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MOLERA on Chihuahuas?
What is a Molera?
Historically, the Chihuahua developed in Mexico and the United States has displayed a “soft spot” on the top of the head. In the Chihuahua this spot, or fontanel, is known as a MOLERA; and is the same as that found in human babies. In the past, this molera was accepted as a mark of purity in the breed, and it is still mentioned in most Chihuahua breed standards the world over. It is important to note that while many Chihuahua puppies are born without the molera, there are just as many born with one and its presence is nothing to become alarmed over. As shown in the illustration, the molera in a Chihuahua will occur on the top of the head and may vary in shape and size when present.
While it would be impossible to list all the medical documentation here on this page, these few included here are perfectly clear; the presence of a molera does not mean the Chihuahua has a medical problem. The Chihuahua is a little dog! They belong in the house, at their owner’s side, receiving all the love they deserve to receive. With or without a molera, the healthy Chihuahua that is loved and given proper veterinary care will live well into its teens as an irresistible member of the family. Quoted from The Chihuahua Club of America, Inc
The American Kennel Club mentions the molera in the Chihuahua breed standard. It is a soft spot found on the top of the head, much the same as is found on a human baby’s head. It is important that new-comers to the breed understand that this is found in nearly all apple head Chihuahua puppies. It is normal for the breed and although most of the times it closes, sometimes it will never close completely. Before breed registries existed the molera was a strong indication that the puppy was, in fact, a pure breed Chihuahua. Before you take your new puppy home and to your vet for that first well check to establish service, please educate yourself about this breed characteristic. Many vets understand the Chihuahua breed and will note the presence of a molera in their write up. However, some vets, not specifically familiar with the breed, can alarm customers needlessly.
We primarily breed for the apple head. Therefore, nearly all of our puppies will have a molera when they go home. We have noted through the years that some vets are not specialized in the Chihuahua breed and alarm customers needlessly about the presence of a molera in their new puppy. Please, do not be alarmed, educate yourself and if necessary take in a copy of The Chihuahua Club of America statement of the molera to your vet appointment. Ask other Chihuahua owners in your area and hopefully you can locate a veterinarian that specializes in the toy breed, especially the Chihuahua.
A good vet, familiar with the Chihuahua breed, is a treasure to a Chihuahua owner. Please, understand that not all vets will be familiar with the details of the breed and that can lead to undue worry on the pet owner’s part. Finding a Chihuahua-knowledgeable vet may take a bit of time and search.
