Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the world's smallest dog breed, originating from Mexico with ancestry possibly tracing back to the ancient Techichi dogs kept by Toltec and Aztec civilizations. Named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where they were discovered in the mid-1800s, these tiny dogs became popular in the United States in the early 1900s. Standing just 5-8 inches tall and weighing 2-6 pounds, Chihuahuas are tiny yet surprisingly sturdy.

They come in two coat varieties: smooth (short and glossy) and long (soft with feathering on ears, legs, and tail). Chihuahuas have distinctive apple-shaped or deer-shaped heads, large, luminous eyes that convey remarkable expression, and large, erect ears that are their hallmark feature. They come in virtually any color or pattern including fawn, black, white, chocolate, cream, and combinations.

Despite their tiny size, they have well-proportioned, compact bodies. Long-coated Chihuahuas have soft, flat or slightly wavy coats. Their molera (soft spot on the skull) is characteristic of the breed, similar to human babies.

Chihuahuas have saucy expressions and carry themselves with confidence. These portable companions require minimal exercise but don't tolerate cold well, often needing sweaters in cooler weather.