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Chihuahua Club of America Statement The Chihuahua is a Chihuahua The Official A.K.C. Breed Standard describes the
Chihuahua as a small dog that comes in two varieties or coat types. The
difference in coat type (the Long Coat and the Smooth Coat) is the only official
description used to identify a difference within this breed. Our standard does
not categorize the Chihuahua by size. For the purpose of showing and record keeping,
the American Kennel club includes the Chihuahua (along with 19 other breeds) in
the Toy Group. Therefore, irrespective of their weight or physical stature ALL
Chihuahuas registered with the A.K.C. are considered to be a toy breed of dog. As with all living things, there will be size
variance between individual dogs within this breed. Look within the human family
- brothers and sisters will differ in height and in weight, as well as other
physical attributes. They are described as humans, male or female, and there is
seldom if ever a need to break the description down further. The same holds true
in regard to the Chihuahua; they are Chihuahuas - Long Coat / Smooth Coat! Unfortunately, the additional adjectives used
to describe the size differences and physical appearances are many and have been
misused for so long they now seem legitimate. Teacup, Pocket Size, Tiny Toy,
Miniature or Standard - are just a few of the many tags and labels that have
been attached to this breed over the years. The Chihuahua Club of America is
concerned that these terms may be used to entice prospective buyers into
thinking that puppies described in this way are of greater monetary value. They
are not and the use of these terms is incorrect and misleading. Occasionally, within a litter, there may be a
puppy that is unusually small. That puppy is a small Chihuahua and any other
breakdown in description is not correct. To attach any of these additional
labels to a particular puppy is to misrepresent that Chihuahua as something that
is rare or exceptional and causes a great deal of confusion among those new
fanciers who are looking for a Chihuahua. The Chihuahua Club of America does not endorse
nor condone the use of any of these terms and would caution the perspective
puppy buyer not to be misled by them. We recognize that many Chihuahua fanciers do want the very small puppy. While they are adorable and can be perfectly healthy, the buyer should be cautioned as to the extra care that may be required with regard to their general health and well-being. © Chihuahua Club of America. All Rights Reserved. All Text and Images. Reprinted
with permission from the Chihuahua
Club of America
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