The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world and is also the oldest breed in America. The breed takes its name from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico where it was discovered in 1850. It is believed that the Chihuahua descended from Chinese hairless dogs which crossed from Asia to Alaska on a land bridge before continental separation and bred with the ancient Aztec Techichi dog. The fist one was registered with the American kennel club in 1905.
They are well known for their small size, large eyes and large ears. Their coats comes in two varieties, smooth and long. The smooth coat variety has a short, glossy, soft coat over the entire body which is thinner on the head and ears whereas the long coat has a soft, long, sometimes very thin coat which can be slightly curly or flat. Both coat types have a variety of colours including fawn, black, brown and white. There are many colour patterns and mixes including Blue Brindle and Chocolate and Tan.
The Chihuahua is noted for its fierce devotion, loyalty, ferocity and personality. They become extremely attached to just one or two people and become very protective. Their small size means they are suited to apartments as their exercise needs can be fulfilled indoors with toys and play sessions, although they do enjoy going for daily walks with their owners.
They can adapt to living in most environments but they are not good with children or other pets as they can bite when frightened, they seem to have no concept of size and will attack larger animals which often results in injury. They are wary of strangers which make them good guard dogs. Chihuahuas are often thought of as high-strung but if correctly trained they can become excellent companions.
They can be difficult to train but with the right amount of patience and commitment they can do well. They need positive reinforcement and intensive socialisation is essential from an early age. Owners must be careful not to overfeed Chihuahuas as it can lead to diabetes, joint injuries and bronchitis. The breed also needs veterinary care for things such as birthing and dental care.
These dogs are prone to the painful disease called Hyrocephalus which can be diagnosed by the puppy having a swollen head; it will also be lethargic and grow more slowly than siblings. The breed is also known for their moleras, a soft spot in the skull, they are the only breed to be born without a complete skull. The molera fills with age but great care should be taken during the first six months until the skull is fully formed.
Chihuahuas do run the risk of low blood sugar which can lead to coma if unattended. They have also been known to suffer from eye infections due to their large eyes and low ground clearance. The breed has a tendency to tremble but this is not a health issue, it normally happens when the dog is stressed or excited. They have the longest life span of any dog and can live up to 18 years.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male briard is 24 to 27 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 75 to 90 pounds. The female ranges from 22 to 25 inches to the withers and 75 to 85 pounds.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Briard is no exception. Keep on the look out for canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), progressive retinal atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), cataracts, stomach torsion and bloat (Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, the second leading killer of dogs, can kill within the hour, this space is too limited for a complete explanation but you should read up on this). Feeding more then once a day and avoiding exercise right after meals may help guard against bloat. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Briard has a coarse, dry and hard coat in long, waving locks. She needs extensive grooming to look good and avoid mats. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and also help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with your pet. Her pads of her feet need excess hair removed.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her nails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
Life Span
The Briard can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
History
The Briard is from France and descended from some of the oldest dogs. It is believed that Emperor Charlemagne had them some 1200 years ago. Thomas Jefferson may have been the original importer of the Briard to America. She was first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1928.