Chihuahuas are easily the most popular dogs for use in creating designer mixed breeds. Despite the fact that they are the smallest dog breed out there, they have been mixed with everything from Dachshunds to Golden Retrievers.
In the sections below, we will take a look at the most popular Chihuahua mixes, their characters, and care needs so that you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.
A Chihuahua Mix is a mixed breed dog between a Chihuahua and any other dog breed. Due to the size differences, such mixed breeds are typically crossbred with other small dog breeds, even though medium and larger ones are also commonly used in the mix. The Chihuahua’s small size and unique aesthetics make a very eclectic resulting mix, with unique pups that contribute to their popularity.
Whether it is a Retriever Chihuahua, a Bolo Chi, or even a Chug, you have a lot to prepare for. Before we go into all the health, grooming, and training needs, let’s first take a look at what the most popular mixed breed options are for you to consider.
What Are Common Chihuahua Mixes?
Technically speaking, a Chihuahua can be mixed with pretty much any other viable dog breed. There are, however, a few breeds out there that just work better in the mix. These spirited dog breeds are preferred for their size compatibility, perfectly complementing the health and temperament aspects. Here are 7 of the most popular Chihuahua Mixes.
Chimeranian (Pomeranian)
The Chimeranian, or Pomchi, are known for their thick coats, perky ears, and Chihuahua faces. If you want a playful and loving doggy, then this might be the mix for you.
Jack Chi (Jack Russell Terrier)
Jack Terriers are significantly larger and leaner than Chihuahuas, but this Jack Chi Mix works surprisingly well, producing an energetic and intelligent dog.
Chiweenie (Dachshund)
More often than not, Chiweenies end up with the Dachshund’s elongated body and the Chihuahua’s head. They can be a little naughty and overly playful, so training needs to start early.
Retriever Chihuahua (Golden Retriever)
This is one of the largest size differences when it comes to Chihuahua Mixes. The resulting pooch, however, is often small, weighing between 12 to 30 lbs.
Chipit (Pitbull)
The Pitbull Chihuahua Mix is not a mix for the faint of heart as the resulting mixed dog is a lot more energetic and even potentially aggressive.
Chug (Pug)
Chugs are known for their small, compact, and muscular bodies. They are very active but generally calm and quite easy to train.
Chichon (Bichon)
For the most part, these dogs resemble the Bichon parent more than the Chihuahua with their thick fur and flatter faces.
How Big Do Chihuahua Mixes Get?
Chihuahuas are officially the smallest pure breed of dogs on the planet. They fall in the toy dog group under small breeds according to the American Kennel Club. This is because it measures an average of 8 inches in height and weighs between 4 lbs and 6 lbs at the point of maturity.
When mixed with other breeds, the resulting size depends on the size and the specificity of the dog breed used in the crossbreeding process. Genetic interaction and pure chance also play a role, with some doggies turning out larger or smaller than others from the same mix.
When a Chihuahua is mixed with a small breed dog, the mixed pooch turns out just as small or larger than the Chi parent. They range between 6 to 12 lbs in weight and 6 to 10 inches in height. This includes mixes with small dog breeds like Doxies, Pomeranians, Bichons, and Yorkshire Terriers.
On the other hand, when the Chihuahua is mixed with medium sized dogs, the size range is a little higher and, more often than not, closer to the larger parent. Typically, you can expect weight measurements from 15 to 35 lbs and a height range of 15 to 20 inches. Popular breeds used in Chihuahua Mixes in this category include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Pitbulls, Cocker Spaniels, and Beagles.
It is very rare to have a Chihuahua mixed with a large dog breed like a German Shepherd – the very same breed the 46th POTUS has – or Rottweiler. However, when it does happen, the resulting pooch can grow as large as 60 lbs or as small as 10 lbs with a height range of 8 to 40 inches. This makes the mix one of the most eclectic not only in terms of appearance but also size.
Do Chihuahua Mix Shed
Yes, Chihuahuas shed like pretty much any other dog does. This means that if you are worried about allergies from the dander, then you will have to work a little harder to make your home comfortable for those afflicted. Fortunately, they shed minimally to moderately depending on the dog’s coat health and your particular grooming practices.
Chihuahua mixes are also not considered hypoallergenic. How much they shed depends on the inherited type from the parents.
Curly and wire haired Chihuahua Mixes tend to shed more than the smooth variety, whether long or short, thereby requiring more care in terms of grooming.
If you are considering getting one, something that will definitely ease the burden of the inevitable shedding is regular brushing. This helps to detangle matted fur and get rid of any loose hair that may eventually shed. Make sure to use a good quality comb like the FURminator Undercoat Tool.
Contrary to popular beliefs, long haired Chihuahuas do not shed any more than shorter haired ones. So the same 2 to 3 days a week brushing routine should be adopted no matter what coat type you are dealing with.
Vacuuming also does wonders when it comes to minimizing the effects of shedding, especially in a home with allergic family members or guests.
Invest in a machine that is powerful enough to get every single last of fur from your floors, carpeting, and furniture. It is best to go with models that are specially designed for dealing with pet dander, whether it is improved suction, carpet brushing tools, or even high-quality filtration systems.
How Long Will A Chihuahua Mix Live? Common Health Problems Of A Chihuahua Mix
Chihuahuas have a pretty long life span and can live for 12 to 20 years. They are generally healthy and suffer few life-threatening health conditions.
Despite this, their size and metabolism both leave this dog breed prone to a variety of diseases. Most of these diseases are bred out with mixing. However, some can be found with Chihuahua Mixes that themselves live for 13 to 18 years. These health issues include:
Hypoglycemia
This happens mainly when chihuahuas are bred with other toy breeds or small breeds in general. They tend to be really active, which means they can easily burn through their energy reserves if they do not eat enough to keep up with the demands. This results in symptoms such as tremors, confusion, and even loss of consciousness.
Hip Dysplasia
This is a condition where the hip joint is not formed properly, therefore, preventing proper connection of the femur to the pelvis. It increases the risk of arthritis and limits mobility in general. If your chihuahua mix has this problem, try Doggie Dailies Glucosamine.
The chewable supplements contain glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM. In addition to offering pain relief for arthritis, these compounds help promote healing and increase lubrication for better movement.
Dental Problems
Chihuahuas have smaller and often weak jaws. If the mixed doggy takes after its parent, it will have dental problems, including teeth overcrowding and malalignment. This increases the risk of issues like tartar buildup and dental cavities.
Obesity
This might sound paradoxical, considering the association with hypoglycemia. However, despite being so drawn to active lifestyles, Chihuahuas and their mixes can very easily develop obesity. This happens due to overeating and/or reduced activity from skeletal issues or limited activity.
Patellar Luxation
This happens mainly due to injuries that affect ligaments in the knee joint. We recommend you try the NeoAlly Short Dog Leg Brace. It features Velcro straps for easy use, and reflectors for nighttime walks together.
Are Chihuahua Mixes Good Dogs?
When it comes to temperament, it is really difficult to pinpoint a super specific set of personality traits that you can expect from a Chihuahua Mix. It depends on the personality traits of both parents where the mixed pup could take after one parent or a mix of both.
One of the greatest concerns is whether or not they will be noisy. Chihuahua Mixes bark a lot, mainly if the dog is mixed with an equally yappy, including Yorkies, Schnauzers, and Beagles. In such cases, you have to start training early to get them to only bark when necessary.
However, when mixed with calmer breeds, designer doggies tend to be a lot easier to manage. This is the case with breeds like Golden Retrievers and Labradors, as well as Pugs. You will still have to start training early, just in case.
Chihuahua Mixes, more often than not, end up being hyperactive and playful regardless of the other parent involved in the mix. Fortunately, it doesn’t take too much to make them happy and keep them sufficiently occupied, even with small spaces like apartments.
You also have a lot to look forward to with Chihuahua Mixes when it comes to affection. These dogs are loving and loyal to their families. With training and socialization, they also get along well with other pets and with guests.
In a nutshell, Chihuahua Mixes are actually fantastic family pets. They are loving, playful, and very intelligent. You just have to make sure you invest in training and keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Related Questions
What Is The Best Breed To Mix With A Chihuahua? Mixes between Terriers and Chihuahuas are often very good, whether it is a Yorkie or a Jack Russell. This is mainly because they suffer from fewer health issues. The personality combination is also fantastic if you want to maintain the spirited vibes of the Chihuahua. If you want a calmer and easier-to-manage dog, the best mixes are with Retriever breeds and Pugs.
How Much Does A Chihuahua Mix Cost? This depends on the dog used in the mix. Chihuahuas themselves cost between $400 and $1,000. Chihuahua Mixes, on the other hand, range from $300 to $800 from breeders. However, random mixed-breed strays are relatively common, so you could also get one from a doggy shelter for less or even for free.
Are Chihuahua Mix Good With Cats? Chihuahuas have a reputation for being very territorial, and the same goes for their mixes. While they do not innately hate our feline friends, the doggies may need some time to warm up, especially if the cats are introduced into the family later. To avoid pet drama, make sure to socialize your Chihuahua Mix as early as possible.
