Although they’re known as “Chiweenie” or “Choxies,” we prefer the term “adorable” to describe these tiny rodents. Chiweenie, a cross between a dachshund and a chihuahua, will serve as loyal lapdogs in exchange for daily walks, food, and affection. We know that Chiweenies are extremely popular, even though little is known about the breed’s origin, and they are still considered “designer dogs” and not true breeds.
Like Chihuahuas and Dachsunds, Chiweenies have solid personalities and form close bonds with their owners. This is in keeping with their ancestry. But is it their life’s work? The ability to command one’s surroundings at all times.
Appearance
Chiweenies are all unique in their appearance. A Chiweenie can have short legs, long bodies, large ears, or a variety of other combinations of these characteristics, depending on the traits they inherit from their parents. In addition, all Chiweenies are small, weighing between 5 and 12 pounds and standing just 6 to 10 inches tall.
Wire-haired coats are found in both dachshunds and Chihuahuas; the latter also has a long-haired coat. Chiweenie fur can be in any of the three categories. Though they shed less than dogs with wiry coats or long-haired coats, dogs with smooth coats are not hypoallergenic. Chiweenie coat colors can range from white, tan, brown, and black to merle and brindle, depending on the length and texture of the coat. Jennifer Gregory, vice president of Doxie by Proxy Rescue, says that smooth, tan-colored Chiweenies are the most common.
Temperament
Chiweenies’ temperaments also vary based on their lineage, like their appearances. While Dachshunds are known for their tenacity, Chihuahuas are known for their fiery tempers (or “saucy”). In addition, Chiweenies can take on the characteristics of their canine parents, making them genuinely unique little creatures.
Catherine Gorton, the founder of Texas Chihuahua Rescue, says, “Chiweenies will work in almost any family situation.” A happier, more affectionate dog than a Chihuahua, they’re a great addition to any family.
““Small dogs with big dog personalities,” says Gregory, “are steadfastly loyal and develop close bonds with their owners.” It is common for Chiweenies to hide their sweeter side from strangers because of their breed’s reputation as playful, affectionate, and cuddly lap dogs. Gregory says that because children are naturally wary of strangers, they may fear their beloved stuffed animals, cozy blankets, or tasty treats will be stolen from them. Be sure to start socializing your Chiweenie as soon as possible so he can get used to being around new people and in new environments.
You can prevent your self-assured Chiweenie from developing undesirable behaviors by training him consistently with positive reinforcement and rewarding him with treats. Training sessions should be kept short and fun to keep the attention of Chiweenies, descendants of the Dachshund breed.
Living Needs
Despite being a small dog breed, the Chiweenie knows what he wants in a home and isn’t afraid to express it. So naturally, adoring owners who ensure he’s the show’s star are at the top of his priority list.
Despite their diminutive stature, not all Chiweenies are suited to apartment living. Delivery trucks, neighbors walking by, distant barking dogs, and howling winds can all be detected by these “professional barkers,” as Gregory calls them (really). But remember that each dog is unique, and you can turn your Chiweenie into a quiet gentleman with proper training. As a result, he thrives in an apartment and maintains good relations with the other building residents.
Children may adore the Chiweenie, but it isn’t always reciprocated. Because of their diminutive stature, the breed is prone to injury from carelessness, and they don’t like to share their food or toys with other dogs. Chiweenies aren’t necessarily a bad fit for families that have older children. Contact foster-based rescues to find a Chiweenie that will thrive in a busy household with small children. Always keep an eye on your child when playing with the dog, and show them the proper way to interact with animals.
In addition to their four-legged friends, Chiweenies can be picky. Gregory says some dogs prefer to be the only pet in the house, while others are happy to share their space with cats and other dogs. The best time to introduce Chiweenies to other dogs is when they are puppies, as with many different breeds.
It’s also worth noting that the breed was developed to hunt badgers by burrowing them into underground tunnels. They might not get along well in a home with bunnies or other small pets due to their tendency to chase smaller animals. Ensure your Chiweenie is on a leash or in a fenced-in yard whenever you take him outside because squirrels may tempt him.
Care
When it comes to shedding, Gorton describes Chiweenies as “low maintenance and low-shedding.” Smooth-coated Chiweenies have “wash and go” coats that only require the occasional bath and brushing to keep them looking their best. Chiweenies, like their two parent breeds, may need a stylish sweater or coat when living in colder climates.
Chiweenies with long or wire-haired coats require more frequent brushing to prevent matting than short-haired Chiweenies. Gregory recommends brushing your teeth a few times a week. All Chiweenies, regardless of coat type, require regular nail trimming to prevent them from squeaking across the floor. In addition, because of their susceptibility to dental disease, these little guys must have regular teeth brushing routines.
However, despite their diminutive size, Chiweenies are not a constant companion. Dachshunds and Chihuahuas enjoy following their owners around the house (and accidentally tripping you occasionally). However, all Chiweenies share a desire to be a part of the fun.
Active breeds like border collies and Labrador retrievers require a lot of exercise, but your Chiweenie will only need daily walks and playtime regularly. A simple game of tug-of-war or fetch will keep him entertained. Gorton asserts that “all dogs need jobs to do.” Walks tire them out because they have to deal with the mental challenge of sniffing and exploring, even if they are short. Tired Chiweenies are more than happy to nap with their favorite people.
Health
Their average life expectancy is between 12 and 16 years. Since Chiweenies descend from purebred dogs, they share many of their health issues with their purebred counterparts, despite popular belief that mixed breed dogs are generally healthier.
Chiweenies, like dachshunds, are prone to back problems such as intervertebral disc disease, a degenerative spinal condition. IVDD results from a hardening of the intervertebral disc, a cushioning material between the discs in the spinal column. The disease causes excruciating pain, impairs mobility, and may even result in partial paralysis. IVDD can only be treated surgically in extreme cases.
According to Gregory, dogs with long backs like dachshunds are more likely to suffer from IVDD.
Chiweenies with Chihuahua-like bodies may not be affected by the disease. But, like dachshunds, Chiweenie’s weight should be kept in check, and they should not be allowed to jump on or off the furniture.
The Chiweenie is prone to luxating patellas, another common health issue in small breeds. The condition is diagnosed when the dog cannot bear weight on the affected leg because the kneecap has moved out of its normal position.
Chronic dislocation can lead to more severe injuries like torn cruciate ligaments, even though luxating patellas are often painless. Some dogs learn to kick out their limbs to reposition their kneecaps. Surgery can be used to treat more severe or long-term conditions.
Chiweenies, like other small dog breeds, are susceptible to dental disease. Early signs of dental disease include bad breath, tartar buildup, and swollen, red gums. If these conditions are not addressed, they increase the risk of infection. According to Gregory, at-home dental care, such as dental chews and a tooth-brushing regimen, can help keep your pup’s teeth (and breath) fresh in between professional cleanings.
History
The American Kennel Club does not recognize the Chiweenie as a legitimate breed because it is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund. As a result, very little information about the group’s past is available.
As demand for this “breed” skyrocketed, Gregory believes that dachshund and Chihuahua crossed and produced a litter of adorable pups. Puppies like these are the newest dogs in town, and interest in them has grown steadily over the last few decades.
Be wary of “too good to be true” Chiweenies, as many puppy mill-produced crossbreeds are fake. This means they may not have been born into a healthy environment prioritizing their welfare. Here are a few things to look out for when purchasing a puppy:
- Puppy waiting times are listed on a website.
- A breeder has a variety of mixed-breed dogs available for purchase.
- Your questions about the breeder’s dog lines aren’t answered satisfactorily, or you can’t visit the breeder.
- A breeder can ship puppies.
- You can’t get in touch with the breeder via their website because there is no phone number or email address, and you can’t see a video or an in-person preview of your pup and her surroundings.
Fun Facts
- Insta-famous Chiweenie Tuna has 2.1 million fans and shares his travels worldwide in adorable photos.
- For this reason, some people refer to Chiweenies as “Mexican hot dogs,” “German tacos,” or “Chiweenies.
FAQS (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)
IS A CHIWEENIE A GOOD DOG?
Chiweenies are full of self-confidence and swagger, inherited traits from both parents. Attractive and playful, these dogs thrive on human interaction. They tend to form a close relationship with one person, but they can also get along well with other family members.
WHAT PROBLEMS DO CHIWEENIES HAVE?
Chiweenies have only a few minor health issues throughout their lifetime. Allergies are by far the most common problem. As a crossbreed, your dog may inherit health issues from both of its parents, but this does not guarantee that it will be affected by any of them. Hypothyroidism, hypoglycemia, diabetes, IDD, seizures, Luxating patellas, dental problems, and hydrocephalus are a few examples. Chiweenie, like all small dog breeds, is susceptible to early tooth loss, like all small dogs. Plaque can be prevented by giving your pet a dental treatment and brushing your pet’s teeth daily.
HOW MUCH DO CHIWEENIES COST?
You can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 for an average puppy, with prices ranging up to $1,900 for extra small or Chiweenies or pups of a rare color. The small litter size is one of the reasons why these prices are so high.
WHAT’S THE LIFESPAN OF A CHIWEENIE?
12-16 Years
ARE CHIWEENIES HIGH MAINTENANCE?
When they’re still puppies, Chiweenies are low-maintenance pets. They only need to be bathed monthly and don’t require much maintenance.
