Posts tagged "ChihuahuaDogs"

We have a winner! According to the judges at last weekend's World's Ugliest Dog contest, Princess Abby Francis is now officially the "World's Ugliest Dog" (or at least Northern California's). Beating out last year's champion, Pabst, and a slew of Chinese-crested candidates, Princess Abby took home the $1,000 grand prize at the Sonoma-Marin Fair's beauty-less pageant.

The unsightly four-year-old chihuahua mix sports a gray, brown, and white coat, a set of oddly misshapen legs, and a deformed left eye. Proud owner Kathleen Francis rescued Princess Abby only three months ago, after the malnourished pup was found walking the streets of Lake County, Calif. covered with fleas.

"I don't think she's ugly at all," Francis tells the Associated Press, "I think she's the most beautiful dog." According to Francis, she didn't intend to adopt a dog at all, but after seeing Princess Abby at the vet's office "I fell in love with her."

According to celebrity judge Karen "Doc" Halligan, Princess Abby's malformed back, legs, and eye are likely the result of inbreeding. "She's a poster child to spay and neuter your pets," Halligan tells the AP.

Of course, no pageant charged with judging something as subjective as beauty (or the complete lack thereof) would be complete without a controversy over the results. According to one commenter on Omidog.com, "I think it's quite heartless to choose a dog that suffers with a congenial defect, and label it as being 'ugly.'"

While the concept of a "World's Ugliest Dog" contest may appear offensive on the surface, it also may help animal rescue enthusiasts look at unsightly dogs in a new way. Previous winners, such as the 2009 winner Miss Ellie, have used their title to bring attention -- and money -- to pet causes.

From Tinkerbell to Taco Bell, the Chihuahua has its little paws all over American pop culture. A member of the Toy group, the Chihuahua is the 12th most popular breed in the United States, according to 2008 American Kennel Club stats.

A Look Back
The Chihuahua's history is shrouded in mystery, but some believe he originated from the Fennec Fox, a very small animal with big eyes and ears, which could explain the tiny frame, luminous eyes and large ears on the breed today.

Did You Know...
The Chihuahua derives its name from the Mexican State of Chihuahua. It's believed that the ancient Aztec culture of Central America may have used the Chihuahua for religious sacrifice, burying them with their dead masters so their sins could be transferred to the dog. Some people believe the Chihuahua's small warm body can be used to relieve stomach upset and arthritis, or to discourage asthma attacks. Whether true or tall tale, this folklore proves the Chihuahua has long been a cherished companion.

Is a Chihuahua the right breed for your family?
Chihuahuas are alert dogs with terrier-like qualities. They are good with families if the children are gentle and patient. Because of their small size, they require little exercise and are good city dogs, but can be sensitive to cold temperatures. Smooth coated Chihuahuas need very little grooming due to their short hair. Long coats need occasional brushing but still require minimal grooming.

Thinking about buying a Chihuahua?
Additional information for those considering a Chihuahua – including things to know before you get a dog, tips on how to find a breeder near you, or a list of training clubs in your local area – can be found on the American Kennel Club Web site.