Are you thinking about adopting a small dog? Chiweenies are one of the best options for having a cute little dog at home. Not only are they teeny-weeny but they are loyal and active as well. If you live in a small apartment and are looking for a dog to be your company, consider this adorable species, as we will be giving you all the information you need to help you decide.
What’s the origin of the Chiweenie?
Chiweenies are mixed dogs of Chihuahuas and Dachshunds. They are known by many names such as Weeniehuahua, German Taco, Choxie, and Mexican Hot Dog. They are considered small dogs and fit well with urban dwellers.
The Chiweenies may have been on this Earth for a very long time. However, they were first found in the late 1990s by designer breeders in North America. The designer breeders intended to reduce the back problem of the dachshunds because of their long bodies. Therefore, Chiweenies were the best dogs to respond to the high demand for mixed dogs.
The Physical Appearance of Chiweenies
As their parents are small dogs, they come in pretty small sizes. They weigh from five to twelve pounds and their height is from six to ten inches. These cute little fellas have long bodies like dachshunds and short legs like chihuahuas. The ears and the heads can be either big or small depending on the dominant genes.
In terms of colors, the most common colors are black, brown, white, or mixed. They have really short and silky coats. Thus, they are a good choice for those who are allergic to dogs’ hair.
What’s the personality of a Chiweenie?
Chiweenies are described as spunky and super energetic by many dog lovers. Moreover, they love fetching and playing with toys. And like most dogs do, they like to bark! If you want a watchdog to watch over your house and warn you whoever comes nearby, chiweenies are good alarm sound makers.
Aside from that, they are loving, caring, and very loyal. Chiweenies really like to be around their owners, and they like to cuddle or sit on your lap most of the time. However, they tend to be overprotective and super jealous of their owner. This means they like to be the only point of attention, and they mostly dislike having other dogs around.
This is the reason why they are good for single owners. However, even if they are cute little creatures, you should know that they are not that good around children. Young children or babies can quickly annoy chiweenies since they have so little tolerance for noises and children’s movements in general.
Chiweenies Health
Chiweenies tend to be healthier than their parents, as they do not have many health issues. However, there are some illnesses you should be aware of:
Allergies
Chiweenies tend to have an allergy issue to pollen and dust. This problem is inherited from the chihuahuas’ side. Nevertheless, it commonly happens to dogs that always stay indoors. You can avoid this by installing an air purifier in your house.
Intervertebral Degenerative Disc Disease
This issue comes from the dachshunds’ side. The latter is due to their shorter legs, which leads to more stress on their spine. Therefore, your four-legged friend may encounter back pain and shivers at one point or another.
How to Take Care of Chiweenies
As they are small dogs, they barely need grooming. Their fur does not shed so often, so brushing them once a week is enough if your dog has short fur. Brush them twice a week if your Chiweenie has long fur. Also, they don’t need regular baths. Bathing them once a month is quite enough unless a bath is really needed of course.
Finally, it is important to brush their teeth on a regular basis. This is to avoid dental deterioration and bad breath. Furthermore, trim their nails once or twice a month to keep them short. It can prevent the nails from hurting you or scratching your furniture.
What Exercises Are Best for Chiweenies?
Chiweenies love to be taken out for a walk. You should walk your dog outside for at least 30 minutes a day. You also need to play with them either in the park or inside the house. This is a great way to spend time with your dog and to build a strong bond between you two.
If you want to adopt a small dog, consider having Chiweenies as they are fun lapdogs and very loyal. Even though they do not count as purebred dogs like their parents, they are still adorable, caring, and loving. Hence, if you see these mixed dogs at the shelter, give them a chance and let them become your best friend.
