Chihuahuas - Photos

Chihuahuas - Photos - Introduction and History

Picture source: Piglet

When Christopher Columbus was exploring the American continent, he encountered a small dog, which, according to his descriptions, 'did not bark as usual'. This dog, named 'Techichi', was an object of worship among the Aztecs and the Toltecs.

Archeologists verified his story by finding ancient stone engravings depicting the dog. Ancient tribesmen believed that the dog steered humans down the pathway of afterlife, guarding them against evil forces. The ancients burned many Techichis together with the dead in sacrifice since they believed these dogs assumed all human sins and, thus, cleared their souls.

Evidently, modern Chihuahuas appeared after the interbreeding of the Techichi with another breed, brought into Mexico by Chinese immigrants or travelers. This new breed, defined in the mid-1800s, is first of present day Chihuahua registered at the American Kennel Club in 1905.

Nowadays, Chihuahuas are very popular pets, which make loyal and amusing companions in home life. They are wonderful pets for children and old people. However, one should remember that Chihuahuas are sensitive to trauma; therefore, they require treatment with due care and caution.