Chatterdale

The Chihuahua holds the distinction of being the smallest recognized dog breed in the world, with adults typically standing between five and eight inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between two and six pounds. According to breed standards, dogs exceeding six pounds are disqualified from conformation showing, though some individuals may grow larger without affecting their quality as companions. These diminutive dogs possess a well-balanced, compact body with a slightly longer than tall proportion. Their movement is swift and confident, displaying a firm and sturdy gait that belies their tiny size. The chest is moderately deep with well-sprung ribs, and the topline remains level whether standing or moving. The breed's most distinctive feature is its head, which comes in two varieties: the apple head, characterized by a well-rounded skull with a pronounced dome shape, and the deer head, which features a flatter skull and longer muzzle. The apple head variety is preferred in show rings, though both types make equally wonderful companions. Both display large, round, expressive eyes that are set wide apart and luminous in appearance, creating an intelligent and alert expression. Their large, erect ears stand prominently when alert and flare outward at approximately forty-five degrees from the head. The Chihuahua's muzzle is moderately short and slightly pointed, complementing the overall balanced appearance of the head. The nose is self-colored in blond types or black in other colorations. Chihuahuas come in two coat varieties: smooth coat and long coat. The smooth coat variety features short, close-lying fur that appears glossy and soft to the touch with minimal undercoat, while the long coat variety displays soft, flat or slightly wavy hair with distinctive feathering on the ears, legs, chest, and tail. Both coat types are found in virtually every color and pattern combination imaginable, including solid colors, marked patterns, splashed variations, and merle. Common colors include fawn, black, white, chocolate, cream, blue, and various combinations thereof. The breed carries its moderately long tail either in a sickle shape or curved over the back with the tip just touching the spine, adding to its alert and spirited appearance.

The Patterdale Terrier is a compact, sturdy working terrier with a square to slightly rectangular body profile that conveys strength and agility in equal measure. These dogs typically stand between ten and fifteen inches at the withers, with weight proportionate to height, generally ranging from eleven to thirteen pounds when in proper working condition. The breed standard emphasizes that dogs should always appear hard, fit, and athletic with no excess fat. Their powerful build includes strong shoulders, a narrow chest designed to allow entry into underground passages, and a flexible back that enables them to navigate tight spaces when pursuing quarry. The head is strong and wedge-shaped or trapezoidal when viewed from the front, with a moderately broad skull that reflects their Border Terrier ancestry without resembling bulldogs or bull terriers. The muzzle is powerful and never appears weak or snipy, equipped with strong jaws and a full complement of white teeth meeting in a scissors or level bite. Their dark, expressive eyes are set wide apart and display an alert, intelligent expression. The ears are triangular in shape and fold tightly just above the skull, tipping forward toward the face when the dog is attentive. Patterdale Terriers display three distinct coat types, all designed to provide protection against harsh weather and rough terrain. The smooth coat is coarse, dense, and stiff with no wave present. The broken coat features longer, wiry guard hairs than the smooth variety and may be wavy, sometimes including facial furnishings such as a beard, mustache, and eyebrows. The rough coat is coarse and longer overall, including on the face and ears, always displaying furnishings. Standard coat colors include black, red ranging from tan to deep rust, chocolate or liver, grizzle, black and tan, and bronze. Solid colors are preferred, though small white markings on the chest and feet are acceptable.