Did you know the Chihuahua is one of the oldest dog breeds in the Americas? These tiny pups trace their roots back to ancient Mexico, specifically the Toltec and later Aztec civilizations. Archaeologists have found small dog figurines and remains often of a breed very similar to today’s Chihuahuas buried with their owners. They were believed to have spiritual powers, guiding souls to the afterlife. When Spanish conquistadors arrived, these little dogs survived upheaval and eventually made their