| Rather than being bred down from a larger breed, the Chihuahua is the only toy breed that is naturally small.The Chihuahua has a well rounded, apple shaped head. The muzzle is tiny in contrast to the head, will be slightly pointed, and either have a level or scissors bite. Ears are large and erect, spaced far apart and will flair to the sides when relaxed. Their eyes are round and large (but not protruding), very expressive, and should either be dark or ruby colored .The nose is short, pointed, and black. Light-colored eyes, and pink noses are allowed in blonde-colored dogs.The body is robust and compact, with well sprung ribs. Measurements from wither to tail should be longer than from withers to ground. Shorter bodies are preferred in males. The neck is slightly arched, sloping into lean shoulders, and continuing down into a level topline. Their front legs should be straight, short, and square-shaped, with the back legs being well-muscled and thin. The feet are small and dainty with well split toes. And finally, the long sickle-shaped tail should curl, looping over the back with the tip just barely touching the back.A shorthaired Chihuahua's coat should be smooth and glossy, whilst being a little coarser than a longhaired Chihuahua; an undercoat is allowed. The coat should be a little longer on the body than the head and ears; the tail should be furry. A ruff around the neck is preferred.The longhaired Chihuahua's coat should be soft, and either lay flat or slightly curly; an undercoat is also preferred. Ears, feet, front and back legs should have feathering; the tail should be plumed. It is also desirable to have a large ruff around the neck. |
