In part one, Dinky the Taco Bell Chihuahua was circled in controversy. His identity, sex and even his owners were shrouded in mystery.
Ironically, the origin of the Chihuahua is also up for debate. The breed is native to Mexico, but there are questions surrounding specifics of the dog's ancestors.
Seventh century carvings found in the Monastery of Huejotzingo depict a dog of similar face and stature. The civilization was the Toltecs and they were known to have a breed of dog called the Techichi. Therefore, the Chihuahua may be a descendant of the Techichi dog.
However, another legend suggests the Chihuahua was used in Aztec worship. Dogs were sacrificed as escorts for the dead, helping the departed navigate the underworld and taking on the sins of the dead to gain favor with the gods.
And yet another source suggests that the Chi was discovered in Mexico's state of Chihuahua around 1850 when visiting Americans became smitten by the animal. At that time, the Americans selected 50 dogs for breeding in the United States. In theory, all US Chihuahuas are descendants of these dogs.
What ever his background, the Chihuahua is considered the smallest dog on earth. Often referred to as a tea cup dog, most breeders discount the title since the breed is not defined or divided by weight class. The Guinness Book of Records documents the smallest adult Chi as weighing just 10 oz. Breeders discourage owning such a small dog since the tiny body cannot sustain itself. These frail dogs are prone to sudden death. A Chihuahua of normal weight, around 4-6 pounds, however, can expect a normal life span of 11-16 years.
The Chi has a distinctive head described as apple dome shaped. The expressive big brown eyes and large ears are also breed features. The muzzle is somewhat short and slightly pointed.
The AKC recognizes two variations in the breed: the long coat and the smooth coat. Although they are considered separate breeds, one litter may contain both coat types.
The smooth coat (like Dinky's coat) is naturally short and close to the body. There is a ruff on the neck and the hair is more sparse on the head and ears.
The long coat breed may sport either flat or curly fur with an undercoat: the ears are fringed and the tail is full and plume-like. The feet, legs, neck ruff and hind quarters are also feathered. The long coat requires regular combing and there is more shedding with this breed.
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