The Chihuahua (/tʃɪˈwɑːwə, -wɑː, -ˈwaʊ.ə/ (listen); Spanish: chihuahueño) is the smallest breed of dog, and is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. A longhair apple head ChihuahuaChihuahuas are the smallest breed recognised by some kennel clubs. There are two varieties of Chihuahua recognised by the AKC and the UK Kennel Club – the Smooth Coat (smooth-haired) and the Long Coat (long-haired). The UK Kennel Club considers the two to be distinct breeds; mating between the two are not eligible for KC registration. The AKC considers Long and Smooth coated chihuahuas to be the same breed. Typically, the breed standard for both the Long and Smooth coat Chihuahuas will be identical except for the description of the coat. The lifespan for a Chihuahua is usually between 12 and 20 years.