Google

Applehead Chihuahua


The term applehead Chihuahua refers to the shape of a baby Chihuahua's head. The dome of the skull is broader than the jaw, giving rise to the description "applehead". It takes into account that the top of the head has a slight depression. This depression is called a molera (Spanish for fontanel) and corresponds to the "soft spot" on a baby's head. Some Chis have it--some don't.

There was disagreement for a while over whether the presence of a molera on an applehead Chihuahua was a bad thing and should be considered a demerit for lineage assessment. Recently, this has been seen as totally discountable. The presence or absence of a molera has NO bearing on a Chihuahua's pedigree.

On October 30, 1990, the American Kennel Club adopted a set of standards for the Chihuahua as a breed. It did not differ from the prior April 14, 1943, standard. Listed under "Head" is the following description: "A well rounded "apple dome" skull, with or without molera." So although the official description of the applehead Chihuahua is "apple dome", there's no disputing the AKC Official Breed Standard for "Expression": Saucy!

The AKC Breed Standard weight limit for a Chi is 6 pounds. If your young applehead Chihuahua gains too much weight, the "appleheaded-ness" will disappear earlier than through simple aging. As in humans, too much weight puts a strain on all systems, especially the heart. Be nice to your pet and don't feed it huge meals or table scraps.

Additionally, the tiny legs of an applehead Chihuahua cannot easily support gross extra weight. They will develop a condition called slipped stifles, which is an injury of the knee caused by patella fracturing. It can be fixed with an operation, but that is an expense and pain that you do not need to incur. Be sure to get your applehead Chihuahua from a breeder that has carefully checked its breeding stock for inheritable weaknesses. And for sure, don't let your Chi jump down from your arms or other high places. Their joints just cannot take the stress.

You'll keep your applehead Chihuahua healthy for as much of the 15 year lifespan as possible if you limit its food and correctly provide the exercise it--and YOU--demand!

Stephanie Hetu
Chihuahua Chic
Exquisite designer chihuahua products. 'Cause your Chi deserves the best, just like you.

MORE RESOURCES:

RELATED ARTICLES

Mommy, Can I Keep That Stray Dog?
How many times have you seen this situation where a child comes through the door with a dog in tow? It looks skinny and skittish and is in need of a good meal and a bath. The child is looking with big eyes imploring, pleading, and desperately wanting a yes.
Westies for Sale - Avoiding the Perils of Purebred Puppy Purchases
In the purebred West Highland Terrier puppy market, there are few rules or laws governing who may breed dogs, and then advertise Westies for sale. Both ancestry and the breeding environment will affect the quality of the Westies offered for sale, and some breeders are a lot less careful about these details than others.
The Artful Dog Shopper
I am a dog lover by nature. I have just always loved the little four legged fur balls.
Syrian vs. Dwarf Hamsters, What Should I Get For My Family?
As pets go hamsters are fairly easy to take care of. Hamsters require no walking, are not particularly dirty or stinky, they are small and don't take up much space and are generally inexpensive.
Dogs: Buy or Adopt?
Buy or Adopt - That is the question.If you intend to breed or show your dog there is no alternative but to buy your dog from a reputable AKC-REGISTERED breeder.
Goldfish Tips - Finding Out The Gender of Your Goldfish
Boy or Girl?How can you tell whether your Goldfish is male or female? You might want to know because you want to breed them, or give them the right name before Jack turns out to be the mother Goldfish! Here are some clues that might help you sort out the Goldfish boys from the Goldfish girls:* The female Goldfish are slightly bigger than the males and look even heavier in the abdomen when they are full of eggs.* Male Goldfish develop white spots on their gills and pectoral called "breeding tubercles" during spawning time.
Clicker Training For Dogs: Positive Reinforcement Training
There is nothing more adorable than a new puppy. Large adoring eyes, and unconditional love pave the way for a new attachment.
My Tips to Take Care of a New Dog
So you're bringing home that cute little puppy from the best breeder after doing all that research, or you found the most adorable "mutt" at the pound, where you were just going to look, you swore. And now you realize that you weren't as prepared as you thought.
Spaying or Nuetering Your Dog-Get The Facts... Be Responsible
Bringing a new puppy or dog home is a huge commitment and a three-fold responsibility. You now have a commitment to your dog, yourself, and to your community.
Westie Rescue Centres
The aim of a Westie rescue centre such as the one at: http://www.westierescuescheme.
How To Keep Your Cat Healthy - Cat Feeding Explained
Cats have a reputation for being finicky eaters, but that is usually a distortion of the truth. Cats have a very keen sense of taste and smell, and they know what they like.
What is It About Horses and Young Girls?
In a world of computer games, the Internet and shopping malls, what is it about this four-legged farm animal that seems to capture the heart of most of them?According to a recent study by the American Horse Council, 1.9 million Americans own horses -- just over 4 million people are recreational riders and 3.
Why the Heck Would You Have a Pet Snake (or lizard, crocodile, monitor, frog, turtle etc)?
This is a question that has been asked of me and a thousand (million?) other herp keepers. I think it's almost a case of once bitten, twice as determined.
Puppy Basics: Potty-Training, Reprimanding, and Rewards...
Potty Training Your Puppy:Make sure you feed your dog at regular times every day as this makes bathroom breaks regular as well. Feed your puppy 2-3 times a day.
Leash Training Your Dog-Take The Time To Get It Done and Do It Right
Attempting to train your dog to walk on a leash may feel like you're a contestant in a tug-of-war contest. But, it doesn't have to.
Dealing with a Dog Food Allergy?
Just as humans allergies can show up as a sneeze or rash, your dog's allergies can manifest as itchiness -- or even ear infections. In fact, if your dog's allergic to his food, it can cause him to scratch himself constantly, even with no obvious parasite problem.
How to Paint Your Cat
Why paint your cat? After all cats are beautiful creatures if you want to appreciate the appearance of a feline, you look at the cat not at a painting.Some of the reasons that you may want to paint your cat are:To capture your pet at a particular age, in a particular pose, in a particular place.
Saving Ginger From Being Put To Sleep - Part 2
The Story Continues..
What Are The 6 Keys To Building A Life Long Partnership With Your Horse?
Most people who have horses would like to develop a quality relationship with their horse, but only achieve mediocrity, often accepting this as a good result. Why, because they put there efforts into becoming experts at riding or showmanship when they really need to be focusing on becoming horseman.
Facts About Rottweilers
Looking for some quick Rottweiler dog facts? Here's a quick rundown of basics facts about Rottweilers.Vital Stats:Colour: Black with distinctive tan markings over cheeks, muzzle, chest and legs as well as over both eyesCoat: straight, coarse and of medium length.