Oh, the Chihuahua, a little bundle of history and charm! Did you know these pint-sized pooches trace their ancestry back to Mexico? DNA tells us that dogs trotted into North America from Siberia about 10,000 years ago, and by the 8th century, the Aztecs had already tamed small wild dogs.
The Aztec Connection
Moctezuma II, the last emperor of the Aztecs, adored these little darlings and had hundreds of them under royal protection! These Chihuahuas were more than just pets; they were seen as sacred guides for souls in the afterlife. When a noble passed away, their loyal Chihuahua would accompany them on their journey, fighting off evil spirits and helping them cross to the other side.
Colonial Records and Evolution
In the early 19th century, colonial records mention small, nearly hairless dogs. These dogs were likely bred with the Xoloitzcuintli, the famous Mexican hairless dog, to create the Chihuahua we adore today. It's also believed that the Xoloitzcuintli was mixed with the Techichi, another ancient breed, to perfect this delightful dog.
From Mexico to the World
The breed got its name from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where European explorers found them in abundance! In 1520, Hernán Cortés wrote about the Aztecs' unique relationship with these little dogs, noting that they were sometimes used as food. They were likely used as sacred food offerings to the gods.
Modern Fame
By 1884, Chihuahuas were being sold to tourists visiting Mexico, marking the beginning of their international journey. Today, Chihuahuas have become super popular, often seen as status symbols, prancing around with their heads held high and their tails wagging proudly.
These tiny dogs, with their big hearts, continue to capture hooman's love and imagination. From ancient temples to modern homes, Chihuahuas remind us of the deep bonds between hoomans and their furry friends.
See also our Collection of Chihuahua Clothes.
