Many people see the Chihuahua as a silly, yappy little beast and certainly not a real dog. Nothing could be further from the truth for inside that time package is a very large dog. They are spirited, fearless and brave. Often their fearlessness in unwise because they simply do not see themselves as toy dogs. They are real dogs!

They are fairly easy to train and as with all dogs, it is essential for their safety, they are trained to obey basic commands. They can have a stubborn streak and patient, kind training is essential. Do not be surprised if you try to play ‘fetch’ with your dog and her just stares at you with a ‘well you threw it, you do and get it’ expression. They are not natural retrievers although some will enjoy fetching a ball.

Although they are friendly they are also very cautious and it can take a while before they become friends. When showing or training at puppy classes it can take some time before they have ensured to their own satisfaction that everything is as it should be and then they show their wonderful cheeky, confident nature.

The require exercise just as a large dog does and although they need less it is essential, not only for the physical wellbeing that they are taken on walks, but also for mental stimulation. You must take your Chi on a walk every single day unless really foul weather makes it impossible, bearing in mind their small stature. A fashion to carry toy dogs around in bags does them no favours. They are capable of walking and need to do so. They may be small but although they are classified as Toys by the Kennel Club they are not toys but small dogs and should be treated as such.

A dog that is always shut indoors or only allowed in a garden is very likely to become disruptive, destructive and even ill tempered. These little dogs need stimulation and they also need company. Do not even think about getting a Chihuahua, or for that matter any other dog, if you cannot spend at least half on every day with it.

The Chihuahua’s head should be apple shaped with large, not bulging, eyes and their ears should be large and well shaped set an angle of approximately 45 degrees.

Their bodies should not be too long or their legs too short. They should be evenly balanced. The tail should not be set too low and should be held proudly over the back.

They are usually smooth coated but long coat Chihuahuas have been bred for many years and which you choose is purely personal preference because it is the same, cheeky, intelligent little dog whatever the packaging!