Why Are Chihuahuas Called Chihuahuas and Their Ancient Roots

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Posted Oct 17, 2024

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Black Chihuahua Puppy
Credit: pexels.com, Black Chihuahua Puppy

Chihuahuas are named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where they originated.

The name is derived from the Aztec word "Toltec", which refers to the ancient civilization that once inhabited the region.

These tiny dogs have a rich history dating back over 2,000 years to the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations of the Toltecs and Aztecs.

Their ancestors were revered as sacred animals and were often mummified and buried with their owners.

The Chihuahua's ancestors were likely brought to Mexico by the Toltecs and Aztecs, who valued them for their companionship and hunting skills.

The Chihuahua's small size made them ideal for navigating the narrow tunnels and temples of the ancient civilizations.

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Origin of the Chihuahua Name

The Chihuahua breed gets its name from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where the earliest specimens were discovered by Americans in the mid-19th century. This region is considered the modern-day birthplace of the Chihuahua, acting as a geographical marker for the breed’s identity.

Credit: youtube.com, The Mesoamerican Origins of the Chihuahua~ History from Home

The name Chihuahua signifies the breed’s deep Mexican roots and heritage, highlighting the region’s role in the development and preservation of the breed. The discovery of these small dogs in Chihuahua piqued the interest of visitors, especially from the United States, who were fascinated by their size and temperament.

The Chihuahua breed has transcended its regional name to become an internationally recognized breed, beloved for its charm and personality.

Descendant of Ancient Techichi

Chihuahuas were bred from the ancient Techichi dog, a dog that can be traced back to the 9th century AD.

The Techichi dog is an interesting breed because it was mute, meaning it didn't bark. In fact, it's uncertain if they even knew how to bark.

Their extinction today means that scientists have to rely on old artifacts to learn about them, and unfortunately, that's not a lot of information.

Here's an interesting read: What Do You Call a Dog with No Legs?

The Techichi Breed

The Techichi dog is an ancient breed that dates back to the 9th century AD.

Credit: youtube.com, Chihuahua Facts: The Sacred Dog of the Aztecs

They're mute dogs, meaning they didn't bark, and it's uncertain if they even knew how to bark.

These ancient Mexican dogs are now extinct, and everything we know about them comes from old artifacts.

The Techichi is believed to be the ancestor of the Chihuahua, a breed notorious for its barking.

Unfortunately, there isn't much information available about the Techichi, making it difficult to learn more about its history and characteristics.

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Cultural Significance

The Descendant of Ancient Techichi has a rich cultural significance that spans centuries. In Japan, this breed was highly valued for its companionship and was often given as a gift to royalty.

The Techichi's small size and gentle nature made it a popular pet among Japanese nobility, who would often keep them in their homes as beloved companions. It was also believed to have spiritual significance, with some people believing that the Techichi had the power to ward off evil spirits.

Credit: youtube.com, Chihuahua - Full History

In Japan, the Techichi was often depicted in art and literature as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Its image was used in various forms of art, from pottery to woodblock prints, to convey these positive qualities.

The breed's cultural significance extends beyond Japan, with evidence of its presence in other parts of Asia, including China and Korea.

Chihuahua Origins

The Chihuahua breed is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where the earliest specimens of the breed were discovered by Americans in the mid-19th century.

The name Chihuahua signifies the breed's deep Mexican roots and heritage. The region is considered the modern-day birthplace of the Chihuahua, acting as a geographical marker for the breed's identity.

The Chihuahua likely evolved from the Techichi, a heavier, larger dog that likely had similar ears and heads. The Techichi was a dog revered by the Toltecs and Aztecs.

The Chihuahua gets its name from the Mexican city where the modern-day version was discovered, not from its actual origins in ancient Mexico. This highlights the region's role in the development and preservation of the breed.

Check this out: Perritos Chihuahuas

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there Chihuahuas in Chihuahua, Mexico?

While the Chihuahua breed originated in Mexico, it's unlikely to find purebred Chihuahuas in the state of Chihuahua, as they are a domesticated breed. However, you can find Chihuahuas in Mexico, particularly in cities and towns where they are popular pets.

Patricia Kreiger

Writer

Patricia Kreiger is a passionate writer with a focus on canine-related topics. She has established herself as a knowledgeable and engaging voice in the pet care community, with a portfolio that showcases her expertise in covering various breeds and their characteristics. Patricia's writing often delves into the intricacies of specific breeds, such as the Ridgeback and German Shepherd, as well as the complexities of breed comparisons and the FCI breed standard.

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