Chihuahuas: tiny but mighty, known for their larger-than-life personalities and unwavering devotion. But what happens when you combine that spirited nature with another breed? You get a delightful mix of traits, sometimes tempering the Chihuahua’s intensity, other times amplifying their charm. Explore 35 captivating Chihuahua mixes, each a unique blend of cuteness and character. From the cuddly Chi-Poo to the adventurous Chusky, discover the perfect pint-sized companion brimming with love and ready to steal your heart.
Braveheart. That was the name of our Chihuahua mix breed when my daughter was a child. The bond they had was uncanny… Ethereal… Magical. And that’s precisely the reason why Chihuahuas are so popular. People want that connection with a small dog that’s affectionate yet spunky.
And what is as awesome as a single Chihuahua? Chihuahua mixed breeds! You wouldn’t believe how many successful mixes with this ball of energy there are, and we’re going to give them to you.
Some might look familiar, and some might be shocking, but one thing’s for sure – All of these mixed breeds are unique and loving. You might even find yourself going for a Chug (Chihuahua Pug mix) after you read this article. We wouldn’t blame you if you did.
History of Chihuahua
Although the Chi gets its name from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, their origin is a bit of a mystery. Here are the two theories:
- They originated from the Central and South American regions, descending from the dog called the Techichi – a dog used for religious sacrifices and sometimes for food (bummer).
- The Chi descends from Chinese dogs.
We do know the recorded history began in 1850 when a few small dogs were brought to America from Chihuahua, Mexico. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1904. The Chi was often used in traveling shows since they were/are easily trained.
The breed has consistently been a favorite in the US.
Characteristics of Chihuahua
We need to get one thing straight… According to the Chihuahua Club of America, the AKC describes the breed as a small dog that comes in two varieties or coat types – long coat and smooth coat.
Also, there are two types of Chihuahua… One is called the apple head, and the other is called the deer head, depending on what they look like. These are not breeds but types of Chis. That’s it. The end.
There’s no differentiation between a smaller Chihuahua and a larger one. They’re just different in size. It’s important to note that the AKC does classify the breed as “Toy.”
The point being, that teacup Chihuahuas do not exist. They were born small; maybe they were the runt of the litter, so unscrupulous breeders will put a shingle out saying they’re selling teacup Chihuahuas. Anything for a buck. Don’t be fooled!
Now, I’ll return to the floor from my soapbox.
Smooth-coated Chihuahuas are probably more familiar to you since they’re the ones with a coat that is close to the body. Long-coated Chihuahuas have longer, fluffy coats.
They can come in a myriad of colors and color combinations: Thirty, to be exact. It is fair to say, though, that it’s a rare day to see a fully black or white Chihuahua, although they do exist. With large eyes, erect ears, and a rounded head, the breed is hard to miss.
These little guys come in at a whole 5”-8” tall and don’t exceed six pounds. They have the distinct pleasure of being the smallest of dog breeds. Their life expectancy is 14-16 years. Moving on to the question of the century, “Why do Chihuahuas shake?”
Here are six of the main reasons why:
- Cold temperatures – They have a fast metabolism – burn calories more than three times faster than larger dog breeds – and an inability to regulate body temperature. It’s why you see so many of the cuties trotting around in sweaters and jackets.
Basically, their body fat is too low to keep them warm. They were bred to live in warm climates, so they often don’t acclimate well to cold weather (even air conditioning).
- Medical/Health issues – Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is common in Chihuahuas.
- Anxiety
- Excitement/Happiness
- Fear
- Old age – Visit the vet with your senior dog twice a year in the later years to make sure they’re not in any pain.
Yes, Chihuahuas can lean towards barking. A lot. (But I would too, if I weighed five pounds in our world.) This is a bonus because you’ll have a perfect warning system in your small-packaged watchdog.
TEMPERAMENT: This breed may not roll out the red carpet for strangers, but a well-socialized Chi won’t have your guest running for the door. They can warm up to people given time.
Although I’ve had a wonderful experience with my daughter and her loving Chi, the breed isn’t exactly kid-friendly and always needs to be supervised around them. A child’s sudden movements and rambunctious play could be too much for them.
Chis will think their primary guardian hung the moon and will just wait for the opportunity of an open lap. They actually enjoy being sassy – strutting across the kitchen floor like they’re in a show ring, turning their nose up at a normally favorite treat. They’ll be saucy when they’re healthy and happy, so it’s a good thing.
Now, let’s move on to things this breed needs to be all they can be.
Chihuahua Care: Grooming, Training, and Health
GROOMING: Chihuahuas don’t shed a lot and don’t need loads of grooming. Having said that, the long-coated Chi needs more care than the other. The smooth-coated Chi only needs to be brushed occasionally, while the long-coated one needs brushing once or twice a week to avoid mats, which can be painful.
Talk to your vet about how many times to bathe your particular dog since each dog’s skin is unique, and you don’t want to strip vital oils.
Have their nails trimmed and teeth and ears cleaned while you’re there. You could always do it yourself, but it may not be as thorough, and you might miss something that needs to be seen, like ear parasites or lumps.
TRAINING: These dogs are smart cookies. A little too smart, actually. They excel in obedience training and canine sports. As you train, be consistent and start right away.
Important note: Even if a dog weighs 3 lbs, he/she still needs to be trained. A three-pound, out-of-control dog is not fun to be around.
Only use positive reinforcement training. If dog training isn’t in your wheelhouse, ask your vet to give you a recommendation for a trainer or visit a store like PetSmart to talk to a trainer in person.
HEALTH: As we’ve mentioned, hypoglycemia is common in Chis. Also:
- Heart issues
- Eye disease
- Patellar luxation (loose kneecaps)
- Idiopathic epilepsy
It’s always best to visit your vet right away with a new pet – puppy, middle-aged, or senior. They can do a wellness check that will be a baseline in case anything happens or see if something needs to be addressed. They’ll also be able to administer any necessary vaccinations.
Now, introducing…
Chihuahua Mix Breeds
Let’s get down to business and talk about the most popular chihuahua mixes that could be your next best friend!
1. Chizer (Chihuahua x Miniature Schnauzer)
Image credit: @garythegrumpkin on Instagram
Since Schnauzers have a wiry coat, this mixed breed can look a little scruffy, but it largely depends on genes/parents. Also, Schnauzers come in different sizes and the miniature is generally used for this mix. Both breeds are intelligent, so you’ll have a smartie on your hands.
Their lifespan is usually 10-15 years, and they will be playful while they’re living them. They can be snippy with strangers before they get to know them, so be sure to have them around plenty of other people when they’re young.
2. Cheagle (Chihuahua x Beagle)
Image credit: @cheagles on Instagram
Beagles are super friendly so chances are, you’ll have a sociable Beagle Chihuahua mix breed. Keep them stimulated physically and mentally since both breeds are active and need to be challenged and adequately exercised.
Both tend to be barkers, so you’ll feel safe in your own home. Although Beagles are wonderful with children, this dog’s size and Chi temperament might make him more comfy around older kids.
3. Chiweenie (Chihuahua x Dachshund)
These low-to-the-ground dogs could have long bodies with long-ish or short coats. At 6”-10” and 5-12 lbs., they’ll easily fit into your lap, too. They’re also called the “German Taco” and the “Mexican Hot Dog.”
Chihuahua Dachshund mix dogs were first bred in the US in the 1990s, so they’re just “babies.” Easy to train, they may balk if they get bored or distracted, so just be patient.
4. Chi Chi (Chihuahua x Chinese Crested)
Image credit: @fern.and.myrtle on Instagram
Be prepared to have a somewhat interesting-looking dog. And this Chihuahua mixed breed is active. You’ll need to get them out with a long walk or a lengthy game of fetch for about an hour daily.
Since the Chinese Crested is largely hairless, you’ll probably have an allergy-friendly dog, especially if a short-coated Chi is involved. This mixed breed was developed in North America in the late 1990s or early 2000s.
5. Chi-Spaniel (Chihuahua x Cocker Spaniel)
Image credit: @sweetpup_bailey on Instagram
Talk about a cutie-bug. Cocker Spaniels can be pretty mellow, so this designer breed is a balancing act of personality. They’ll probably be little whizzes at agility and obedience competitions, so prepare your wall for ribbons.
Smart cookies, Chi-Spaniels could be more vocal or less, depending on which parent’s genes are more prominent. Gentle, fun-loving, and affectionate dogs, you’ll have a winner as your best friend.
6. Chorkie (Chihuahua x Yorkshire Terrier)
You could almost put one in your pocket. That’s how small they are at 6”-9” and 8-10 lbs. You can also count on having a dog that gets along with kids, dogs, cats, seniors, and all family members.
You’ll always need to keep an eye on them, though. Almost everything in a household becomes a hazard, including your own two feet, for these tiny animals.
7. Jack Chi (Chihuahua x Jack Russell Terrier)
Image credit: @benthepuppy on Instagram
There are countless looks the Jack Chi could have, including their ears, coat, size, and color. You’ll have a unique Jack Russell Terrier mix pup. They’ll be a bit of a clown, so get ready to laugh when they’re around.
The Jack Russell terrier was developed in England by Parson John Russell in the 19th century. His aim was to develop a working/hunting dog, as most terriers started.
8. French Bullhuahua (Chihuahua x French Bulldog)
Image credit: @puppy_singapore on Instagram
Be aware that French bulldogs are brachycephalic, so you’ll need to watch them closely if they’re outside in the heat. The Bullhuahua may also have a flat face and doesn’t need to be over-exercised. They can wheeze and pant just sitting around.
I pet-sit for a Frenchie who’s one of the most loving dogs I know. Both parent breeds are devoted, alert, courageous, and fast.
9. Chug (Chihuahua x Pug)
Image credit: @gizmogram19 on Instagram
Fortunately, both of these purebreds have short hair, so there’s not a lot of grooming with this mixed breed (except for a monthly bath). Pugs are also brachycephalic, so be on the lookout.
These breeds are extremely loving, and you can be sure they’ll want to be by your side. They only need moderate exercise, and apartment living is just as comfortable as a sprawling farmhouse.
10. Chi Chon (Chihuahua x Bichon Frise)
Image credit: @itsbrandibetch on Instagram
As Chis are pretty fragile and Bichons really aren’t, this mixed breed will be a bit sturdier. They’re as energetic as they are adaptable, highly trainable, and social. The Bichon Frise was developed in the Canary Islands in Spain.
Depending on the outcome of the mix, a Bichon’s coat is known to be “hypoallergenic,” while a Chi’s may not be, so it’s a flip of the coin as to which one you’ll get.
11. BoChi (Chihuahua x Boston Terrier)
Image credit: @thedogist on Instagram
Chi-Boston terrier dogs are heftier than some of the mixed breeds we’ve talked about since they’re 15”-17” tall and 12-25 lbs. “Intelligent, stubborn, and playful” will likely be the mix you’ll get with this dog.
They’ll probably have short legs and a stocky body and be well-versed in “talking.” Their parent breeds don’t have a lot of medical issues to look for, but there are some, like brachycephaly and tracheal collapse.
You could have a shedder, but you may not. It definitely depends on the specific genes.
12. Chat Terrier (Chihuahua x Rat Terrier)
Image credit: @mimi_rat_terrier_chihuahua_mix on Instagram
Otherwise known as the “Rat-cha,” the Chi-rat terrier (10-15 lbs.) lives 12-18 years, so prepare for the long haul. Without the right training and socialization from a young age, these Rat Terrier Chihuahua mix breeds can be aggressive.
They’re very affectionate and usually have their favorite in a family, so again, early training is imperative to teach them not to be unfriendly to others.
13. Chimeranian (Chihuahua x Pomeranian)
Image credit: @milmil.1206 on Instagram
The Pomchi, although playful and outgoing, don’t need that much exercise – but don’t forget to play with them daily – so they’re great with a senior or someone who’s not that active. However, they can bark a lot, so unless you want neighbors who want to wring your neck, early training is necessary.
The Pomeranian is the smallest of the Spitz-type breeds. They’re quite popular since they’re low-maintenance.
14. Min Chin (Chihuahua x Miniature Pinscher)
Image credit: @eddiesworld01 on Instagram
This designer breed has quite a bit of energy and would be well-suited to a family who gets around a lot. Min Chins have easy coats to groom, close to the body, just remember to get that jacket on them in the winter and lather them with doggy sunscreen in the heat.
Their size and energy don’t work well with young children, and even with socialization, they may be better in a one-dog household.
15. Chion (Chihuahua x Papillon)
Image credit: @prinscaspianl on Instagram
You’ll have one intelligent and playful dog in this 4-legged wonder. They love other dogs and even cats. Kids are a favorite, too.
As with many other designer breeds, Chions are the result of first-generation cross-breeding…Meaning they’re developed from Papillon and Chihuahua parents – not two Chions.
The Papillon is generally quite alert and happy, so you should have a content, active Chihuahua mix breed.
16. Chorgi (Chihuahua x Corgi)
Pembroke Welsh corgis run between 10”-12” and up to 30 lbs. (male), so you may have a medium-sized dog when all is said and done. They have double coats that are dense and weather-resistant. Mixed with a Chi, you may have more of a shedding dog.
Corgis are also independent and fearless as herders, so coupled with a Chi, you’ll have a busy mix. Their ears are erect, they’re well-mannered, and they’re social.
17. Chi-Apso (Lhasa Apso x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @mooncake.cutepaws on Instagram
If the Chi is long-haired, you’ll almost certainly have a fluffy-haired dog rather than a smooth-coated one. The Chi-Apso will be extremely loving and slightly active.
Lhasa Apsos have worked as therapy dogs in nursing homes, hospitals, and prisons so if paired with a calm Chi, the results could be really cool.
18. Chin Wa (Chihuahua x Japanese Chin)
Image credit: @squirt_all_mighty on Instagram
Although Japanese Chins are brachycephalic, you may or may not have a dog that looks like this breed. But you’re sure to have an adorable, outgoing bestie who will probably be quite adaptable.
The Japanese Chin mingles with other dogs well, so with a well-socialized Chi, you’ll have a real prize. The Chi/Chin mix is comfortable in large or small homes as they only require 30 minutes of exercise a day and mostly like to hunker down.
19. HavaChi (Chihuahua x Havanese)
Also called “Chenese,” this Chihuahua mix breed is extremely loyal and tight with their human family. They’re also friendly, independent, and can have a stubborn streak. They certainly don’t enjoy being left alone, so if you work 8-hour days, this is not the dog for you.
This mixed breed learns quickly and participates in dog sports like agility, obedience, and freestyle. The Havanese is double-coated yet sheds very little, so bred with a smooth-coated Chi, you may have an easy dog to groom.
20. Chipoo (Chihuahua x Poodle)
Image credit: @poco210717 on Instagram
Talk about a smartie-pants. Poodles are consistently in the top five smartest dog breeds, so mixed with a Chihuahua, you’ll have a lot of mental and physical stimulation to do for them. Interactive puzzles and treat mats work wonderfully to challenge chihuahua poodle mix dogs.
Poodles also love water, and they’re excellent swimmers, so don’t be surprised if you have an aqua-dog. A poodle is also good-natured and calm – an incredible dog to mix with a Chi.
21. Silkyhuahua (Silky Terrier x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @dexterthesilkychihuahua on Instagram
Also known as the Silky Chi, their coats are silky and thick. Silky terriers are quick and very affectionate. They need a lot of attention and if they don’t get it, they’re known to bark or dig a lot.
The Silky Chi will be 7”-10” tall and 4-10 lbs. Since there’s a terrier involved in the mix that was bred to kill rodents, you might not bring this particular dog into the home with other small pets.
22. Italian Greyhuahua (Italian Greyhound x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @oldmanwalterroo on Instagram
“Possessive” sounds derogatory, so I’ll just say this Chihuahua Italian Greyhound mix breed will relish your affection. They’ll try to make sure it’s only directed at them. Since they’re sighthounds, they’ll also take notice of smaller animals that dash and dart and might take chase.
Both breeds are affectionate and will want to spend as much time as possible with you – Preferably in your lap!
23. Toxirn (Cairn Terrier x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @maxthetoxirn on Instagram
This designer hybrid could have a wiry, bristly coat like that of a terrier. They require only occasional brushing, and since their fur doesn’t grow, they’ll only need to see the groomer once every couple of months.
Confident and friendly towards their family, they might be skittish, even aggressive towards strangers, so get them socialized early. You might recognize the Cairn terrier as a movie star since he was Dorothy’s dog, Toto, in The Wizard of Oz.
24. Malchi (Chihuahua x Maltese)
Image credit: @agwcrockinrescu on Instagram
Since this Chihuahua mix is a fairly new mixed breed from the early 2000s, we haven’t learned everything about them. However, we know them separately and can say they require little exercise.
The Malchi is the ideal dog for seniors and those who live in apartments. This doesn’t mean they don’t like to be busy though, and will play games with the best of them.
25. Taco Terrier (Toy Fox Terrier x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @roomeetsworld on Instagram
Put these two tiny dogs together, the toy fox is only 4-9 lbs., and you’ll have yourself one pee-wee. Since the fox has its roots as a barnyard ratter, you may want to keep rodents away from them.
They’re adorable but remember to train them well, or they’ll end up running the household.
26. Scotchi (Scottish Terrier x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @kdemotivates
on Instagram
You just might have a dog with a beard due to the Scottish’s looks. Similar to other Chihuahua mix breeds, the Scotchi is recognized by:
- American Canine Hybrid Club
- Designer Dogs Kennel Club
- Dog Registry of America
- International Designer Canine Registry
So, a Chihuahua terrier mix is quite popular. They prefer to be the only dog in the home and are highly affectionate.
27. Boxachi (Chihuahua Boxer)
Image credit: @marylenamarylena on Instagram
Playful and feisty, get ready for a lot of energy to be coming from this medium-sized dog. They thrive on attention and get along well with kids and other pets. Patience is needed when training them since we know Chi’s character and the boxer can be easily distracted.
Wrap them up in cold weather and monitor their breathing regularly since boxers are known to be brachycephalic.
28. ChiPit (Pit Bull x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @tacodelbarrio_logan on Instagram
You could see the face of a bully breed mix with eyes that are more deeply set. Contrary to popular belief, well-trained pit bull types are one of the most gentle, loving animals in the dog kingdom. Look for this to nicely balance the personality of your Chihuahua mix breed.
According to All Things Dogs, “This mix can only occur when a female pit bull mates with a male Chihuahua,” which is due to their compatible sizes.
29. LabraChi (Labrador x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @kaiathelabchi on Instagram
Surprised? I sure was. This hybrid designer breed is only possible by artificial insemination since a female Chihuahua cannot give birth to Labrador mixed puppies.
Although Labs are friendly and easy-going, this doesn’t ensure you’ll have a Chi-mixed breed that is the same. There are many factors involved, including health, parent breeds, and age.
30. ChiDane (Great Dane x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @mixedbreeddogs on Instagram
There’s a lot of controversy surrounding breeding the smallest dog with the largest one. Did people begin doing it just for the heck of it? To see what animal would come from it? These are horrible reasons to breed.
Again, artificial insemination would need to happen. Even if that’s successful, the likelihood of a Dane nursing such a small pup is highly unlikely, so they would need to be taken away from the mother at birth. Some things are better left undone.
31. Golden Chi (Golden Retriever x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @biscuitsection on Instagram
With the popularity of the golden retriever and the Chi, this mix was a certainty to happen. They will likely be the size of a Chi with long hair and a “flowy” tail. They’re going to be active and need daily walks and playtime to expend their energy.
There’s a possibility of having a dog who’s great with kids and dogs, but as you’ve learned, this isn’t a certainty.
32. Cheeks (Pekingese x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @belladorajones on Instagram
Chances are, this Chihuahua mix breed will be brachycephalic and will need to be cared for continually with that in mind. Since the Chi-Pekingese will likely be excitable, they’ll thrive with lots of playtime and positive reinforcement training.
Make sure you train them socially with other dogs, people, and places so they’ll be more accepting of strangers and animals.
33. ShiChi (Chihuahua x Shih Tzu)
Image credit: @lazylittleluna on Instagram
Shih Tzus are really good with adults, kids, and other dogs, so you could have a real winner. Although they shed very little, they need to be brushed, if they’re long-haired, a couple of times a week.
Lap dog + lap dog = Prepare to have your lap full most of the time. Since a Shih Tzu-Chihuahua mix is affectionate and protective, that should be no problem.
34. Chiba (Chihuahua x Shiba Inu)
Image credit: @hina_brittanymix on Instagram
The most popular companion dog in Japan, the Shiba Inu, is confident and alert. They’re an ancient breed and have a history of hunting. Today, they’re moderately active, so you may not need to take the Chiba on long hikes but still walk them daily.
They will most likely remain loyal and loving no matter what!
35. Chiweiler (Rottweiler x Chihuahua)
Image credit: @_liloko on Instagram
Coat color, size, temperament, and lifespan will remain a mystery until the dog is born and grows up. This is another of the “But why?” Chihuahua mixed breeds, and you may have a dog who has more medical issues than others due to their differences.
Rottis are loving, calm, and loyal, and those traits might factor into your mixed breed.
Where Can You Find a Chihuahua Mix?
- First, check your local shelter, rescue, or animal sanctuary to see if there are any Chihuahua mix breeds.
- Check out the following site: Petfinder, which is an online, searchable database of animals who need a home. You can foster or adopt.
- Google breed-specific/Chi rescues. Almost always, they will have mixed-breed dogs. They generally don’t cater to only purebred animals.
- Put the word out on social media. Sometimes, friends or family have Chihuahua mix breeds looking for a forever home.
- Last, and least, look for a reputable breeder who is mainly concerned about the dog’s health and long-term stability before looks or payment.
FAQs
What Is the Lifespan of Chihuahua Mixes?
It depends on the breed they’re mixed with. If it’s one with a long lifespan, you can almost guarantee you’ll have a Chihuahua mixed breed that lives for over 15 years. But it also depends on the health, age, lineage, and genes of both dogs.
Are Chihuahua Cross Breeds Hypoallergenic?
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic since dander is the culprit of causing allergic reactions, and all dogs shed dander. Chihuahuas can have a single or a double coat, and each shed differently. Note: Dander is also shed through saliva and urine.
How Can I Tell if My Chihuahua Is a Mix?
The best way to find out if you have a Chihuahua mixed breed is to have a DNA test, which is completely pain-free for the dog.
You could also look for physical characteristics that may be a telltale sign but this can be tricky.
Are Mixed-Breed Chihuahuas Excellent Dogs?
You may wonder: are these adorable chihuahua mixes good dogs? In our opinion, all dogs are excellent, so… absolutely! To take it further, selectively bred Chihuahua mix breeds are often chosen to develop the best traits from each.
Conclusion
These hybrid designer dogs are cherished by some and scoffed at by many. Our stance on it? As always, it’s on the side of the animals. If you want an active, outgoing, friendly dog, get a lab. If you want a loyal, loving, playful dog, get a pit bull terrier. You get the gist.
If people would remain primarily concerned with a dog’s health, these mixes could turn out just fine. You’ll have a best friend and family companion who will love you unconditionally.
But millions of mixed breed pups need rescuing right now who could fit that bill. Be thoughtful, be safe, and be smart with your choice.
Chihuahua mixes offer a delightful array of personalities and appearances, inheriting the Chihuahua’s spirited nature tempered by the traits of their other parent breed. From the cuddly Chorkie to the majestic Chiweenie, these hybrids provide a unique blend of charm and devotion. Whether you seek a smaller companion or simply a dog with a bit less intensity than a purebred Chihuahua, exploring these mixes can lead you to a loving and loyal lifelong friend. Your perfect canine companion might just be a Chihuahua mix brimming with affection waiting to be discovered.