The Chihuahua (named after the Mexican state and sometimes called the "New Yorker" in Mexico) is the smallest of all dog breeds and can either feature a long or short coat that comes in a wide variety of colours. The breed first appeared in as far as the 9th century, and was originally raised for the primary intention of acting as companion dogs.

A few of their more distinguishing qualities are known by many as their small size, high sense of importance and intense attachment to their owners - which assist in making the Chihuahua one of the most popular companionship dogs that is highly suitable for smaller households and apartments.

The Chihuahua's history is largely based on speculation but is believed to have descended from the Techichi which was a breed kept by the Aztecs for the objective of companionship. The modern breed is assumed to be a product of cross-breeding this native dog with dogs introduced by the New World explorers.

The Chihuahua is renowned for their lively, alert, self-confident and often devoted personality. They are characteristically suspicious of visitors, which can mean they are suitable as a watch dog but their size lessens their suitability as a guard dog.

The Chihuahua is not demonstrated to be highly intelligent - ranking 67th in comparison with other dogs when taking into account their capacity to be taught obedience directives. They are also recognised to be easily injured by young children - which means they are not the best choice for families with young children. The Chihuahua is generally not very companionable with other animals due to the devotion to their owner who they may be unwilling to share and they may be particularly aggressive with other dogs.

Grooming the Chihuahua is a fairly simple job - though this may vary somewhat depending on whether they are short-coated or long-coated. They require an occasional amount of brushing two or three times a week and proper grooming every 6 to 8 weeks.

The Chihuahua is satisfied with a small yard to run around in, but doesn't require much space and they can be a very good choice for apartment life provided they are exercised on a regular basis. They enjoy warmer temperatures, and can be less content if gets too cold - they will need a jacket when venturing outside in cooler weather.

The Chihuahua can make the perfect dog for a gentle owner who will give them plenty of companionship. They are well-matched to anyone that is prepared to commit to a small level of grooming and allocate time to provide them with firm and consistent training with early socialisation as well as take them for short walks each day and present a very high quantity of companionship and devotion. Although they may be somewhat out of place for families with young children, if you are able to meet their need for human contact and careful attention to ensure they don't injure themselves then the Chihuahua may perhaps be the ideal dog breed for you and act as a devoted companion for many years.