Grab a cuppa and enjoy some fun facts and myths about chihuahuas. If you know any I have missed, just leave a comment. Here we go.
Magic chihuahuas
Chihuahuas are an ancient breed. Mummified remains have been found in ancient tombs. The Aztecs revered Chihuahuas and believed they possessed mystical powers. These tiny tail-waggers were thought to bring good fortune, protect their owners from evil spirits, and even guide souls through the treacherous afterlife. It’s no wonder our modern-day chihuahuas strut around with such confidence!
More myths about chihuahuas. It was also believed that chihuahuas had the ability to heal, a belief still held today by some. Especially breathing related illnesses. So, if you are feeling crook, go hug a chi!
The original chihuahua was much larger than the modern one. Its selective breeding that gives us the modern chihuahua.
The original chihuahua was mute! Well, that was a serious upgrade. Chihuahua 2.0 is making up for lost time!
Brainy chihuahuas
They have the largest brain (by ratio) of any dog breed. But while they are super clever and quick to learn they are not considered the most intelligent dog breed.
Chihuahuas are the only dog breed that can be any colour. They possess a wide range of coat colour options.
Chihuahuas were not always named after the Mexican state. Originally, they were called the “Arizona Dog”, especially within America. This made sense because “Chihuahua” is notoriously difficult to spell. Some people spell it chiwawa. I write it a hundred times a day and still get it wrong.
They are the world’s smallest breed, but min pins and Prague ratters are very similar in size and weight.
Although Prague ratters look very similar to chihuahuas they are a completely different breed.
Celebrity chihuahuas
Marilyn Monroe owned a chihuahua called Josepha in 1948. Other celebrities that have owned chihuahuas are, Christina Ricci, Mickey Rourke, Rosie O’Donnell, Hilary Duff to name just a few.
One of the most famous chihuahuas was called Gidget, nicknamed the “Taco Bell Chihuahua”. He was an advertising mascot for Taco Bell from September 1997 to July 2000.
Midge, was the world’s first police chihuahua and belongs to Ohio County Sherriff, Dan McClelland. She has worked as a scent detection dog and has helped in several drug related arrests.
There is no such breed standard as ‘Deer Head’ and ‘Apple Head’, but deer head chihuahuas or those with a longer nose and slimmer head (they often have longer legs as well) are not considered breed standard and don’t get to compete in Cruft’s or other dog shows.
Merle chihuahuas are considered a designer crossbreed and are also excluded from Cruft’s and other dog shows. AKK only allow registered merles if they appear as standard in a breeds standard coat colour.
Chihuahuas that are solid white are considered rare, white is not albino as they still have coloured eyes, noses, and paws. If you have a solid white one send in a photo to our Facebook page Chihuahua Power.
If you know any other myths about chihuahuas, please write in and let us know!
