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Linda Hempler, an expert in the Chihuahua breed and owner of ChiChisAndMe.com

Hi! I’m Linda, a Chihuahua breed expert with over 30 years of experience. I have dedicated my career to studying, understanding and ultimately becoming one of the leading authorities on Chihuahuas. 

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Apple Head, Deer Head, What The Heck Is The Difference?

You’ve probably heard the terms apple head and deer head to describe Chihuahuas, but have you ever heard of a pear head Chihuahua? You may wonder if they are a different breed of Chihuahua.

What is an apple head Chihuahua?

The apple head Chihuahua is the only type recognized in dog shows by the AKC. This is because the apple head shape is the actual authentic head formation of the Chihuahua breed. The apple head used to be the most common, but now most pet Chihuahuas are deer head.

type of chihuahua, a cream colored apple head chihuahua
Apple Head Chi, Round Domed Skull, Short Snout, Larger Eyes

This type is obviously called an apple head because of its apple shape. The shape of the head is well-rounded and domed. They also have big eyes a less prominent snout and a smaller sized body.

What is a deer head Chihuahua?

The deer head is called that because instead of being well-rounded and domed, their skull is shaped more like a deer’s head. Their head is a little more sloped and their snouts are generally longer and narrower. Their bodies are usually taller and thinner.

type of chihuahua, a brown deer head chihuahua
Deer Head Chihuahua. Skull slightly rounded, longer nose, shaped like a deer’s head

This type of Chihuahua is still a Chihuahua and are generally preferred by pet owners. They usually are healthier and have less genetic issues.

What is a pear head Chihuahua?

Pear head Chihuahuas are much less common and few are aware that they even exist. Some people may have a pear head Chi but think they have a deer head. I had never heard of this type of Chihuahua until just recently and most people haven’t unless they are a breeder.

The pear head is similar to the deer head except the head is more – you guessed it, more pear-shaped, and often the skull is flatter. They are usually larger than the deer head. I am not a breeder but I’m told that the pear head shape usually happens when a breeder breeds an apple head with a deer head Chihuahua. If you are a breeder and read this, please leave a comment below.

type of chihuahua, a pear head chihuahua lying on the beach
Pear Head Chihuahua. Skull almost flat, they are usually bigger than deer or apple head Chihuahuas

Although this is not the preferred type by most, the pear head Chihuahua is still a Chihuahua breed.

Whether they are an apple head, a deer head or a pear head they are still a Chihuahua. There is only one breed of Chihuahua but with different shapes, sizes, colors, and with long or short-haired coats.

But, no matter which type you have, I’m sure that you love them as I do my little deer head Chihuahuas!

How about Teacup, micro, or toy Chihuahua? Well, that’s another post.

Don’t miss; Teacup Chihuahuas, What You Need to Know

Now that you know, here’s a quiz. This is my Pebbles. Is she an apple head or a deer head? Leave your answer in the comments below

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corine
corine
2 years ago

I’m sorry for the loss of your Pebbles. This if my first time here. Lots of wonderful info here. Thanks

H
H
2 years ago

I call this a “Bambi head” because it looks like baby Bambi in the cartoon. My “Pebbles” looks just like yours but is gold instead.
I used to think I disliked Chihuahuas because I knew a couple of yappy, vicious teacup chis, but eventually I discovered that there are different types, temperaments, differently *socialized* chis. I adopted my Pebbles reluctantly but WOW! I’m so glad I did!! She’s my wonderful baby! 💖

Deanna G Young
Deanna G Young
3 years ago

A pear head?

Maryana Eynis
4 years ago

Deer head

Shannon Edwards
Shannon Edwards
5 years ago

Pebbles looks like a dear head Chi to me, as are my 2, Merlin and Rufus.

Emma
6 years ago

I’ve had my chi for 10 years and never understood the explanations about deer head vs. apple head. This is the first one I’ve actually understood – I’m the proud mama of a little deer head! 😉

Michelle LeVault
8 years ago

Great website! How can I register to join?

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