Chiweenie

The chiweenie is a mixed breed dog resulting in the mating of a Chihuahua and a dachshund. There is no recorded history of the first chiweenie, and there is currently no breeding program concentrating on the breed. If you purchase a true chiweenie, you can be sure that one of the parents is a dachshund and the other is a Chihuahua.

Chiweenies come in different sizes thanks to their mixed-breed ancestry. When people take the time to purposely breed these dogs, the litter is often on the small side. Some chiweenies are so small that they are considered teacup size. Like their parents, chiweenies often have fine bones and longish backs. The dogs often have small heads, tiny feet and pricked ears. Chiweenies are normally black, tan or bi-colored.

Personality

The chiweenie is an intelligent dog and quick to learn. Owners of the breed point out that their dogs get jealous of other people and pets. Care must be taken to socialize puppies when they are young if they are expected to get along with all humans and animals. These dogs bond to their owners easily, and the chiweenie is best suited to families without children or with older children. If you choose this breed, resist the urge to carry it everywhere you go. The dog should be treated like a dog; if not, you run the risk of having a spoiled, surly companion.

Breed Characteristics

Chiweenie Build Information

Chiweenies come in different sizes thanks to their mixed-breed ancestry. When people take the time to purposely breed these dogs, the litter is often on the small side. Some chiweenies are so small that they are considered teacup size. Like their parents, chiweenies often have fine bones and longish backs. The dogs often have small heads, tiny feet and pricked ears. Chiweenies are normally black, tan or bi-colored.

Behaviour and Personality

The chiweenie is an intelligent dog and quick to learn. Owners of the breed point out that their dogs get jealous of other people and pets. Care must be taken to socialize puppies when they are young if they are expected to get along with all humans and animals. These dogs bond to their owners easily, and the chiweenie is best suited to families without children or with older children. If you choose this breed, resist the urge to carry it everywhere you go. The dog should be treated like a dog; if not, you run the risk of having a spoiled, surly companion.

Appearance

Because of their short coat, the Chiweenie requires minimal grooming. A weekly brushing is all that is required to maintain the dog's coat. Puppies should be exposed to nail trimmings and ear cleanings to get used to the process. Your dog will need its nails and ears attended to about once a month. A weekly bath keeps Chiweenies smelling fresh and clean, but a monthly bath is often all that is required.

Chiweenie Common Health Conditions

Like other small dogs, Chiweenies may be prone to luxating patellas. This condition causes the kneecaps to slip out of place. A veterinarian can determine if your Chiweenie suffers with this condition, and your vet can show you how to slide the kneecaps back into place when necessary. Dachshunds are prone to ear infections and spinal issues. Your Chiweenie may be susceptible to these conditions as well. Care should be taken to choose a Chiweenie born to healthy parents.

Chiweenie Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

The price for a Chiweenie varies widely. The least expensive dogs cost around $200, and the most expensive dogs cost around $750. Chiweenies should be purchased from private breeders instead of pet stores. The average life span of the Chiweenie is between 13 and 17 years. Chiweenies do not require extensive exercise. A short daily walk is enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. Fans of the breed have nicknamed the Chiweenie 'Mexican hot-dog'. Chiweenies on the small end of the size scale are called Teacup Chiweenies.