Deer (doe) Head
Physical: Longer muzzle with a head that flows gracefully from eyes to ears. Is prone to fewer genetic problems and health issues than their apple-headed counterpart.Temperament: Has been noted to be more even-tempered and affable when it comes to other pets, other people, and sharing.
History: More closely resembles their ancient ancestors, who could be slightly larger than the breed today.
Apple Head
Physical: Short muzzle with a tall, domed, prominent forehead. Is more prone to genetic problems and health issues due to breeding standards. Most of the apple head chihuahuas have a fontanel (soft spot of cartilage) at the top of their head, which is similar to a newborn human baby. Some never completely close.
Temperament: Prone to snappish behavior and can be more of a "one person" type of dog.History: Generations of breeders selecting the smallest of the litter to breed has led the current AKC standard chihuahua to be under 6 pounds. Because of this breeding practice, the chihuahuas today can display off temperaments and have more health issues/genetic problems.
Please note: I am not being derogatory to the apple-head chihuahua. I tried not to make it sound like "all apple head chihuahua's are this way while all deer heads are another way". Each dog is different and I cannot speak for them all, other than to say "on average". My personal preference is for the deer-head chihuahua because I am not fond of the apple-head shape, but that is my opinion and should be taken as such. My chihuahuas are of the deer-head variety, so if you would prefer an apple, I wish you good luck in finding one elsewhere.
