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History
The Chihuahua is considered as being one of the smallest breeds of dog in the world.
The original Chihuahua was a larger and tougher looking dog than the breeds we know today. The smooth-coated variety can be traced back as far as the early 19th century where it became prominent in Mexico. From there it was transported to America where it was cross-bred with other Toy breeds such as the Pomeranian and the Papillon, which produced a long-coated variety.
The two varieties are basically the same. Sometimes smooth-coated and long-coated varieties can be found in the same litter, although they are classed as separate breeds.
The Chihuahua as a pet
The Chihuahua is a very affectionate animal. It loves human companionship. It is a very alert dog, which makes it an excellent guard dog. Despite its size it is not at all intimidated by larger animals. Because of its fragile frame it should not be kept in a household with young children. |
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Height:
15-23cms
Weight:
1-3kg
Lifespan:
12-14 yrs |
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Colour:
any single colour or mixture of colours |
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Coat:
Long Coat - Soft textured covering of hair, either flat or slightly curly, with fully plumbed tail. Short Coat: Soft in texture, close and glossy.
Pet Suitability: suited to urban or rural life |
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Click photo for product guide |
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Lawrence Slicker
Tiny Tender Care
The classic soft slicker brush. Light aluminium construction with cushioned pad for gentle grooming.
Made in England |
Sterling price: £2.75
Dollar price: $3.99 |
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Braun-Wettberg Brush
Small Pure Bristle
Using only pure bristle with a pneumatic rubber pad. All woood from managed forests. Made in Germany |
Sterling price: £5.25
Dollar price: $7.61 |
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Spratts Comb
No. 73
15mm fine tooth comb. Made from solid brass with heavy duty chrome plating. Made in Sheffield, England |
Sterling price: £6.50
Dollar price: $9.42 |
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Grooming your Chihuahua
Grooming requirements:
Long Coat: Brushing should be carried out on a regular basis with a soft bristle brush, followed by a gentle hand massage to keep the skin supple. The hair between the pads on the feet need to be trimmed just below the nails. The feathering should be combed out regularly with a wide toothed comb. The ears need to be brushed lightly, especially at the ends of the leathers. The ears of these dogs do tend to get clogged up with dandruff which can cause the ears to become dry and crusty, therefore in order to prevent this happening try covering the edges of the ears in vaseline at night and wiping it away in the morning.
Tools required:
Soft nylon or bristle brush, slicker, wide tooth comb and scissors.
Short Coat: The Short Coated variety should be groomed in the same manner as the long coat, except for the feathering.
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