A Chiweenie is a hybrid dog that originated from North America as a result of the breeding between the dachshund and the Chihuahua. It is what we call a designer dog that people are willing to pay a lot of money to own. It is known to be a great dog suitable for families with older children, couples, as well as single people. This is because they make great indoor pets that can act as watchdogs due to their alert nature, and require a small room to play in due to their modest life.
Their small size also makes them great travel companions as they are highly portable. However, families with small children are advised not to pet a Chiweenie due to its small size. It is easy for a toddler to trip and fall on the dog, where its small size does not serve to its advantage.
Chiweenie Dog Appearance
Chiweenies range between 8-10 inches in height and weigh about 8-12 b. Their long bodies are courtesy of the dachshund which happens to have a long body. Depending on the breed of the dachshund and the Chihuahua, the coats of different Chiweenies vary in color and length. Some have long fluffy coats that require combing at least three times in a week to avoid tangling, while others have short smooth coats that need as much brushing to ensure proper grooming. Chiweenies also require a cut about every six months. A professional should groom the dog.
Chiweenie Dog Behavior
This hybrid is known to be very friendly, loving, energetic, playful, and extremely alert around its environs making sharp backs whenever a person or animal approaches your home. They are resilient, dedicated watchdogs. They tend to bark a lot especially when bored which is why exhaustive activities are required before their rest. This ensures that they do not get irritable and unruly.
Chiweenies are not usually friendly towards other animals unless they happen to have grown together in the same environment, thus the familiarity. Therefore, it is vital to keep familiarizing them with other animals and people through walks and play dates at the park.
These can be incorporated into the exercise program where the dog gets to play and mingle with other people and dogs, or the long walks where they get to see behavior from other animals given that Chiweenies are highly intelligent. It can also be done during the training program if done in the presence of other dogs.
Chiweenie Training
We have that established, Chiweenies are highly energetic despite their small sizes. Therefore, a trainer should incorporate playful training methods to ensure that they exhaust some of the energy.
Training should also be kept short since the Chiweenies can be very stubborn. For more effective results, a trainer should use a lot of treats as a reward for a job well done. It is also essential to remain calm as this breed can easily sense agitation if a trainer is unable to stay calm and patient.
Chiweenie Dog Food
Chiweenies being highly active require a high-quality kibble (animal grade food that is in dry form with only about 6-10 % of moisture in it). This meal is recommended to ensure that the teeth remain strong
Health risk and life expectancy
A Chiweenie is a long-term commitment as it has a life expectancy of about 13-16 years. They are generally very healthy breeds. However, they tend to suffer from allergies often. This mainly occurs as a result of inheritance during breeding. Such allergies include diabetes, seizures, dental issues, and hypoglycemia.
However, this should cause no alarm as they are easily manageable with frequent visits to the vet. Ensure that you keep all of your appointments, and in the event of anything suspicious, keep in close contact with the vet for a consultation.
The American kennel club does not reorganize Chiweenies. This is because it considers it a hybrid. It is however recognized by other clubs such as the designer breed registry (DBR), and the American canine hybrid club (ACHC).
Chiweenies are highly recommended dog companions guaranteed to offer play, cuddles, security, and friendship. It is, however, essential to know that as smooth and admirable as it may sound, all breeds have different traits most of them inherited. Some of these traits are not virtuous hence, before adopting a Chiweenie, it is essential to understand the amount of responsibility that comes with it.