The 7 Types of Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest and most popular dog breeds in the world. Learn what the different types are.

Chihuahua history

Chihuahuas are small dogs that are charming and cute while also having big personalities. Typically, they weigh between 3 to 6 pounds and measure 6 to 10 inches tall.

Related: What you need to know about teacup dogs

While the origins of the Chihuahua are unknown, we do know some things about their history. Chihuahuas are descendants of the Techichi, which were larger and kept by the Toltecs.

When the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs, they also began making the Techihi a smaller dog. In the 1800s, Americans became interested in the dogs, and since they found many in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, that’s the name they gave it.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the first AKC-registered Chihuahua was in 1908. His name was Beppie. Over several decades, Chihuahuas grew in popularity.

AKC recognizes two official types

Officially, there are only two recognized varieties of the Chihuahua breed. The AKC breaks them down into long and smooth coat Chihuahuas.

While there are only two official varieties, there are five other types that you may see. As popularity grew, breeding did, as well.

Now, you’ll see different features among Chihuahuas. They have various coats and head shapes due to breeding.

1. Long Coat Chihuahua

As the name suggests, long coat Chihuahuas have long, soft, and smooth hair. Their coat can also be flat or wavy and with different colors or patterns.

While long and short coat Chihuahuas shed, it takes a little more effort to groom one with a long coat.

If your dog has long hair, it requires regular brushing and bathing. Regular grooming can help reduce shedding and prevent tangles. It’ll keep their coat nice and fluffy.

2. Smooth Coat Chihuahua

A smooth coat Chihuahua is also referred to as having short hair or fur. You’ll find smooth coat Chihuahuas with many different coat colors and patterns.

If you don’t want to brush or trim your dog’s coat, this is the ideal type for you. All you need to do is to bathe your pup.

A common misconception is that smooth coat Chihuahuas don’t shed much due to their short fur. It’s the opposite, as they shed a lot, which means they’re not for people with dog allergies.

3. Apple Head Chihuahua

The Apple Head Chihuahua has a round and apple-shaped head. It can look big compared to the size of its body. Its coat can be long or short and of any color or pattern.

Other characteristics include large eyes and a short and pointed snout that connects to the head at a 90-degree angle.

In the AKC’s Official Standard of the Chihuahua, the Chihuahua must have a well-rounded “apple dome” skull. While the AKC doesn’t recognize this as a type, it does give importance to the characteristic.

4. Deer Head Chihuahua

Deer Head Chihuahuas have a deer-like head, as it’s narrower. Their snouts are also longer and connect with the head at a slope instead of a 90-degree angle.

Typically, Deer Head Chihuahuas have larger bodies and ears. They also have wider eyes that are not as pronounced.

They’re less popular than Apple Head ones because they don’t fit the standards of the AKC. However, they’re still cute and fun companions.

5. Fawn Chihuahua

Instead of being classified by their coat length or head shape, Fawn Chihuahuas are recognized by their coat color.

It has a beautiful fawn or light brown color. It resembles the fur of a baby deer. A Fawn Chihuahua can have a long or short coat.

6. Merle Chihuahua

Merle Chihuahuas have a unique and striking coat. Typically, their coats have multiple colors due to the patches. They can also have long or short hair.

The coat pattern comes from the merle gene, which can also affect the skin and eye color. As a result, Merle Chihuahua can have blue eyes.

While the gene results in a Chihuahua that looks cute, it can also lead to health issues. Dogs with the merle gene are known to develop hearing and vision loss.

7. Teacup Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are already small dogs. However, teacup Chihuahuas are even smaller. An adult can weigh less than five pounds. They’re known for their size and can have any coat length or pattern.

While they may be small and cute, breeding such a small dog leads to many health issues. From joint problems to heart issues, teacup Chihuahuas generally don’t live happy lives. Plus, they’re expensive.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a companion dog, Chihuahuas are excellent options. They’ll be loyal and loving while also having unique personalities. If treated respectfully, they make great pets for kids.

Since they’ve become more popular, you’ll find various types. While there are only two official types, there are five other unofficial types that are more specific.

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Featured image courtesy of Canva.