Types of Chihuahua Dogs

Chihuahuas are sweet, silly, loveable and loyal pets. They have a feisty behavior and the reputation of enjoying barking at most anything that moves. Of course, Chihuahua temperament varies from dog to dog. Some are more high-strung and some are more placid. They are small and easy to carry, come in a variety of shapes and coat patterns, love warmth and are excellent watchdogs. The dogs are quite fragile and need great care. A Chihuahua that has a loyal and loving human companion will be loving and loyal in return.

  1. Fur Types

    • Chihuahuas are long-haired or short-haired. The short-haired Chihuahua has fur that is smooth and requires little grooming. The hair is soft and can be either short or curly. The ears have fringes of fur and the tail is also hairy. Long-haired Chihuahuas require more grooming and shed more often. The hair can be either flat or wavy. The tail is like a plume and there will be feathering on feet and legs. Large ruffs on the neck are preferred.

    Apple or Deer Heads

    • The Chihuahua has either an apple head or a deer head. Apple head Chihuahuas have a short nose and a face that is broad and shaped more like an apple would be. This term describes any Chihuahua with a round or dome-like head similar to an apple. The upper part of the skull is broader than the lower jaw area. They often look like a miniature Doberman Pinscher. Deer head Chihuahuas have a long nose and a head shape that mimics that of a deer or fawn. The Deer head term refers to other Chihuahuas that do not fit into the Apple head group.

    Misconceptions

    • Breeders will try to sell their Chihuahua as “teacup,” “mini” or “pocket" Chihuahuas. These names are not official and are merely sales tactics or gimmicks. Only two types of Chihuahuas exist: the deer head and the apple head Chihuahua. However, all Chihuahuas are the toy breed of dog. Breeders will try to breed the smallest type of Chihuahua they can and then label them as toy dog breeds. This is basically another sales gimmick designed to make the buyer pay more because they believe that are getting a rarer dog.