Animal-World > Dogs > Toy Dogs > Applehead Chihuahua

Applehead ChihuahuaLong-haired Chihuahua, Short-haired Chihuahua

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     Though the name is cute and catchy, the Applehead Chihuahua is actually just simply a "Chihuahua".

    Applehead Chihuahua is a fairly common layman's term used to describe an adorable Chihuahua with an 'apple-shaped' head. The term "Applehead" is most likely derived from the description, in the American Kennel Club (AKC) standard for the shape of the preferred head, being "A well rounded "apple dome" skull, with or without molera". As there are only two recognized types of Chihuahua, if you want to determine what type of Chihuahua you actually have, you will have to look at its coat. It is actually either a Long-haired Chihuahua or a Short-haired Chihuahua.

    Chihuahuas are courageous and lively. They tend to become very attached to their owners, and they make good guard dogs. Their strong will makes patience during training crucial, but they are intelligent and can learn a variety of tricks. When selecting an Applehead Chihuahua, it is important to check for eye problems and respiratory difficulties.

Common Name(s)     Applehead Chihuahua, Long-haired Chihuahua, Short-haired Chihuahua

Breed Type     The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. Classified as a toy breed they make a most suitable pet. The Chihuahua is most comfortable in warm climates.

Background     The Chihuahua is said to have been discovered in Mexico in 1850. They were sometimes bred for food, but they were also used in religious ceremonies and prized by royalty. It is speculated that Chihuahuas are descended from Chinese hairless dogs and ancient Mexican breeds. There are only two recognize types of Chihuahuas, the Long-haired Chihuahua and the Short-haired Chihuahuas, but no distinction is made for registration purposes.
    The Applehead Chihuahua would only be recognized as one of the two breed types, a Long-haired Chihuahua or a Short-haired Chihuahua. "Applehead" along with several other terms such as "teacup," "pocket size," "tiny toy," "miniature," and "standard" are sometimes used to describe the size differences and physical appearances of Chihuahua's. And although these terms are descriptive of a particular look in an individual Chihuahua, they are not actually recognized Chihuahua types themselves.

Description     Applehead Chihuahua is a layman's term for Chihuahuas that are small dogs with large, apple-shaped heads and pointy muzzles. Their eyes are protruding and dark. They may have long or short hair, and have all colors that are acceptable according to Chihuahua standards. Puppies often have a soft spot in their skulls that is called a molera. It may or may not close when they get older. The Chihuahua has an average height of 6-9 inches and weight of 2-6 pounds.

Care and Feeding     Chihuahuas often have food sensitivities. They do best on a consistent diet of foods such as poultry and brown rice. Beef is not recommended for the Applehead Chihuahua. Chihuahuas need to be bathed once a month. Short-haired varieties only need occasional brushing, while long-haired Chihuahuas should be brushed daily. Nails should be trimmed as needed.
    Chihuahuas need annual checkups, and vaccinations should be administered as follows:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
• Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster
  

    Applehead Chihuahuas are prone to respiratory problems, so care should be taken to keep their environment as dust-free as possible. They shed moderately, so regular vacuuming is required.

Housing Your Dog     Applehead Chihuahuas are indoor dogs, and they need a warm environment. They like to snuggle up in cozy places, so it is advisable to watch for them when sitting down on soft furniture. They enjoy small breed-appropriate toys.

Social Behaviors     Applehead Chihuahuas are often suspicious around strangers, and they are not recommended for children. They may be aggressive around other dog breeds and different types of pets.

Handling and Training     The Applehead Chihuahua is a strong-willed dog, and this can present difficulties in training. They are very smart, however, and do well with positive reinforcement. Housebreaking difficulties are common.

Activities     Chihuahuas require little exercise, but they do need a daily walk. They also enjoy playing indoors and out.

Breeding/Reproduction     Gum problems, rheumatism, and eye problems are some things to look for when selecting a mate for your Applehead Chihuahua. Females sometimes need Cesarean sections due to their small size and the large size of puppies' heads.

Common Health Problems     The design of the Chihuahua's eyes and nose are conducive to problems, including wheezing, colds, and glaucoma. Rheumatism and stress are also common among members of the breed. Regular checkups are essential to keep your Applehead Chihuahua healthy.

Availability     Chihuahuas are usually easy to find from breeders and in pet stores. Prices vary, but are generally between $500 and $800.

References "Chihuahua Breed Standard, Toy Breed", American Kennel Club, Copyright 2008. Referenced online, 2008
"Chihuahua", Dog Breed Info Center, Copyright 1998-2008
"Chihuahua (dog)", Wikipedia, Copyright 2008
Cusick, William D., "What to Feed a Chihuahua", Referenced online, 2008
Welton, Michelle, "Chihuahuas: What's Good About ‘Em? What's Bad About ‘Em?", Copyright 2000-2008
"Chihuahua Puppies for Sale", Copyright PuppyFind.com, LLC, Referenced online, 2008

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Latest Comments
awww how cute adorable!!!!:) Justin 2009-02-24

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