The Chihuahua is a very popular dog breed, especially in the United States, but unknown to many; these sassy dogs come in different types, which include the so-called pear head Chihuahua.
The pear-headed Chihuahua is a rather uncommon type of Chihuahua. It is the exact same Chihuahua that people love and adore, except it comes with a round head, a flat forehead, and a prominent muzzle.
This guide will discuss everything that you need to know about pear-headed Chihuahuas, from their appearance and temperament to where you could possibly get this unique Chihuahua variant.
What Is a Pear Head Chihuahua?
Pear head Chihuahuas are believed to be a mix between an apple head Chihuahua and a deer head Chihuahua. Chihuahuas of this type have a slightly different facial structure. Pear head Chihuahuas sport a flatter skull resembling the shape of a pear. They also have wider muzzles.
As much as it is a delight to own a unique-looking Chihuahua, pear head Chihuahuas are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). This is because they do not meet the breed standards set by the club.
That said, pear head Chihuahuas cannot participate in show rings hosted by the AKC. The same is true with the deer-headed Chihuahua, which is also not recognized by the organization.
However, for the most part, the pear head Chihuahua is much like any other Chihuahua variation, especially in terms of its health, temperament, and personality.
Pear Head Chihuahua vs. Apple Head Chihuahua: What’s the Difference?
An untrained eye may not be able to distinguish between a Chihuahua that has a pear-shaped head and an apple-shaped head. This is especially true since pear head Chihuahuas are quite uncommon.
This makes understanding the difference between the two very important to make sure that you are getting your preferred type of Chihuahua should you decide to take one home.
The photo below shows a pear head Chihuahua:
The main difference between a pear head Chihuahua and an apple head Chihuahua is their skull shape.
Chihuahuas with apple heads have round, oblong skulls that resemble apples. On the other hand, the skull of a pear head Chihuahua is flat on top, and its shape is similar to that of a pear.
Meanwhile, here’s a photo of an apple-headed Chihuahua:
As you can tell from the pictures above, pear head Chihuahuas have a wider muzzle as opposed to apple head Chihuahuas, which have smaller muzzles, a less prominent snout, and bigger or more protruding eyes.
Pear head Chihuahuas are generally taller and heavier than apple head Chihuahuas. In fact, it is very common for pear head Chihuahuas to exceed the standard size of the Chihuahua breed.
Finally, 80-90% of apple head Chihuahuas are born with a small opening in their head called a molera. This is less likely to happen in pear head Chihuahuas since this usually occurs in round-headed dog breeds.
Pear Head Chihuahua Appearance
Pear head Chihuahuas sport the same features as the other Chihuahua variations, except for their facial structure, which is more flat and pear-shaped with prominent and wide muzzles, and a little bit of their size.
Like the different types of Chihuahuas, this dog has a large, erect set of ears and eyes that are usually big and round. Their tails are typically long and are carried up or over the back of their heads.
Pear head Chihuahuas can either be long-haired or short-haired and may flaunt a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, merle, fawn, cream, and red.
To get a visual idea of what a pear head Chihuahua looks like, you can watch this video:
Pear Head Chihuahua Size and Weight
Pear head Chihuahuas, similar to other Chihuahua variants, are considered to be the smallest dog breeds in the world. When fully grown, they weigh between 3 and 6 pounds and only grow to about 6 to 9 inches.
Unlike other dog breeds, there isn’t much difference in terms of the size of a male and female Chihuahua, which is why their sizes are always recorded as the same.
Note, however, that compared to a standard Chihuahua’s size, pear head Chihuahuas often grow a bit larger and heavier. That said, you must set your expectations about the dog that you’re getting.
Likewise, there are several other factors that significantly affect the growth and size of your pear head Chihuahua. These factors include genetics, overall health, and diet.
That is why it is very important to ensure that your dog receives the right and adequate nutrients from birth until old age, as this will help them grow and develop fully.
Pear Head Chihuahua Kennel Club Recognition
Although the Chihuahua breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904, the pear-headed Chihuahua is not recognized by the organization as a variation of the breed.
The only Chihuahua variations recognized by the AKC are the long hair Chihuahua and the short hair Chihuahua. Only apple head Chihuahuas of either coat length are allowed to participate in show rings and competitions.
Other unofficial variations of the Chihuahua breed include the hairless Chihuahua, deer-legged Chihuahua, and teacup Chihuahua.
Pear Head Chihuahua Temperament and Personality
Pear head Chihuahuas have the same exact traits as the other Chihuahua variations. These dogs are very affectionate and loyal, making them an excellent choice if you are looking for a companion dog.
These dogs have a tendency to be very close to a specific member of the family. Due to the same reason, they may be prone to experiencing separation anxiety.
Note, however, that pear head Chihuahuas may not be very patient and gentle with kids. So, it’s best to think twice before deciding to get this dog if you have very young kids at home.
On the brighter side, pear head Chihuahuas are highly trainable pets. That said, with proper training and socialization, these dogs can learn to behave well around small children and other pets.
Regardless, these adorable little creatures will surely add joy to the right family, especially if provided with the right amount of love, care, and training.
Pear Head Chihuahua Lifespan and Health Issues
A pear head Chihuahua is a generally healthy breed. Just like the regular Chihuahua’s lifespan, these uncommon Chihuahuas can live for as long as 15 to 20 years, given enough love, care, and routine vet check-ups.
However, pear head Chihuahuas may still be at risk for some health issues that may be life-threatening or can significantly lower their quality of life if not treated early.
Here are some of the common health problems of the pear head Chihuahua:
- Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia happens when the dog’s blood sugar level drops significantly and abnormally. Owners should watch out for symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, disorientation, drowsiness, and loss of consciousness. A trip to the veterinarian should be made right away if you suspect that your dog is hypoglycemic.
- Luxating Patella: This orthopedic condition is quite common in small dog breeds such as the pear head Chihuahua. Dogs with a luxating patella may experience limping or have a hard time walking due to the dislocated kneecap. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct this problem, so it’s best to check with your vet.
- Tracheal Collapse: Tracheal collapse is a progressive respiratory condition that happens as a result of the weakening of the cartilage rings of the trachea. When this happens, there is a collapse of the windpipe on inhalation. Unfortunately, Chihuahuas, in general, are predisposed to this health condition.
It is very important to have your pear head Chihuahuas regularly checked by a licensed veterinarian to make sure they are in tip-top shape and to avoid any future health problems.
How to Take Care of Your Pear Head Chihuahua
Now that you know the predisposed health problems of your pear head Chihuahua, it will be very helpful for you to know how to properly take care of them.
By knowing and making sure they meet their dietary, grooming, and exercise needs, you are keeping your dog healthy and in good shape.
Food and Diet
Pear head Chihuahuas do not consume a lot of food, but these dogs still need the right nutrients to keep them active and healthy. That said, make sure you feed them the right amount of food.
Depending on your budget and preference, you may opt to feed your pear head Chihuahuas dry dog food, wet food, or home-cooked meals.
Note, however, that while there are picky-eater Chihuahuas, these dogs can still be prone to getting fat. That is why it is very important that you watch your dog’s food intake and weight.
Cleaning and Grooming
Typically, pear head Chihuahuas do not require a lot of grooming. These dogs, however, require regular bathing — at least once a week or once every six weeks.
Both short-haired and long-haired Chihuahuas may need daily brushing to avoid matting. Remember, however, that you may have to spend more time brushing the coat of a long-haired Chihuahua.
Similarly, it is very important that owners trim their nails and clean their ears to avoid infections. Brushing a dog’s teeth will also be very helpful in lessening the risk of developing tartar and dental diseases.
Training and Exercise
Since pear head Chihuahuas do not require intensive exercise, a good 20 to 30 minutes of daily playtime or walking is already enough for your dog to release pent-up energy.
Note that while exercise is crucial in every dog’s life, never over-exercise your pear head Chihuahua. This is especially true during the first year of your dog’s life, as it may negatively affect its growth plates.
Training-wise, it is recommended that you start obedience and potty training as soon as you bring your pear head Chihuahua home. It is also important that you socialize them with other people and fellow animals.
How Much Does a Pear Head Chihuahua Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
Pear head Chihuahuas are usually priced between $500 and $1,500. The price, however, may depend on several other factors, including the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s overall health, and its quality.
While the price tag may not be very expensive, the expenses do not end there. Future pear head Chihuahua owners will need to spend more on things that the dog needs, such as vitamins, vet visits, and supplies.
Below is a summarized table of the initial expenses of owning a pear head Chihuahua pup:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $30 – $80 |
| Bowls | $10 – $30 |
| Toys | $20 – $30 |
| Beds | $30 – $200 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $30 – $200 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $150 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | $495 – $2,470 |
Aside from the abovementioned initial supplies and services, you will also need to prepare for your pear head Chihuahua’s monthly and annual expenses.
Similarly, it is always a wise decision for dog owners to invest in pet insurance. By doing so, you will be better prepared in the event of a medical emergency.
Places to Find Pear Head Chihuahua Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Pear head Chihuahuas are not as common as apple-head Chihuahuas and the other variations of the breed. This means you must go through a bit of breeder hunting to find this rare gem.
Luckily, you don’t have to start your search from scratch as I have already listed some reputable sources that you check to see if they have pear head Chihuahuas available.
Here are places where you can find a pear head Chihuahua for sale:
- Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies has been connecting healthy puppies with loving families since 2000. They have almost a hundred listings of different Chihuahua variations, including pear head Chihuahuas from breeders all over the United States. It’s best to check their website from time to time to see if they have available pear head Chihuahuas.
- Lancaster Puppies – Lancaster Puppies is a pet advertising website that caters to different dog breeds, including Chihuahuas and their variations. That said, you may be able to find a pear head Chihuahua through this website, especially since they have quite a few available Chihuahuas on site.
- Good Dog – This is another advertising site where breeders from all over the United States can post and advertise their dogs. Good Dog breeders go through intensive background research to ensure that they are producing high-quality pear head Chihuahuas. That said, you are assured that you are getting a healthy one when you transact through this website.
If you have already reached out to the places above and still haven’t found the dog for you, do not lose hope. Aside from buying straight from breeders, you may also opt for adoption.
Here are some places where you can find a pear head Chihuahua for adoption:
- Chihuahua Rescue & Transport – This foster-based rescue group has been placing abandoned Chihuahuas of all variations in forever homes since 1996. They are currently serving in 10 American states, including Ohio, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, North and South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Maryland, West Virginia, Texas, and Oklahoma.
- Texas Chihuahua Rescue – This Texas-based rescue organization is rescuing over a hundred dogs a month within the Texas area. Although they prioritize rescuing apple-head and pear head Chihuahuas, they take in different small and toy breed dogs, including blind, deaf, weak, old, pregnant, abandoned, and behaviorally challenged dogs.
- Chihuahua Rescue of San Diego County – Chihuahua Rescue of San Diego County is dedicated to rescuing homeless and abandoned small dog breeds such as pear head Chihuahuas. To adopt from them, you need to go through an intensive screening process since they make sure that their rescues go to the right family.
You may also check out Facebook groups and Instagram hashtags to locate breeders or rescues for this Chi variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Pear Head Chihuahuas Shed?
Pear head Chihuahuas are generally low-shedding dogs. However, the amount of shedding will depend on the type of pear head Chihuahua that you have.
That said, if you have a long-haired pear head Chihuahua, you may notice more loose fur. Meanwhile, the opposite is true for short-coated pear head Chihuahuas.
Are Pear Head Chihuahuas Rare?
Pear head Chihuahuas are not considered rare. However, since this Chihuahua variation is not at par with the standard of the breed, not many reputable breeders produce this kind of Chihuahua.
That said, you may have to go through a bit of Chihuahua breeder hunting before you can find a pear head Chihuahua to take home with you.
What Are the Different Types of Chihuahuas?
There are seven different types of Chihuahuas:
- Short-hair Chihuahua
- Long-hair Chihuahua
- Apple head Chihuahua
- Deer head Chihuahua
- Pear head Chihuahua
- Teacup Chihuahua
- Color-named Chihuahuas
Among these different types, only short-hair Chihuahuas and long-hair Chihuahuas are the recognized variations of the breed, and only apple head Chihuahuas are accepted to join competitions.
Final Thoughts
For the most part, the pear head Chihuahua is no different from the other Chihuahua variations in being an amazing family dog and companion for the right family.
Pear head Chihuahuas may not be the friendliest dog breed there is, but given the right amount of love and care, this dog breed will surely grow into extremely loyal pets that everyone will love.
That said, it is important to gauge whether or not a pear head Chihuahua is suited for your needs, commitments, and lifestyle. Remember that taking care of a pet is a lifetime responsibility that you should take seriously.
Are you ready to take home this unique Chihuahua? Let us know what you think about the pear head Chihuahua in the comments below!
