AKC Registered Chihuahuas are a hardy little breed due to the fact they are the only toy breed which has always been small. Other dogs which are included in the toy breed class have been bred (or shrunken) down from a larger breed. This process of "shrinking" a large or medium dog causes some undesirable effects which can result in genetic problems. Cross bred dogs are even more likely to suffer from genetic problems because they have both (or multiple) breeds from which they may draw a bad gene from. The Chihuahua, on the other hand has always been and always will be genetically small. This is why they don't have as many health problems. Thousands of years have allowed the strongest to reproduce and generations of meticulous breeders have selected the very best dogs to carry on the best and smartest Chihuahua traits.
 
     Toy breeds of dogs are not without certain needs or special qualities which may need consideration. The more you know about your Chihuahua or other toy breed of dog, the better owner you will make. If you have never owned a Chihuahua before; This is a good place to research information which is mostly specific to the Chihuahua breed including: Caring for your new puppy, What to do before you bring a puppy home, first aid, genetic concerns, preventative maintenance, and training. This area of my site will be eternally evolving, so check back often for updated Chihuahua or Toy Dog Breed information.