The Breed Standards For The Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a breed with a very compact body. The most important aspect of the breed standard is that the skull is apple shaped and that their tail is both moderately long and carried very high. The tail should be either curved or form the shape of a semicircle with the tip of the tail pointing in the direction of the loin region. When it comes to proportions the Chihuahua should be slightly greater in length than their height at the withers. In males especially it is highly desirable that the breed has an almost square body, but a slightly longer body is permitted in the female dogs for the purpose of reproduction. The temperament of a Chihuahua should be alert, quick, lively and very courageous. Overall the Chihuahua is described as a small, dainty, compact breed with a highly spirited intelligence while being neither snappy nor withdrawn in behavior.

The American Kennel Club states that the standard for the Chihuahua skull should be "apple dome" shaped and well rounded. The muzzle should be moderately short with a slight point and definite stop. The cheeks and jaws should be lean. The eyes shouldn't protrude, but they should be large and round. The lowest point of the ear should be on a plane with the center of the eye. Both eyes should be set well apart. Dark or ruby is the preferred eye color, but some lighter shades are permitted. The ears should be large and flaring with an angle of about forty-five degrees to help add breadth between the ears. The jaw should be strong with a complete and regular scissor bite, meaning the upper teeth should closely overlap the lower teeth and be set square to the jaws. Medium length neck with a slight arch is desired in the Chihuahua standard.

The Chihuahua standard states that their stride should have good reach and drive while being springy, long, energetic and active. When viewed from the back the Chihuahua hind legs should move almost parallel to each other so that the foot prints of the hind feet fit directly into those that are left by the front feet. Most of the time the limbs will converge towards the center point of gravity and leave a single track when they increase their speed. The head should be raised and firm while the dog has a free and springy movement without visible effort. The desired coat for shorthaired dogs is glossy with a soft texture. For longhaired dogs it is best to have a fine, silky and smooth or slightly wavy coat. The standard allows all coat color combinations and shades. The ideal weight for a Chihuahua according to the standard is between 1.5 and 3 kg. Lighter weights are permitted but weights over 3 kg are disqualified.

Sandra Dean has had experience in raising and breeding Chihuahuas. The shape of the head and placement of features is very specific according to the Chihuahua standard. Chihuahua information can help you to understand the specific standard for the breed.