the Techichi Dog

The Techichi is probably known as one only a couple indigenous breeds in the western hemisphere. It evolved into the Chihuahua dog  and was present in the early civilizations of Central America and Mexico. It is believed the Techichi, which did not bark, were used in temples and cared for by priests.  Common belief was the Techichi Dog had mystical powers and could heal human illness and see into the future. Sacrifices were commonly associated to this breed. The red Techichi could guide souls to the underworld, which is proven since many graves have been excavated in Mexico containing the skeletons of these small dogs.

Christopher Columbus reported of small dogs “which were mute and did not bark, as usual, but were domesticated.

Though the Techichi was larger than the present day Chihuahua, as the size decreased, the courage increased and this mighty little dog found its voice.  These tiny dogs are driven by their loyal, underlying love of their owners, and without regard to difference in size will defend home and master without thought of consequence.

The Chihuahua is popular with apartment dwellers and elderly owners. With its big eyes, oversized ears, and bigger-than-life attitude, the Chihuahua is an excellent example of a canine who rules.

Chihuahuas tend to be very possessive and protective with little tolerance for intrusion. There is a story of an elderly woman who admitted a meter-reader without checking ID. Her pregnant Chihuahua followed. She led the uniformed man to the meter, where he attacked her, her Chihuahua promptly attacked and managed to bite the jugular vein. When everything settled after this incident, the woman advertised the courage of her Chihuahua and that this trait is in her puppies.

The Chihuahua’s loyalty is unquestionable, yet it is important to properly train and socialize. The Chihuahua does not adapt to change easily. Although often seen in travel cases, carried in someone’s arms or attached via leash, the Chihuahua is happiest with the stable environment where it can exhibit its playful, mischievous temperament. Because children under 12 move and interact rapidly, it is recommended that Chihuahuas do not be introduced into a family of young children