What Are the Differences in Size of Chihuahuas?

The chihuahua, recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1904, is classified under the AKC Toy Group. It comes originally from the Mexican state of Chihuahua where chihuahuas were first found in 1850. Chihuahuas may be descended from the Techichi dogs of the early Mexican Toltec people or from the Fennec Fox, a tiny creature with big eyes and ears. While its origins are uncertain, AKC Chihuahua breed information refers to both theories.

  1. Size Differences

    • The AKC and the Chihuahua Club of America have no differing size categories for purebred chihuahuas except that they should weigh less than six pounds. A normal, healthy chihuahua weighs between two and six pounds. The chihuahua is the world's smallest dog. It has become a trendy pet for celebrities in recent years, leading some breeders to market teacup or extra small dogs. The "teacup" chihuahua is not a recognized breed. Both organizations state that there is only one chihuahua breed.

    Consumer Info

    • Advertisements promoting pocket-size, miniature, mini, toy or teacup-size chihuahuas are common, but this is misleading, according to the AKC and the Chihuahua Club of America. In "The Teacup Statement," The Chihuahua Club of America cautions buyers to be aware that such marketing terms suggest greater value, but "misrepresent as rare and exceptional" the smaller pups occasionally born in any litter. They point out that extra care is often needed to keep the ultra-tiny chihuahuas healthy, as they frequently have expensive medical needs.

    Health Issues

    • Puppies that are very small have greater health risks, including fragile bones, weak internal organs and lack of proper dental growth because the mouth is not big enough to hold normal teeth. Blood sugar levels are hard to regulate, which can lead to seizures. It is not unusual for tinier chihuahuas to die young from heart attacks or organ failure. Reputable breeders will not breed smaller females (under two pounds) because it is too dangerous for the female.

    Types

    • Long-coat chihuahuas have a different appearance than smooth-coats.

      The AKC recognizes two types by coat, the smooth-coat and the long-coat. The smooth-coat is familiar to American viewers, being the big-eared type seen in films and Taco Bell advertisements. The long-coat is of similar size and conformation, but the longer hair gives it a distinctive appearance. It requires a bit more brushing than the smooth-coated chihuahua, but is still easy to groom. Both types share a bright and alert nature if cared for properly.