The origin of the Chihuahua is buried beneath hundreds of years of history. During all of this time civilizations have risen and have fallen. Races of people have been conquered, have overcome their conquerors, and risen from their bondage to become themselves, conquerors.

The uncivilized and barbarous victors of past conquests not only plundered, but destroyed completely the ways of life of their adversaries. Somewhere in the pages of history and the ashes of time, lies the true origin of today's featured breed - the Chihuahua.

Perhaps the origin of no other breed is cloaked in so much mystery and theory, yet the Chihuahua's popularity has risen to place him in the top ten of the most popular dogs in the United States.

The most commonly accepted theory is that the Chihuahua was originally a little dog called Techichi belonging to the Toltec people, a primitive race inhabiting Mexico about the time of the Mayan civilization was declining. The Toltecs were destroyed by the Aztec, who, it is said, had a dog known as the Biche.

It is thought by some historians that the Techichi and the Biche interbred to produce the Chihuahua. However, since neither the Toltecs nor Aztec conquerors had horses, cows, sheep, goats, or pigs - or any other domestic animals of Europe, Asia, or Africa - it's a little difficult for one to believe that somehow they had dogs.

The Aztecs themselves were conquered by the Spanish Conquistadors who were uneducated barbarians. They destroyed completely the entire way of life of the Aztecs. The Conquistadors claim the Aztecs did have dogs, and modern historians - for some reason - accept this as gospel. They seem to overlook the fact that the Conquistador called everything "dog", including raccoons, opossum, and even the sloth.

When the Conquistadors arrived in the New World, they saw life forms which they never knew existed, and it gave rise to the probability (to them) of a second creation. History points out that the Conquistadors all mention a mute dog they found in the West Indies, Mexico, Central America, and even in sections of northern South American.

But whether it was truly a dog, or just another of the many strange lifeforms they called "dog" (for lack of a better word), no one will ever truly know.

If one were to study the works of Manuel Orozco y Berra, who devoted a lifetime to the study of Mexican history, the theory that the Chihuahua originated with the Toltecs and Aztecs would be exploded.

In 1880, the classic Mexican history, titled Historia Antigua y de la Conquista de Mexico, was published and on page 278 of book II, the writer states:

"The Aztecs had only three domesticated quadrupeds, all of which carried as root the word 'itzcuintli' which the Spaniards translated as 'dog' because of the similarity of them with that animal."

The writer went on to say that all of these quadrupeds disappeared after the Conquest. The Tepeitzcuintli, though still rare, can be found in the wild, but it is not a dog. The Itzcuintlipotzotli was a guinea pig, or hutia, with a Roman nose, no neck, and a humped back. The Xoloitzcuintli, a hairless animal whose body was four feet long, hardly answers the description of the Chihuahua.

The most commonly accepted theory of the Chihuahua's origin can be likened to a sieve - that is, full of holes that can never be factually filled in.

Some say that the Techichi was crossed with the wild Perro Chihuahua to form the Chihuahua dog. But the Perro Chihuahua was not a dog. It was nothing more than gopher, or as we would say in American, a prairie dog. Such a breeding would have been genetically impossible - another theory scuttled with a big hole.

Among the mysteries that surround its origin, one cannot overlook the fact that between the time of the Spanish Conquest, 1519, and about ninety-five years ago, there is no evidence of such a thing as a Chihuahua dog in Mexico!

There is, in fact, no record of any dwarf dogs in Mexico until the year 1875. It may be but a strange coincidence that in the year 1875, a ship bound from Asia to Europe stopped at a Mexican port. (Since there was no Panama Canal, most ships stopped at Acapulco and other Mexican ports to offload people and cargo, who would then be further transshipped across country to the east.)

Two Chinese passengers aboard that ship exhibited two dwarf dogs in Mexico City. It was a known fact that the Chinese, prior to the fall of their empire, had a passion for dwarfing things. They dwarfed cherry trees, plum trees, maple trees, chickens, fish, and even dogs!

Of Chinese Origin?

It is significant then, that the first appearance of the Chihuahua dog in modern times places them along the Mexican border. Their appearance coincides with the arrival of that ship from Asia. The first Chihuahuas purchased by Americans were purchased from across the border of Texas at Juarez, Mexico.

Juarez is in the state of Chihuahua, and the Chihuahua dog receives its name from that state. There is no evidence that the Aztecs ever lived in the area known as Chihuahua. The conquering Spaniards found only Indians of a peaceful hunting and fishing culture living there.

So, in sifting through the many theories of the Chihuahua's origin, one simply cannot overlook the fact that what we know as the Mexican Chihuahua just might have come from China. The interest in purebreds began in 1875, the ship from Asia arrived in Mexico in 1875. The reader then, is left to swallow whichever theory he finds most palatable.

Only two things are known for a certainty; the Chihuahua dog is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico and the Chihuahua dog is so popular that he's rated in the top ten most popular breeds in existence.

The modern Chihuahua is one hundred percent pure American, developed and purified right here in this country. The American standards of the breed are worldwide. Every registered Chihuahua in the world traces back to pure American blood.

Some people believe that the Chihuahua and the Mexican Hairless are one and the same, but this is not so. The Mexican Hairless was recognized and registered in America twenty two years before the first Chihuahua dog.

The First Registered Chihuahua

The first Chihuahua dog ever registered was born in 1903 and registered in 1904. That year, a total of five Chihuahua dogs were registered. Since other toy breeds were competing in popularity, it was not until 1923 that the Chihuahua Club of American was formed. From that point on, the popularity of the little toy dog known as the Chihuahua began its rise, finally coming to rest comfortably as the sixth most popular dog in America.

Known as the world's smallest dog, the Chihuahua ranges in weight from one to six pounds, with two to four being average. He comes in one of two packages; long-coat or smooth-coat. The long-coats are judged by the same standard as the smooth-coat except for the coat itself.

The little guy has an apple-domed head and a short nose which is slightly pointed. They have been called "the dog with the hole in the head." The hole - or mollera - is an area on top of the head where the skull bones have failed to join. It can be seen in any newborn human baby.

Not all Chihuahuas have this mollera, but it seems to be restricted just to this breed, although there have been a few occurrences of the mollera in the Japanese Spaniel.

A Spicy But Loving Attitude

In spite of its size - or lack of it - the Chihuahua does not suffer an inferiority complex. He falls in love with people but usually restricts his total affection to one individual. He moves into a family expecting to become a part of that family. He actually prefers home and people to a pack of dogs.

Always alert and playful, he burns up energy faster than most other breeds, and therefore requires more frequent naps. Too, he needs about twenty percent more food per body weight than other dogs, which proves to be somewhat of a problem, since Chihuahuas are known for being poor eaters, with skinny appetites. Chihuahua puppies sometimes must be fed.

The Chihuahua is easily trained, since he is quick and has an exceptional memory. Having excellent visual perception and hearing, the Chihuahua must be considered as being one of the most trouble-free of all breeds.

Listed among the few problems encountered with the Chihuahua, is the fact that since it is the world's smallest dog, he is always down close to drafts which sweep across the floor surfaces in summer and winter alike. When sleeping, the Chihuahua should always be protected from these drafts.

Though they don't look like it, the Chihuahua is a very hardy little tyke. Since he comes from an area along the Mexican border, he had to be pretty hardy to survive. Summers expose that area to blistering heat, and winter nights have seen temperatures drop to below freezing.

Taken to Canada in the early days of the breed's recorded history, the Chihuahua thrived in that climate. It should be pointed out, however, that since Chihuahuas spend most of their lives indoors, they could easily suffer in severe weather when taken outside and therefore should always wear a coat.

The life span of the Chihuahua varies, but records show one to have lived to be twenty-two years old. Another, at thirteen was still siring litters.

Although his ancestry is shrouded with the mystery and drama of time, somewhere from the pages of history the little toy dog called the Chihuahua stepped out and into the hearts of millions of Americans who are firmly convinced that there is no other dog more trouble-free and wonderful to own than the Chihuahua.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an all-natural herding dog. As member of the Herding Group, this breed is short in stature, with a long frame. They have fox-like features, making it highly popular with families around the world. Weighing from 25 to 27 lbs, the Pembroke only reaches a hight of up to 12 niches.

The temperament of the breed is best described as quick-witted, spunky, and alert. Always willing to please and devoted to its human family members, they make excellent watchdogs and will even fight off intruders if necessary. Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs are safe to have around children but may nip at their heels in attempt to play. They also tend to bark a lot, especially when strangers approach.

A Brief History Of The Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Welsh cattle dogs were mentioned as early as the 11th century in several books. And although the breed shares a past with the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, it developed completely on its own in a separate area in Pembrokeshire, Wales.

Although it is difficult to trace the breed's exact bloodline, we do know that the dogs were important in helping farmers working in South Wales. These little canines were excellent at herding cattle with their technique of nipping at the heels of the herd, and would duck with extreme speed and pin-point agility to avoid being kicked.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was still working in the fields while many other breeds were seen in the show ring. It wasn't until 1926 that a club was formed for the breed. Breeders further sought to improve the dog's overall appearance. The big differences between the Pembroke and the Cardigan is that the Pembroke is smaller and with features very similar to the fox.

The two types were officially recognized as separate breeds in 19Ȃ. And it was the Pembroke Welsh Corgi that became hugely more popular than the Cardigan. King George VI took fancy with the breed, as well as Queen Elizabeth II. By the time the mid-1960's arrived, the Pembroke was one of the most popular dogs in the world.

Upkeep Requirements For The Pembroke Welsh Corgi

This dog absolutely loves to herd, and in addition to daily walks on the leash, the Pembroke should be involved with plenty of herding exercises to complete its exercise requirements. Their minds are also complete sponges when it comes to absorbing training commands, which makes the Pembroke an ideal candidate for advanced obedience training.

The Pembroke can withstand both hot and cool temperatures and are physically capable of living outside. But of course they are most happy when allowed to sleep indoors with the family at night. They thrive on human companionship. Grooming requirements for the breed consists of a weekly brushing to remove dead hairs.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is between eleven and thirteen years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are CHD and intervertebral disc disease. Minor health issues include degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy. Rarely seen is lens luxation, PRA, vWD, and urinary stones. Veterinarians suggest that the Pembroke get specifically tested for DNA for PRA, hip, and eye problems.

The Shih Tzu is a member of the toy dog group which got its name from the Chinese, meaning "Lion Dog." However, even though this dog breed is typically associated with China, research shows that the Shih Tzu's original origins actually date back to the 17th century in the land of Tibet.

Most dog breeds become listed as official members of the American kennel club as far back as the 1800s and into the early 1900s. However, the Shih Tzu was not officially recognized by the AKC until the late 1960's. That decade dawned an explosion of Shih Tzus as household pets and as its popularity grew, the AKC took notice and registered the breed.

Shih Tzu dogs are known to be a bit on the spunky side, yet extremely friendly and sweet. They are very lovable lapdogs who enjoy playing and running around with their owner. These animals are wonderful house pets and are great with children. In fact, the Shih Tzu scores high on the "friendliness scale" when it comes to other dogs, other pets, and even strangers .

Upkeep And Maintenance

Even though the Shih Tzu is a fairly small dog, it still needs a good dose of daily exercise. A 15 to 20 minute brisk walk on a leash is ideal, yet because it is so small, a good romp around the house from room to room is also an excellent way for the Shih Tzu to get his daily physical requirements.

Like most toy breeds, Shih Tzus are not meant to live outside. These animals are house dogs who cannot stand hot, humid weather. And because of its long, luxurious coat, grooming the Shih Tzu should be done on a daily basis.

Health Information

Shih Tzu dogs that are in good health have a lifespan of up to 14 or more years. The only major health concern that seem to be common with this dog breed is CHD. Minor concerns include PRA, renal dysplasia, otitis externa, patellar luxation, KCS, entropion, portacaval shunt, and inguinal hernia.

Veterinarians recommend that all Shih Tzu dogs be specifically tested for hip dysplasia, eye problems, and DNA for renal dysplasia. Occasionally, the following health problems may occur: dental problems and cataracts.

Scottish Deerhounds are one of the friendliest members of the Hound Group, both towards strangers and other dogs. They are amiable with just about any house pet. These dogs are the perfect addition to any family looking for a hound that makes a loving companion, is excellent around children, and well-mannered inside the house. Scottish Deerhounds are somewhat mellow in nature but once outside will chase anything that moves.

A Brief History Of The Scottish Deerhound

With Scotland being the area of origin of the Scottish Deerhound breed, this dog was a respected deer hunter as early as the 16th century. Researchers estimate that it is an ancient breed, one with deep roots tied to the Greyhound.

Owned exclusively by the nobility during this period, the exact bloodline of how the breed came to be is still up for debate. At one point, during the Age of Chivalry, no person that was below the rank of an Earl could own a Deerhound. They were used to hunt stag but eventually the stag population declined and so did the usefulness of the Deerhound dog.

During the 1700s and into the 1800s, the breed was all but extinct due to the invention of guns and rifles, which had become the primary hunting tools among deer hunters. The mid 1800s proved to be a rebirth in popularity of the breed when a concerted effort was made to bring the Deerhound back. The project worked and the first Deerhound club was created in England during the 1860s. Today the breed still remains low in numbers but always a classic.

Upkeep Requirements For The Scottish Deerhound

Like all members of the Hound Group, the Scottish Deerhound must have plenty of daily exercise to stay fit and keep up with their high energy levels. Several long walks on the leash and a few runs outside in a large field would be ideal. These dogs especially love to chase small animals so be prepared to have your Deerhound trained to stop when called.

This breed has moderate tolerance to hot temperatures but more so with cool weather. They can live outdoors if need be but like all loving canine family members it is best to have your Scottish Deerhound inside at night, sleeping with the rest of the family. Grooming requirements call for a thorough brushing about two times weekly with the occasional scissoring to keep the dog's straggling hair neat.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Scottish Deerhound is between seven and nine years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed include osteosarcoma, cardiomyopathy, and gastric torsion. Minor health problems include allergies and cystinuria. Rarely seen is neck pain and hypothyroidism. Veterinarians suggest that Scottish Deerhounds get specifically tested for potential cystinuria and cardiac problems.