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!
References:
I have two deer head boys (brothers). They came from a house with 23 chis. They are 3 years old and just learning about the world. I don’t think they ever left the house base on their fears of people, dark, leafs blowing around, etc. they were surrendered to the animal shelter I volunteer at and were there 5 months or so which is unusual because chis usually go fast, but they have a history of biting, and nobody wanted two. We wanted to keep them together because they are bonded from birth and whine when separated.
Since being at my home they have been loving, licking, playing with the zoomies, wrestling etc,. Haven’t bitten me once. Are very smart and picking up on words like all gone, no, walk? I wondered why their legs were so long. Didn’t know there was such a thing as Deer chis. They are 14 and 16 pounds.
I have brothers too OMG one is dark in color the other is light one is tall the other short named them bear and blue lol
I have a 7 yr old apple head chi. His name is Kujo he is the best dog ever. I open his shopping bag ( yes he has his own bags). Kujo will not make a sound as long as he is in his bag. 2 times in 7 years he barked and growled at someone ( he got that feeling I guess, not good ppl) He goes everywhere with me. Out to eat he will sit right beside me and behave always. His mother and father both lived to be 21 yrs old so I expect Kujo will have a very good long life. I love him so much and we make each very happy. Long live the apple heads we love
My sweet companion is a Fawn Deer Head. I love her to the moon and back. I never liked Chihuahuas at all EVER until I met my sister’s Deer Head. It’s a funny story how we ended up getting her. I was home cleaning horse stalls and my husband was at a Gun Show. I called him and asked him to please stop at the grocery store on the way home and pick up some Mocha. When he got to the grocery store parking lot there was a lady with a litter of puppies that she had to give away. Her daughter was coming home from the hospital with a Liver Transplant and ALL dogs had to be out of the house. My husband quickly called me and of course I said YES. I asked for a Fawn Female. I don’t believe she was even 6 weeks old. We had to give her Puppy Lac with a dropper for some time and then graduate up to a mayonnaise jar cap to lap from. She couldn’t even walk in the grass, she was so tiny. We were going to call her Mocha, but when she got feet under her and her personality shot out …. we called her Princess Pistola….aka … Pistol. My husband has since passed away and she has been my Heart and my Joy and my Laughter. I just love her to death. She is so full of herself and life….she makes me laugh every day. God is good and I am so grateful that He found Pistol for us for such a time as this.
I had a black ten pounds deer head named mischief. She was the whole world and so smart. She lived for me. She shined like stars her coat was so glowing and she was the light of my life. You just can’t imagine how great she was or the tricks she knew. She knew her toys and what the names were and she would get what you asked for. She had been afraid of water but when I got off shoreline on my float she leaped six feet to join me and from then on her and I had great water playing and she would climb up my head to bark at sea gulls. She died four years ago and I still cry for her. She used to love to go see Christmas lights and looked up ahead to glimpse the next house.
We were looking for a companion for our Bassett, Rosie. Another dog with more energy to maybe get Rosies porky posterior moving more. Every dog we wanted to team Rosie up with at the adoption center seemed to suddenly be taken. But we also kept reading the compatibility ratings of these dogs and on every paper, was the phrase “Does well with Heloise”. So finally we asked to center to intro us to Heloise.
To our surprise, they brought out this tall white and tan Chihuahua . While it wasn’t connection at first site for any of us,” Weezie” as she’s known in the family , has become a very important part of the family. Sure she ran away from her new home over 20 times in the first 4 months , and she has separation anxiety from being abused by previous family ( can’t leave her alone or she tears things up).
Apparently we’re her 4th home, but we wouldn’t trade her for the world. Even Rosie gets upset when the two of them are separated for any length of time.
We thought, because she’s so tall, that she’s part rat terrier. Until today we didn’t know there was such a thing as a deer headed Chi . But she shows traits of both Deer Head and Apple Head, so after reading through a days worth of web sites, we realize she’s all Chihuahua. ( right now passed out in my lap, btw)
We have had our Leroy Brown for over a year now. He is a deer head and my wife and I just love him so very very much. Leroy is such a joy to our family but he still will howl and scream when we don’t pay attention to him. He is daddy’s little boy and weighs 10 lbs now. Just so friendly, loves people and becoming a great guard dog. Barks when someone knocks on the door. Squeals with delight when my son and wife come to visit. Never thought I could love my dog so much.
My beautiful Pretty Gurl is a deer head that was dumped in a Walmart parking lot in Manchester TN. We got her in 2011 and took her to the vet and they said that she was about 1&1/2 – 2 yrs old. She was in good health and with us every since. She is very territorial and only barks at new people or noises. As long as I am present she will not bite. She was mistreated apparently cause it took me 3 days to a week to let me touch her. Patients with her was key. Amazing dog now and I couldn’t be happier. We live her dearly. Spoiled rotten for sure.
This is my 6th Chihuahua. She is a black and white dear head. I prefer apple heads, but couldn’t find one. I love this little girl. She is 6 months and about 4#’s. I’m hoping she doesn’t get much bigger.
She is the orneriest chi I have ever had. My previous chi who died was only 3#’s and very dainty. and she would never think of walking in mud, but this one does, and digs in it too. She tears up papers, hauls shoes around, nips all this time, but she never runs off. It is going to take a lot of training for her to be a good girl. I always name my dogs Mexican names and her name is Cala, short for Caliente.
I have 1 female short hair coat deer head Paris “fifth avenue diva” (AKC registered) who is chocolate brown with cream markings and then another short hair deer head named Prada that is chocolate brown with tan markings and her brother who is a long haired Apple head male named Pierre. Both of those parents are CKC registered- I didn’t register them. I love all chihuahuas regardless !!!!
I just got my chihuahua. Her name is Lola and she is 3.5 lbs. Was told she is a mix between apple head and deer hear. Didn’t know there was a difference. She has a slight apple shape head, she doesn’t have a 90° angle. Not quite 45° either tho. Her legs are longer and she is very petite. She is brindle 🙂 I take her to work with me everyday and she won’t leave my side ever. I work with kids that she is slowly getting used to. She is very needy though. If she can’t see me she has to follow me. :-/ trying to train her to be a bit more independent.
I have a female Chihuahua seven weeks old born January 1, 2019 and I just love her to pieces She is a applehead I believe I take her everywhere I go in the stores and she loves car rides she whines to get up on the couch to sleep on me and she already whines to go potty outside and she uses her potty pads in the house if needed I have her blankets made on the couch she has to sleep next to me and I bought her a pink baby blanket and she has to have her head covered up she also sleeps with me on my body pillow she loves to cuddle she’s so adorable I’m just so thankful I have her
I have two beautiful chihuahuas. My oldest is an apple head and she is tan. She will be 16 yrs old on Valentine’s Day. We got her when she was 6 weeks old. Her name is Punkin because she is the color of a punkin. Or she was when we got her. Her face is all white now. She has been the best little dog. And she is beautiful. Of course, she is the queen of the house. Lol. I also have Minnie who is a deer head chihuahua. She is all black except for her feet. They are white. She got named Minnie because of her ears. She reminded me of Minnie Mouse. I believe she was abused. She was 3 months old when we got her and it was all I could do to finally get her to come to me. She is 7 1/2 yrs old now and she is MY dog. She won’t go to anyone else. She cowers still even when my adult kids come over. But she will let them pet her even if she’s not on my lap. So there is progress. I love my girls. Now they have an Australian Shepherd that lives with them that thinks she is a chihuahua.
Hi I am wondering if you could tell me what type of food your deer head eats best I have went through a number of varieties or brands. I have had my deer head since March she was possibly abused also she is very afraid of trash bags like she was tortured with them or something. And they were feeding her hamburger and rice for her daily food with slim Jim’s that I love myself for a snack from time to time. I have spoken with my veterinarian about this but the results has been the same.
I just got a sweet little “DEAR” Deer Head! And yes she is so loving and kind and sweet. I wouldn’t trade her for the world! She has long legs and is fawn colored. One of her litter mates was an apple and the other one was another DEER. I am looking forward to many happy years with her!
I have a deer head blue – her name is Peek a Boo .. she weighs 3 lbs and is 10 months old. Is she done growing? I will say she is just beautiful and very dainty… I’ve never seen a more beautiful dog!
Do you have a picture of her. I would love to see a blue.
I would like to see her too, i have a deerhead and until i read about chihuahuas now i never knew its name i just thought we should have called her bambi instead of lily-may….x
where did you get your puppy?
What is a blue?
Our beautiful boy Bandit is a deer head in every colour, but mostly dark grey with a super cute beige/black face that looks like a mask – hence the name. At nearly 1 year old he weighs 4kg (8.8lbs), and lives with us in Canberra (capital city of Australia). We searched for him in January this year at the doctor’s suggestion, to be a support for my my husband who has a severe mental health issue. We are now going through the certification process for Bandit to be classified as an Assistance Dog, as Bandit is the only reason my husband will leave the house. Everywhere we take Bandit, carried of course, people touch and pat him -he never shows any aggression or fear, and in fact, absolutely loves the pats. He has given my husband a reason to live – he makes him laugh every day with his crazy antics, and even knows when to be quiet and cuddle up to him on the really bad days! This little bundle of joy was the best decision we every made – he is intelligent, has a crazy funny personality and a joy for life we should all aspire to! Our amazing Bandit was the best and most life changing decision we ever made!!!
Can you tell me how to have my Bella who is a deerhead as well certified as a companion animal so we don’t get any issues when we have to take her with us? She helps my husband cope with anger and anxiety issues.
Does anyone Chihuahua go around in circles like crazy? Our Dixie deerdead does like crazy, I thinks it’s funny and cute as hell the way she does it. We just got her and was told she was about a year old
I have a 9 month old long haired Chihuahua called Theo. I just have to say to him is “I’m coming to get you” and he runs round the coffee table like a lunatic and I just sit on the chair laughing.
I believe that may be fear and stress. Mine does it when i vacuum so i put her in another room. I hope shes not haveing panic attacks
My deerhead female has always circled and chases her tail frequently… not a problem but a habit
Yes..our chi does that..not as much as when he was a puppy tho..he is 3 yrs old now..and yes we have video of him doing it..think he might be chasing his little curly tail but not sure but yes it is adorable and we all laugh. he seems 2 enjoy us laughing at him too..😄just so cute.
My six year old grandpuppy, male apple head always communicates with his circles. Usually his language for an “outside job” (potty time). It is also used for a yes answer as in treat or freshening water dish or even hey I lost my favor sqeeeky. Spinning gets fast and more exciting in reaction to find the correct word he is expressing. If the squeaky is the correct word he will spin excitedly and then show the direction he thinks it may be.
Very cute and a very smart way to communicate with us. He also circles when picking out the perfect spot during potty time. When you him spin in a specific spot you know he’s ready to do his job . He’s a six year apple head bought by my lovely friend who suffered several miscarriages and she so badly wanted baby but just could face another tragic loss. He did such a good job being a derogate baby he filled her hearth with the hope and the love she needed to try again. And six years later she was blessed with a son. He is now retired and lives a very relaxing life at my home with his adopted baby sister, an 89 pound Pitt-boxer who adores her 10 pound smaller bug brother. They act just biological siblings. Jealousy, attention stealers. As well as cuddle buddies. Sharing of toys treats and trading off the pet beds through the entire house . Size never matters. They have special nick names because of big brother/little sister size difference vs ages Pitt 3 chi is 6. Ages make the brother /little sister and iron because little is 75 pounds larger than the 10 pound little brother. Moose and squirrel are the nick names
I never thought I cared much for chihuahuas until I ended up with little Lucy a couple of months ago. She’s a white deerhead with a honey colored stripe down her back and perfectly circular tail. She has brought so much joy and laughter to our home! She doesn’t seem to realize what a little dog(4.2#) she is. She has a huge, hilarious personality. She gets the “zoomies” a couple of times a day when she just suddenly starts racing around the house or yard at a thousand miles an hour. I can’t imagine life without Lucy!😍
I own Nina a deer head Chi 6 months old now 8lbs not a fussy eater at all. But as some others have said she’s hard to house train too can be in back garden for ages and will come in and pee she has went in garden many times but also likes to use the house at times she lifts up one back leg so she doesn’t get her both feet wet when peeing. She is so very friendly and adores children and people. Easy trained to do tricks. She is my best mate but i also have to share her with our American Bull dog Brian a rescue dog is the most loveable..soft..placid big guy ever he’s 38kg bit on heavy side i know. He lets Nina share his food bowl waits till shes had her fill first. Nina also has a time trying to play with our cat Minstral who doesn’t play just swipes but Nina still tries to mess with him she knows she can out run him with her speed he’s older slow and tubby..big cat.
I had until recent Bella half Chihuahua half Pomeranian a wee beauty different entirely to Nina she was more protective and went mad at hubby for saying gives a kiss she too got run over she was 10 very hard to come to terms with that but Nina helps me. My Bella still has a special place in my heart always will.
I also have a six month old deer head and his name is Lincoln he is the best thing that has happened in my life in a long time I just can’t believe how smart and happy he is already fully potty trained I’ve had him since he was two months old and he is so much fun not to mention how he brings so much excitement and happiness to everyone that he comes in contact with I can’t go anywhere without people stopping and fussing over him he’s such a superstar kowtow mom told me I should get a ink pad so he can put his pawn on it and give everyone his autograph lol just saying if your thinking about getting one just do it because life will be that much better and it only gets better and better as you bond and one more thing they make great alarm systems especially if you live by yourself like I do so thanks for reading my name is Sarah from Everett, WA Lincoln rocks
Now I know that my Maggy is a deer head chi. She is 4 months and we’ve had her 2 months. I’ve said the whole time that she looks just like a deer. She supposedly is a mix with a corgy but now I’m wondering. She is smart and lovable BUT she bites and scratches something terrible. I don’t know how to break her unless as she ages she will stop. We are going to have her “fixed” in about 3 weeks. Will that help her temperment? She is close to being pee pad trained and we do try to take her out to go potty but it doesn’t always work. I’m just concerned about her biting me. We are working on crate training which is working. I am so glad I came across this site. Someone told me TODAY about a deer head. Thanks for any help. Judith from Franklin NC.
Just be firm and consistent with “NO”. Mine is 9m/o and can be mouthy still. She will learn but you need to be firm with her and I put mine in his crate after he’s been told off. Time out. Yours is still a young and probably teething pupoy. Best wishes 😉
Longtime dog owner and trainer here. Knowing her tendencies means you plan in advance. When she bites, have an acceptable toy for her to chew, nearby. Place it in her mouth when she tries to bite you (not with force, or course). She bites fingers? Have a flat palm (she cannot bite it) and distract her calmly to something else. Behavioral training. She will eventually learn what is ok to bite and what is not. When training, I avoid using the word “No” and save it for the most important times. She’s running out the front door? NO! She’s about to jump off something too high? No! Overusing No can make the word less effective. Using words like “calm down” or “It’s ok” in a soothing tone can help both of you. Even a sound “Uh Uh” is adequate when just discouraging her behavior but not upsetting her. Talk to her when you dress her or handle her. She’ll grow to love your voice. Saying the very same “pee word(s) in the very same tone when housebreaking outside helps, too. After a while, the dog hears you say the words and immediately needs to go. I don’t pad train because I find it complicates me not wanting pee in the house. I have a new almost 5 month old apple head puppy and have been training her since Sept 26. When she arrived, the sellers had been play fight biting with her and it took almost 2 weeks to make her lose interest in biting me for fun. She was pad trained. She already knows elimination only happens outside. Of course for the last 2 or 3 weeks I have been up and out in the rain holding her leash as if it were completely normal… every 2-3 hrs around the clock. For the last two days, I’ve allowed her complete freedom (during the day) in 3 rooms, and she is trusted. I know when she needs to go before she knows. She is now able to sleep 5-6 hrs without needing to go out. Eventually her bladder will be strong enough to make it all night. Schedule her food (and naps) so you know when to expect elimination. The lack of sleep you get right now will make you & your dog happier for the next 15 more more years. Good luck! Asheville, NC
I have 2 beautiful chihuahua, my 4 year old boy Oreo is a blue Merle deer head chihuahua, with bright blue eyes and a birth mark that covers half of one of his eyes. He’s always busy playing with my cats and when not playing he’s snuggling. He is a dolly, sweet as can be. And I also have Cleo, she is a cross of apple head chihuahua and shih-tzu. She is loving and sweet, she’s 9 year’s old, so no time for her younger crazy brother. She is super timid and a total mama’s girl. She is also blue Merle which is common in shih-tzu but not chihuahua. I call her my little shithuahua…..
My Ellie May is a black and white 3.5 lb Deerhead.3yrs old and full of fun.Play,play.play,Nap play some more.Suldom barks Just sweet
Little companion
Sunday is a 7 month old black n tan deer head with ears about as big as her body. She is feisty and smart. I take her to my hair salon every day so she has a lot of socialization. The clients and staff love her and she is usually found on someone’s lap. She loves doing tricks and always gets in the shower with me. I never liked chihuahuas (getting her was an accident – long story) and now I wouldn’t give her up for anything!
Sherri do you have a pic of your dog you can post? Mine recently passed and I haven’t seen another Chihuahua that looks even close to mine.. But you mentioned black and tan and so was mine.. I really want to find another one just like her but im having a very difficult time..im just curious to see if our dogs resemble one another..?
I have a deer head chi. I LOVE her. Some CHI sites talk smack about the Deer. I don’t understand … She comes from a lone a well bred Chi’s. I am told she cannot be registered and. To bred because she isn’t TOP quality. Top quality to me is POISE/ temperament/ and how she handles herself….. Like princess when walking.
Fostering an Apple Head Chihuahua named Dallas. Pathways Home is backing this rescue mission. He’s so loyal and affectionate. Great in many ways. 7 years old. Vanilla. Microchipped; altered; and loves to model. No.problem with big dogs or cats. Escape artist at heart; so owner must be vigilant. I have a big black service dog so it’s quite the combination
I have a Deerhead boy is also mixed Dachshund….
His ears spand out very brilliant because they are longer his nose is longer his body is long as well and when hes angry he looks like a short hair Coyote…But very harmless and is So Sorry when he bites you… or thinks hes hurt you…he also looks like a Weasel when he stealing from the other Dog..Im very lucky to have Reagen..he was my Dads dog till he passed
My fur baby’s name is George and he is a Deer Head. Can I tell you that he’s a small dog with a BIG personality. He is full of energy, love and charm and boy can he run…fast. George loves being outside keeping us company during yard work and he is an excellent companion in the car. When he hears you grab the car keys he’s ready to roll. Everyone who meets George falls in love with him. He has an awesome personality and is the best snuggle buddy. I consider him a great ambassador for his breed. He is a well loved part of our family!
My fur baby is Daisy. She is a little big dog.
I rescued my chi in Maine but he came from Texas. I never wanted a chi but he is the sweetest quietest dog I have ever owned. He is a deerhead and adorable everyone wants to take him home. Being a sreet dog he loves it outside but has adapted well to snow and rain. He adapts to every thing.
Satin was a beautiful black and white deer-head chi when I was a little girl. She loved kids and was a great traveler. She loved to go camping and hiking in the woods. She went with us across the country and didn’t even mind the heat in Texas (I did). She wasn’t very good at housebreaking though. We always said she looked like a little deer but I never understood the difference between apple-head and deer-head until I read this article. Thank you.
I have a deer head Chihuahua her name is Rosie. She is going to be 3 years old. She is a lovable dog. With that said she is scared of everything unless she is in the house. Then she is in protecting mode. Rosie likes people other then she will bark at them all the time. I think she has a lot of anxiety. I wish she was calmer. She can be Changelle. But she is the love of my,life. My Paco was nothing like Rosie. But he was raised with Bassett hounds.
My Carmen is a beautiful tan colored with white specifics throughout her body and a black tipped curved tail, she is my little deer head chichuaua. She has been in our life since she was 5 months old. She is now a month shy of being 1 year. She never leaves my sight and crys and wines if I dare go somewhere without her. So I had her registered as a support dog sometimes now I think she needs me more then I need her 🙂
Seven years ago, we rescued my deer-headed chihuahua, Bambi, when she was 3 months old. Her previous owners were keeping her in a shoebox in a closet. My son learned of her plight and asked if he could have her.
The vet said she was dehydrated, starving, full of worms and had only a few days to live. We nursed her back to health and she is a joy.
This is a true story: Jimmy, my other dog, a 14 pound terrier mix (also rescued) was choking on a small bone. Before I could get to him, Bambi put her mouth inside his and
pulled out that bone. My son is an eyewitness to this almost unbelievable event.
Daisy is a deer head. I was confused about her breed I got her at the shelter they thought she was a wire hair Terrier when she was a baby grew into more Chihuahua characteristics. But strangely she has a very long coarse wiry hair covering her back. She’s very sporty likes to fetch , swim in the pond and hunts Birds. Very intelligent and independent. Results showed she was 100% indigenous dog from Mexico or South America. They said she doesn’t have any purebred mixed in her. Wish I could leave a photo. I’ll try to paste a Facebook site with her picture
I have a deer head chihuahua her name is Peaches, and she brings such joy to me. She love to dress up and when she see people pull out their phones it’s like she’s posing she love to take pic she’s not too keen on other dogs I like her playful attitude.
My tiquilla was a deerhead she was a mommys girl she always slept next to me under the blankets until the day some one ran her over…. Then there is my bud light… He is a apple head and hes a daddys boy… He is best boy… He lets everyone pet him and he sits calm in the carts when we go shopping he is always watching his best friend is my white deaf boxer pearl…
I have a beautiful young deer-head named Arei’O..
🌺🌼🌻🌼🌺
She’s a great dog..Very loving..Super quite..and full of energy..
Hard to train..
😵😵😵
Luvs snacks..
😋😋😋
Has only barked 4 times in her 8 months of life..Noseeey..😄OMG😄..
Luvs the snow and hates baths..
Everyone wants me to give her to them..
NOPE..My sweetie-pup..
😘💚😘💚😘
I have three chihuahs 2 deer heads and 1 apple head One is a deer head male weighs about 10 pounds and full of energy and one is a deer head female weighs 7 pounds very laid back loves to cuddle and the last one is a female apple head and is barely 3 pounds and she is something else loves to play and cuddle never had house dogs until my wife talked me into getting a chihuahua and now I look at it as one of the best things I have ever done I love those little guys
My Angus is a deer head. I almost didn’t get him but now I can’t imagine my life without him… He saved me n has made me a happier person. He is smart n loyal…. He isn’t big on kids or smaller dogs n he has to get to know a person before he shows his crazy fun n playful side. His structure is perfect n he stands so proud. I love all the different looks he makes just by putting his ears down or back or upward. Like I said my life is better because he is in it.
My Chico is the same as your Angus, he’s 11 weeks old a real mummy boy not big on my other dogs or my kids but let’s them near him from time to time he’s a fawn deer head but I think he might be a saber
I have cute little apple/dear head . Her temperament is very sweet.
She’s not aggressive she loves to be loved on. What’s going on walks likes playing outside and friendly with other dogs of every breed.
Mecshelle
We always had cats growing up in my house, nothing against dogs, just never had them till we got our deer head.
Chewed my flip flops as a pup so I named him “Dammit”. Best friend I have besides my wife.
He goes on all our road trips for my Navy Ship reunions, even went to sea out to Catalina with us. Sleeps under a pillow between the missus and I at night. Wouldn’t trade him for all the tea in China.
We rescued Sammy 1 year ago. After having a whippet for 16 years he was quite a surprise! He is so lovable when we are home. Hates us to leave him by himself. Barks at everyone and thing he sees outside but we wouldn’t trade him for the world. Were told he was a chihuahua/rat terrier mix but we think he is a wonderful deer head chihuahua.
I have both. Skippy is a black and white apple-head Chi with the stout body. Penni is a beautiful and I’m told, rare, tri-colored coat. She is a deer-head. Both are the loves of my life, along with my 19-pound, orange and white Pomeranian, Jack.
My Cheeto is a deer head and I love his even temper and his actions around other dogs and children ..Not to mention other people….. He is an amazing dog.. And my constant companion…
My dog , Coffee, was a rescue. He was born in southern California and we found him in NH. His paper work said he is full Chihuahua but we were doubtful and so was the rescue because of his size and head shape. He is a deer head type. He has become a wonderful Therapy Dog with over 300 visits so far. He most loves visiting with young children doing reading programs. Everyone loves visiting with him. They can’t get over how quiet he is for a chihuahua. He also competes in Rally Trials and has Level 1 & 2 championships. He is just the sweetest little guy, we love him. He can run very fast when playing and does have a bit of a mischievous side. He is a brown and tan short coat.
My Ava is a smooth black and tan deer head with a small amount of white and black nails. She was a rescue and loves all people and smooth hair dogs. She does not, however, like long hair dogs. She is the quietest dog I have ever had. She growls and barks at the long hairs and only grumbles at me when she feels ignored.
This sweetie showed up on our back porch. He had been obviously neglected. We live in the country and people do put dogs out in our area. We took him in, bathed him and got rid of all the fleas, fed him, dewormed him and love him. He’s about 4.5 months old and a quick learner. He has s feisty. He has my Siberian retriever under control already.
Has characteristics of both. Short snout, long legs and ears, round head but not quite a 90 degree angle where head and snout join.
I just got a puppy that apparently is both! Mom is deer head and dad is applehead- maybe it was the other way around tho. But he doesn’t even look like a Chihuahua!!
I Never Thought I Would Own A Little Dog But My Lil Girl Is The Best I Think She’s A Apple Head She Fun And Playful And Always Happy To See Me.
Our deer head, Precious, is hilarious! When we first got her, she was the smallest dog I’d ever seen and looked just like a fruit bat. Her legs are extremely long and her coat is like a wire-haired terrier, so it’s anybody’s guess on her breeding.
I think my little (4.4) Chi girl is long legged for sure but I believe she has an apple head and deer looking face.
I love chihuahua dearhead and want one for xmas
My lil guy is a deer head chi mixed besanji. He’s affectionate, lovable, curious, nosey, alert and playful. I will be the first to admit I never would have imagined ever owning a chihuahua but he won my heart! He isn’t aggressive and rarely barks at all. He whines when he sees other dogs as to wanting to play. Very friendly! I feel so blessed. ❤️
Sounds like an absolutely beautiful fur baby! Any chance you would post some pics of him?
Thank you,
I believe my 5 month old Beaux is a deer head. Sweet boy, but he wants to run when I try to pick him up …..but I manage. He was so easy to crate train and barked to go ‘out’ at 3 months. Got him from an individual. Father was long haired and mother typical black short hair Chichuahua. My so had a sister to mine, and u would never know they are from the same litter!!! I have never had an ind
oor dog before. Love my Beaux.
That is the way my girl is sweetest thing in the world I found her on the side of the road it was so sad took her home and cleaned her up now me and her are best friends iam very sick and iam bedridden a lot so she is definitely my bed buddy she simply the best watchdog and simply my bestfriend if you want the best pet in the world get a Chihuahua they will be there when nobody else will.
I have been around CHIHUAHS all my life. My grandma. & my BEST FRIEND always had 1 or 5 of them. But i have never had 1 for a pet. Until now , i have a 3 year old female German shepherd named Maggie, & a 9 year old female yorkie/muttsoo named Scruffie. Now adding to the mix, my 10 week old female apple head / deer head chihuah named Tigger!!!!!!!! I love all my babys, and this little BABY fit right in. She wonderful she’s everything . loving, happy, queries, feisty, friendly, everything you could want in a 🐕.
I was told that my chi was an Apple head. I never heard of a Deer head till yesterday, but she definitely is. The funny thing is that many times I’ve watched her lift her head and pause standing in the grass and thought she looked like a fawn. She is gray and also almost completely hairless. Just feels like peach fuzz. Someone from the American Hairless Terrier club said she might have genes of that breed in her.
I have an apple head, of Hurds Chihuahuas. She is the smartest little girl and very loving. Her name is Lucy. My pride and joy and she is perfect. My love bug.
I have one of each. My male deer head is short and stocky, unbelievably protective and loving, constantly kissing and was easier to train than my other “WaWa.” My female Apple head is hyper, has long skinny legs, mute (Yes MUTE, she cannot bark, howl, whine or whimper, the PERFECT dog) cuddles but not into kisses, and can walk across a room on her hind legs. I love my “WaWa’s.”
Mine are deer head chihuahua.. Onet, gusto and mollytha.. They just lovely and awesome chihuahua…
We have a male and female deer head chihuahua but our male is taller and thicker than our female .
The female is 4 years old we got her in 2013 and the male is 7 months old we got him in April 2017
Gizmo is our female born in 2013
Sherlock is our male born in 2017
I had a deer head female Chihuahua. She weighed 5lb would have been a year old on September 3 but she was attacked by a bigger dog and in bad to let her go to sleep because her spine was damaged and she would never walk again. My daughter got her for me last November she said I needed a friend after my mom passed. We called her out farm dog. She would spend hours chasing squirrels up trees , making her laps around the 10 acres and chasing chickens off her food. She was my magic jumping bean when I put her in her pen she would bounce like a magic bean. My grandkids were devastated because she was like family. She is truly missed and I loved her ears so much. I in time may get another one but no plans right now. Thanks for letting me tell you about my fun loving Chihuahua.
I can feel your sadness. Our pups give us much joy and their loss is so devastating. I’m so sorry for your pain.
I have a 5 month old deer head female fawn chihuahua. My niece found her as a companion for my 9 year old poodle & apparently he does not want a companion as he does not want her near him. My Vet loves her. Said she is healthy. Bark only to protect when strangers come on her property. Them makes unusually noises when she wants attention etc. Very cuddly loving and sweet. She weights about 6 pounds now. My male is 5 pounds (got a chihuahua so he could be the larger dog ). She just wants to play he does not want any parts of her) Please let me know if you have gotten another chihuahua ? Also how many other dogs you have & where you live ? I am not sure if it is fair to the 9 year old male to keep her. Thank you
I have a puppy if you are interested!
I’m not sure i always say her head, nose and ears remind me of a bats head
I have one of each. Black and tan apple head and fawn and a white deer head
R.I.P. Gidget
I rescued a deer head 3 1/2 years ago after one of my dogs passed unexpectedly. I never would have thought of getting a small dog but Noni was great with my beagle that needed a friend.
They have been best buddies ever since. She is such a cuddlier and gives extra love when I am feeling down or sick.
I have both….
Deerhead is red/brown
The Applehead is black/tan..
Adopted together from pound…
I have a apple head mix with deer head chi try to figure out if he got more deer or Apple head ?? Thanks
I have a deer head chihuahua, he is 6 years old and 3 pounds. He’s very small but also an asshole. Relatively aggressive and territorial, and pees everywhere all the time. I still love him.
Thank u so much some one put this on Facebook because a lady wanted to see what kind she had and this is really helped me.
My “chi-human” is a deer head and the absolute best dog, er, human you could ever ask for. He’s extremely affectionate and wants to be with me all the time. He mimics human behaviors ando it fascinates me to watch him. I have to cook his food bc he refuses to eat anything unless he sees us eating it too. It’s amazing how smart he is. 🙂
My chocolate “Truffles”, acts so human I would swear she is too. She is My Angel and while I still can’t believe I own a chihuahua, I have watched her claim the hearts of some of the Only Big Dog owners over and over. She is my constant companion and literally will make men, women, children and anyone who will say hi in a store stop to pet her. Most want to hold her. To say they have personality is truly an understatement, at least for My Princess. She is so playful, loving, affectionate, very well behaved, rarely has accidents, always wants her genitalia clean when finishing her business as well as her poopy bottom and waits to be cleaned every time, she can be taught something in mere minutes and that is not something I have seen in any breeds. She is truly My Last Child… thank goodness my son and other daughter are animal lovers and totally understand and Truffles 33 year old sister named her. Thanks for sharing your story. I now know others have the same precious baby’s as me.
It’s awesome that you socialized your pup. I too have only ever had large dogs and never thought I’d own a chihuahua. MIA and MONDO are very friendly and clean. We puppy pad trained them and they nail it every time. When ever they are skip or had a poop stuck to their fur they will not move away from the puppy pad tip we clean them. I taken to washing their faces,feet and bootys daily. I brush their teeth twice a week. They are my babies and the grandchildren adore them. They sit them at their house when we are away and will take them forever if anything ever happens to us. Best edgy.
Stupid auto correct.
My chi female deer face was selected form me as a puppy in September 2017 as a 6 week old puppy. I had never seen a more active puppy but she has been calming down… month by months She had those sharp puppy teeth that she now mostly buyer her chew toys and vets says that will get better and it has
But was chosen for a companion for s 9 year old poodle. All she wants to do is play with him & jumps on him of actually bites him hard to get his attention. Breaking the skin… Sh he avoids her. She is now 5 months old and will fight of jump on him if he will not play… any suggestions ? He is very calm & does not want to do the puppy play thing… I have been hoping they will just get along or tolerate each other … but not happening ???
Omg! I have a chocolate and white Deer Chi called Truffles too! He is long-coated and has only one eye. Other one is tiny eye and never opened. People think he has a face like a baby Daschund. My first Chi and so wonderful and happy. Love him to bits. He’s 10 months old.
I have a Dear headed Chihuahua. We’ve had her for six months and she has yet to bark even once. Once she growled in a low tone at someone coming home late one night. She is all love 24/7 as she likes blankets, laps, and kissing faces. She cannot be without a family member at home to companion with if others leave to work.
My female Apple head chihuahua is mute also. She has never been in heat either and she is 5 years old
Give him time andrew I had the same problem but after my girl warmed up to me anything that comes to the door she will definitely catch them.
I have adopted an apple head I think he was at least a year old, his previous owners mistreated him (they only wanted the puppy stage ) apparently he had to fend for himself and ran loose all over town ,when I got him he was timid and even scared of doggie toys I had bought him,he knows now what LOVE is, he is the sweetest, cutest little guy I love him so very much, I guess you could say we found each other we make each other happy.
Like you Trish I adopted two girl chi chi’s last autumn. They ware supposed to be 6 and 7 years old. The female who brought them had no papers at all – said they were her mother in law’s dogs. She promised to send them on but nothing so far. I needed to know things like when they were last wormed etc. I inquired about a lead and harness or collar but was told they have never been walked. Also assured me that the older one was never used for breeding but she has a green tattoo in her ear!
At 7pm every night it was like a switch was tripped and they just went to sleep. Frightened of all people at that time. Never responded to being fussed. Now they have learned how to be ‘proper’ dogs they are completely different – lots of licks and love to be cuddled. Can’t get them used to a lead though, they seem petrified when they see one. But at least they are now living life as real dogs and have learned what it is to be loved. Got to lose some more weight yet. From the photos at the top of this page they look like Deer Heads and I love them to pieces.
I have had my apple head chihuahua Rocco for almost 15 years. He has a perfect bill of health, a great temperament and loves children as well as other dogs and cats! My little “old man”, has brought so much joy to my life!
Lori so happy to hear this. I adopted an 11 week old Applehead. Chico will be delivered next week. I have educating myself online. Any good pointers for training and so forth much appreciated. Blessings, Gayla
I have a applehead pretty baby girl. She loves everyone. She is 3.5 lbs. She wants to lick everyone that comes to the house. Her name is pee wee. She is 1 and 6 months old now. She is really smart and gets along with everyone and every dog. I couldnt live without her.
I am so fortunate to have a little one that not only is loyal but protects me in my panic attacks depression episodes and anxiety episodes. He has not had any training but my doctor said he wants me to always have him with me because I am better when he is. So he is now registered and is always by my side. Love goes along way with this breed my apple head is forever my fur baby.
Hello Jackie I have the same problem of you panic attacks and anxiety episodes… actually I am a fortunate like you I have a little guy he’s name is Chico he is a deer Chihuahua, can you please tell me how I can register him like a service dog?
thanks..
https://www.nsarco.com/
Service dogs do not have to be registered with any kind of service animal registry. That website is for people trying to pass off pets as service animals. For an animal to qualify as a service animal and be protected by the ADA they have to be trained to perform specific tasks (retrieving medicine deep pressure therapy breaking flashbacks and a whole host of other things) for someone with a disability. Registering your pet as a “service dog” just so you can qualify for housing and take them wherever you want is irresponsible and wrong. It makes life a lot more difficult for people that ACTUALLY need the assistance of a service dog.
I also have a deer head. I love him with all of my heart. His name is DeeOGee. My husband picked the name out. I also suffer from depression and believe he helps me too. I want to get him registered. Please tell me how about doing it. The only thing that bothers me about having him, is my husband. He got the dog from his sons friend. He’s always saying he’s not my dog because he got him from his son. But he wants me to do everything. Feeding, bathe, and clean up after him. And he’s always telling me to stop picking him up. But the dog always wants to be with me. He doesn’t want the dog to sleep with me either. Very frustrating!! I haven’t had a dog in over 31 years and miss having one. I grew up with them being house dogs and sleeping with me. What to do??
Jackie this sounds wonderful! How do I regester mine to be with me all the time for my health. Thank you.
I’m the owner of a hyper, clever, obedient,intelligent and loyal deerhead chihuahua.
We have a chihuahua-jack Russell mix named 6-volt & a deer head chihuahua named Srae, (ears spelled backwards), both are well behaved, although voltie is more vocal. They are the first small breed dogs we’ve ever had & wouldn’t trade either of them for the world!
I have a deer chihuahua and she is the greatest animal and baby girl I’ve ever owned. She was super easy to train. She found me and adopted me. She was abused and abandoned by her 1st owns and thrown out of the car in front of my house she was about a year or 2 old when she came up to my back door and won my heart. She came along at a time I’m my life that I needed a best friend. They had cracked her skull and messed up her back hips. But you can’t tell it now. She is the best friend , listener, and giver of love that I’ve ever had. They are amazing dogs and I recommended this breed to everyone.