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Deer Head Chihuahua: Facts, History & Origin (With Pictures)

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By Nicole Cosgrove

Deer Head Chihuahua

It may come as a surprise to some that there are two different kinds of Chihuahuas—the apple head and the deer head. In a nutshell, apple-headed Chihuahuas have round heads, while the deer-headed variety is distinguished by a long, narrow snout. The apple head is recognized by the AKC as part of the breed standard, while the deer head is not considered to be standard. That said, they’re still the same breed of dog.

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the deer head Chihuahua and what to expect if you decide to welcome one of these sassy but affectionate little dogs into your life.

Breed Overview

Height: 8–12 inches
Weight: 7–10 pounds
Lifespan: 14–16 years
Colors: Black, black & tan, blue & tan, chocolate, chocolate & tan, cream, fawn, fawn & white, red (AKC-standard colors—other combinations are also possible)
Suitable for: Families with older children
Temperament: Vivacious, confident, loving, sassy

The deer head Chihuahua is often taller than the apple head Chihuahua by a few inches, and their necks are typically longer. While apple heads usually have a molera (a soft spot on top of the skull, like a fontanelle in a human baby), this is less common in deer heads. In addition, the deer head’s eyes tend to be less prominent than those of an apple head.

Deer Head Chihuahua Breed Characteristics

Energy
Trainability
Health
Lifespan
Sociability

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The Earliest Records of the Deer Head Chihuahua in History

The deer head Chihuahua is not a separate breed of Chihuahua, so they share the same history as the more commonly known apple head Chihuahua—which dates quite far back! Chihuahuas are probably descendants of the Techichi breed, as depicted in Aztec relics from 300 BC to 9 AD in Chihuahua, Mexico.

It has also been suggested that modern-day Chihuahuas are the result of crossing the Techichi and Chinese Crested Dog; however, there is not yet enough genetic research to support this theory.

deer head chihuahua puppy dog lying down
Image Credit: KarepaStock, Shutterstock

How the Deer Head Chihuahua Gained Popularity

Most people are familiar with the apple head Chihuahuas because of their tiny frame and the ability to be carried around easily. However, in the 1990s, there was a rise in the popularity of deer head Chihuahuas. Perhaps this might be due to their slightly larger size.
The American Kennel Club noted that Chihuahuas ranked 24th on the list of most popular dogs to own in the USA in 2014, but their popularity has declined over the decade. In 2022, the AKC ranked them as 34th on the list.
Chihuahuas—both apple head and deer head—have been loveable companions in several movies, like Legally Blonde.

Formal Recognition of the Deer Head Chihuahua

The AKC formally recognized the Chihuahua in 1908. However, the deer head Chihuahua does not have the same standing as the apple head Chihuahua. While deer heads can be registered by the AKC if they are purebred, they cannot compete in traditional dog shows. This is due to their divergence from the apple head Chihuahua, which is considered the “standard”.

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Top 3 Unique Facts About the Deer Head Chihuahua

1. Chihuahuas Were Sacred Aztec Dogs

The Chihuahua originated in Mexico, where it was once believed that these dogs would act as spirit guides for the dead. As such, they were sacrificed to accompany the souls of aristocrats to the underworld.


2. Deer Head Chihuahuas Can Have Apple Head Parents

Even if two apple-headed Chihuahuas are bred, some of their offspring might be born deer-headed. In addition, it’s possible for features of both types to be combined in one dog, like a round head (apple head feature) and a long muzzle (deer head feature).


3. Chihuahuas Hate the Cold

This Mexican breed loves to stay warm and cozy, and it’s not unusual to find them burrowed in blankets or curled up in their favorite person’s lap. Due to their cold intolerance, they sometimes shake and shiver.

deer head chihuahua dog standing on a pile of dried leaves
Image Credit: Tanya Consaul Photography, Shutterstock

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Do Deer Head Chihuahuas Make Good Pets?

In general, Chihuahuas tend to do better in families with sensible older children rather than very young ones. For one thing, these dogs can be fragile, so rough play isn’t their thing at all. Young children may not have developed a strong enough sense of boundaries to read the dog’s cues that enough is enough. Children should always be supervised around the Chihuahua.

On the other hand, if children are old enough to understand the importance of being careful and respectful toward the dog, the Chihuahua is sure to make a wonderful companion.

Deer head and apple head Chihuahuas alike are capable of getting along with other dogs and cats in the household if they’re introduced correctly and given ample time to get to know each other in a non-threatening way.

Examples include feeding at the same time on opposite sides of the door and exchanging bedding between pets so they can get used to one another’s smell before meeting in the flesh. In addition, take care not to let larger or especially enthusiastic pets overwhelm your little deer dog.

 

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Final Thoughts

Deer head Chihuahuas may deviate from the American Kennel Club’s breed standard, but they’re still Chihuahuas in every way! Whichever type you bring home, you’re guaranteed a sweet but sassy companion that’s sure to keep you on your toes. To reiterate, we would encourage fans of this mini dog with a ginormous personality to consider adopting a rescue Chihuahua.

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