CHI CHI Breed Standards
General Appearance: Reminiscent of a delicate deerlike prancing pony, Chi-Chis should have an overall rectangular or square shape to their body, a nice tuck up to their belly, thin straight legs, and large upright ears. Their head is overall wedge shaped with a rounded skull and a distinct stop. Their expression is alert,loving,and eager. They come in four varieties of coat and any color. Size: Under 12 inches tall and weighing under 10 pounds. Usually closer to the 6 to 8 pound range but can be as small as 4 pounds when fully grown. Coat: Two varieties exist - powerpuff and hairless and two coat lengths - smooth or shorthair and longhair. For longhair puppies, both parents must have longhair genes in their pedigree. For hairless puppies one parent must be hairless. There is significant variance in the hairless coat. Most dogs will have hair on their head, feet, and tail. It can also range to having hair covering their legs,hips and shoulders, and a line down their back. They may also have an almost full coat, save for irregular patches. If hair goes higher than the lower legs or onto the back or shoulders or more, it is referred to as "hairy hairless". The minium or "true hairless" has hair only on their head. The difference in coats can usually be seen at birth.
Color: Any color possible, although most generally have at least some white. Care Required: For smooth powderpuff coats a damp cloth and monthly bath. For long powderpuff coats a daily brushing. For any variety hairless their skin will need lotion and sunscreen and applied. Long hairless will also need their furnishings brushed daily. In cold weather consider a coat for smooth and hairless varieties. Character: Climbers. Goofy. Lazy. Very happy, catlike. Excellent personality. Good with other animals and children, though kids should be watched so they do not accidentally injure the Chi-Chi.
Training: Considered an average dog in intelligence and though they have a desire to please they can take longer to housebreak. They are quite capable of learning tricks.
Social Behavior: Very social and friendly (provided they have been socialized properly) with people and other animals. May attach to one or two people predominantly, but friendly with the entire family. Exercise: Most Chi-Chis can entertain themselves in the house or yard so that an hour of play or a quick walk is adequate.
Undesired traits: Weight over 10 pounds or under 3 pounds. "Bulging" eyes. Too short of legs when compared to body.
