#2 Featured Dog Breed

The Chihuahua belongs to the toy dog group; it is a small dog with an apple-domed head and a slightlyt 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.

Graceful, alert and swift-moving with a saucy expression, Chihuahuas are highly intelligent and should not be underestimated even though small in size. The breed can be any color – solid, marked or splashed and the coat may be long or short. These sassy little dogs are well known as "purse dogs" like the famous Bruiser in the movie Legally Blonde starring Reese Witherspoon.

However,do not underestimate this breed's size as it has terrier like qualities.The Chihuahua is a good companion however it can be extremely loyal to the point it would be suspicious with people except to the owner. It should be treated like how you discipline large dogs. Humans have the tendency to treat this little dog like a cute baby that it would lead to unwanted and destructive behavior such as biting and excessive barking. Socialization,training and regular exercise is a must to make the Chihuahua a desirable member of the family

source: http://www.akc.org/breeds/chihuahua/index.cfm