Thursday, August 23, 2012

What You Need To Know When Looking For Chihuahuas for Sale

By Chloe Gib


If you are looking for Chihuahuas for sale in California, you should contact a registered breeder. Some of these breeders will have Applehead Chihuahua puppies for sale. By approaching a reputable dealer you will know that you are buying a healthy dog. These are fascinating pets and you will want to buy the best you can.

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.

Chihuahuas may have 'appleheads' or 'deer heads'. The former have rounded heads like apples and short noses. Those with deer heads have longer, more elongated heads and longer snouts. Chihuahuas are born with a soft spot on the skull just like human babies are. In some dogs this doesn't close completely and extra care will be needed.

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.

Neither type requires much grooming and the long-coat actually sheds less. Both have ruffs. There is feathering on the legs and feet of the long-coat and they have fringed ears. The breed comes in all colors and markings including merle. Dogs of this coloring however are denied registration because of the health risks which accompany the merle gene.

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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