Legend abounds with fabulous stories regarding the history of the Chihuahua. Exotic tales include those of single families keeping upwards of a thousand dogs (each with his own slave!), cremating them with their masters as a guarantee of eternal life, offering Chihuahuas as sacrificial food to the Aztec gods etc. What is known is that the breed was named after Chihuahua, the Mexican state where it was discovered in the late nineteenth century.

The world's smallest dog, the Chihuahua is also one of its most popular. Is it any wonder when you consider that he is so portable, cheap to feed, easy to groom, requires such a small amount of room, as well as needing so little exercise. Add to that the fact that he is very clean in his habits and has no doggie odour, plus being fiercely protective and ultra alert means you have a built-in family watchdog.

Taken all round, the "Chi" is a graceful, alert, swift moving little dog with a saucy expression. Being as small as he is, it is best not to purchase a Chihuahua puppy before 10-12 weeks of age. It goes without saying that he is not the dog for anyone looking for a robust play companion.

The Smooth Coat Chihuahua, as his name suggests, possesses a smooth close, glossy soft textured coat which can be of any colour.

Size-wise he should be as small as possible, and weigh less than 2.7 kg.

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