Chiweenie, like their dachshund and Chihuahua parents, are full of personality and quickly form close bonds with their people. Their main goal in life? To be in the spotlight whenever possible!
Some call them chiweenies, others choxies, but one thing’s for sure—they’re irresistibly cute. With daily walks, a bowl of kibble, and plenty of love, these dachshund-Chihuahua mixes happily become loyal, cuddly lap dogs. While their exact origins are a bit of a mystery, chiweenies are loved by many and are still considered “designer dogs” rather than a pure breed.
Appearance
Every Chiweenie is unique. Depending on which traits they inherit, these dogs might have short legs, long bodies, perky ears, and large eyes—or the opposite, with long legs, shorter bodies, floppy ears, and even overbites. With endless combinations of these features, each Chiweenie can take on a different look, but they all stay small, typically standing 6–10 inches tall and weighing between 5–12 pounds.
Both dachshunds and Chihuahuas come in smooth or long-haired coats, with dachshunds also having a wire-haired variety, and Chiweenies can inherit any of these coat types. Smooth-coated Chiweenies tend to shed less than their wire-haired or long-haired counterparts but aren’t considered hypoallergenic. Chiweenie coats come in various colors, including white, tan, brown, and black, with some even sporting unique merle or brindle patterns.
Temperament
Chiweenies, with their mix of Dachshund and Chihuahua traits, have personalities as unique as their looks. Dachshunds are known for their independent streak, while Chihuahuas are often described as lively and bold. Chiweenies can inherit a range of these traits, making each dog a bit different.
“They fit into almost any family setup,” says Catherine Gorton, founder of Texas Chihuahua Rescue. “They’re cheerful little dogs that bring together the best of both breeds and are often more family-friendly than purebred Chihuahuas.”
Gregory, a dog expert, describes chiweenies as “small dogs with big personalities,” who are fiercely loyal and form close bonds with their people. While they’re playful and affectionate lap dogs, they usually save their gentlest side for their owners. They can be wary of strangers and might guard their favorite toys, beds, or treats from new faces. Early socialization helps a chiweenie feel more comfortable around unfamiliar people and situations.
Positive reinforcement and treat-based training can address any unwanted behaviors your confident chiweenie might display. With Dachshund heritage, they can be stubborn and might resist commands, so keep training sessions fun and brief to maintain their attention.
Living Needs
For a little dog, a chiweenie sure has big opinions about its home life—and it’ll let you know exactly what it wants! High on its list is an owner who’s devoted, affectionate, and happy to make it the center of attention.
Even though they’re small, chiweenies aren’t always ideal for apartment living. Known as “professional barkers,” they’ll alert you to every delivery truck, passing neighbor, distant dog, or even a strong breeze. But every dog is unique; with the right training, your chiweenie can become a quiet, apartment-friendly companion who keeps things peaceful with the neighbors.
Care
Chiweenies are a “low-maintenance, low-shedding” breed. Those with smooth coats are especially easy to care for, needing just an occasional bath and brush to stay clean and looking good. In colder climates, these short-haired chiweenies, like their dachshund and chihuahua parents, may appreciate a cozy sweater to keep warm.
For wire-haired or long-haired chiweenies, the care routine is a bit more involved. They still need baths occasionally, but brushing a few times a week is important to keep their fur from matting. Gregory suggests regular brushing, as well as nail trims to avoid that “click-clack” on the floor. Routine teeth brushing is also essential, as they’re prone to dental issues.
Though small enough to snuggle in your lap, chiweenies are often on the move. Like dachshunds and Chihuahuas, they love to be close to their people and will happily follow you from room to room, sometimes tripping you up along the way! Chiweenies are happiest when they feel part of the action.
You don’t have to match the exercise needs of energetic breeds like border collies or Labrador retrievers, but your chiweenie will still need daily walks and playtime. A simple game of fetch or tug-of-war in your living room can keep them entertained. According to Gorton, “All dogs need jobs to do. Walking challenges them mentally, and even a short walk allows them to sniff and explore, which can tire them out.”
When they’re well-exercised, chiweenies love to settle down as lap dogs, curling up for a cozy nap next to their favorite humans.
Health
Chiweenies are small dogs known for their long lifespans, typically living between 12 to 16 years. While mixed-breed dogs generally tend to have fewer health problems than purebreds, chiweenies can still inherit some of the same health issues as their parent breeds.
One significant concern for chiweenies is back problems, particularly a condition called intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which is common in dachshunds. IVDD occurs when the cushioning material between the spinal discs hardens, leading to severe pain, limited movement, and possibly even partial paralysis. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
According to veterinary expert Gregory, “We see IVDD more often in chiweenies with longer backs like dachshunds.” However, chiweenies with a more Chihuahua-like body shape may not be as prone to this issue. To help prevent back injuries and minimize the risk of IVDD, it’s essential to maintain a healthy weight and discourage jumping on or off furniture.
Another health concern for chiweenies is luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, making it hard for the dog to bear weight on the affected leg. While this condition often doesn’t cause pain and some dogs can adjust by kicking their leg to realign the kneecap, severe cases can lead to chronic dislocation and increase the risk of further injuries, such as torn cruciate ligaments. Surgery may be needed for more severe or persistent cases.
Like many small breeds, chiweenies are also at a higher risk for dental disease. Signs of dental problems include bad breath, tartar buildup, and swollen gums. If left untreated, these issues can lead to infections. To keep your chiweenie’s teeth healthy, regular professional cleanings are important. Gregory suggests complementing these visits with at-home dental care, including dental chews and a regular tooth brushing routine, to keep your pup’s smile fresh and clean.
History
The Chiweenie, a Chihuahua and Dachshund mix, is a popular designer dog but isn’t recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, so there’s limited historical information on them.
The breed’s popularity likely started when an especially cute litter of Chihuahua-Dachshund puppies captured people’s hearts, sparking demand. These adorable pups have since gained a solid following over the past couple of decades.
However, beware of “too-good-to-be-true” Chiweenies, as some designer breeds are bred in unhealthy conditions by puppy mills. To help spot potential scams, look out for:
- Breeders with strict puppy wait times on their website.
- Listings that offer several different mixed breeds.
- A breeder who restricts visits or gives vague answers about the dogs’ care.
- Offers to ship puppies or websites lacking contact details (like phone numbers or emails) or not allowing video previews or in-person visits.
It’s best to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the dogs’ well-being and offers transparent communication.
Final Thoughts
Chiweenies are a great example of a designer breed that brings together the best traits of both parent breeds into one unique dog, often without the health issues common in purebreds. If you’re looking for a small, lively dog with a big personality, the Chiweenie could be a fantastic choice!
