What is a Chihuahua's Personality?

Picture this: a dog small enough to fit in a teacup but with a bark that suggests it’s ready to take on a Great Dane – that’s Chihuahua for you. Often known as the dog with the heart of a lion, they are like tiny dynamites. Their history is as colorful as the country they come from – Mexico. Their names are shrouded in mystery and legend. Some say they're descended from the Techichi, a companion dog of the ancient Toltec civilization. Others believe they were worshipped by the Aztecs and even had mystical healing powers. Because of this belief, keeping packs of these dogs was popular in Aztec high society. When an Aztec leader died, they would kill a Chihuahua – ideally a blue one – to bury or cremate it alongside the human body. The dog was believed to act as a guide to lead the deceased noble across the water into the afterlife.

Some people even believed that if someone with asthma or allergies sat next to a Chihuahua, the dog would absorb the illness. And we are not talking about ancient times. This belief is as recent as the 1960s. Talking about their association with history - Several cities in the USA, hold Chihuahua races on Cinco de Mayo as a celebration of a famous Mexican victory over the French.

Looks like you’re planning to get one home. Here are some really cool facts about this tiny breed that will help your decision-making process – ⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

Isn’t your mind more made up for getting one of these small bombs home now? If not, we’ve answered some more questions that may come to your mind. 

Are Chihuahuas Loyal?

If you consider following you around all the time like a shadow as loyalty then Chihuahuas are extremely loyal. With one of these dogs in your house, you’ll never feel lonely – not even in the bathroom. You won’t have to feel scared of anything and anyone anymore. They will jump right in to defend you from any threat – big or small. As we wrote above, Chihuahuas are known for their gigantic hearts. 

Is a Chihuahua a Good Family Dog?

They are a good blend of active and lap dogs. They like to be treated with respect. They usually don’t get along with small children as they fear them because of their tiny size. The same goes for strangers. They wouldn’t get much along with other pets in the house as well. However, they would love another one of them for company. What can we say? They just have a good taste! ⁽³⁾

When and if you get a Chihuahua home, it’ll be like a cat at your house. You would find many similar behaviors – self-cleaning, grooming, sitting on your lap like a cat and basking in the sunshine among others. And if this wasn’t enough, they are known to adopt orphaned kitties and raise them as a part of their clan. (looks like they ‘identify as a cat’)

And you’ll be added to the club of proud Chihuahua owners along with Madonna, Demi Moore, Paris Hilton, Johnny Depp, Britney Spears, Reese Witherspoon, Sharon Osborne, and Mickey Rourke. ⁽²⁾

What are the Behavior Issues of a Chihuahua?

Lack of attention and physical or mental stimulation can trigger some unwanted behavior in Chihuahuas. Even too much alone time can lead to excessive barking, whining, scratching and chewing. These behaviors may also be a result of separation anxiety in them.

More About Spot Pet Insurance

Due to their large head compared to their body size, Chihuahua births by caesarian section are relatively common compared to other breeds because they are at risk of dystocia (obstructed labor). Apple-headed Chihuahuas are known to be more likely to require a C-section. ⁽²⁾

These dogs also have a very high metabolism and hence are highly prone to low blood sugar levels. They can’t bear cold at all – so much so that if there was a shivering competition in the world, they would be the clear winners. ⁽²⁾  

They are also prone to certain medical conditions during their lifetime. These include – ⁽⁴⁾

The best way to take care of them is to ensure the best treatments. And if the finances are worrying you there, pet health insurance can cover up to 90% of all the costs. 

Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more. 

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