Are there different Chihuahua skull shapes?

Yes, there are two different Chihuahua skull shapes, apple head and deer head . Apple-head Chihuahuas are the common, recognizable head shape for Chihuahuas. This skull is rounded, with a prominent dome at the top of the head, so the face has a more apple-like appearance. This shape gives the Chihuahua their distinctive look and is the breed standard for many shows.

Some Chihuahuas have a deer-head shape, which is a bit longer and more tapered than the apple head. The forehead is flatter, and the overall head is less rounded. Deer-head Chihuahuas tend to have more refined, elongated faces, and this head type is sometimes seen in Chihuahuas with mixed ancestry. The deer head is more commonly seen in pet Chihuahuas. 

Neither skull shape impacts the health or temperament of the dog. However, the apple head can sometimes be associated with a condition called “open fontanel,” where the soft spot on the skull doesn’t fully close as it should, but this can be managed with proper care.