrant, and vigorous pals. The Chihuahuas have a clan mentality that's different from a pack mentality. You'll often find that Chihuahuas prefer to hang out with their own breed. Many owners report fierce jealousy if the master has to deal with other things than the Chihuahua itself. For this reason, the dog seems a little standoffish to some, but it's really just too small to spread its loyalty too thin. Schoolchildren and toddlers should not handle or mishandle the Chihuahua because they can nip and bite if provoked. Older children find that they're great pets. Epilepsy, seizures, dental problems, hypoglycemia, bronchitis, and joint problems afflict the poor breed. If improperly socialized, the dog can be really uptight. It needs some attention and socialization as a small puppy to avoid the stereotypical pitfalls of its breed. The most famous Chihuahuas include the Taco Bell Chihuahua, Ren Hoek of Ren and Stimpy, the odd Chihuahua on Invader Zim, and several more appearances as different characters on Disney programs and various movies.

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