The Kinds of Long-Haired Chihuahuas

The Chihuahua is the oldest breed in the Americas and the smallest dog in the world. There is only one kind of long-haired Chihuahua. Within the breed, there are two types of dogs -- the short-haired and the long-haired. The only difference between the two is the length, consistency and colors of their hair and temperament. Although there are other distinctions within the breed related to the shape of its head and its size, the only officially recognized distinction is the coat type.

  1. Coats of Long-Haired Chihuahuas

    • Long-haired Chihuahuas shed less and have a downy undercoat, which gives their hair a soft, featherlike quality. The hair grows from 1 to 2 inches, and it takes two years to develop a full coat. They do not require trimming, and grooming needs are minimal, requiring only an occasional brushing. The color of their hair includes black, chocolate, red and cream (fawn), which is the standard. Coat colors are expressed as solid, brindled and spotted.

    Head Shape

    • The long-haired and short-haired Chihuahua have two head shapes. The American Kennel Club's breed standard is a rounded, dome-shaped head, resembling an apple. Its head is broad at the top of the skull and lower in the jaw. A dog with an apple-shaped head is called an "apple head Chihuahua." A Chihuahua that does not have this head shape typically has a head shaped like a deer and is referred to as a "deer head Chihuahua." These dogs are predisposed to having longer noses.

    Size and Weight

    • The American Kennel Club recognizes all Chihuahuas as toy dogs. There are size variations within the breed such as teacup, pocket, tiny, toy and miniature. These dogs may suffer from more health ailments than the larger-sized dogs. Most grow to a height of 6 to 9 inches, while some can reach up to 15 inches. The dog's weight varies between 2 and 6 pounds. The size of the dog does not determine its value.

    Chihuahua Disposition

    • Chihuahuas are known for being courageous and confident. They make excellent companions and are social, loving and adventurous dogs that thrive on your undivided attention and affection. They are extremely loyal and devoted to their owners, yet often strong-willed and can be difficult to train. Long-haired Chihuahuas tend to be more docile and shy than those with short hair.