The Hairless Chihuahua is not a breed but is a variety of the standard Chihuahua. It’s hairless because of a genetic mutation that is present in some standard Chihuahuas. There are breeders that purposely produce the hairless Chihuahua from parents known to have the mutated gene. It is also common practice to cross breed hairless Chihuahuas with Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) and Chinese Crested Dogs to produce hairless offspring.
Chihuahuas are considered a national treasure in Mexico and are named after the province of Chihuahua. Genetic testing shows that modern Chihuahua’s only derive about 2-3% of their DNA from the original Techichi dog owned by the Toltecs of Mexico. The Aztecs, who conquered the Toltecs, are credited with miniaturization of the Techichi breed. No one is completely sure which old-world breed(s) contributed to the modern Chihuahua. Historical artifacts from around the world have images that look similar to Chihuahuas suggesting that the breed existed in many cultures worldwide.
Hairless Chihuahuas are in demand for people who have allergies due to their lack of fur and small size. Both of these things reduce the number of allergens. The small size and lack of fur, when combined with frequent bathing reduces allergens enough for some owners. There is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, but for those with mild dog allergies, hairless Chihuahuas are often tolerable.
Hairless Chihuahuas come in a variety of colors including black, gray, brown, white, or with spots of white on gray or brown. The American Kennel Club standards for Chihuahuas states that they should be no more than 6 pounds, 5-7 inches from the shoulder to floor, and have a life expectancy of 14-16 years. The hairless version is not officially recognized as a variation and as such doesn’t necessarily reflect these standards. Unethical breeders have attempted to create micro-sized versions producing unhealthy dogs with a reduced lifespan. Potential owners should avoid breeders that advertise “micro” or “teacup” dogs.
Hairless Chihuahuas are very sensitive to cold, known as being brachycephalic. Owners need to provide an indoor environment of around 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit, clothing, blankets and bedding for their pet. Other common issues are epilepsy, and weak skulls up to the age of six months because hairless Chihuahuas are born with an incomplete skull. These dogs often develop conjunctivitis that requires treatment to prevent blindness. Additionally, the FOX13 gene mutation that causes hairlessness also causes teeth abnormalities.