Chihuahua Dog Breeders

First Chihuahua dog breeders lived in Southern America several thousand years ago. The ancestors of the present-day Chihuahua were considered to be sacred dogs for the Aztecs, Toltecs, and some other tribes. These small dogs were used in a number of religious rituals. A soft spot on the head of the Chihuahua was believed to be a divine sign. Throughout the breed’s history, it has been used mainly as a pet. A small size and easy-going personality of the Chihuahua make it very popular among people of all ages and all walks of life. It’s the smallest dog breed in the world.

Today, this breed is recognized by most all-breed registries for purebreds: AKC, CKC, UKC, FCI, KCGB, NKC, ANKC, APRI, NZKC, and ACR. It’s classified as the AKC Toy, UKC Companion, and Southern dog breed. Most standards don’t specify the height of a purebred Chihuahua, only the preferred weight and proportions. A Chihuahua should not weigh over 6 lbs or 2.7 kg. As for the height, it varies more than in most other breeds. Chihuahuas stand from 6 and 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) at the withers. Some dogs reach the height of 15 inches (38 cm.) Present day Chihuahua dog breeders aim at preserving the wonderful personality of the breed and improving the breed’s health in general. Responsible breeders never breed Chihuahuas for smaller size if it influences the health of the puppy.

While smaller dogs are preferred in the show ring, pet quality Chihuahuas may be larger than it’s stated in the breed standard. Chihuahuas purchased as family companions reach up to 10 pounds (4.5 kg) in weight. Too large Chihuahua puppies can occur in any litter. Even experienced Chihuahua dog breeders cannot foresee the size of the future puppies. Oversize Chihuahua dogs have the same characteristics with smaller dogs.

The KC (Kennel Club) and the AKC (American Kennel Club) recognize two coat varieties of the breed: the smooth-coat and the long-coat. Both varieties have soft and fine guard hairs and a downy undercoat. Long-haired Chihuahuas don’t normally shed more than short-coated dogs. Both long haired and short haired puppies can occur in a litter. Most Chihuahua dog breeders offer both varieties for sale.