The charming Chihuahua has gained a great deal of favor among Hollywood stars, such as: Paris Hilton, Madonna, Paula Abdul, Hillary Duff, and many others. Chihuahuas have become fashion accessories to many who seek to emulate the rich and famous icons seen toting them in high-end doggie purses wearing pricey outfits and expensive dog collars.

Paris Hilton appeared on the cover of Seventeen Magazine with Tinkerbell, creating a storm of interest in the breed. After Reese Witherspoon’s character in Legally Blond was seen sporting around with her fashionista Chihuahua, Bruiser, more buyers appeared.

These small dogs are great pets for travelers – they travel well and are easy to care for. They are excellent pets for apartment dwellers and people living in hotels, and they must live indoors. They also become extremely bonded to one person or one family, and don’t require lots of exercise. And, of course, they love being carried around and look fetching peeking out from beautiful purses.

Unethical Breeding Practices

It’s obvious unscrupulous breeders with little or no interest in the well-being of the breed, or of dogs in general, have smelled the money and continue to exploit this current craze.  Unfortunately, greed has led to many dogs being bred in horrible conditions, in puppy mills, and by backyard breeders whose only goal is to make money. The result is there are now many Chihuahuas at shelters across the country in need of homes or who are living in cruel conditions.

According to Stephanie Shain, director of The HSUS’ Stop Puppy Mills Campaign, “We have seen cages of Chihuahuas living in despicable conditions during our recent puppy mill raids, including this summer in Tennessee. They are one of the most common breeds being churned out by mills due to their small size and the ease in which they can be bred in cramped cages. The tiny dogs are often sold through pet stores or over the Internet to unsuspecting buyers who believe they are dealing with a reputable breeder.”

How we can help Chihuahuas

The Humane Society and other reputable organizations advise us all to purchase our pets from reputable breeders or shelters, not from the internet or from pet stores. Pet stores often take dogs and puppies from the puppy mill industry, and buyers often end up with animals with emotional and physical problems. And, consumers end up unintentionally supporting the puppy mill industry that creates so much animal suffering.

According to the Human Society of the United States, one in four animals at animal shelters is a pure bred or a pure bred mix. Most shelter animals are not there because they are problem animals, but because of a change in the owner’s lifestyle, allergies, cost, or lack of time. Chances are you will be able to find your Chihuahua or a Chihuahua mix that moves your heart. If you don’t find what you are looking for at a shelter, you can find a reputable breeder.

To avoid pitfalls, the HSUS suggests you Download "How to Identify a Good Dog Breeder" [PDF] checklist and take it with you as you visit different breeders, and, “If the breeder you're working with doesn't meet all of the minimum criteria listed, The Humane Society of the United States advises you to walk away.”

A Bit about Chihuahua’s

Chihuahuas are believed to have originated in Mexico. They are know for being very territorial and protective and easily provoked to attack. The AKC (American Kennel Association) recommends people with small children consider other breeds that are less high strung and calmer. They can bite when frightened. This breed may also have problems with other breeds, and tends to be “clannish” preferring to be with other Chihuahuas. While eager to please their owners, they may be “yappy,” and may require extra training to resolve this problem. Long-haired Chihuahuas are generally calmer and less high strung.

This breed is prone to health issues, such as hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, especially puppies who need frequent feedings. Dogs are prone to eye infections or eye injury due to large protruding eyes, and the eyes tend to water to remove dust or allergens, requiring daily wiping to keep them clean and to prevent tear staining. Chihuahuas are at risk in cold weather due to their size and high metabolism and often wear sweaters and jackets. While, the average life span if this breed is 10-17 yrs., owners must be aware of how to give them the proper care they need, being careful not to over or underfeed them and avoiding giving them human food that can easily make them overweight. An overweight Chihuahua is particularly susceptible to joint injuries, tracheal collapse, chronic bronchitis, and shortened life span.

If you understand the nature of the breed, and are careful to purchase a well adjusted and healthy pet, you should have a happy life with this charming member of the canine family.

Resources:

The Chihuahua Club of America

Chihuahua Rescue and Transport, Inc.

ASPCA News Alert