Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Conversation
The Conversation
Jacqueline Boyd, Senior Lecturer in Animal Science, Nottingham Trent University

Chihuahua dogs are part coyote – this might help explain their ‘small but mighty’ reputation

Eric Isselee / Shutterstock

It turns out that one of the smallest dog breeds, the chihuahua, is part wild coyote, according to recently published genetic research. The chihuahua breed originated in Mexico but is now a popular canine companion worldwide.

Coyote genes may have been introduced into ancestors of the chihuahua accidentally. It may also be a result of deliberate attempts to cross the two animals – perhaps many generations ago.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.