Full Blooded Chihuahua: The Feisty Deer-Headed Dog

PETSIDI – The Chihuahua is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. This tiny dog has a huge personality and has won the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. The Chihuahua comes in two main varieties – the apple head and the deer head Chihuahua. But what exactly is a full blooded Chihuahua and what makes this feisty little breed so special?

What is a Full Blooded Chihuahua?

A full blooded or purebred Chihuahua is one that has 100% Chihuahua genes in its DNA. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standards, a purebred Chihuahua is one whose parents were both registered as purebred Chihuahuas.

To be certain that a Chihuahua is purebred, a DNA test can be done to check its genetic makeup. Reputable breeders will provide a pedigree certificate and documentation showing the puppy is full blooded. Without proper paperwork, it’s impossible to know if a Chihuahua is fully purebred.

The History of the Chihuahua Breed

Chihuahuas have a long history as a dog breed. They originated in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, hence their name. The earliest Chihuahuas were thought to be descendants of an ancient dog called the Techichi.

The Techichi dates back to the 9th century AD and was kept by the Toltec civilization in Mexico. These early dogs are thought to be the ancestors of modern Chihuahuas, though the breed was not formally recognized until the late 1800s.

When evidence of the Techichi was first uncovered in the 1850s, American visitors to Mexico brought some of the tiny dogs back to the United States. The AKC first registered a Chihuahua named Midget in 1904, marking the official recognition of the breed.

Chihuahua Appearance and Temperament

Full blooded Chihuahuas are tiny in size but huge in personality. They typically weigh no more than 6 pounds and stand about 5-8 inches tall at the shoulder. Chihuahuas have large, erect ears and come in virtually any color or coat pattern.

The most common coat types are:

• Smooth coat – Short, glossy fur
• Long coat – Long, soft fur

Common Chihuahua colors include black, tan, fawn, red, cream, chocolate, and splashed.

Chihuahuas are typically long-lived, with an average life span of 10-18 years.

The AKC Chihuahua breed standard specifies two varieties based on the shape of the dog’s head:

Apple Head Chihuahua

This is the most common type of Chihuahua. Apple head Chihuahuas have a well-rounded skull that looks like an apple. They have shorter muzzles, large, round eyes, and a 90-degree angle where the muzzle meets the forehead.

Deer Head Chihuahua

Deer head Chihuahuas have longer muzzles, more angular skull shapes, and less pronounced forehead domes. Their head shape resembles that of a young deer, hence the name. Deer heads also tend to have longer legs and larger bodies than the apple head variety.

In terms of temperament, Chihuahuas tend to be lively, alert, proud, adventurous, and deeply loyal to their humans. They bond very strongly with their owners and do not do well when left alone for long periods.

Chihuahuas are bold and energetic, with larger-than-life personalities. They often behave more like terriers than toy dog breeds. Without proper socialization and training, Chihuahuas can become nervous, aggressive or prone to barking. But in the right hands, these pint-sized pups flourish.

Finding a Reputable Full Blooded Chihuahua Breeder

For buyers seeking a full blooded Chihuahua puppy, finding a quality breeder is essential. Never buy a Chihuahua from a pet store or puppy mill. These outlets typically sell dogs from dubious sources without proper health screening.

Instead, look for a responsible breeder who:

• Focuses on breeding only one or two specific dog breeds
• Screens all parents for genetic diseases
• Raises puppies in a clean, nurturing home environment
• Provides vet records, pedigree paperwork, and AKC registration
• Stands behind the health of their puppies
• Breeds for health and temperament, not just looks

Reputable breeders want to ensure their puppies go to good homes. Be prepared to answer questions about your ability to care for a Chihuahua. Quality breeders will follow up over the dog’s lifetime to provide advice and support as needed.

Health Issues in Full Blooded Chihuahuas

Like all purebred dogs, full blooded Chihuahuas can be prone to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeding minimizes these risks, but they cannot be fully eliminated. Potential health issues to be aware of include:

• Luxating patella – Knee problems
• Hypoglycemia – Low blood sugar
• Collapsing trachea – Weakened windpipe
• Heart disease – Enlarged heart, heart murmurs
• Hydrocephalus – Fluid on the brain

Buying from a reputable breeder helps avoid less visible issues like blindness, deafness, or epilepsy. Be very wary of “teacup Chihuahuas” advertised in tiny sizes. These miniature dogs often come from disreputable sources and suffer more health problems.

With proper care, regular vet checks, and high-quality nutrition, a full blooded Chihuahua can enjoy excellent health into its senior years. Be aware of signs like coughing, limping, weight changes, or loss of appetite that warrant a vet visit.

Caring for a Full Blooded Chihuahua

Chihuahuas may be tiny, but they require dedicated care and training. Here are some top tips for raising a happy, healthy full blooded Chihuahua:

• Socialization – Start early to minimize fears and aggression. Introduce your Chihuahua safely to new places, people, and other pets.
• Training – Use positive reinforcement. Chihuahuas excel at agility, obedience, and other dog sports.
• Exercise – A 30-minute daily walk plus indoor play keeps your Chi fit and well-behaved.
• Dental care – Brush your Chihuahua’s teeth regularly. Provide chew toys and treats to prevent plaque buildup.
• Grooming – Brush smooth coats weekly and long coats daily. Trim nails regularly. Clean ears and teeth routinely.
• Nutrition – Feed a high-quality dry dog food and avoid over-treating. Obesity is common and dangerous in Chihuahuas.
• Veterinary care – Stay current on all checkups, vaccines, prevention medications, and recommended testing.
• Safety – Use a harness for walks. Chihuahuas can easily slip out of collars. Supervise time outdoors due to their small size.

With proper care and attention, a full blooded Chihuahua makes a lively, loving companion animal. Their tiny size but oversized personality makes Chihuahuas a popular and entertaining pet.

Common Questions About Full Blooded Chihuahuas

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about full blooded Chihuahuas:

Are full blooded Chihuahuas recognized by the AKC?

Yes, the American Kennel Club officially recognizes the Chihuahua as a registered breed. The AKC Chihuahua breed standard applies to full blooded Chihuahuas only.

How can you tell if a Chihuahua is full blood?

There is no way to know for certain if a Chihuahua is full blooded without pedigree papers from a reputable breeder or a DNA test. Chihuahuas without papers may still be purebred, but there is no proof.

What health problems do full blooded Chihuahuas have?

Luxating patella, dental disease, hypoglycemia, and heart conditions are the most common health issues facing full blooded Chihuahuas. Buying from responsible breeders minimizes risk.

Do full blood Chihuahuas shed?

Yes, though the amount varies by coat type. Smooth coats shed lightly year-round. Long coats “blow” their coat 1-2 times per year and require frequent brushing.

How much does a full blooded Chihuahua cost?

From a quality breeder, prices often range from $800 – $1500. “Bargain” puppies from backyard breeders or pet stores likely come from irresponsible sources.

What is the difference between apple head and deer head Chihuahuas?

Apple heads have shorter muzzles, domed skulls and 90 degree angles between the muzzle and forehead. Deer heads have longer muzzles, flatter skulls, and a 45 degree muzzle-to-forehead angle.

Do full blood Chihuahuas bark a lot?

Chihuahuas have a tendency to bark frequently. Providing training, exercise, proper socialization, and avoiding loneliness can help curb nuisance barking.

Are full blooded Chihuahuas aggressive?

Chihuahuas can be aggressive if not properly socialized. With early positive experiences, most Chihuahuas become friendly, loyal companions. Supervise interactions with children due to the breed’s small size.

The Lovable Chihuahua

The full blooded Chihuahua is an iconic breed and popular pet worldwide. With their large eyes, upright ears, and apple-shaped heads, Chihuahuas have an unmistakable look. They come in a wide array of colors and coat patterns that add to their appeal.

But more than good looks, the Chihuahua has loads of personality. They form deep bonds with their owners and thrive on attention. With proper care, training, exercise, and healthcare, the full blooded Chihuahua makes a fun-loving, lively companion for years to come.

Their tiny size is deceiving – Chihuahuas think they are big dogs and have the confidence and charisma to match. They flourish when treated like the feisty, independent breed they are, not just a fragile toy.

There’s never a dull moment with a full blooded Chihuahua in your life. If you’re seeking a pint-sized pup packed with personality, the Chihuahua fits the bill. Just be ready for this small but mighty breed to steal your heart!