Hairstyles for Long-Haired Chihuahuas

Unlike the poodle and other long-haired dog breeds, there are no recognized hairstyles created by groomers for the long-haired Chihuahua. The coat of the long-haired Chihuahua is soft and fine. While other dog breeds have long, thick, easily tangled coats, the Chihuahua's coat can generally can be maintained with regular bathing and brushing. Owners of long-haired Chihuahuas can choose any type of hairstyle they desire, and their dogs are sure to look cute.

This is the most commonly chosen dog hairstyle, and it may be applied effectively to long-haired Chihuahuas. The entire coat is cut to one length, without shaving it too close to the skin. The head and the area under the tail are trimmed to the same length.

A long-haired Chihuahua with longer than average coat length can be cut like a schnauzer. The complete length of the back is shaved very short and down to an imaginary horizontal line across from the top of the legs. The legs and belly are left long or trimmed just enough to neaten them. The head is trimmed short, leaving a long mustache.

The Westie cut involves cutting the entire body very short and leaving the hair on the head a little longer and rounded off to give the head a rounded appearance. Long-haired Chihuahuas may be cut this way, but it is not recommended for dogs living in cold areas, as Chihuahuas are particularly susceptible to the cold.

All that is really needed to maintain a long-haired Chihuahua's coat is a regular bath with gentle shampoo and brushing every day. For hygienic reasons, the area under the tail should be trimmed as short as possible with scissors and graduated to blend with the longer hair around it. The hair around the Chihuahua's mouth and neck should be trimmed in the same way, to about one-fourth inch in length. .