Chihuahuas are Mexican because the ancestors of the breed are from Mexico. The breed name may come from a phrase in an indigenous language meaning “beggar” or “rascal”.
Chihuahuas were originally bred to be pets in the 1700-the 1800s by either Franciscan friars or hobbyists in Puebla, Mexico. They were bred down to be smaller versions of the larger native dog found there, but they still retain some larger mixes like the smooth coat chow, bloodhound, and even German shepherd. Contrary to what you might find on internet memes, Chihuahuas do not originate with Taco Bell…