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Small and adorable, Chihuahuas are often seen on the arms of celebrities. Native to the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, these little dogs are considered one of the cutest breeds in the world. They are excellent companions and are well suited to apartment life. The exact origins are unknown, but there is evidence that they were companions to the Mayans as far back as the sixteenth century. Temperament Highly social dogs, they are brave, cheerful and agile. Extremely loyal, they should be handled with firm but gentle reinforcement. These little dogs can be prone to dominant behavior, so owners should be sure to set clear boundaries and enforce them. Allowing a Chihuahua to take over as the pack leader can result in serious behavior issues like aggression and jealousy. Height, Weight Chihuahuas will be between six and nine inches (15 to 23 centimeters) tall when fully grown. Their weight will be between two and six pounds (one to three kilograms) Health problems Health issues plaguing Chihuahuas include rheumatism, colds, slipped stifle and gum problems. They can be easily poisoned by household cleaners, fertilizer and chocolate. Some dogs may have a molera, a section of the skull that will remain open throughout their lives, making them prone to head injuries. Their short muzzles make them prone to wheezing and snoring. They can also become stressed if their owner treats them like babies and do not establish clear pack hierarchy. Living Conditions These gentle dogs have a good temperament and will be great with children. However, children are not always gentle with them. They are not recommended for families with young children. Older children are fine, provided they know how to handle the dogs and will not abuse them. Excellent dogs for apartments, they enjoy being warm and still require space away from other animals. Exercise Chihuahuas should be walked daily for the mental stimulation. Even little dogs have a migration instinct, and walking them will help satisfy that instinct. They also need time to romp and play outside without a lead. People living in apartments should look for dog parks where their companion can run and play on a regular basis. Life Expectancy Chihuahuas typically live fifteen years or even more. Litter Size Two to three pups can be expected in one litter. Grooming The shorthaired breeds do not require a great deal of grooming. Their coats can be wiped down with a damp cloth. The longhaired Chihuahuas should be brushed daily using a soft-bristle brush. Chihuahuas should be bathed monthly and their ears should be checked and cleaned on a regular basis. Group Southern and AKC Toy Recognition ACR, AKC, ANKC, APRI, CKC, DRA, FCI, KCGB, NAPR, NKC, NZKC, UKC For more information on chihuahua puppies for sale , Please visit www.ebayclassifieds.com
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