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Chihuahua is one of the most famous dog breeds in the world.
You might have seen this breed in the hands of famous celebrities like Paris Hilton, Demi Moore, Reese Witherspoon, and even Marilyn Monroe.
But did you know that there are different types of Chihuahua?
There are short-hairs, long-hairs, Apple-heads, Deer-heads, Pear-Heads, teacups, and color-named Chihuahuas (like the Fawn Chihuahua).
Fascinating, isn't it?
Please don't get fooled about their sizes because even though they are little, they have bigger personalities and lots of energy.
And the same is true, whatever type of Chihuahua they are!
In this article, let's distinguish how these types of Chihuahua differ.
Let's also touch on an overview of this breed, its history, and some caring tips.
For a more comprehensive breed guide, check out this article about the Chihuahua Dog Breed Profile.
Let's get started!
Chihuahua Overview
Did you know that Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed in the world?
Typically, Chihuahuas are only 5-8 inches tall at the shoulder and an average weight of 1-6 pounds.
But these dogs don't know that. They sure have that “big dog attitude!”
Chihuahuas often have the small dog syndrome.
What is small dog syndrome? Well, let me put it this way.
This happens when a small dog is sensitive about its size and, therefore, overcompensates by becoming aggressive.
It causes Chihuahuas to act like they are much bigger dogs. Sometimes, it's adorable. But often, not so much.
Fortunately, consistent and proper training can help prevent these behavioral problems.
The AKC recognizes the following Chihuahua coat colors:
| Black | Cream | Black & Silver | Blue & White | Chocolate Brindled Fawn | Gold & White |
| Black & Tan | Fawn | Black & White | Blue Brindled Fawn | Chocolate Sabled Fawn | Red & White |
| Blue & Tan | Fawn & White | Black Sabled Fawn | Blue Fawn | Cream & White | Silver |
| Chocolate | Red | Black Sabled Silver | Chocolate & White | Fawn Brindled Black | Silver & White |
| Chocolate & Tan | Black & Red | Blue | Chocolate Blue | Gold | White |
There are technically just a few types of recognized Chihuahuas.
However, many breeders worked hard to create new iterations of this tiny but feisty breed.
How Are Chihuahuas Classified?
There are seven different types of Chihuahua, with some breed enthusiasts including the fawn Chihuahua.
Determining what type of Chihuahua you have varies on their fur, size, and head shape.
One of the most clear signs to know the Chihuahua's type is its fur length.
Chihuahuas can be short or long-haired but not as fluffy as other long-haired dog breeds like the Shih Tzu or Chow Chow.
Their head shape, however, will require more attention to notice the differences.
The three head shapes you should look out for are the apple, deer, and pear-head Chihuahuas.
Just so you know, only the apple-head chihuahuas are recognized as standard by the AKC.
Lastly, smaller-sized Chihuahuas are a bit controversial and called teacup Chihuahuas.
The 7 Types of Chihuahua
So, what are the different types of Chihuahua?
Well, there are seven, according to breed enthusiasts.
However, the American Kennel Club only recognizes two varieties: short-haired and long-haired Chihuahuas, which we're about to discuss next.
1. Short-Haired Chihuahuas (Smooth Coat)
First on the list, we have Short-Haired Chihuahuas.
Short-haired Chihuahuas are the most common type of this breed.
These are the ones you usually see in dog parks.
The only noticeable distinction for these Chihuahuas is their coat, which is, obviously, short and smooth.
Also called smooth-coat Chihuahuas, this type still needs regular grooming but doesn't require as much effort as the long-haired ones.
Their sleek and glossy coat is called “smooth coat.”
Short-haired Chihuahuas can be found in all of the recognized colors.
Due to their short hair, they are more prone to get sick during winter or cold seasons.
Remember to buy dog sweaters or help him get warmed up during these times.
2. Long-Haired Chihuahuas (Rough Coat)
Another AKC-recognized Chihuahua type is the Long-haired one.
And its main difference with the short-haired one is, yup, you guessed it, its longer fur.
They are also called Rough-coated Chihuahuas because their coats are somewhat “rough” or at least rougher compared to smooth-coat Chihuahuas.
It takes about 24 months for a long-haired Chihuahua to grow a full and beautiful coat.
During this time, you must ensure their coat is clean and healthy.
Grooming will require more effort with long-haired Chihuahuas. Daily or weekly brushing is definitely recommended.
You'll also need help from professional groomers occasionally to maintain this fur.
That means training and socialization are necessary to make sure that grooming your Long-haired Chihuahua is done safely and correctly.
3. Apple Head Chihuahua
Now that we've discussed two official types of Chihuahua let's move forward and talk about the other remaining varieties.
These dogs have no official recognition from the AKC. However, AKC's breed standard describes Chihuahua as having ‘an apple-shaped head.'
As their name suggests, Apple-head Chihuahuas are cute dogs with round, apple-shaped heads.
You'll most likely visualize them when you think of Chihuahuas.
You'll notice they have shorter muzzles connecting to the head at a 90-degree angle.
They also have large, round eyes and short jaws.
4. Deer Head Chihuahua
Next, we have the deer head Chihuahuas.
While most of this breed has an apple-shaped head, you'll still notice several deer-headed ones walking in the park.
A few of the most notable differences between a Deer head Chihuahua and an Apple-head Chihuahua is that the former have slightly longer heads and slope on their noses.
Their head also grows a bit bigger than their counterparts.
Deer-head Chihuahuas are the biggest type of Chihuahua.
Of course, they are not that large, but they can weigh up to 10 to 12 pounds.
They have strong, long legs and larger body.
5. Pear-Head Chihuahua
Above, we've discussed apple and deer-head Chihuahuas.
Now, let's talk about another type of Chihuahua, the Pear-head Chihuahua.
To simplify it, the Pear-head Chihuahua is a mix between the Apple-head and Deer-head Chihuahuas.
When they bred these two pups, they created the Pear-head Chihuahua.
Their skulls are longer than the Apple-head but shorter than the Deer-head, and it is flatter than both.
These Chis are also heavier and taller than the breed standard and are not recognized by the AKC, making them ineligible for shows.
6. Teacup Chihuahua
While the Deer-head Chihuahua is the biggest among them, the Teacup Chihuahua is the smallest and might be the most controversial type of Chihuahua.
Controversial how?
Many dog enthusiast believes that most teacup dog breeding techniques are unethical and can cause severe health issues.
But thousands of dog owners love teacup dogs since it's adorable.
While standard Chihuahuas are already so tiny, these mini Chihuahuas are even smaller!
Teacup Chis usually never grow more than 6 inches tall, while the standard Chihuahua can grow up to 9 inches tall.
These tiny dogs typically weigh around 2 to 5 pounds only.
7. Fawn Chihuahuas
Last, on our list of the different types of Chihuahuas, we have Fawn Chihuahuas or Colored Chihuahuas.
Fawn Chihuahuas are the most known coat color for the breed.
It’s like a balanced mixture of brown and red that perfectly complements this dog breed, no matter what coat texture.
This type of Chihuahua is, of course, named after their coat color, but there are still other colored-named Chihuahuas.
The breed standard doesn’t accept some colors – but that doesn’t stop some breeders from breeding them.
Therefore, you may find some rarer colors that aren’t technically “accepted.”
Often, these colors result from mixed breeding, so keep this in mind when purchasing a puppy.
Interested to learn more about Chihuahuas? Here's a shortened version of the story of how they came about.
Chihuahua Dog Breed History
The history of the Chihuahua dog breed still needs to be determined.
But the breed was found about 1850 in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, hence the name.
Experts believe that the Aztecs or Incas created the dog, but some believe the breed can be connected to Spanish dogs as late as the 1500s.
It's believed that the first Chihuahuas arrived in the United States in the early 19th century.
The main use of the breed is also uncertain.
Some think that they have been used for food by Central American Indians, while others believe that the breed had religious significance.
On the other hand, one of the most plausible theories is that Chihuahuas descended from an ancient race of dogs, the Techichi.
Techichi, a small mute dog, was kept by the ancient Toltec people.
In 1904, the Chihuahua was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a breed.
How to Care for a Chihuahua
For aspiring Chihuahua owners, you should know how to take care of your dog properly.
Whether it is a long-haired, short-haired, or an apple-head Chihuahua, their care is mostly similar.
Chihuahuas are great for first-time pet owners since they are relatively easy to manage.
They don't require much food since they are small-sized dogs.
Unfortunately, just like any other dog breed, they are prone to certain health problems, such as Patellar Luxation, Heart Murmurs, Hypoglycemia, Hydrocephalus, Collapsed Trachea, Open Fontanel, Pulmonic Stenosis, and more.
They are great apartment dogs and low-maintenance, but they need lots of exercise.
Typically, Chihuahuas need 30 minutes to 1 hour of daily exercise.
Go on short walks and have play sessions to help them burn off excess energy. These exercise sessions can also be a way for you and Fido to bond.
However, be careful when you are playing.
Remember that Chihuahuas are tiny dogs; roughhousing can cause broken bones and other injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rarest type of Chihuahua?
As we've discussed earlier, there are many different types of colored Chihuahuas.
But the rarest kind of Chihuahua is the Pure White Chihuahua or Albino Chihuahua.
However, these dogs are also more likely to be blind, deaf, and prone to sunburn.
Is Chihuahua a smart dog?
Yes, Chihuahuas are very intelligent dogs.
Chihuahuas are quick learners and have an eager-to-please attitude.
They also respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques.
Do Chihuahuas bark a lot?
Oh yes, they're a noisy bunch!
If you plan to adopt a Chihuahua, you should know that this dog barks constantly.
For a small dog, they are known to be overprotective and aggressive at times.
Types of Chihuahua: Final Thoughts
According to AKC's Chihuahua standard, Chis have apple-heads with short or long hair.
However, there are several other types of Chihuahuas that enthusiasts recognize: the Short-haired, Long-haired, Apple-head, Deer-head, Pear-head, Teacup, and Fawn Chihuahuas.
But no matter their appearance, they are cute, tiny dogs with big attitudes.
These dogs are adorable and loving companions that can be a great addition to your family.
No wonder they're among the world's most popular small dog breeds.
What do you think? Which among these types is your Chihuahua?
Let us know in the comments section!
You can also look at our recommended articles below about Chihuahua mixes.
