Micro chihuahuas: what do dogs look like and how to keep them?
Chihuahua is one of the most popular and beloved dog breeds. Especially this kind of animals is appreciated by girls for the appearance of small dogs.
Within the Chihuahua breed, there are several subspecies of animals. So, the micro-Chihuahua subspecies deserves special interest. This breed is considered to be the smallest dog in the world.
What are the distinguishing features of this animal? What is the origin story of this dog? How to choose and how to care for a little dog? We will talk more about this in our article.
Origin story
The history of the origin of the micro-Chihuahua dog is especially interesting (both for the researcher and the layman). So, researchers believe that such animals existed in the 15th century BC, and they lived in the territory of modern Mexico. For a long time these dogs were wild animals and lived in freedom, and only in the 19th century they were tamed by people.
Thus, Mexico is considered the birthplace of animals.Over time, tourists arriving in this country became interested in unusual, but insanely cute and cute-looking animals, and began to acquire them from the local population. This is how micro Chihuahuas appeared in the United States of America. Later they spread throughout the world.
I must say that initially dogs of this small size were not very popular.
It was believed that the weight of the animal should not be less than 300 grams.
Mass indicators were especially important for females. The thing is that an animal that is too small is not capable of reproduction.
Nevertheless, time and fashion took their toll. So, a few decades ago, the trend for small dogs spread around the world. Such animals are easy to care for, they can be easily transported even by hand, so many people (primarily secular lionesses) have chosen micro-Chihuahuas as their pets.
At the same time, it should be said that the Micro Chihuahua is a breed that cannot be bred on purpose. Such individuals appear unpredictably.
Features of appearance
Generally speaking, there are no precisely limited or specific standards for dogs of this breed. Therefore, all indicators are focused primarily on the opinion of experienced breeders and the practice of dog breeders.
So, it is believed that an adult belonging to the micro-Chihuahua breed should not exceed 14 centimeters at the withers (of course, the puppies should be even smaller). As for the weight of the animal, in terms of mass indicators, it does not exceed 1 kilogram, the average figure is 500-700 grams.
Super-mini-sized dogs have an unusual body shape that resembles a square in outline. In itself, the physique is rather squat and strong, the dog has developed muscles.
As for the anatomical structure of the head, it differs in the shape of an apple. The forehead has a pronounced bulge. The length of the dog's muzzle can vary: be either medium length or more shortened.
The teeth of the animal are quite strong, it should be noted that animals, despite their size, have a strong grip. The eyes are set far apart and are rather large in size. As for their color, it belongs to the dark shades of the palette. Micro Chihuahua ears are triangular in shape. The neck is curved, the withers are poorly defined, and the back, in turn, is straight.
Micro Chihuahuas are smooth-haired animals, and the coat color can vary greatly. However, there are exceptions: you can find representatives with rather thick and long hair.
In general, the micro Chihuahua has a number of positive and negative characteristics. Let us dwell on these groups in more detail.
Advantages:
- pleasant appearance;
- compactness;
- sociability;
- loyalty;
- courage;
- high intellectual abilities;
- undemanding care;
- learnability.
Disadvantages:
- predisposition to a large number of diseases;
- susceptibility to injury;
- the need for training - otherwise, the manifestation of self-will is possible;
- tendency to aggression;
- jealousy;
- get along badly with other animals.
Thus, if you decide to get and keep a micro Chihuahua in your house, then you should take into account all the advantages and negative aspects of this breed so that they do not come as a surprise to you.
Character
Generally speaking, micro chihuahuas are animals that are very energetic, active and mobile. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, they can accompany them everywhere. Such a quality, on the one hand, can be perceived as a virtue, and on the other, as a disadvantage. Sometimes this behavior of a pet can distract you from household chores and be too intrusive.
In addition, the micro-sneezes' behavioral patterns indicate the fact that they are badass.So, during a walk, they can pester larger animals and get injured in response. That is why the animals should be monitored closely enough.
Life span
I must say that despite its small size, as well as a predisposition to diseases and injuries, micro-Chihuahuas can live long enough. So, the maximum number of years that animals can live is 10 years.
How to choose?
First of all, it should be remembered that the choice of such an animal is not an easy task. On the one hand, preference should be given to smaller individuals, since they will be the representatives of the micro-breed. On the other hand, it should be borne in mind that the smaller the size of the animal, the more it is susceptible to all sorts of diseases and ailments.
It is important to remember that the cost of such animals is quite high. In addition, you will have to spend financial resources on its maintenance. Therefore, you should initially assess your material capabilities and decide whether you can allocate the required amount from your budget.
The most beautiful, and therefore the most expensive, are blue-colored Chihuahuas.
It is also important to pay attention to the animal itself. It should be active enough, make good contact with its fellows and people, and also have a good appetite. Pay special attention to the puppy's appearance. The coat should be healthy and well-groomed, the eyes should be shiny, and the dog itself should be clean and have a pleasant smell.
It is best to purchase Micro Chihuahuas from experienced dog breeders and breeders who can tell you about their experiences and provide all the necessary paperwork.
The seller should also be asked to show you a parenting couple, both of which must be healthy.
Content rules
Keeping a Micro Chihuahua is pretty easy. The animal needs the same grooming measures as many other dogs.
So, first of all, the pet should be provided with all the necessary equipment:
- bowls for food and water - it is desirable that they be made of metal;
- a place to sleep - today on the market special mattresses and beds for dogs are sold, however, a place to sleep can be organized independently from available tools, for example, from a blanket or pillow;
- tray, which will act as a toilet;
- toys - due to the fact that the animal is quite active and energetic, and the owner does not always have the opportunity to pay attention to his pet, your micro-chihuahua will need toys for entertainment;
- care accessories - in this category, in particular, fall a variety of devices necessary for the provision of hair care (brushes, combs, etc.);
- hygiene products - the fact is that bathing and other hygienic procedures in relation to a dog can only be done with the use of products specially designed for these purposes (toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
Never use detergents made for humans.
Another important element of dog care is monitoring its health. To this end, it is necessary to conduct regular veterinary examinations for prophylaxis. Also, do not forget about vaccinations and vaccinations, treatment of the animal from worms, fleas and other harmful bacteria and microorganisms.
In addition, remember that at the first onset of the disease, you should immediately consult a doctor. Any self-medication can lead to a worsening of an already negative condition, and sometimes even death.
An integral part of keeping a pet is feeding it. The animal's diet should contain the maximum possible amount of useful components (minerals, vitamins, etc.). In order to meet the micro-Chihuahua's need for nutrients, its diet should include the following foods:
- fresh meat;
- raw chicken eggs;
- seasonal vegetables and fruits;
- a fish;
- greens.
If you want to go the simpler way, then give preference to ready-made dry food and formulations. However, in this case, pay special attention to the composition of the products, which is indicated on the label.
Buy products from trusted companies and brands that have a good reputation.
Interesting and useful information about the mini Chihuahua can be found in the following video.