|
One of the things that make the Chihuahua so unique is the fact that the breed has a rather large variety of coat colors. Just as no two Chihuahua temperaments are alike, the same goes with colors and markings. But deciphering the verbiage "any color - solid, marked or splashed" as stated on the AKC standards for the Chihuahua can be a tad bit daunting.
Granted, the need to know the the exact color of your Chihuahua is only truly necessary for registering your dog and if you choose to show it. But it sure is fun to find out the exact name for your Chihuahua's colors and marking, especially when greeted by a fellow Chi lover!
Colors
There are 30 AKC recognized colors and combinations as well as 11 recognized markings that a Chihuahua may have:
|
Standard
|
Alternate
|
- Black
- Black & Tan
- Blue & Tan
- Chocolate
- Chocolate & Tan
- Cream
- Fawn
- Fawn & White
- Red
|
- Black & Red
- Black & Silver
- Black & White
- Black Sabled Fawn
- Black Sabled Silver
- Blue
- Blue & White
- Blue Brindled Fawn
- Blue Fawn
- Chocolate & White
- Chocolate Blue
|
- Chocolate Brindled Fawn
- Chocolate Sabled Fawn
- Cream & White
- Fawn Brindled Black
- Gold
- Gold & White
- Red & White
- Silver
- Silver & White
- White
|
Markings
|
Standard
|
Alternate
|
|
- Black Brindling
- Black Mask
- Black Sabling
- Merle Markings
- Spotted On White
- White Markings
|
- Black Mask, White Markings
- Blue Mask
- Cream Markings
- Fawn Markings
- Red Markings
|
|
Words of Warning
Before we step into the lessons on how to determine your Chihuahuas colors and markings, we need to set the record straight. There are NO rare colors that warrant exuberant extra costs. Buyer beware when colors are stated as being rare!
Also, if you are looking to buy a Chihuahua in a specific color or with specific markings, remember that color is just the cover to the book. Temperament is the true important factor when choosing a Chihuahua as a pet for your family and structure is for entering the show ring.
Reputable breeders do not necessarily breed for color. They breed to the AKC standard - again, which states ANY color - and breed for the standard look and structure. So if you are still determined on getting a Chi in a specific color, find a reputable breeder that is able meet your needs in temperament and structure and ask to be placed on their waiting list for your specific color request. Just remember the wait could be long.
Be sure to read our Deciphering The Color Codes article for information on how to apply these codes and check our Chihuahua of Many Colors Gallery for examples of the different colors and markings.
|
