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Home » Pets And Animals Articles » How Chihuahuas Can Make The Perfect Pets

How Chihuahuas Can Make The Perfect Pets

The Chihuahua (pronounced "Chee-wa-wa") is one of the oldest and most popular dog breeds in the world. He is also the smallest canine bred today. At his maximum height, he stands only 9 inches at the shoulders; however, most Chihuahuas are usually in around 6-8 inches high. Commonly referred to as a "Chi", the Chihuahua is a native of Mexico and comes in different colors and two coat varieties: smooth hair and long haired.

Chihuahuas live up to 18 years, are devoted to their owners, and are pumped full of attitude. For such a pint size dog, the Chihuahua has a serious personality, and isn't afraid to show it off; he is completely oblivious to his size although his fearless behavior can be quite endearing at times, it can also get the Chi into plenty of trouble if he is not properly socialized and trained.

You see, without the proper training and socialization, the Chihuahua can become aggressive and excessively suspicious towards strangers and overprotective of their owner. Furthermore, he won't show discretion towards larger dogs and will attempt to stand his ground. All dogs require guidance starting from puppy hood - Chis are no exception.

Chihuahuas are relatively easy to train as long as training is consistent and you are persistent. They are quite intelligent but are also willful. Even though they are sweet and loveable, this dog must be shown his place and controlled.

Chihuahuas tend to favor their owner over everyone else, and are not exceptionally sociable with strangers. A Chihuahua won't think twice about snapping at a teasing child, and they also aren't wild about other family pets, but will be able to tolerate most if raised with them as a puppy. That being said, they get along well with their own kind.

Like all of his canine cousins, the Chi loves to play and needs a certain amount of exercise to keep his muscles strong, and to maintain his healthy bodyweight of 2-4 pounds.

This breed loves to go out for walks, and will be happy to travel anywhere with their owner. However, because Chis have small legs and can't walk for an extended period of time, many owners purchase dog carriers for their pooch. Many dog carriers today are highly fashionable, and allow you to comfortably carry your Chi so you can take him with you wherever you go.

In addition to the pet carrier, something else one needs to keep in mind when owning a Chihuahua is that they are sensitive to cool temperatures. Therefore, they should be provided with proper attire on cold days, such as a jacket or sweater.

Moreover, aside from being sensitive to cool climates, Chihuahuas are also prone to other health issues you should be aware of such as hypoglycemia, knee problems and molera. Molera is a term for the soft spot in the centre of a Chi's head where the skull has not fully closed. Due to this condition, a single blow to the head could kill a Chihuahua. Thus, Chihuahuas are small dogs that can easily be injured if sat on or handled roughly. For this reason, the Chihuahua is not a good mix with younger children that could unintentionally harm the dog.

When it all comes down to it, Chihuahuas make ideal pets for families with older, responsible children (above the age of 10), and anyone who is looking for a solid companion that they can give their love and attention to.

One couldn't ask for a more loyal and loving companion than the dynamic and unique Chihuahua.

And here is another random article you might be interested in...

Small Cards, Big Ideas: Alternative Uses for Business Cards

Aggressive business card marketing isn't about handing your business cards out to everyone you see. The card itself must have a new use, an innovative design, or something other than the usual contact information printed on it. To make your little card stand out, try these other ideas.

Print something other than a business card on biz card-sized cardstock.

You have seen loyalty cards for "buy 10 get one free" offers; why not print one of your own? Print a frequent buyer card or other promotional offer on a card. The whole card can be a coupon for a free consultation, a discount, or a free gift with purchase. Remember include an expiration date on them! Then hand them out to all your customers.

Print a short survey on a card.

Offer an incentive for people to return the card to you with the survey answered--they can get a free gift or a discount just for answering a few simple questions. Then give them a new card with your contact information on it.

Other things you might print on this size cardstock include:

• Hangtags
• Nametags
• Tickets to an event; or
• Tiny greeting cards you might attach to a gift basket or other gift.

It's always nice to handwrite a personal note when using them as greeting cards. A quick "thank you" or "best wishes" goes a long way. Or, announce a special event and enclose the cards with all your outgoing correspondence.

Make your business card a referral card for your organization or club.

That will make it easy to invite a prospect to your next meeting or to introduce the organization to them. On the front, print a form to fill in the date, time and location. On the back, include a brief overview of the club. Let members hand them out to potential recruits.

Turn them into appointment cards.

On one side, you can print your name, address, phone, fax and email plus your business name and logo. On the other side, leave room to fill in the date and time of your customer's next appointment. They will keep it in their wallet or planner and always have your information at their fingertips. You could also print a map of your location on the back or directions on how to reach your store or office.

Whatever you choose to do, remember that a little card can have a big impact on your marketing if you employ some creativity. Once you are finished with your designs, upload them to a professional business card printer who will print the cards for you.

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