Understanding Types of Chihuahua Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Chihuahuas come in a variety of sizes, with the long coat variety weighing up to 7 pounds. They have a compact, apple-shaped head and large, round eyes.

There are two main types of Chihuahuas: long coat and smooth coat. The long coat variety requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

Chihuahuas are known for their small size, but they can be quite bold and confident. They have a strong will and can be challenging to train.

Readers also liked: How Many Types of Chihuahuas Are There

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed recognized by some kennel clubs, with a weight range of 1.0–3.0 kg (2.2–6.6 lb) and a height range of 15 to 23 cm (6 and 9 in).

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale standard calls for dogs ideally between 1.5 and 2.5 kg (3.3 and 5.5 lb), while the American breed standard sets a maximum weight of 2.7 kg (5.9 lb) for showing. 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.

On a similar theme: Why Are Chihuahuas Called Chihuahuas

Their skull conformation is defined by registries as an "apple-head" or "apple-dome" shape, with large, round eyes and large, erect ears. Apple-dome Chihuahuas have a well-defined stop, forming a near-90-degree angle where the muzzle meets the skull.

Here are the two main types of Chihuahua heads:

Deer head Chihuahuas tend to be larger in size, with longer legs, larger ears, and a more gradual slope where the muzzle joins the forehead.

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed recognized by some kennel clubs. They occur 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 is characterized by a large, round skull with a well-defined stop, forming a near-90-degree angle where the muzzle meets the skull.

Chihuahuas have large, round eyes and large, erect ears, set in a high, dramatically rounded skull. The American breed standard sets a maximum weight of 2.7 kg (5.9 lb) for showing.

Intriguing read: Bull Terrier Head Shape

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. This doesn't mean they're not purebred Chihuahuas; they just don't meet the requirements to enter a conformation show.

Chihuahuas do not breed true for size, and puppies from the same litter can mature in drastically different sizes from one another.

Chihuahuas are considered long-lived with a typical life expectancy of about 14 years. Some members of the breed can live longer when properly cared for.

The world's oldest Chihuahua on record is Megabyte, who passed away in 2014 at 20 years old.

You might enjoy: English Bull Terrier 100 Years Ago

Grooming and care for your Chihuahua is essential to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Chihuahuas have different coat types that require varying levels of grooming. Smooth-haired Chihuahuas need only occasional brushing due to their short, tidy coats.

Long-haired Chihuahuas, on the other hand, require more frequent brushing to prevent their coats from becoming tangled or matted. They should be brushed at least weekly.

Regular dental care is also crucial for Chihuahuas. They are particularly susceptible to dental issues due to their small mouths and crowded teeth.

Recommended read: Bernese Mountain Dog Care

Chihuahuas come in two main types: apple head and deer head. Apple head Chihuahuas have well-rounded, apple-shaped skulls that adhere to AKC standards.

Deer head Chihuahuas have a longer, deer-like head with a more gradual slope where the muzzle joins the forehead.

Deer head Chihuahuas tend to be larger in size, have longer legs, and larger ears.

The tail of the Chihuahua is set high and tapers as it reaches the tip.

Chihuahuas are very loyal and like attention, but can be somewhat sassy.

They can be excellent family pets, but may be hostile to strangers or children who seem threatening to their small size.

Chihuahuas are quite active and like to be kept busy, which can sometimes lead to barking if they're bored or overstimulated.

They're generally carried high and in a curved or semi-circular shape, which is an important trait to look out for.

Readers also liked: Average Size of Bernese Mountain Dog

The Chihuahua's coat comes in two varieties: smooth-haired and long-haired.

Smooth-haired Chihuahuas have a short, smooth, and glossy coat that's often accompanied by an undercoat made up of slightly longer hair.

Their coats are inherited by carrying one or two copies of the dominant gene for short hair.

Long-haired Chihuahuas have silky coats that can be either smooth or slightly wavy, often with fringe around the ears and tail.

They inherit their coats by carrying two copies of the recessive gene for long hair.

A Chihuahua's coat can come in almost all possible colors and patterns, including dark masks, merle, and white markings.

You might enjoy: Smooth Haired Fox Terrier Puppies