More Chihuahua Please - Part 2

Chihuahua's fur colors include fawn, blonde, blue, brown and jet black with tan markings and black with white details. The United States leans toward the solid fawn specimen. Two colors are described as splash or marked.

The recent spotlight enjoyed by the Taco Bell Chihuahua has been a mixed blessing for Chihuahua breeders. With increased demand, the price for a dog has soared, with some breeders collecting from $650 to $1200 for one dog.

However, Chihuahua breeders fear that a glut of Chihuahuas will turn up at shelters or on the street, abandoned like hundreds of Dalmatians after the release of the movie 101 Dalmatians. Because Dinky is so personable, the public may develop unrealistic expectations for the Chihuahua they adopt.

As quoted by one source, "They're (the commercials) effective because people just like the dog. Plus, I believe it fulfills everybody's fantasy. We all want to believe dogs can talk." It might be hard for the public to resist the breed, not realizing that the Chi is not a dog for most families.

In fact, the Chi tends to be a temperamental sort which expects extraordinary attention from owners. Generally, the dog may be described as needy and demanding because he prefers to sit on a lap, dislikes other animals and may be prone to a variety of health problems.

The Chi is not fond of anyone outside of his immediate family and is apt to bark and bite strangers. Although the dog is sturdy, he is prone to broken bones which eliminates him as a suitable candidate for homes with children. Also, the breed is only breed friendly, so mixing the animal with other pets is not recommended.

"They make wonderful pets but they are not for everybody," says Chihuahua Club of America President Sandra Whittle.

Despite the drawbacks, Chi owners rave about his intelligence and alertness. The dog is readily trainable and his distinctive barking makes him an excellent watch dog even though his size prevents him from being a guard dog.

Owners especially site the Chi for his devoted companionship. Nothing makes him happier than interacting with his master, signaling his desire to be scratched by tapping his owner with a soft paw or affectionate nuzzle.

Because they love to cuddle, the Chihuahua makes a great TV companion...Perhaps Taco Bell commercials would be his favorite television faire?

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