The Different Types of Chihuahua Dogs
Everyone is familiar with the tiny Chihuahua dog breed, but what many people don’t know is that there are different types of Chihuahua dogs. At one time these tiny canines were considered sacred to the Aztec tribes, but today they are mostly a pampered pet. Chihuahua dogs were discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico.
The smallest of dog breeds, there are far more Chihuahua types than people realize. Their popularity has really grown in recent years with all the publicity of celebrities and their pet Chi’s. Although these dogs are small in stature small, they have quite a big personality!
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.
Chihuahuas are perfect for people who don’t have large yards or much room for large dogs. Chihuahua are long lived, some living for 16 years or more. Shorthaired Chihuahuas adore burrowing under the covers with you to keep toasty. I have a friend whose Chihuahua who seems to think she’s a pitbull when anyone pulls the covers off of her. She growls her little head off.
All different Chihuahua types have spanned the centuries as a companion to man. Researchers think they may have originated in Spain and that a larger cousin already existed in the 2nd century BC and was then bred with miniature Chinese dogs which were introduced to the New World by Spain. At one time the Chihuahua types were pets for the wealthy and while many wealthy folks own them today, they make great pets for anyone who has the means to provide them with the appropriate food, attention and veterinary care!
If you are looking for a loyal and playful breed of dog, you should dedicate some time researching the type of Chihuahua dog you want. They are well known for offering great companionship. Purchase a Chihuahua and you will have a entertaining friend for years to come. However, once you have one, you will likely be tempted to buy another!
