Chihuahuas

(Breed Standard)

Partha Sekhar Chatterjee

International All Breeds Dog Show Judge

These are small, dainty and compact animals. They are alert little dogs, who move swiftly with forceful action and a saucy expression. The Chihuahuas are gay, spirited and intelligent. They are not snappy or withdrawn. 

The Head is well rounded having an apple dome skull, the jaws and cheek are lean. The muzzle is moderately short and slightly pointed. They have a definite stop. The eyes are large and round and not protrude. They are set well apart and coloured dark or ruby. Light eyes in light colours are permissible. The ears are large and flaring and are set at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. Tipped or broken down ears are not desirable. The mouth is strong with a perfect, regular scissor bite. The neck is arched and of medium length. 

The shoulders are lean and sloping giving support above the straight forelegs. They are set well under the chest giving freedom of movement. 

The body is level. From point of shoulder to rear of croup. The croup is slightly higher than at withers. It has well sprung ribs and a deep brisket. 

The hindquarters are muscular with well let down hocks and a good turn of stifle, set well apart. 

The feet are small and dainty. Toes well divided and compact. Pads are well cushioned with fine, strong flexible pasterns. Nails are moderately short.  

The tail is of medium length, set high, carried up and over the back, known as a sickle tail. The tail is furry and is never tucked under or curled below the top line when moving.

The tail appears flat, broadens slightly in the centre and tapers to a point. 

They have a brisk, forceful action with a good drive in the hindquarters. The top line should remain firm and level when moving. The coat is smooth of soft texture, close and glossy. 

In the long coated Chihuahuas the coat is long, soft and slightly wavy. Feathering on ears, feet, legs, hindquarters and on the neck is desirable. The tail is long and full as a plume. 

The colouring could be of any colour or a mixture of colours. 

They weigh up to 2.7kgs with the preferable weight of 1 to 1.8 kgs. The smaller one is always preferred.

Any deviation from the above standards should be regarded as a fault. The males should have to normal completely descended testicles.

Back