The Difference Between a Deer-Head Chihuahua and a Mini-Pinscher

While both breeds are popular and compact, several differences separate deer-head Chihuahuas from miniature pinschers. In addition to having different ancestors, differences are found in the various coats of the two breeds, as well as in coloring and temperament. In addition, deer-head Chihuahuas may not compete in American Kennel Club competitions, as the shape of the head is considered a flaw. However, "apple-head" Chihuahuas are eligible for competition.

  1. Heads

    • While there is only one kind of miniature pinscher head shape, there are two kinds of Chihuahua head shapes. One kind is known as an "apple head," in which the head shape is round and the nose is short, giving the Chihuahua an overall "apple" appearance. The other kind of Chihuahua head shape is known as a "deer head," in which the snout is longer.

    Coats

    • Another difference between a deer-head Chihuahua and a miniature pinscher is the coat. While the miniature pinscher only has one variety of coat, which is short, the deer-head Chihuahua has two varieties -- short-coated and long-coated.

    Coloring

    • While many people think of miniature pinschers as being black and tan, there are other color variations in the breed. Some miniature pinschers are red, while others possess a combination of black and red. Some miniature pinschers are chocolate and red. Deer-head Chihuahuas, on the other hand, come in any variation of color, including white, which usually isn't found on miniature pinschers.

    Dog Shows

    • Another difference between the deer-head Chihuahua and the miniature pinscher is that in any dog show sponsored by the American Kennel Club, such as the Westminster Kennel Club, only the Miniature Pinscher can compete for the top prize. Deer-head Chihuahuas are not eligible. Under the standards imposed by the American Kennel Club, only apple-head Chihuahuas can compete.

    Temperament

    • Miniature pinschers tend to be high-energy dogs, spirited and active, while the deer-head Chihuahua tends to be more of an alert dog that is not overly active. Deer-head Chihuahuas can sometimes make better "lap" dogs than miniature pinschers.

    Origins

    • The origin of the miniature pinscher is nearly a world away from the origin of the deer-head Chihuahua. The miniature pinscher traces its roots back to Germany, while the deer-head Chihuahua has ancestors coming from the Chihuahua region of Mexico. While the miniature pinscher is believed to have dachshunds and Italian greyhound bloodlines in its distant past, the deer-head Chihuahua might have come from the Fennec Fox family. In addition, the uses of the two breeds are quite different. While the original Miniature Pinscher was developed as a ratter, the Chihuahua was more of a ceremonial dog, as well as one placed within royal families.