Learn About the Different Types of Chihuahuas and Their Characteristics

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Posted Oct 18, 2024

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Adult Black and White Chihuahua on Blue Carrier
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There are several types of Chihuahuas, each with its unique characteristics. The Long Coat Chihuahua is one of the most recognizable types, with a soft and silky coat that requires regular grooming.

The Short Coat Chihuahua, on the other hand, has a smooth and glossy coat that sheds very little. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies or who prefer low-maintenance pets.

The Apple Head Chihuahua is another popular type, known for its large head and prominent forehead. They are often considered to be the most traditional type of Chihuahua.

The Deer Head Chihuahua has a longer, more pointed muzzle and is often considered to be a more rare and exotic type.

Chihuahua Characteristics

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed recognized by some kennel clubs, with a height range of 6 to 9 inches and a weight range of 1.5 to 3.0 kg.

They come in virtually any color combination, from solid to marked or splashed, and can have either long hair or short hair. Their skull conformation is typically "apple-head" or "apple-dome", with large, round eyes and large, erect ears.

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The breed standard does not generally specify a height, but rather a weight and a description of their overall proportions. A well-defined stop forms a near-90-degree angle where the muzzle meets the skull.

Here are the two main types of Chihuahua head shapes:

Chihuahuas may display above-average aggression toward people and other dogs, likely due to their small size and territorial nature.

Chihuahua Characteristics

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed recognized by some kennel clubs. They come in virtually any color combination, from solid to marked or splashed.

Their skull conformation is defined by registries as an "apple-head" or "apple-dome" shape. This shape features large, round eyes and large, erect ears.

The stop is well defined, forming a near-90-degree angle where the muzzle meets the skull. This distinctive feature is a key characteristic of the breed.

Chihuahuas do not generally have a specified height, but rather a weight and description of their overall proportions. Their height can range from 15 to 23 cm (6 to 9 in), with some dogs growing to 30 to 38 cm (12 to 15 in).

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The ideal weight for Chihuahuas is between 1.5 and 2.5 kg (3.3 and 5.5 lb), according to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale standard.

Here are the weight ranges specified by different kennel clubs:

Pet Chihuahuas often range above these weights, even above 4.5 kg (10 lb), if they have large bone structures or are allowed to become overweight.

Coat and Coloring

The Chihuahua's coat comes in two varieties: smooth-haired and long-haired. I've had the pleasure of meeting many Chihuahuas, and it's amazing how different their coats can look.

Smooth-haired Chihuahuas have a short, smooth, and glossy coat. Some may have an undercoat made up of slightly longer hair.

Long-haired Chihuahuas have a silky coat that's either smooth or slightly wavy. They often have fringe around their ears and tail.

A Chihuahua's coat can come in almost all possible colors and patterns. I've seen Chihuahuas with dark masks, merle, and white markings - it's incredible how diverse they can be.

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Chihuahua History and Facts

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The Chihuahua is an ancient breed with roots dating back to the Techichi dogs kept by the Toltecs and other Mesoamerican and Native American societies.

Archeologists have discovered artifacts depicting these Chihuahua ancestors as far back as 300 B.C. European explorers also reported seeing these small dogs in reports throughout the 16th century.

The Chihuahua was first recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1908, when they registered a Chihuahua named “Beppie.”

Chihuahuas have two types of head shape: the more round “apple head” and the more slender “deer head” variation. The apple head is the standard for conformation (dog shows) in all of the major kennel clubs.

Chihuahuas are known for being the smallest dog breed in the world, with the Guinness World Record once being held by a Chihuahua named Heaven Sent Brandy, who measured only 6 inches long from nose to tail!

Here are the two recognized varieties of Chihuahua based on coat type:

In 2014, the Arizona town of Maryvale was taken over by feral Chihuahuas, who gained infamy for chasing people down the streets.

Similar Breeds and Mixes

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There are many other breeds that share similarities with Chihuahuas, making them great options for those who love the Chihuahua's unique characteristics.

The possibilities of Chihuahua mixes are virtually endless, with some of the most popular and unique mixes being Jack Chi, a mix that has been left off some lists.

These mixes offer a range of physical and personality traits that can be just as adorable and lovable as purebred Chihuahuas.

Chihuahua Mixed Breeds

The possibilities of Chihuahua mixes are virtually endless. These adorable dogs can make wonderful companions for people living in small houses or apartments.

Chihuahua mixed breeds can be quite unique, and some are harder to find than others. The Bolo-Chi, for example, is a rare breed that crosses the Chihuahua with the Bolognese.

The Bolo-Chi is a toy breed, bred for companionship, and they get along well with their owners. They are also very affectionate and love to be around their family.

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However, the Bolo-Chi's friendliness may vary depending on their Chihuahua side, which doesn't like strangers very much. On the other hand, the Bolognese side makes them friendly, so it's a bit of a mixed bag.

Despite their potential shyness around strangers, the Bolo-Chi is a great breed for people with allergies, as they are hypoallergenic dogs.

Similar Breeds to Chihuahua

If you're looking for a dog that's similar to a Chihuahua, the Pomeranian is a great option. They're both small, energetic breeds that make great companions.

The Pomeranian's average weight is between 3-7 pounds, similar to the Chihuahua's average weight of 2-8 pounds. They also have a similar lifespan, with an average of 12-16 years.

Like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians are known for their big personalities and can be quite stubborn at times. They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.

The Affenpinscher is another breed that shares some similarities with the Chihuahua. They both have a similar body shape and size, with an average weight of 7-13 pounds.

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Affenpinschers are known for their curious and playful nature, making them a great match for families with children. They also require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

The Japanese Chin is a small, gentle breed that's similar to the Chihuahua in many ways. They both have a similar lifespan and require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.

Japanese Chins are known for their calm and affectionate nature, making them a great match for families who want a low-maintenance pet. They're also relatively quiet, which is a bonus for apartment dwellers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the rarest type of Chihuahua?

The rarest type of Chihuahua is the Pure White Chihuahua, requiring two pure white parents to produce a puppy with no black pigmentation. This unique characteristic makes the all-white Chihuahua a truly one-of-a-kind breed.

How many Chihuahua breeds are there?

There are two main Chihuahua breeds: short coat and long coat, with further sub-categories including deer head and apple head Chihuahuas. Discover the unique characteristics of each type to find your perfect furry companion.

Which Chihuahua is best?

There is no single "best" Chihuahua, as each type has its unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different owners and lifestyles. To find the perfect Chihuahua for you, explore the various types, such as White, Chocolate, Merle, and more, to learn about their distinct features.

Eduardo Toy

Senior Writer

Eduardo Toy is a passionate writer with a knack for storytelling. With a focus on animal-related topics, Eduardo brings a unique voice to the table, drawing from personal experiences and in-depth research. His articles have been featured in various online publications, showcasing his expertise in areas such as dog breeds and pet care.