Temperament: the Chihuahuas should have terrier-like characteristics.

Life span: 12-15 years.

Size: Well balanced and proportionate --the dog should not exceed 6 pounds in weight. The body should be “off-square,” and lightly longer in length measured from shoulder to buttocks than the height measured at the withers. Males in general are known to have shorter bodies.

Head: Well rounded “apple-dome” skull.

Expression: Saucy.

Eyes: Full but not bulbous/protruding, set well apart, luminous dark or ruby eyes. In white or blond dogs light eyes are acceptable.

Ears: Large and erect ears held upright when alerted.

Muzzle: Moderately short and slightly pointed with lean cheeks and jaws.

Nose: Black in moles, blues, and chocolates and self colored or pink in blond dogs.

Bite: Level or scissor bite.

Neck: Arched and gracefully sloping to the shoulders.

Topline: Level.

Body: Ribs rounded and well sprung.

Tail: Moderately long carried in a loop over the back with the tip just touching the back.

Forequarters: Should have balance and strength with the shoulders sloping to a level back with the forelegs set well under and straight.

Feet: Small and dainty, with toes that are split up, and pads that are cushioned.

Pasterns: Fine.

Hindquarters: Muscular with hocks set well apart-- firm and sturdy.

Coat: Smooth coated Chihuahuas should have a coat that has a soft texture and gloss. The coat should be well placed over the body with ruff on the neck and very scanty on the head and ears. The hair on the tail should be furry.

For an excellent description of ‘the ideal Chihuahua’, click on above picture.