The Chihuahua Molera

What is the story on a the Chihuahua molera? A chihuahua molera, also known as a fontanel, is defined as a "soft spot" on the top of the head. This soft spot occurs when all of the bones in the Chihuahua's head do not fuse completely.

The Chihuahua molera can vary in size and shape, occurring on the top of the head where the frontal and parietal bones come together. As stated in the Common Chihuahua Health Problems article, this is not a defect, but a characteristic of the Chihuahua breed. Many dogs are born with a molera, and live happy, normal lives.


The chihuahua molera is found in a high percentage (around 80%) of the dogs from short hair Chihuahuas, to long hair Chihuahuas and tea cup Chihuahuas. The chihuahua molera is present at birth. Sometimes it will get smaller as the Chihuahua gets older, sometimes it will remain with the Chihuahua all its life.


While the presence of a molera COULD be an indicator that there might be more serious issues at hand, like hydrocephalus, that does NOT mean that the Chihuahua has hydrocephalus. Most Chihuahuas with molera live very long and happy lives. It is always recommended that you visit a veterinarian that knows the breed very well, because unfortunately some vets mistake a molera for the very serious condition, hydrocephalus.


For more information on the Chihuahua molera, click here!