Lately it has become more and more apparent to me that Wynston truly defeats most (if not all) negative Chihuahua stereotypes. Through our many traveling adventures, I’ve learned that people are shocked by Wyn’s behavior excellent, as he’s always so calm, quiet and welcoming. This reminds me of a story…
I was at home working one day, my face buried deep in the confines on my computer screen, when the doorbell rings. My hounds begin singing the song of their people to let me know an intruder had arrived. I picked up Wynston so he’d stop barking and I opened the door. It was not, in fact, an intruder. Standing in front of me was the friendly water heater technician.
“Is that a…Chihuahua?” the man asked me, skeptically.
“Yes! This is Wynston.”
“Is he friendly?”
“He is! He won’t bite or anything.”
Reluctantly the man stroked Wynston’s little head a few times, and followed up with, “I’m terrified of Chihuahuas. The only one I ever knew bit me once. I’ve been scared ever since.” He slowly backed away.
“Wow, I’m so sorry! Wynston would never do that. He’s a mellow boy. But I can put him inside if it makes you more comfortable.”
“Oh no, that’s fine! It’s nice to actually meet a nice Chihuahua. This makes me feel better.”
It was a proud moment. Once again, Wynston had proven to me that he’s a great example for the Chihuahua breed. Although I was sad for that man and his past experience, I was happy that Wynston could show him that not all Chihuahuas are nasty dogs. In fact, any dog can give a breed a bad rap, but certain breeds like Chihuahuas and American Staffordshire Terriers receive the brunt of it. (Thanks a lot, media…). So let’s start by outlining the common Chihuahua stereotypes.
Chihuahua Stereotypes:
- Mean
- Yappy
- Dumb or untrainable
- Misbehaved
- “Land sharks” or “ankle biters”
- Hyper
- Not friendly toward humans or other animals
- Non-athletic
- Fragile or injury prone
- Scared or anxiety ridden
- Non-travelers
- Shake a lot
Now let’s break down each bullet, Wynston style:
- Wynston is not mean, but he will get grumpy at his siblings from time to time.
- He’s not a barker, unless someone is at the door.
- He’s very smart and well trained. (PetSmart model – duh!)
- He’s the best boy, who behaves extremely well, especially in public.
- He’s definitely not a land shark or ankle biter.
- He’s super mellow and calm.
- He loves a small circle of humans, and gets along with all animals (especially big dogs and cats).
- He loves to go hiking and he’s won several agility ribbons.
- Although he’s broken a bone, he is not fragile by any means.
- He’s not scared or anxiety ridden.
- He loves traveling…a lot.
- He shakes, but it’s not a BAD thing!
Chihuahuas are amazing dogs. Just like any breed, each has their own personality. Sure I’ve met Chis that are land sharks, but not Wynston. He defies all negative Chihuahua stereotypes and I’m grateful that he can be a great spokesdog for the breed.
Do you have a dog that defies their breed stereotypes in a positive way? Tell me about it!
Eliza says
I hate the ‘foofy’ Poodle stereotype! Mine are just as ready to rough and tumble, get dirty, and play just like any other dog! I’ve also heard the poodles are aggressive stereotype. Gah! Couldn’t be further from the truth in my experience!