Looking for a new collar for your Chihuahua? No matter what type of personality your Chihuahua has, chances are there’s a perfect collar out there to match. Below are some of the top listings for fun and stylish Chihuahua collars.
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Collars are quite possibly the single most important accessory in a Chihuahua’s wardrobe. Without them, you won’t be able to walk them on a leash, which increases the chance of them running away and/or getting injured by other nearby animals. Thankfully, such tragedies can be prevented by placing a collar around your Chihuahua’s neck. However, this is just one of the many reasons why collars are a necessity that every Chihuahua owner should invest in.
Finding a collar for your Chihuahua shouldn’t be an overly difficult task. Practically all of the national pet store chains carry a variety of different-sized collars, and you can even find them for sale at places like Wal-Mart, Kroger, Target and other general stores. While there’s nothing wrong with purchasing a collar from such places, they tend to have a limited selection with only a few different styles. Instead of dressing your Chihuahua up in the same old boring collar that everyone else is using on their dogs, you should look for something with more style and flair.
Why Your Chihuahua NEEDS a Collar
The number one advantage of using a collar on your Chihuahua is the simple fact that it allows you to keep them on a leash so they can’t run away. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for Chihuahuas to run away from their owners when they aren’t kept on a leash. If they see a cat, squirrel or something else that catches their attention, their instincts may take over, causing them to give chase. When they go too far outside of their home territory, they might not be able to find their way back. A collar and leash combination will prevent this from happening by keeping them at your side at all times. Just remember to always use a leash in conjunction with their collar.
Collars also offer the added benefit of being able to hold a Chihuahua’s identification information. Let’s hope your Chihuahua never runs away, but if they do, a tag containing their name, owner’s phone number and address could help the two of you reunite. Animal control officers and shelters almost always check to see if any dogs they pick up have identification tags, as this is the easiest way to find their owner. The few minutes it takes to place one on your Chihuahua’s collar could literally save their life in the event they run away or become lost. Alternatively, you can always choose to microchip your Chihuahua so they always have their identification number on them.
How To Choose The Right Chihuahua Collar
After shopping around for a new Chihuahua collar on our site, you might be surprised at the sheer number of choices available. Long gone are the days of plain collars with no real sense of style or fashion in mind. Now you can purchase collars in a wide variety of colors, styles and designs to help make your Chihuahua look their best. After all, you don’t want to give people the impression that your Chihuahua doesn’t know how to dress, would you?
If you’re on the fence about which type of collar to choose for your Chihuahua, keep reading and we’ll break down some essential things to consider when shopping for one.
Check to make sure the collar is constructed in the right size to fit your Chihuahua. Most collars are sold to fit a certain size neck, such as 10-12 inches, so you’ll need to measure your Chihuahua’s neck beforehand.
Determine what material the collar is made of. You really can’t go wrong with soft leather, as it’s comfortable, durable and should offer you several years of use without any visible damage. Nylon, polyester or plastic blends can also work well, if not better, so don’t rule them out either.
Avoid metal “choke chains” or similar collars at all costs. Some owners swear these torture-like devices are helpful to control unruly dogs, but they oftentimes lead to serious injury. The bottom line is that you can’t afford the risk of injury with small Chihuahuas.
Don’t underestimate the effect a collar has on your Chihuahua’s overall look. Ideally, you should choose a collar that stays true to their style and personality. For instance, a spoiled female Chihuahua could benefit from a pink beaded collar, while a black or blue spiked collar would look better on a boy Chihuahua.
When placing a collar on your Chihuahua for the first time, try to make them as comfortable and relaxed as possible to make the process easier. Try sitting down on a couch or recliner and calling them up on your lap. Once your Chihuahua is relaxed, gently wrap is around their neck and securely connect the prong to one of the holes. I usually start out by making the collar a little loose and then tightening it up as needed.
While clothes and accessories are the main focus here at ChihuahuaWardrobe.com, we also offer a wide variety of Chihuahua beds for sale. We know just how important a safe and comfortable sleeping environment is for your Chihuahua, which is why we decided to add this category to our store. Now you can shop through one of the largest selections of comfortable and stylish Chihuahua beds at discount prices.
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The Importance of a Chihuahua Bed
The fact is that ALL Chihuahuas need a soft, comfortable and safe bedding area to rest and relax. If you’ve ever owned a Chihuahua before, you probably know how much these little guys enjoy burrowing. You may find them hidden in a pile of dirty clothes, blankets or on bedsheets that were tossed on the floor. This may surprise some owners at first, but burrowing is a common practice in the Chihuahua breed.
While it may not seem like a serious issue, allowing your Chihuahua to burrow in unorthodox places such as these is a disaster waiting to happen. If you or someone else in your house accidentally steps on a pile of clothes where your Chihuahua is laying, it could easily cause serious injury. You have to remember that Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed in the world, which also means they have weaker and more fragile bones than larger dogs. Instead of rolling the dice with this risk, you should give your Chihuahua their own bed to sleep and rest in. This will drastically reduce the chance of someone in your house accidentally stepping, sitting or laying on your Chihuahua simply because they will have their own dedicated area to rest.
Here are just a few of the many reasons why your Chihuahua should have their own bed:
Gives them a safe and comfortable area to rest.
Creates a “personal” space for them that no one else can use.
Softer and more supportive than laying on hardwood or laminate flooring.
Chihuahuas feel more secure when they are resting on a bed made especially for them.
A lesser-known advantage to owning a Chihuahua bed is that it adds another decorative element to your home.
Chihuahuas love taking raw hides and other treats to their bed where they can sit back, relax and chew on them.
Many Chihuahuas take mouthfuls of food to their bed where they can enjoy it in peace.
Choosing The Right Chihuahua Bed
Choosing a Chihuahua bed isn’t a decision that should be made spontaneously without considering all of the necessary elements. A good bed can literally last 5-10 years when it’s taken care of properly. On the other hand, a cheap low-quality bed may tear apart the first time you try to wash it. Unless you want to buy a new bed every year, you should take the time to carefully choose the one that’s right for your Chihuahua. Let’s take a closer look at some of the things you should consider when shopping for a new Chihuahua bed…
One of the golden rules when it comes to buying a Chihuahua bed is to choose a size that’s relative to your canine. Being that most Chihuahuas are under 6 pounds (there are exceptions with obese Chihuahuas), this means any bed you purchase for their needs to be small and compact. If you make the mistake of purchasing a bed for large dog breeds, your Chihuahua may not develop that attachment to it like they would a small bed. Going back to the burrowing nature of the Chihuahua, they naturally want an area that’s somewhat confined and relative to their small size, as this creates a safe and comforting feeling.
In addition to the size, you should also take into account what material it’s made of. After all, your Chihuahua is going to be spending quite a bit of time resting, relaxing and sleeping their days away, so you’ll want to provide them with a comfortable environment. Most of the high-quality beds available on the market are made with comfort in mind, but some of the cheaper mass-produced models are constructed with a rough material that’s downright uncomfortable for a small Chihuahua to lay on. Ideally, the bed should have a soft and fluffy filler material, such as cotton, with an equally soft outer layer. Fur-lining is an added bonus that really adds to the overall comfort and luxurious feeling.
Lastly, you should think about how the bed is going to flow with your current home decor. You obviously wouldn’t want to place a bright pink Chihuahua bed in a living room that’s styled all in black and other dark colors. Going back to the basics of interior design 101, try to use colors that are either similar or contrast to create an attractive combination. If you’re having trouble choosing a color or style of bed, take a minute to walk through your living room and identify the color palettes that are being used. As long as you stick with the colors already used, you shouldn’t have a problem with your new Chihuahua bed matching the rest of your home’s decor.
If you own or are planning to own a Chihuahua, you should familiarize yourself with hypoglycemia. All dogs can suffer from it. Hypoglycemia, however, is particularly common in toy breeds. Chihuahuas and other toy breeds may struggle to regulate their blood sugar levels, resulting in a potentially fatal condition known as hypoglycemia.
What Is Hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia is a metabolic condition characterized by low blood sugar levels. The term comes from the Greek language, with “hypo” meaning “under,” “glykys” meaning “sweet” and “haima” meaning “blood.” Chihuahuas with hypoglycemia have below-normal levels of glucose in their blood.
Glucose is a simple sugar that comes primarily from carbohydrates. When Chihuahuas eat, their digestive systems will break down the carbohydrates into glucose. The glucose will then enter their bloodstream where it provides them with energy.
Glucose is the primary source of energy for all mammals, including Chihuahuas. The cells in a Chihuahua’s body need it to perform their respective functions. If deprived of glucose, their bodies may shut down.
What Are Normal Blood Sugar Levels for Chihuahuas?
Normal blood glucose levels for Chihuahuas range from about 80 to 120 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) or 4.4 to 6.6 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). In the United States mg/dl is the primary metric by which blood sugar levels are measured. Other countries like the United Kingdom and Australia, though, use mmol/L.
Hypoglycemia involves low blood sugar levels. It’s typically defined as blood sugar levels below 60 mg/dl or 3.3 mmol/L. Blood sugar levels can fluctuate. They are often higher immediately after a Chihuahua eats, and they are lower after periods of fasting. Regardless, if a Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels drop below the aforementioned amount, he’s considered hypoglycemic.
Hypoglycemia vs Hyperglycemia: What’s the Difference?
Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are two different types of metabolic conditions from which Chihuahuas can suffer. While they both involve blood sugar levels, they are on opposite ends of the spectrum. Hypoglycemia involves low blood sugar levels, whereas hyperglycemia involves high blood sugar levels.
Hyperglycemia is a hallmark symptom of diabetes, which is a disease that affects the production or usage of insulin. Chihuahuas and other mammals produce insulin in their pancreas. Using this hormone, they can lower their blood sugar levels.
Insulin works by transporting glucose from the Chihuahua’s blood to his cells so that it can be used as energy. As levels of insulin increase, the Chihuahua’s blood glucose levels will decrease. Diabetic Chihuahuas, though, may not produce enough insulin, or may not be able to use insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels and, thus, hyperglycemia.
Why Hypoglycemia Is So Common in Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas and other toy breeds are genetically predisposed to hypoglycemia. When compared to larger breeds, toy breeds have higher metabolic rates. They require more energy relative to their body size. This energy comes from glucose in the blood or from stored glucose known as glycogen. Chihuahuas may quickly consume their glucose and glycogen, resulting in hypoglycemia.
In addition to higher metabolic rates, toy breeds have smaller glycogen storage capacities than larger breeds. Glycogen is stored in the liver, fat cells and muscle cells Toy breeds have smaller livers, less fat mass and less muscle mass, so they can’t store as much glycogen as larger breeds.
Another reason hypoglycemia is so common in Chihuahuas is temperature sensitivity. Chihuahuas are more sensitive to cold and hot temperatures than larger breeds. Extreme temperatures can affect their metabolism, resulting in hormonal changes that place them at risk for hypoglycemia.
Toy breed puppies have the greatest risk of hypoglycemia. They are exceptionally small, yet they have very high energy demands to accommodate for their growth.
Prolonged periods of fasting can cause hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas. Food contains glucose. If a Chihuahua skips meals, he may not have a sufficient amount of glucose to meet his body’s energy demands.
Liver disease is a common cause of hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas. The liver is responsible for filtering blood. Blood will circulate through the Chihuahua’s liver where toxins are removed.
The liver also stores glucose as glycogen. If the Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels begin to drop, his liver may break down glycogen for immediate energy. Alternatively, the Chihuahua’s liver may convert fat or protein into glucose — a process known as gluconeogenesis. But liver disease may interfere with these processes while placing the Chihuahua at risk for hypoglycemia.
Chihuahuas may experience hypoglycemia if they have a pancreatic tumor. As previously mentioned, insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas. It’s used to lower blood sugar levels by moving glucose from the bloodstream to the energy-demanding cells. If a Chihuahua has a pancreatic tumor, his pancreas may produce too much insulin. All of this insulin will cause the Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels to plummet.
Addison’s disease can cause hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas. Also known as hypoadrenocorticism is characterized by inadequate production of adrenocortical hormones, such as cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone produced in the adrenal glands. While it’s most commonly known for regulating stress levels, cortisol regulates blood sugar levels as well.
Cortisol raises blood sugar levels by releasing glycogen. With Addison’s disease, Chihuahuas may not produce enough cortisol to release a sufficient amount of glucose to maintain adequate blood sugar levels.
Toxicity can cause hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas. Chihuahuas that consume the artificial sweeter xylitol, for instance, may experience hypoglycemia episodes. Xylitol is toxic to all dogs, but it’s especially harmful to Chihuahuas because of their small size. It only takes about 0.1 grams of xylitol per kilogram of body weight to cause hypoglycemia episodes.
Xylitol is found in the following foods:
Breath mints
Chewing gum
Cough drops
Dental products
Diet beverages
Baking mixes
Jams and spreads
Mints
Nut butters
Protein bars
Ice cream
Coffee or tea mixes
Puddings and gelatin
Diet soft drinks
Yogurt
In addition to xylitol, other toxins that can cause hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas include ibuprofen, amatoxin-based mushrooms, pesticides, bronchodilators and certain types of plants.
Portosystemic shunts have been linked to hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas. A portosystemic shunt is an abnormal connection between the portal vein or one of its branches and the main blood supply of the intestines. Normally, blood from the digestive system — intestines, pancreas, etc. — travels through the portal vein to the liver. Photosytemic shunts allow this blood to bypass the liver. Rather than going to the liver, the digestive system blood goes back into systemic circulation.
Bacterial infections can cause hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas. Bacteria feast on glucose. When bacteria enter a Chihuahua’s bloodstream, it will consume his glucose if left unchecked. Bacterial infections may even cause sepsis — a condition in which the Chihuahua’s immune system responds to the bacteria by releasing an excessive amount of inflammatory chemicals in the blood. Sepsis itself can cause hypoglycemia by interfering with glucose-regulating hormones.
Diabetic Chihuahuas may experience hypoglycemia if they overdose on insulin. Insulin injections are used to treat diabetes. Diabetic Chihuahuas may not produce enough insulin on their own, so they’ll experience high blood sugar levels. Insulin injections offer a solution. They serve the same purpose as the insulin produced naturally in the pancreas by lowering the Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels. If a Chihuahua overdoses on insulin, it may lower his blood sugar levels to the point where he experiences hypoglycemia.
Signs and Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
How do you know if your Chihuahua is suffering from hypoglycemia? Hypoglycemia is typically temporary. Most Chihuahuas won’t experience low blood sugar levels forever. Rather, they will periodically experience “hypoglycemia episodes” during which their blood sugar levels drop below normal levels.
Some hypoglycemia episodes are asymptotic, meaning the Chihuahua doesn’t exhibit any observable symptoms while their blood sugar levels are low. Other hypoglycemia episodes are symptomatic, making them easier for owners to detect.
Common signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia episodes in Chihuahuas include:
Lethargy
Weakness
Head tilting to the side
Confusion
Loss of balance
Inability to stand and walk
Lack of appetite
Vomiting
Increased thirst
Rapid panting
Bluish-colored gums
Muscle twisting
Trembling
Seizures
Diagnosis for Hypoglycemia
If you believe your Chihuahuas has experienced one or more hypoglycemia episodes, you should schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Veterinarians can diagnose hypoglycemia by measuring your Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels.
Before measuring your Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels, your veterinarian will likely begin with an examination. Your veterinarian may check your Chihuahua’s weight, gums, eyes and gait. Your veterinarian may also inquire about your Chihuahua’s food and water intake, activity levels and other behaviors.
Your veterinarian may use a glucometer to measure your Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels. Glucometers are devices that measure the concentration of glucose in the blood. Some of them are designed for humans, whereas others are designed for dogs. Regardless, glucometers will analyze a small blood sample for glucose; glucometers for dogs are simply calibrated for dogs, whereas glucometers for humans are calibrated for humans.
Instead of a glucometer, your veterinarian may use a laboratory analysis to measure your Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels. Your veterinarian will collect a sample of blood from your Chihuahua’s vein. Your veterinarian will then ship the blood sample to a laboratory to have it analyzed for glucose.
Measuring blood sugar levels isn’t always enough to determine whether a Chihuahua is hypoglycemic. It will only reveal the Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels at a specific time. You may rush your Chihuahua to the veterinarian at the first sign of a hypoglycemia episode, only for your Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels to normalize by the time you arrive at the clinic. Therefore, your veterinarian may recommend a series of glucose measurement tests. Or your veterinarian may recommend other types of tests, such as an insulin-to-glucose ratio test, hormone test or serum bile acid test.
Treatment for Hypoglycemia
If your Chihuahua is hypoglycemic, talk to your veterinarian about the available treatment options. Treatment for hypoglycemia typically consists of two elements:
Raising your Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels during hypoglycemia episodes.
Resolving the underlying cause or causes of the hypoglycemia episodes.
#1) Raising Blood Sugar Levels During Hypoglycemia Episodes
Hypoglycemia episodes can range in severity. Some of them are minor and involve a small drop in blood sugar levels. Other hypoglycemia episodes are more severe and involve a big drop in blood sugar levels. Minor hypoglycemia episodes can often be treated at home with honey or corn syrup.
Rubbing a small amount of honey or corn syrup directly onto your Chihuahua’s gums should raise his blood sugar levels. Your Chihuahua won’t need to swallow it. The sweet substance will quickly absorb into your Chihuahua’s gums. It should stop or shorten the duration of your Chihuahua’s hypoglycemia episode.
For severe hypoglycemia episodes in which your Chihuahua doesn’t respond to the honey or corn syrup, take him to the veterinarian clinic immediately. Severe hypoglycemia episodes can cause seizures, brain damage or death. Veterinarians can treat these severe episodes, however, with an electrolyte solution that contains dextrose. They may hook your Chihuahua up to an intravenous (IV) line that delivers the electrolyte solution containing dextrose. As the dextrose enters your Chihuahua’s body, his blood sugar levels will increase.
#2) Resolving the Underlying Cause or Causes of the Hypoglycemia Episodes
As a more permanent solution, your veterinarian may try to resolve what’s causing your Chihuahua’s hypoglycemia episodes. Hypoglycemia episodes usually stem from one or more underlying causes. Until they’ve been addressed, your Chihuahua will likely continue to experience hypoglycemia episodes.
There are ways to treat or manage most causes of hypoglycemia episodes. If your Chihuahua has Addison’s disease, your veterinarian may recommend cortisol supplementation. If your Chihuahua has a bacterial infection, your veterinarian may recommend a round of antibiotics. For other causes, such as a portosystemic shunt or tumor, your veterinarian may recommend surgery.
Chihuahuas are genetically predisposed to low blood sugar episodes. They have higher metabolic rates relative to their size, limited glycogen storage, and they are susceptible to extreme temperatures. Fortunately, hypoglycemic episodes stemming from genetic factors such as these can still be managed.
Your veterinarian may recommend dietary changes. Hypoglyclic Chihuahuas should eat smaller but more frequent meals. Rather than only feeding your Chihuahua twice a day, feed him four to six meals per day. Each time your Chihuahua eats, his blood sugar levels will increase. Four to six small meals per day will encourage normal, consistent blood sugar levels throughout the day.
Some owners allow their hypoglycemic Chihuahuas to “free feed” by providing them with 24/7 access to food. But the problem with free feeding is that it doesn’t promote consistent eating. After eating a large meal, Chihuahuas may fast. They may not eat again for eight or more hours, during which their blood sugar levels may drop.
You may want to change your Chihuahua’s food if he’s hypoglycemic. Choose a premium kibble that contains a high concentration of protein, fats carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates are an invaluable source of glucose as well, but they don’t offer the same long-lasting energy as complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates must be broken down in the pancreas before they can be used as energy, so they offer longer-lasting and more sustainable energy. You can ask your veterinarian for a kibble recommendation that’s tailored to your Chihuahua’s specific needs.
Will Chihuahua Puppies Grow Out of Hypoglycemia?
Just because your Chihuahua puppy is currently hypoglycemic, he may not stay hypoglycemic forever. Many puppies grow out of hypoglycemia by 8 months of age.
Puppies, especially Chihuahua puppies, may struggle to regulate their blood sugar levels because of their small size and high energy demand. As they grow older, their bodies will become larger while demanding less energy relative to their size. They’ll develop bigger livers, more muscle mass and more fat mass. Glucose is stored as glycogen in these parts of the body.
In Conclusion
Chihuahuas need glucose for energy. If they have too much glucose in their blood, they’ll experience hyperglycemia. If they don’t have enough glucose in their blood, they’ll experience hypoglycemia.
Are you looking for a fun new way to pamper your beloved Chihuahua? There’s no denying the fact that owners love to pamper their Chihuahuas. Whether it’s carrying them everywhere in a purse or giving them treats all the time, it seems like Chihuahuas are meant to be spoiled. If this sounds like an all-too-familiar situation, you should consider dressing your Chihuahua up in an adorable dress. It’s a simple and easy way to pamper them while giving them a stylish edge that naturally complements their look.
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The problem with Chihuahua dresses is that very few owners know where to find them. Sure, you might be able to find one or two at your local pet store, but the quantities are limited and the prices tend to be high. Instead of throwing away your hard-earned money on cheap Chihuahua dresses that are going to fall apart after a month or so of wear, you should check out some of the high-quality ones listed here at the Chihuahua Wardrobe. Just browse through the listings here.
Benefits of Chihuahua Dresses
Many owners tend to stick with very basic clothes and accessories for their Chihuahua. They will purchase things like single-color shirts, traditional collars and maybe a sweater. While there’s nothing technically wrong with this mentality, it somewhat limits your freedom of expression. Dresses, on the other hand, open up a whole new world of fun and exciting looks for your Chihuahua. If their wardrobe is lacking a dress, you should consider adding one for this reason alone. However, this is just one of the many benefits associated with Chihuahua dresses.
The main benefit that comes with owning a Chihuahua dress is simply due to the fact that it makes your Chihuahua look cute and adorable. As long as they are female, you can give them a uniquely stylish look that’s sure to draw compliments from anyone who crosses their path by dressing them up in a simple dress. You don’t have to use some high-dollar lavish dress with tons of rhinestones or jewels on it, as a basic pink polka-dot dress, such as the one shown to the right, will work just fine.
Even though most owners choose to dress their Chihuahuas up in dresses for aesthetic reasons alone, the truth is that it can provide a nice layer of thermal protection against the cold temperatures and weather. While it won’t be quite as warm as a thick sweater, a dress can still help to protect your Chihuahua from the elements. If you live somewhere that receives mild winters, such as the south, then a dress might be a suitable alternative to a thick sweater. This is something you should consider when buying clothes for your Chihuahua.
Choosing The Right Chihuahua Dress
After browsing around on our site for a few minutes, you’ll likely see just how many different types of Chihuahua dresses there are. Some of them are made with elegant accents like rhinestones and extra layers, while others are more basic. With such a large selection available, trying to choose one can be a challenge. So, which type of dress should you get for your Chihuahua? Let’s go over a couple of things to consider when shopping for one…
First and foremost, always consider the size of any dress you purchase for your Chihuahua. Unless you want it to hang uncomfortably off their body or constrict them to the point of pain, any dress you purchase needs to fit them properly. Take a minute or two to carefully read the description to see exactly what size of Chihuahuas it fits. Most dresses are labeled to fit Chihuahuas in a certain weight range. For instance, small dresses might fit Chihuahuas weighing between 2-4 pounds, while medium sizes may fit those between 4-5 pounds. Unfortunately, there’s no standard sizing since the dresses are made by many different manufacturers and tailors.
Are you still having trouble finding the right dress for your Chihuahua? Here are some bold ideas that are sure to turn your Chihuahua into a true diva:
Pink polka-dot dress (shown in one of the images above).
Solid pink dress with ruffles or lace around the bottom.
Don’t rule out dresses with names or sayings on them. There are some manufacturers who will stitch your Chihuahua’s name into a dress for them to sport. This added level of personalization goes a long way.
Any dress with plaid designs, as they seem to naturally look good on most Chihuahuas.
Dresses with built-in hooks for leashes are great additions that can make walking easier and less stressful.
Of course, these are just a few of the many dresses you’ll come across that look and function great on Chihuahuas. Have some fun when shopping for a Chihuahua dress and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Remember, the whole point of dressing them up is to give them a stylish flair that’s equally as adorable as it is cute.
Every Chihuahua should have at least one raincoat or jacket in their wardrobe. Even if they stay inside most of the time, there will still be occasions that call for a jacket to help keep them comfortable. Something as simple as a piece of outerwear can offer a valuable layer of protection against the biting cold winds, rain and everything else mother nature has in store for the day. Of course, these are just a few of the many instances when a Chihuahua jacket will come in handy.
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While most large pet stores carry doggie jackets, there are a couple of reasons why you should avoid purchasing them here. For starters, probably won’t have a large selection, forcing you to choose from only a few different types of jackets. If you want your Chihuahua to stand out from the rest with a sense of style (which you should), then you’ll need to shop for a jacket elsewhere. Another problem associated with purchasing a jacket from these large stores is their high price tag. There’s simply no reason why a small Chihuahua jacket should cost as much as a jacket for you and me.
Thankfully, we offer a smarter shopping alternative. Here you can shop through one of the largest selections of Chihuahua raincoats, jackets and other forms of outerwear for sale.
Benefits of Chihuahua Jackets and Raincoats
A Chihuahua jacket or raincoat is one of those accessories that you probably don’t realize just how useful it is until you own one. Once it’s in their wardrobe, however, you’ll find yourself frequently pulling it out and dressing your Chihuahua up in it. Chihuahua jackets and raincoats are a fun and stylish way to stay comfortable when the weather begins to turn south, but that’s really just one of the reasons why you should own one. Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits associated with them…
Raincoats are designed with a waterproof outer layer that wicks away rain and moisture. When it’s raining outside and your Chihuahua needs to do their business, dress them up in a raincoat to keep them dry and comfortable.
In addition to repelling rain, Chihuahua jackets also offer a valuable layer of protection against the snow and ice. You have to remember that Chihuahuas come from the scorching hot region of Chihuahua, Mexico; therefore, they aren’t used to the cold weather. Families living in areas that receive cold winters with the possibility of snow should protect their Chihuahuas with a comfortable coat.
Whether they are a long-coat or smooth-coat variety, all Chihuahuas shed. Dressing them up in a coat, however, will keep some of their fur from falling onto the floor and furniture inside your home. Instead of their loose fur getting on everything, it will stay trapped inside their coat where you can easily remove it later.
Jackets and raincoats act as protective barriers against fleas, ticks and other harmful pests. No one likes to think about these burdensome pests burrowing into their Chihuahuas, but unfortunately it happens. You can help prevent this by placing a jacket or raincoat on them before they go outside.
A lesser-known benefit associated with Chihuahua raincoats and jackets is that it reduces the amount of leaves, dirt and debris your tiny pooch tracks in. The fur on a Chihuahua’s body acts as a magnet to debris like this when they are outside. If you put a jacket on them before they go outside, however, it will help keep the inside of your home clean and free of debris.
If your Chihuahua stays outside for long periods of time, you should put a jacket or some other form of outerwear on them to help reduce the chance of sunburn. Just like we get sunburned from staying outside too long, so do Chihuahuas.
How To Choose The Right Chihuahua Outerwear
With so many different types of Chihuahua jackets and outerwear available, choosing one can be a challenge. There are basic sweater coats that are designed simply to keep a Chihuahua warm, while others are constructed with waterproof material for the rain and snow. Unless you want it to sit unused in your Chihuahua’s wardrobe, it’s recommended that you carefully choose the one that’s best suited for your Chihuahua’s specific needs. While a basic jacket may work best for one Chihuahua, another type may work better for yours.
Arguably the most important thing to consider when choosing Chihuahua outerwear is the functionality aspect of it. Read the description to find out what the jacket or coat is designed for. If you live in a region that receives plenty of rain or snow, then you’ll want to make sure the jacket is made with a waterproof exterior material, such as vinyl, polyester or some form of plastic. There’s nothing worse than dressing your Chihuahua up in a jacket only to discover it soaked a couple of minutes later.
While the exterior of a Chihuahua jacket should be made with a waterproof material, the interior should have a soft lining that’s comfortable for a Chihuahua’s delicate skin. Something like a fleece or faux-fur lining are great choices, as they create a naturally comfortable padding that’s not going to rub your Chihuahua raw. Basic cotton padding can work as well, but it’s not quite as stylish as fleece or fur.
Before purchasing any new raincoat or jacket for your Chihuahua, take a minute to familiarize yourself on how it works. Jackets are usually constructed differently than traditional dog shirts and sweaters, so they may go on in different ways. The bottom line is that you don’t want to be tugging away at your Chihuahua for half an hour trying to get a jacket on their body. Something like velcro straps, however, offer a quick and easy method for securing the jacket of a Chihuahua.
Chihuahuas are often referred to as being either “deer head” or “apple head,” depending on their appearance and physical characteristics.
It’s a common assumption that deer head and apple head are official varieties of the Chihuahua. But if you read the breed standards for the Chihuahua, you won’t find them listed as such. The American Kennel Club (AKC), Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC) recognizes only long coat and smooth coat (short coat) varieties. They do, however, call for a well-rounded “apple dome” head. So, what are deer head and apple head Chihuahuas and how do they differ?
Deer Head and Apple Head: What Does it Mean?
“Deer head” and “apple head” are unofficial terms used to describe a Chihuahua’s appearance, particularly in regards to his muzzle and facial structure.
Apple head Chihuahuas have a round apple-like head with a 90-degree angle where the muzzle joins the forehead.
Deer head Chihuahuas have a longer deer-like head with a sloped junction of approximately 45 degrees where the muzzle joins the forehead.
There are other differences between the two (see below for a complete list), but you can usually tell a Chihuahua’s type by looking for these characteristics.
Somewhere throughout the Chihuahua’s history, the breed separated into two variations: the apple head and deer head. We don’t when this genetic evolution occurred, nor do we know how. Pre-Columbian artifacts discovered in Central America depict small dogs with both apple and deer-shaped heads, suggesting this evolutionary split occurred before the Europeans discovered the New World.
Some breed experts theorize that a small ancient dog known as the Techichi is the Chihuahua’s true ancestor, while the deer head variety is a cross between the Techchi and the Chinese Crested. Others believe the Techichi is the deer head’s true ancestor. Regardless of how it happened, there are now apple head and deer head Chihuahuas.
The Apple Head Chihuahua
The apple head Chihuahua is named after its apple-shaped head, which is noted in the breed’s standards.
Apple head Chihuahuas can have a smooth coat or a long coat in any number of colors or color combinations.
Here are some of the characteristics of an apple head Chihuahua:
Apple head Chihuahuas feature a prominent 90-degree angle (known as a stop) where the muzzle meets the forehead. This juncture should essentially form an “L” shape, indicating an apple head. This is the most distinguishable feature of an apple-head Chihuahua.
Apple head Chihuahuas have shorter jawlines than deer head Chihuahuas.
They often have shorter necks than deer head Chihuahuas.
The AKC specifically mentions the apple-like facial features in its breed standards for the Chihuahua.
Due to their apple-shaped skulls, apple head Chihuahuas tend to have more prominent and expressive eyes.
Apple head Chihuahuas have a stout, “cobby” body featuring short legs relative to their body length.
Nearly all apple head Chihuahua puppies are born with a molera or “soft spot” in their skull. This cranial opening typically closes, however, by 3 to 4 months of age.
Apple heads are the only type of Chihuahuas that can compete in the show ring.
The Deer Head Chihuahua
Also living up to its namesake, the deer head Chihuahua has facial characteristics resembling that of a young deer’s face. If you look at a young deer’s face, you’ll notice they have a long muzzle, large ears and a sloped forehead, which are characteristics of this breed variation.
Deer head Chihuahuas are also found in both smooth and long coats. While coat colors vary, fawn is the most common.
Deer head Chihuahuas are just as popular, if not more popular, than apple heads. The Taco Bell dog, Gidget, was actually a deer head Chihuahua. During her 8-year career with the national fast food chain, she was responsible for introducing this breed to millions of Americans. Gidget was the first Chihuahua many Americans had ever seen. Her adorable appearance and fun-loving personality skyrocketed the breed’s popularity through the late 1990s.
Here are some of the characteristics of a deer head Chihuahua:
The muzzle of a deer head Chihuahua is longer than an apple head’s.
Instead of a 90-degree angle, deer head Chihuahuas have a slope where the muzzle meets the forehead. You can feel for this slope by gently running your index finger from the tip of your Chihuahua’s nose up to his skull, which should reveal a gradual slope of approximately 45 degrees.
This variation typically has longer legs, resulting in a taller body height without the “cobby” appearance of an apple head Chihuahua.
Deer head Chihuahuas have larger ears, which like its apple head counterpart, also remain erect and upright once fully developed.
Deer head Chihuahuas often have longer necks.
They also have a longer jawline than apple head Chihuahuas.
Because they are not recognized by the AKC as an official variety, deer head Chihuahuas are disqualified from participating in conformation dog shows.
Moleras occur in deer head Chihuahuas, though the condition is more prevalent in apple heads.
Fawn is the most common coat color for deer head Chihuahuas (see images of deer head photos above).
Deer head Chihuahuas are often larger than apple heads, weighing more than the standard six pounds as defined in the AKC’s breed standards.
Whether true or not, some owners claim deer head Chihuahuas are less aggressive.
It’s also believed that deer head Chihuahuas have fewer health problems.
Only Apple Head Chihuahuas Meet Breed Standards
Neither the AKC nor any other major canine association distinguishes between apple head or deer head Chihuahuas. The breed standards for the Chihuahua require “A well rounded ‘apple dome’ skull, with or without molera.” Other variations of the head, including the deer head, are not allowed.
Upon hearing this information for the first time, many owners assume their deer head Chihuahua isn’t a real Chihuahua. If a Chihuahua doesn’t meet the AKC’s breed standards, conventional wisdom may lead you to believe he’s not an actual Chihuahua, right? Not necessarily. You can still have a purebred Chihuahua without the characteristic apple-shaped head, and you can still register him with the AKC, assuming he’s a pedigree whose parents are also registered. However, he won’t win any ribbons for showmanship at conformation shows like the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the National Dog Show, the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, or Crufts since he doesn’t meet the breed standards.
Breed standards created by the AKC and other canine organizations are used for judging dogs at conformation shows. If a competing dog fails to meet the standards for his respective breed, judges will automatically disqualify him from receiving the championship title. Spayed or neutered dogs are also disqualified from competing in conformation shows, regardless of whether they meet their respective breed’s standards.
The bottom line is that deer head Chihuahuas are real Chihuahuas; they just won’t win points or championship titles at conformation shows. The same can be said for Chihuahuas weighing over six pounds, which is also grounds for disqualification.
Should the AKC Recognize Deer Head Chihuahuas?
Being that they are so common, there’s a strong argument that the AKC should acknowledge deer head Chihuahuas as a variation of the breed — and this wouldn’t be the first time the organization has done so.
In 1936, the AKC separated the English Cocker Spaniel into two varieties: the traditional English Cocker Spaniels and the American Cocker Spaniels. A decade later, they revised the standards again to include the American Cocker Spaniel as a separate breed (only dogs of different varieties can be interbred, not breeds). While similar in appearance the American Cocker Spaniel is shorter than its English counterpart and found in more colors. American Cocker Spaniels are also “showier,” with less instinctual drive to chase prey.
1952, the Chihuahua Club of America (CCA) — the official AKC parent club for the breed –revised its standards for the breed, separating the Chihuahua into long coat and smooth coat varieties, the latter of which was preferred as pets. More than half a century later, breed standards created by all of the major canine associations recognize long coat and smooth coat varieties. Perhaps we’ll see similar action taken by the AKC in the near future, acknowledging the deer head Chihuahuas as a separate variety.
Can My Chihuahua Have Characteristics of Both Apple Head and Deer Head?
Absolutely! Many Chihuahuas are born with, or later develop, characteristics of both apple head and deer Chihuahuas. A Chihuahua with a perfectly found apple-shaped dome may feature the longer muzzle and larger ears of a deer head variety. Or a Chihuahua with the sloped muzzle of a deer head may feature the apple head’s cobby body.
Furthermore, don’t assume that breeding two apple head Chihuahuas will result in a litter of all apple heads, or vice-versa for deer heads. When breeding two Chihuahuas of the same variety, there’s always a chance that one or more puppies in their litter will be the opposite variety.
In Conclusion…
Unless you plan to compete your Chihuahua in a conformation show, don’t worry about whether he’s an apple head or deer head. While there are nuances between these two varieties, both exhibit the breed’s fierce, confident and fun-loving personality.
Is your Chihuahua an apple head or deer head? Let us know in the comments section below!
