Chihuahua

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The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with an apple-shaped head and a short pointed muzzle. It has round, large, very dark eyes, sometimes dark ruby or luminous in color.

The trademark large ears should be held erect. Puppies have a soft spot or "molera" on the top of the skull.

The bone usually closes the gap by adulthood. The body is cobby (stout), longer than it is tall, and the tail is sickle-shaped - curled over the back or to the side.

Besides the common short-haired variety there is also a long- haired type. Colors include fawn, sand, chestnut, silver and steel blue, but any color is accepted, including black & tan and parti-color.

The dog is more robust than he looks, with a level back, and legs coming down straight and square. 

Temperament: Lively, Devoted, Alert, Quick, Courageous

Health Problems: Prone to rheumatism, slipped stifle, colds and gum problems. Also corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma, due to their protruding eyes. Gains weight easily. Take caution around toxic products such as chocolate or fertilizer. This is a very small breed and it will not take much to poison them. Chihuahuas are often born via cesarean section because puppies are born with relatively large heads.