Instructions
Determine whether the Chihuahua has long or short fur; this is one of the breed's basic categories. Long-haired Chihuahuas' coats can be straight or wavy, but it is always soft. Note that the ears have a fringe of fur around the tips, as does the tail. Feel the fur of a short-haired Chihuahua; you will notice that it is smooth but coarser than a long-haired Chihuahua's coat. (See Reference 1)
Identify the color type of a Chihuahua: The most common is fawn, but the dogs also can be white, black, brown, blue or parti-colored. The American Kennel Club (AKC) states that any color coat, "solid, marked or splashed," is acceptable for the breed standards of the Chihuahua. (See Reference 1)
Check the shape of the head for the final distinction in types of Chihuahuas. There are two basic head shapes: apple or deer, though the AKC recognizes only the apple-shaped head. This type of head is rather round at the crown, and the snout is shorter than on a deer-shaped head (See Reference 3). The latter head shape slopes at the forehead, and the snout is longer. (See Reference 2).
How to Identify the Types of Chihuahua Dogs
Chihuahuas are small dogs, a toy breed, that originated in Chihuahua, Mexico. (See Reference 1). They are sweet-natured, lively and energetic dogs with tons of attitude and quirky personalities, and they make great pets. Owners of Chihuahuas are often amused by the tough-dog persona displayed in such a small package. Types of Chihuahuas are identified by three basic categories: coat length, color type and head shape.