Everyone has seen Chihuahuas as they have become extremely popular.  We are all familiar with the different celebrities who have been photographed with their adorable little Chihuahua accompanying them on their excursions in and town.  But unless you have owned one of these dogs or known someone who has chances are you do not know much about them.

This Chihuahua’s history is somewhat of a puzzle in that there are many different theories and stories surrounding the breed’s origins.  It is believed that the breed gets its name from a state in Mexico called Chihuahua and this is also where they were first discovered.  Originally they were considered holy and were a very popular pet among the upper classes of society.  There are others who trace the history to the island of Malta and this is because there are famous paintings in the Sistine Chapel that show small dogs with a resemblance to the Chihuahua.

But evidence for the breed originating in Mexico is found in archeological finds and in folklore.  Of all the opinions surrounding the breed’s origins, the most common and widely held view is that they did indeed originate there and are descended from the Techichi which was a very popular dog kept by the Toltec peoples in Mexico.

When it comes to the temperament of these little dogs it is interesting to note that more than many other breeds a Chihuahua’s temperament depends largely on the temperaments of its parents and grandparents.  The entire family line will be either social or antisocial although obviously the way the dog is raised will influence the personality of the animal.

When it comes to Chihuahuas and other people and animals it is important to know the basic character traits of this breed.  Generally they are not good with children if they have not been introduced to them from a young age.  They are very loyal to one particular person and can be very protective over that individual.  They are not all that good with other dogs although this is subjective and will depend, again, on how they are raised and if they are provided with the proper training and socialization while they are still young.

The Chihuahua is a popular breed of dog due to its intelligence and devotion.  There is just something so appealing about these little spitfires that it is difficult to not be attracted to them.  There is so much personality in such a tiny package!  Because they are becoming so popular many people run out to buy one without doing the proper research to find out if they are prepared for the little Chihuahua’s oversized personality and other related issues.  Provided you do not succumb to an impulse buy you will be able to determine if this is the breed for you.

Of course, the fact that they are so small allows them to be kept comfortably in almost any sized home and this is something that weighs heavily in their favor for those who live in an apartment in the city.  They can still enjoy the companionship and devotion of a dog while they get on with the business of living.