Are There Different Kinds of Chihuahua Dogs?

Images of Chihuahuas in teacups or being carried in purses are common sights in print advertisements and the movies. Since Chihuahuas are lively, intelligent dogs that enjoy a good walk, you may have seen one or two in your neighborhood as well. From the 2 pound Chihuahua with long, curly blond hair to the 6 pound one with a short, black and tan coat, it seems no two Chihuahuas are exactly alike.

  1. Long Coats and Short Coats

    • The American Kennel Club describes Chihuahuas as either long coats (long haired) or short coats (short haired). Long coat Chihuahuas have long, soft fur that is either straight or wavy. Fringed fur around the ears, a full plumed tail and feathery puffs of fur on the feet, legs and neck are preferred. Smooth coat Chihuahuas have short, glossy fur that sits close to the body. Smooth coat Chihuahuas may have long hair on the tails and a small ruff of fur on the neck. Smooth coat Chihuahuas typically shed less than long coat varieties.

    Apple Heads and Deer Heads

    • The American Kennel Club recognizes Chihuahuas displaying "apple dome" heads as the breed standard. Chihuahuas with apple-shaped heads have rounded skulls with a slight depression at the top. The head tapers down and inward near the jaw with a short nose to create the classic apple shape. Chihuahuas with deer-shaped heads have a more slopped head with a longer nose and slender legs and paws like those of a deer.

    Coat Colors

    • The American Kennel Club does not break Chihuahuas down into different types based on coat color. All coat colors are accepted and recognized within the breed standard. Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat colors such as cream, fawn, chestnut, chocolate, blue and black. Coat patterns also vary from solid colors to those with marks and splashes of color.

    Teacup, Mini and Pocket

    • Another common misconception is that Chihuahuas comes in teacup, mini or pocket varieties. The American Kennel Club classifies all Chihuahuas in the toy dog group. The terms teacup, mini, pocket or purse are descriptive words used to create images for those looking to purchase or adopt a Chihuahua.