The white Chihuahua has a white coat that defines fashion and style, but what captures the interest of those who know it is the irony that it is a big personality within its minute appearance.
It’s no wonder why it ranks 33rd out of 196 in the AKC Breed Popularity. The national dog of Mexico continuously stands among the oldest breeds since the pre-Columbian period.
If you plan to get yourself this rare white breed, this article will be a perfect start for you to have the essential knowledge about it. Once you have the tiny package on your hands, you’ll surely be able to know what perfectly suits the demands of this toy dog!
What Is a White Chihuahua?
The white Chihuahua is a breed known for its distinctive all-white coat that is very uncommon and may either be long or short. Its attributes consist of full, radiant eyes, erect ears, and a light-colored nose. It weighs around 6 pounds, making it a perfect city pet for its size and confidence.
It comes in two varieties: the white long-haired Chihuahua and the white apple-head Chihuahua. It is always necessary to stimulate your visual aspect if you are a potential white Chihuahua owner. So go check out these mesmerizing pictures!
White Long-Haired Chihuahua
Photo from @chelsea.the.chi (IG)
There are no marks nor discolorations. The great distinction is the long coat. The dark features of the nose and the eyes show that it has not been affected by albinism.
The prominence of a long white coat makes it a very distinguishable type.
White Apple-Head Chihuahua
Photo from @kimi_colette_ (IG)
The muzzle and the forehead creates a harsh angle. Compared to the white long-haired Chihuahua, this one has a shorter coat.
Named for its apple-shaped head. There is a 90-degree angle when the muzzle joins the forehead. Its legs are typically short and it has expressive eyes. Here’s a video showing what it looks like:
Han Solo: White Applehead Chihuahua Puppy For Sale | Sweetie Pie Pets<a href="https://youtu.be/v6senAiDDMY" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2Fv6senAiDDMY%2F0.jpg" alt="Han Solo: White Applehead Chihuahua Puppy For Sale | Sweetie Pie Pets" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
Albino Chihuahua vs. White Chihuahua: Are They the Same?
It is important to know that albinism is different from a white dog. Albinism is a genetic condition that results in having the eyes, skin, and coat completely without pigmentation. Below is an example of an albino Chihuahua:
Photo from @lilmisscrumb (IG)
What draws the line between the two is that white-coated dogs produce the color white, while albinos appear white due to the absence of pigmentation. Albinism often occurs when a dog possesses two recessive genes which cause the attributes of albinism.
The lack of knowledge on the difference between the two often makes people become confused whether it is just naturally white-coated or it has a case of albinism. In dogs, albinism can be identified through their pink noses and skin around the eyes.
Meanwhile, white Chihuahuas are sometimes considered to be distinct from the said genetic condition if they possess light-colored noses and dark eyes.
Below is a picture of a pure white Chihuahua. You can observe its features and you’d see the differences when compared to an albino Chihuahua:
Photo from @luna_09_30 (IG)
Will White Chihuahua Puppies Change Colors as They Grow?
A Chihuahua can always have color changes both in skin and coat. It happens gradually and is just a normal occurrence. Some of the factors that contribute to this are age, health conditions, and environmental elements.
One of the common changes witnessed by owners is when a white coat turns into a cream. It is frustrating for those expecting the dog’s coat color to be the same as it grows up.
Another instance is when ticking or dark spots start to appear on the white coat only if the white color has been produced due to the spotting gene known as the S locus gene. This, however, won’t usually be seen on solid white Chihuahuas.
If you are aiming to own one, it is necessary to find out what its parents’ colors were. That would indicate if it is a pure white Chihuahua or not.
Do Kennel Clubs Recognize the White Chihuahua?
There are several determining factors considered by major kennel clubs before recognizing a certain breed or even a type of dog. The difficulty of breeding a purely white Chihuahua and its rarity often make people wonder if it is recognized as well.
There are numerous variations of Chihuahuas due to their popularity. In the United States alone, they rank 33rd out of the 196 breeds the American Kennel Club has recognized.
Despite the recognition, it does not automatically mean that all types of Chihuahuas are accepted by the standards.
The official AKC standard for Chihuahua includes each of its major and minor aspects. White is part of the AKC list of colors; therefore, white Chihuahuas are recognized. However, the “teacup” version of Chihuahua is not accepted.
There are factors displayed that can disqualify it if it shows any of the following physical characteristics:
It weighs over 6 pounds.
Broken or cropped ears.
Bobtail or cropped tail.
A very thin or almost bare coat for the long coat Chihuahuas.
Are White Chihuahuas Rare?
As mentioned earlier, the white Chihuahua is the hardest to breed as it takes generations to perfect. Having this pure white breed would mean that its claws and nose are lighter in color. A black pigment on the skin should be non-existent.
Another reason as to why it is the rarest color of this breed is because, to produce a white Chihuahua, you should breed two truly all-white Chihuahuas.
People mistake cream Chihuahuas for white ones. The stark difference to take note of is that cream Chihuahuas will have deep, black eyes and a black nose- opposite to the characteristics mentioned above of a white Chihuahua.
White Chihuahua Genetics: How White Chihuahuas Develop White Coat?
To understand the concept of genetics, you must know that there are recessive and dominant genes. The full white coat of a Chihuahua has been at the mercy of its gene pool.
Genes play an important role in the determination of a dog’s appearance. It controls the pigments produced (eumelanin and pheomelanin) and where they are produced. The two types of pigment make a wide range of dog coat colors including white.
White Chihuahuas developed a white coat primarily because their parents don’t have black pigments in their genes. Since black is dominant and is absent from the parents’ genetic makeup, the offspring comes out white as well.
How Big Do White Chihuahuas Get When Fully Grown?
The dog’s growth begins slowly from 12 weeks to six months. When it passes over six months, the white Chihuahua gets close to its adult size. It can be considered a full-grown adult in one year.
In terms of height, adult Chihuahuas generally don’t grow over eight inches tall. Normally, the white female Chihuahua is smaller, growing only around five inches tall.
Regarding weight, a typical Chihuahua can weigh from 3 to 6 pounds. Health is a factor of weight. Some white Chihuahuas tend to be unhealthy which means there is a possibility of them becoming oversized.
White Chihuahua Temperament: Do White Chihuahuas Make Good Family Dogs?
Don’t be fooled by the size of a Chihuahua. Despite its tiny body, within it is a big dog! They are extremely energetic, sassy, and they want all attention.
A white Chihuahua can be dominant and it can be scrappy too. It is strong-willed and acts like a boss. This dog is a suitable companion for older children and it is advised never to leave kids under eight years old with a white Chihuahua.
The reason behind this is because it can easily get injured if it is being played too roughly. Another possibility could be that the kids might get bitten or snapped on by this furry pet. With proper training and right socialization, this behavior may be controlled.
White Chihuahuas are intelligent dogs and they show human-like emotions. They can be vocal, so barking training is a must.
It is important as well to diagnose if your dog has hearing problems because those will be a little difficult to train. They will rely on visual cues and rewards and couldn’t hear clicks.
Once a relationship develops between the owner and the Chihuahua, this dog will always crave your love and attention. The best part about them is that they are easy to care for. If you go to work, your white Chi should have a companion throughout the day.
Outdoor exercise is not a top priority as they are mostly built for indoor activities which are their means of staying healthy.
Chihuahuas may be hard to train and are very stubborn at first, but these dogs need owners who will be patient and loving toward them. Once they are well-disciplined, they become one of the best choices of pets for the family.
White Chihuahua Health Issues: Are White Chihuahuas Prone to Deafness?
There is a high risk of having a health issue with white Chihuahuas. The usual problems are on the ear. They are prone to developing deafness. The extremity of the condition will depend on how breeders have handled the breeding.
The white Chihuahua is one of the dog breeds that are susceptible to hearing loss from birth. Its hearing ability will affect the type of training as it will mostly rely on non-verbal cues.
The reason behind the potential loss of hearing is the absence of melanocytes, which are layers of cells located in the ear that enable the Chihuahua to hear.
Their existence can be predicted through the coat’s color. If it is predominantly or purely white, then there is a huge chance of it becoming deaf.
If early treatment can save it from having ear issues, then it is recommended to visit your veterinarian.
It is important to take note that a healthy white Chihuahua means a longer life span meaning it could live to around 15 to 20 years.
How to Care for Your Chihuahua’s Basic Needs?
Owning a Chihuahua of any age would mean providing supplies for routine, medical, or training care. If you are planning to own a white Chihuahua or just got your furry friend, a knowledge of its basic needs is necessary.
Food and Diet
White Chihuahuas are very sensitive to what they eat, how often, and in which manner the food is offered.
They have a low tolerance for chemicals and their bodies require a balance of healthy fats, protein, and essential carbs. If you want to change the type of food your Chi usually eats, it is recommended to do so gradually by mixing a tiny portion of the new food with the old one every week.
If your Chihuahua is under 2 pounds and below 3 months old, free-access to food is recommended. Be sure that the food is refreshed as often as needed.
Take note that the amount of serving will always have age and weight as the determining factors and quality for the food aspect.
Training and Exercise
Take note that the Chihuahua has limited physical activity. A daily walk is important for socialization and the release of pent up energy. However, over-exercising should not be done in the first year as this could affect the growth plates.
Also, avoid having this breed jump from heights that exceed 2 feet. Jumping from a height may result in knee or hip injuries. For old white Chihuahuas, ramps are useful if they want to get on any areas of comfort such as the sofa.
If the temperature outside is too hot or too cold, outdoor activities should be limited.
Cleaning and Grooming
Proper cleaning and grooming impact the well-being of the white Chihuahua. An unclean coat and ingrown nails can result in several health issues. Always ensure that you only use canine products.
There are major areas of the dog that need regular checking. First, you need to make sure that the ears are clean and dry without stray hairs.
The next part to check would be the paws. Routinely ensure that there are no slivers, sores, or cuts and trim any stray hairs that grow longer between the pads.
Another vital area to take care of is the anal glands. This emits a strong odor and you may opt to let a veterinarian do the procedure for you.
In bathing, you can start applying shampoo and conditioner to an 8 weeks old Chihuahua. This can be done best in a kitchen sink due to its small size.
The next thing to check would be the teeth. While dental treatments can do the job for your white Chihuahua, daily home dental care is also important.
Healthcare
Since a Chihuahua is a relatively healthy breed, it still carries potential health issues. To avoid certain complications, it is advised to wait until the dog gets all its shots before getting exposed in public.
Veterinarians suggest waiting for 2 weeks after vaccination before you can carry it.
Take note of the rising and lowering of temperatures as well and protect your white Chihuahua from it. It cannot withstand an extreme and sudden rise in heat and cold.
Exercise and proper diet are given in ensuring good health. Don’t forget to make appointments if necessary in case an issue develops.
White Chihuahua Puppy Price: Do They Cost More Than Other Chihuahuas?
Chihuahuas are popular among many countries and if you want to own the rarest color, it won’t be a surprise if it costs more than other Chihuahuas. A white one costs up to $1,500. If there are any spots or fawns, the price will go down.
Some breeders charge higher depending on the choice of Chihuahua. Generally, the factor that determines the price would be the color or rarity. In shelters, however, adopting one can only cost you around $300.
Places to Find White Chihuahua Puppies for Sale and Adoption
If you plan to own a white Chihuahua, you may consider looking for one through several trusted websites, breeders, and organizations that focus on looking for great homes for Chihuahua puppies. Below is a list of reliable places and websites you can check:
AKC Marketplace – This is a trusted place where you can get your white Chihuahua. All breeders are registered and there is a high credibility rate when it comes to purchasing healthy dogs.
PuppySpot – With years of experience, Puppy Spot has already helped over 200,000 healthy puppies find new families. They have a long list of pure and mixed-breed dogs that you can choose from. They update their list every now and then, so it’s best to always keep an eye out, especially if you’re hunting for rare mixes such as the Golden Chi.
These are not the only places where you can find your white Chihuahua. If adopting a dog is your thing, here are shelters and rescues as well that you can check:
Chihuahua Club of America – This is an independent Chihuahua Rescue Organization that partners with AKC and a few canine health organizations to ensure the health of each dog in the shelter.
AKC Rescue Network – This was recognized by the AKC way back in 2013 as the largest network for rescuing dogs. A very reputable place to adopt a white Chihuahua.
Petco Foundation – The continuous commitment that is showing until now through this foundation started way back in 1999. It has over 4,000 welfare partners and has provided over 6,000,000 dogs with a loving family.
Commonly Asked Questions:
Do White Chihuahuas Shed?
This dog sheds all year long. They often shed during spring and fall; however, spring is the season of heaviest shedding. Their constant shedding won’t pose as a fur nuisance when compared to other breeds.
How Many Chihuahua Colors Are There?
There are a variety of Chihuahua colors out there and you can choose whichever represents your personality! A few of the colors are:
Black
Chocolate
Cream
Fawn
Red
Blue
Gold
Silver
White
The AKC list goes up to 30 colors. If you are an undecided buyer, a white Chihuahua will be one of the dogs that will satisfy your expectations!
Final Thoughts: Is the White Chihuahua Right for You?
White Chihuahuas are adorable dogs that may demand your attention and love. They are courageous and are good watchdogs. They only need basic and intensive care, and what they can give back to you would be their loyalty, quirky entertainment, and love.
If your bedroom is your sanctuary, these purse dogs are perfect for cuddling with and they will fit perfectly in your arms. Their dens are usually under the dark blankets, but they enjoy daylight too. They are tiny dogs with courage that overlaps their size.
If you think that this dog resonates well with you and you are aware that you can provide what it needs, then perhaps this is the go signal for you to get one!
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