I was lucky enough to buy The Complete Chihuahua Encyclopedia by Hilary Harmer a very well known and respected breeder of Chihuahuas (as well as several other breeds).  I was surprised to note that in the section on breeding she does not stipulate that the male is smaller than the female, as on most of the Chihuahua sites that I frequent it seems the usual concensus that this is the preferred option in an attempt to secure a pup small enough to allow the bitch an easier whelping with less chance of problems of risk of a C section.  All the book mentions is that if one or other dog is smaller than the other to use a book to bring the other up to the same height, so it even implies that a larger male than the female could be used.  I mentioned this to a breeder I know (admittedly of a bigger breed dog) and he said that many males of the species were deliberately bred smaller for this putrpose and that it was a shame as some of the masculinity or slight difference that occured naturally in size was being erradicated.  I know that Chihuahuas have been said to be becoming too large in recent years and long term experienced breeders are attempting to reduce the size of the breed again to get it back to how it used to be.  But  I also wondered what experienced bereeders had to say about the mating of different sized dogs - in particular a slightly larger male than female, and if this was asking for trouble for the smaller bitch?

I am a complete novice so sorry if I appear naive, I am interested to learn and also to see how theories and practices may have altered over the years.  My Hilary Harmer book is from the early 70's.

I was surprised to note that in the section on breeding she does not stipulate that the male is smaller than the female

i think you have answered your own query. the book was from the 70's and i expect a lot has changed since then.

Has it changed for the better though - I mean I am particularly looking for the views of Chihuahua owners and breeders who can reflect on the time span and their involvement throughout their family if possible - I know some families have passed down the tradition of breeding Chihuahuas and I would be interested in their take on the past and current situation.  As well as confirm or deny present acceptable practices.

I suppose really it is what he throws rather than the actual size of him.  A bigger dog may be known for breeding smaller pups, but unless you know the lines of both dogs used it is a gamble using a bigger male.

Thanks perrodeagua.

Astonishingly I saw an ad today for Staffi X GSD puppies - with the MUM being the Staffi - how dangerous was that?!