If you have ever seen a Chihuahua then you know they are a small dog! There are two main varieties (not breeds, which is something entirely different) these are the short hair type and the long hair type.

Those of short hair have a smooth glossy coat that is slightly more coarse than the long hair type. As well as this some Chihuahuas have what is referred to as an undercoat this giving the dog a ‘heavier coat’. Some would have us believe that the “perfect coat” is even all over the body and more sparse on the head and ears, ruff at the neck and a furry tail.

A description of the long hair is well long hair. This type of Chihuahua has a soft coat that can be either flat or soft curls to it. Long hair Chihuahuas have feathering on the front les and all four feet. This consists of fur growing between the pads on the feet (this should be clipped to keep it short, nail scissors and a still dog are ideal) and strands of fur protruding backwards from the front legs. The remaining set of legs has “pants”. These look like big balls of fur growing from the buttocks to about half way down the leg. The front of their rib cage is covered by a growth of fur called a “bib” this giving the appearance that the dog has a ruff.

To wrap up this brief description it should be mentioned that although both types have minimal shedding of fur the long hair type do actually shed slightly more than the short hair.

Other problems that occur are the clumping of faecal matter can be become stuck in the pants on a long hair Chihuahua so please keep a watch on that! Cured by a pair of scissors or careful bathing more frequently. Also be prepared to groom more regularly as well.

That ends our little trip about the description of both types of Chihuahua, more coming soon my friends.

Chihuahua

by Ian Bramwell