The Different Types of Chihuahua Dogs

If you love Chihuahuas, of course you’ll want to know more about them. These fascinating animals originated in Chihuahua, Mexico and were objects of worship to the ancient Aztecs. The word “chihuahua” means an arid, sandy place and there are actually several types of Chihuahua dogs.

The Chihuahua in part due to their portable size have become quite popular lately and their popularity continues to grow. Although the Chihuahua is known as the smallest of the dog breeds, but what many people don’t realize is there are different Chihuahua types. This little powerhouse has a huge heart so don’t be fooled by its tiny size!

Chihuahua types are distinguished by their color, and the shape of their heads. They come in a variety of shades, including cream, fawn, chocolate, silver, blue, and black. Their heads are classified as appleheads, which have a round skull, close-set eyes, and a short muzzle, and deer heads, which bear a striking resemblance to a tiny Doberman Pinscher.

The American Kennel Club recognizes two types of Chihuahuas: the shorthair and the longhair. Shorthairs have a smooth coat may have a curved tail. Shorthairs often do not shed. The longhair, on the other hand, has a soft hair, which may or may not be curly, with longer hair on their ears and tail.

The terms ‘mini’ or ‘teacup’ are regularly used by breeders. While this is useful for marketing, technically all Chihuahua types are toy varieties. Because tiny dogs sell so well, breeders have been competing to get the smallest dog possible. People sometimes get duped into paying a fortune, thinking that the ‘pocket size” ones are extra rare and, in fact, these smaller dogs might have additional health issues.

The 10th most popular breed in the US, the Chihuahua is quite intelligent. Standing 6-9 inches tall they weigh up to six pounds. Although short in stature they are very protective of their owners and territorial. The Taco Bell commercials has made the tan shorthaired Chihuahua, most popular Chihuahua type.

If you live in an apartment, you couldn’t do better than to get one of these tiny dogs. They are wonderful companions and live a long life, in many cases getting to be 16 years or older. Shorthaired companions may need a little extra warmth, sometimes burrowing under covers to maintain their body heat while asleep. My friend has a Chihuahua that will growl whenever anyone has the audacity to uncover her.

It is believed that Chihuahuas may be the oldest breed of dog to exist in the American continents. A slighter larger breed of Chihuahua existed in the 2nd century BC, and was known as a symbol of the upper class. It was probably bred with miniature Chinese dogs which the Spanish introduced to the New World.

Whatever type of Chihuahua you locate through your search, be careful not to pass up this faithful and fun-loving breed. Chihuahuas are dedicated pets and cherished companions. With a Chihuahua by your side, you will be loved and entertained for many years. Let me warn you, however - it’s hard not to want more than one!