Chihuahuas; From ancient Mayas to the modern-day pocket dog

A little history

Historians have speculated that Chihuahuas are descendants of the Techichi dog who lived among the Mayas.

This makes the lovely chihuahua a dog with a very rich history.

The Mayas were a Mesoamerican civilization whose descendants still live in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and parts of Mexico. A highly sophisticated society for their time, they had developed complex mathematics and astrology. Their ruins still stand and can be seen in places such as Cancun, Valladolid, and Tulum in Mexico. 

The Techichi dog shared some characteristics with the Chihuahua such as the shape of the head and body.  

The Mayas used the dogs as a source of food as well as natural heating pads to help the sick. They also held the belief that dogs were the guardian of the afterlife. Chihuahuas were often sacrificed to be buried alongside their owners as it was the Maya belief that they would follow them in the afterlife. 

Good thing we don’t sacrifice dogs anymore!

Today, the modern Chihuahua serves as a companion and lap dog who despite his tiny size carries a huge personality. 

Chihuahua fun facts

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog in the world.  

According to the Guinness world records, the smallest living dog is a female who measured 9.65 cm on February 21st, 2013. She belonged to Vanesa Semier of Dorado, Puerto Rico.  

Maintains loyalty towards one person

The Chihuahua is known for his fierce loyalty towards his chosen human. They will not hesitate to defend or bite in his or her defense. Chihuahuas often can have bad behavioral problems towards others when their owner is around. 

Doesn’t understand that he is very small

Chihuahuas are mini guard dogs who don’t realize how small they are. They will have no problem hanging out with the big dogs and be part of the pack. Their size does make them vulnerable to being hurt. They can easily get trampled, stepped on if not careful. 

Requires expert supervision for birthing

Chihuahuas can’t just make babies easily. They will often die during the process if there is no veterinary supervision. This is because the baby’s heads are too big to pass through. Usually, birth is done with a cesarean. 

Is considered a top watchdog 

Chihuahuas are considered to be top watchdogs among all the breeds.. They are very alert and will bark excessively at the smallest suspicious sound or intruder. You could not have a better alarm in the house. This being said, a chihuahua will most likely get you evicted if you live in a condo or apartment unless thoroughly trained from a young age, not to bark, which is no easy feat as it is in their nature. 

How to take care of chihuahuas?

Make sure you have playtime with them. 

They may be small, but they are hyper and will need toys as well as playtime to be happy. 

Do not use a collar, use a harness instead. 

This is because they are so tiny. A collar could hurt their little necks, especially if you accidentally pull on it too hard. 

Chihuahuas and children don’t mix very well. 

They are very tiny and can easily break a bone if they are slightly mishandled. They can also bite at times, especially when trying to protect their owners.

Chihuahuas get cold easily

Make sure to have a little sweater handy for them for those breezy or cold days

Make sure to socialize with your chihuahua from the get-go

This will prevent bad behavior, excessive barking, and bitting