Wrong.

Ai, ai, ai! What snarly, snapping, unfriendly little dogs, right?

Wrong again.

Ai, ai, ai! They're only good for jet-set wannabe fashion accessories or to sit in Great Aunt Hortense' lap to frighten off toddlers, right?

Couldn't possibly be any more wrong, wrong, wrong.

If you're basing an opinion of Chihuahuas on the round-headed, bug-eyed, bald, incontinent, snarling little monster with all the moles and the dragon breath that sat in Great Aunt Hortense' lap and made a swipe at biting anyone who ventured within a three foot radius (excepting, of course, Great Aunt Hortense), you've missed out on getting to know an utterly delightful member of the toy breeds.

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed, by standard, although the Yorkie comes close. Their engaging temperament, charming, affectionate natures and natural fastidiousness make them popular companion dogs, especially in urban environments.

The breed was brought to the American popular consciousness by Xavier Cugat, the Latin bandleader who caught Americans up in the rhythms of the tango, the mambo, the rumba. Although he switched women with alarming regularity, he was true to his chosen breed, the Chihuahua. For many years his favorite, Pepito, was featured in many of Cugat's publicity photos and appearances. Cugat became a Chihuahua breeder, certifying in the dogs' papers that they were, indeed, Cugat dogs.

Like so many breeds, the Chihuahua has become a victim of its own popularity. For decades the little dogs have been a favorite victim of puppymill operations and other unscrupulous sellers of animals. Their small size and long life spans, added to the popularity of the breed, makes them attractive to those sorts. It doesn't take much room to keep them in tiny cages, they can have a long breeding career, and unhealthy anomalies, like the “deer head” or “apple head” are touted to the unknowing as being rare and valuable, as are the poorly bred, undersized specimens referred to as “teacup” Chihuahuas. If someone wants to sell you an expensive “deer head teacup Chihuahua,” run the other way.

Sadly, these reprehensible breeding practices have resulted in temperament problems and health issues that many now associate with the breed. This is grossly unfair. A properly bred Chihuahua is a friendly creature, although they will, because of the vulnerability of being so small, tend to be more quick to bark a warning than most larger dogs might be. They can also be somewhat protective of their owners and can often prefer to be one-person dogs, but with responsible socialization they are quick to learn to differentiate between a friendly stranger and one who is a threat.

While it is tempting to carry such a small dog, and they do look so delicate, a well-bred Chihuahua is a hardy little dog -- a dog through and through! They love to run and are swift and graceful and will appreciate a hike as much as most other dogs. Most do, however, appreciate being held when in a crowd. It is far too easy for such a small animal to be stepped on and badly injured. Or worse. Some Chihuahuas also make excellent mousers, exhibiting a very Terrier-like enthusiasm for hunting.

It is really up to the Chihuahua owner to determine whether they end up with Great Aunt Hortense' little terror or a bright, intelligent, captivating companion. A Chihuahua is, after all, a dog in every sense of the meaning. They need to be taught. Self-confidence needs to be nurtured. Socialization is essential. Mental and physical exercise imperative. They need a job, just like any other dog, whether it is herding dust bunnies under the sofa, giving an elderly person a focus for their attention and affections, catching mice or keeping the cat honest. Just like any other dog, they will reward your efforts with love and affection. Big gifts from a very small package.

Provided by Jessica Blakely of www.pet-super-store.com. Where you can find great deals on Pet Stairs and Pet doors

A LITTLE Chihuahua History