Friday, August 31, 2012

Some Basic Considerations When Viewing Chihuahuas for Sale

By Chloe Gib


When searching for applehead Chihuahua puppies for sale, you should approach a licensed breeder. There will be local breeders who will have Chihuahuas for sale in California. It is best to avoid backyard breeders and puppy mills when looking for one of these fascinating little dogs.

Chihuahuas have a number of unique characteristics. They are the smallest dog breed in existence. The prints on their noses are unique to each individual, much like the fingerprint of a human. Apart from humans, they are the only animal to have a prostate gland, and their only sweat glands are between the toes.

Like humans, the puppies are born with a soft spot on the head. This does not always close up with time, leaving the dog slightly more susceptible to injury. Chihuahuas may have 'appleheads' or 'deer heads'. Applehead dogs have rounded skulls and short noses. The deer-head type has a longer head and longer nose.

Two varieties are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). By the standards set by the AKC Chihuahuas are either long- or smooth-coated. However the long coat is often smoother to touch than the smooth-coated. The downy undercoat of the long coat type gives the dog a fluffy look. The outer guard hairs are also soft and fine.

These dogs have low grooming needs. Often there is a ruff of longer hair around the neck. Those with long coats have fringed ears and feathering on the legs and feet. All combinations of colors are available. Occasionally merle dogs appear but these cannot be registered. The gene that gives the merle coloring also carries several health disorders.

The dogs should not exceed six pounds. The main health problems are those associated with obesity. It is very easy for such a small dog to become over-fat. This places more strain on the joints. Tracheal collapse and chronic bronchitis are other disorders which will lead to a shortened life span. At the same time, they can be picky eaters and are prone to hypoglycemia. They should be fed regularly and not made to go for long periods without eating.

They do not need a lot of exercise and do well in small spaces. They are however sensitive to the cold. Dental issues are almost always a problem for this breed and they should not be fed treats high in fat or sugar. The breed is graceful and alert with a pert expression. If socialized properly and handled in a consistent manner, the Chihuahua is good with gentle, patient children. They prefer the company of their own kind to dogs of other breeds. To find Chihuahuas for sale in California, you should contact a local breeder.




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