Furry Fun Fact: How Chihuahuas got their name from a Mexican state
Welcome, fellow pet enthusiasts, to the Furry Fun Fact of the Day!
Pets can do all sorts of crazy – and wonderful – things, can't they? We bet you discover new things about them daily.
Have you ever heard of a singing dog for example?
Join The South African website as we set out to learn fascinating – and often humourous – fun facts that set our pets apart from the rest of the animal kingdom.
Discover things about these bundles of joy that will leave you chuckling and wondering if they're not little humans in disguise!
The Chihuahua breed takes its name from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where American travelers first encountered the small dogs in the mid-1800s. Believed to be descendants of the ancient Techichi dogs kept by the Toltec civilization, these tiny canines were later popularized by Mexican traders who sold them to tourists along the U.S.-Mexico border.
The region's dry, desert climate and rich cultural history played a role in shaping the breed's hardy nature and mystique. Over time, the dogs gained popularity in the United States and beyond, but their name remained a lasting tribute to their geographic and cultural roots in northern Mexico.
Stay healthy and keep those furry friends happy!
Do you know any furry fun facts you'd like to share?
If so, email info@thesouthafrican.com or a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 and we'll publish the ones that fascinate us!
You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest facts.
While you're here, enjoy a wide variety of videos from news, lifestyle, travel, sports, viral videos, and lots more on The South African YouTube page.
Enjoy a wide variety of videos from news, lifestyle, travel, sports, viral videos – and lots more!
For more stories like this, view our pets category.
Your pet surely deserves a new toy🙂
Now that you've enjoyed the furry fun facts, tackle a variety of quizzes and competitions on The South African website.
There's a quiz with a cash prize that has your pet's name on it.
Good luck!
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