Chihuahua Facts

• Chihuahuas were first discovered in the Mexican state of Chihuahua in 1850. They are the smallest dog breed in the world and usually weigh no more than six pounds.

• Although the Chihuahua in Beverly Hills Chihuahua is beige, Chihuahuas come in several colours and patterns. Some are black, some are brown, and some are a mixture of black, brown, white and beige.

• Although people like to carry their Chihuahuas in purses or carriers, it’s important that Chihuahuas go for walks every day, just like other dogs.

• In 2007, the Guinness Book of World Records named Boo, a four-inch-tall female Chihuahua the smallest dog in the world. She weighed only 1.5 pounds.

• The dog that tells you to “Run for the Border” in the Taco Bell commercials is a Chihuahua named Gidget. Gidget also played Reese Witherspoon’s dog’s mother in Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde, and appeared on an episode of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

• You’ll often see Chihuahuas wearing sweaters in winter because they’re used to the warm weather of Mexico, and their small bodies make it hard to retain heat.

• They tend to be very curious and fiercely devoted dogs, and are known for their loud yappy bark. They can also be high-strung or nervous animals, but proper training can help them relax.

• Chihuahuas usually live for about 15 years so think long and hard before you get one as a pet.