By Louise Shannon-Martin
For the Closeup
What is it about this tiny breed of dog that makes people love them? Is it the fact that they weigh only a few pounds? Thus easy to bath[e], walk and light on the wallet at feeding time. Is it because you can dress them up in the cutest of costumes�and they let you? Or is it that although they are only a few inches off the ground, they think they can take on a Great Dane?
According to Chihuahua enthusiasts, it�s all of the above and more.
When Holly Budd, Chihuahua Club of Savannah founder, decided she wanted a dog she considered many options before settling on a Chihuahua. �I was looking at the fact that they are easy maintenance. No monthly trip to the groomer nor any strenuous exercise or heavy walking is needed. A run around the living room, and that�s about all they need.� she said.
�They are light weight, like little dolls. You can carry them everywhere. And a little known fact, they can be litter box trained.�
Look around. Many of us have seen a Chihuahua being carried in someone�s purse or bag.
They have been known to be carried around in backpacks, carry-on baggage or tucked away in a jacket.
They are in the arms of celebrities or in those of your neighbor.
Let�s fact it; they are the ultimate carry-around pooch.
Unfortunately, Chihuahuas have developed a reputation as a snappy breed, owning up to one person and snarling at the rest. Although they�re small, this behavior can be intimidating and turn off people.
Budd says it is imperative to socialize your Chihuahua as soon as you get it.
�I can�t stress enough how important it is,� she said. �That is why I started the club along with my friend Janet Moore, so our little one, Chudleigh, could interact with others like her. That is the main reason for the club.�
Budd says the club helps Chihuahua owners become more acquainted with the breed.
"The club was formed primarily to help socialize these |
