Understanding “The Uglies” in Long-Haired Chihuahuas
If you purchase a long-haired Chihuahua from me, you'll likely hear me mention a phase affectionately known as “the uglies.” This term describes the natural transition your puppy's coat undergoes as it matures.
What Are “The Uglies”?
When a Chihuahua puppy is born, it has a soft, fluffy baby coat. Between approximately 4 to 8 months of age, your puppy's fur may begin to thin, shed heavily, or fall out as it transitions from its puppy coat to its adult coat. During this period, your Chihuahua may appear somewhat gangly or scruffy — a perfectly normal stage of development.
For example, my beautiful stud Mario went through this phase and affectionately earned the nickname “HeiHei,” after the comical chicken character in Moana. Don't worry if your puppy looks a little rough during this time; the process is temporary, and some Chihuahuas may skip this stage altogether.
What to Expect During the Transition
This shedding and coat transformation is a natural process for long-haired Chihuahuas, so it's best to let it take its course. I do not recommend shaving your Chihuahua's coat during this period. Instead, regular bathing and grooming will help manage the coat comfortably.
If you notice excessive hair loss or patches of exposed skin, it's wise to consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Adult Coat Development
As your Chihuahua matures, it will develop a fuller adult coat, typically composed of two layers:
- Undercoat: Short, dense, and thick
- Overcoat: Longer, soft, and fluffy
Most Chihuahuas reach their full adult coat by about two years of age, though some may have it fully developed as early as one year, while others may take longer. Generally, male Chihuahuas have thicker fur and often feature a distinctive fluffy ruff around their neck.
Caring for Your Long-Haired Chihuahua's Coat
Maintaining your Chihuahua's long coat is straightforward with regular grooming. Long-haired Chihuahuas often have fringing over their toes, which can be easily trimmed at home to keep their paws neat and tidy without needing professional grooming.
It's also helpful to lightly trim around the bottom area to prevent matting and discomfort during toileting.
Unlike some other breeds, Chihuahuas do not require hair plucking from their ears, as they typically don't grow internal ear hair.
When bathing, use a high-quality dog conditioner, especially for lilac and blue-coated Chihuahuas, whose coats tend to be drier. For additional coat and skin health, supplements can be beneficial—just be sure to follow dosage instructions carefully.