Publisher's Synopsis
The Chihuahua is a breed steeped in history, with its roots tracing back thousands of years. This small yet spirited dog is believed to be one of the oldest breeds native to the Americas. Its name derives from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where the modern breed was first discovered in the mid-19th century. However, the true origin of the Chihuahua dates back much further, with connections to ancient civilizations that thrived long before European colonization.
The breed is thought to have descended from a now-extinct dog known as the Techichi, a companion animal kept by the Toltec civilization, which predated the Aztecs. The Techichi was a small, mute dog that held significant cultural and spiritual importance. Evidence of these dogs dates back to as early as the 9th century, with carvings and artifacts depicting their likenesses.
When the Toltec civilization fell around the 12th century, their dogs continued to exist, eventually being adopted by the Aztecs. The Aztecs further refined the breed, selectively breeding the Techichi for specific traits such as smaller size and agility. These dogs were believed to possess mystical powers, including the ability to guide souls through the underworld, as per Aztec mythology.
The connection between the Chihuahua and the ancient Toltec and Aztec civilizations is well-documented through archaeological findings. The Techichi, the Chihuahua's likely ancestor, was prevalent in these cultures and held a dual role as both a companion animal and a religious symbol.
In Toltec society, Techichis were considered sacred. They were often depicted in sculptures, ceramics, and other forms of art. The Toltecs believed that these dogs had the power to guide the spirits of the dead to the afterlife, which is why they were often buried alongside their owners. This belief carried into the Aztec era, where the dogs continued to play a vital role in religious ceremonies and were often sacrificed or buried with the dead to assist them in their journey to Mictlan, the Aztec underworld.
The Aztecs revered the Techichi not only for their spiritual significance but also for their practical use. They believed these dogs could ward off evil spirits and even cure ailments. The Techichi was considered a sacred animal, and its presence was a common feature in temples and homes of the elite. The small size, gentle nature, and loyalty of the Techichi were highly prized, and these traits were carefully preserved through selective breeding practices.
