The Chihuahua Poodle mix is a cross between a spirited, loyal purebred Chihuahua and an intelligent, active purebred Toy or Miniature Poodle. This small designer dog is also known as a Chipoo, Chi-poo, Chidoodle, Chipoodle, Poochi, Wapoo or Poohuahua dogs. The Chihuahua Poodle mix has a confident temperament and with proper attention, exercise, training and socialization can make a great apartment pet and family companion dog for new or experience dog owners. They weigh 3 – 20lbs, reach up to 15 inches high and have a lifespan of about 15 years.
Chipoos are good natured with kids and other dogs, but must be handled carefully due to their small size and occasional quick temper. Grooming and shedding needs can be quite high depending on whether they have a short, long or curly coat. Today we’ll look at the breed traits, characteristics, diet, nutrition, exercise and care needs of the cute Chihuahua Poodle mix puppy.
Contents
- What is a Chipoo?
- What does the Chihuahua Poodle mix look like?
- Are Chihuahua Poodle mixes hypoallergenic?
- How big is an adult Chipoo?
- Chihuahua Poodle mix temperament
- Are Chihuahua Poodle mixes good family dogs?
- How long do Chihuahua Poodle mixes live?
- Chipoo adoption, puppies and breeders
Perhaps not as popular as other poodle hybrids like a Labradoodle or Whoodle, the Chipoo is a smaller dog with its own distinctive features. With one parent being a Chihuahua, the smallest dog breed around and one with an energetic personality, the tiny stature and diverse style of the Chipoo makes them stand out in a pool of poodle hybrids.
What is a Chipoo?
The Chipoo is the name most commonly given to the Chihuahua Poodle mix. This is a puppy with one Chihuahua parent and one Toy or Miniature Poodle parent. Or a second or third generation Chipoo mix!
- Popularity: Rising
- Purpose: Companion
- Weight: Anywhere from 3-20 pounds
- Temperament: Playful, smart, protective, loyal
Chihuahua Poodle Mix History
The Toy Poodle Chihuahua mix has a very old and impressive parentage. Perhaps the Chipoo dog hasn’t been around all that long, but it clearly has longstanding lineage between the Chihuahua and the Poodle.
It’s likely that the Chihuahua’s origins trace back even before the Maya people inhabited Mexico. Ancient remains of dogs very similar to Chihuahuas have been found in archeological digs that date back to the 13th century.
The Poodle came from Germany, originating around the 15th and 16th centuries before the breed popped up in Spain in the 18th century. Smaller Poodle breeds (the Miniature and Toy Poodles) were bred from the Standard Poodle, and their purpose changed to that of a companion dog.
Fun Facts!
- Though there are three different sizes of Poodle, including Toy, Miniature, and Standard, only the first two types are usually parents of the Chihuahua Poodle mix. The size difference between the Standard Poodle and the Chihuahua makes mixing them unwise.
- Though Chihuahua Poodle mixes are still slowly growing in popularity, the parent breeds are quite famous! Celebrities such as singer Joss Stone love their Poodle pups, and actresses like Demi Moore and Reese Witherspoon adore their Chihuahuas.
Chihuahua Poodle Mix Appearance
A mixed breed like the Chipoo offers diversity in style. As a hybrid, the Chipoo will have a mix of characteristics from each parent. But there are some things we can confidently predict!
The head of a Chihuahua Poodle mix could be apple-shaped like the Chihuahua or rounder with a long nose like the poodle. The coat is another place where genetics like to make this hybrid a little different.
Chihuahua Poodle Mix Coat
Poodles are known for their sculpted grooming. Grooming gives them the aristocratic look that defines the breed.
A Chihuahua’s coat can be long or short and curly or smooth depending on the characteristics of the parents. Chipoo puppies, even from the same litter, can have coats that differ both in hair length and texture. Most common coat colors among Chipoos include:
- White
- Apricot brown
- Black
- Fawn
These dogs may be a solid color like a Poodle or have a pattern of colors throughout the body which is a possible characteristic of the Chihuahua.
Chipoo Grooming and Shedding
Some Chihuahua Poodle Mix puppies may inherit the Poodle’s low shedding coat, but this is not guaranteed. Long-haired versions of this dog may require regular professional grooming to keep the coat healthy, shaped and free from tangles.
Home grooming with a soft bristled brush is recommended between trimmings for long-haired Chipoos along with a bath every few weeks to keep them tidy.
Brush the long-haired Chipoo before bathing. Otherwise, their hair may mat. Short haired Chipoos also require regular bathing. Between baths, consider a wipe down with a wet cloth or doggie wipe.
Are Chihuahua Poodle Mixes Hypoallergenic?
The chihuahua is a high shedding breed, whatever their coat type. Although there is a chance that introducing the low shedding Poodle coat could help with this, most Chipoos do still shed fur. And remember, allergies are actually reactions to dander on skin flakes and in saliva. So if you have a dog allergy, a Chihuahua Poodle mix is probably not the best choice.
How Big Are Chihuahua Poodle Mixes?
The Toy Poodle Chihuahua mix full grown weighs anywhere between 3 to 20 pounds and can stand from 5 to 15 inches. Crossbreeding accounts for some of the variance in weight and height.
On average, a Toy Poodle is around 10 to 15 inches tall. Chihuahuas, though, are celebrated for their very tiny stature. Their height doesn’t normally rise above nine inches.
Chihuahua Poodle Mix Temperament
Remember Mighty Mouse, the tiny little superhero with red trunks, cape and a big attitude? If Mighty Mouse were a dog, he’d be a Chipoo. It’s known for both its intelligence and its energy—a lot of energy!
Like both parents, the Toy Poodle Chihuahua mix is usually devoted, loving, and affectionate. Its intelligence makes this dog easy to train. The Chipoo tends to bond with one family member in particular.
The high energy level of the Chi Poo means they get bored easily, so leaving them home alone for long periods of time outside a kennel can lead to disaster.
Socializing A Chipoo
The Chihuahua Poodle mix interacts well with other dogs or different kinds of pets in the home when they are all raised in the same environment. It is more difficult to get them to accept a new dog coming into the family, though.
Much like the Chihuahua, they can be fiercely protective of their humans and may bark and snarl at other dogs if they get too close.
Early socialization can help them to be more accepting of strangers in the home and out at the dog park.
Are Chihuahua Poodle Mix Dogs Good With Kids?
Chipoos love to play but can get a little over excited in a way that is may be overwhelming for young children. For this reason, they are better suited to homes with children over the age of 10.
They are also quite small and delicate sometimes, which can mean rough handling by kids is risky.
Training And Exercising Your Chipoo
Training and socialization are incredibly important in properly raising a dog, no matter what the breed. And the Chipoo mix is no exception!
Potty training may be an issue, as the Chipoo may tend to be excitable.
The Chihuahua Poodle puppy comes from two highly intelligent breeds and will benefit from positive reinforcement training.
Exercise Needs
They love to play and toys work to keep them stimulated. Without that stimulation, the dog will get bored and unhappy. Walks provide good exercise. Keep in mind their legs are small, so the walks should be short but frequent.
Let them run when possible, as well. A fenced in backyard is ideal for a playful puppy like the Chipoo to get as much exercise as they need.
Chihuahua Poodle Mix Health And Care
Chipoo puppies as mixed breeds are less likely to face diseases that are common in their parents based on a 2006 study conducted by the University of Sydney.
Inbreeding among purebreds can make them more prone to genetic diseases. For example, the Chihuahuas can develop conditions like patellar luxation, glaucoma or even hemophilia.
Poodles, on the other hand, inherit stomach problems and cataracts. By breeding these two together, the risk is potentially reduced and the Chipoo my gain benefits from both breeds. There is no way to predict the outcome of breeding, though.
Crossbred dogs like the Chipoo are at risk for the same conditions that affect their parents. Some health concerns that may pop up with this dog include:
- Overactive tear gland
- Hypoglycemia
- Loose kneecaps
- Glaucoma
- Dry skin
Dental problems are also common among small breed dogs as their tiny jaws make their teeth inherently weak. For this reason, the vet may suggest daily brushing, regular cleanings, and a dry food diet.
Chihuahua Poodle Mix Health Tests
It is important that each parent is health checked for all the diseases relevant to their breed before they are mated. The Chihuahua parent should have a clean bill of health from the vet, including no history of dental problems, or knee problems.
They should also have no family history of necrotizing meningoencephalitis. The Poodle parent should be PRA clear, vWF clear, and have a recent clear eye test. They should also have no family history of luxating patellas, Cushings disease or heart problems.
How Long Do Chihuahua Poodle Mixes Live?
As small dogs, Chihuahua Poodle mixes have a decent expected lifespan.
Chihuahuas live an average of about twelve and a half years, while Toy and Miniature Poodles live an average of about fifteen. So you can expect your Chipoo to live to somewhere in his mid teens.
Feeding Your Chihuahua Poodle Mix
The Chihuahua Poodle Mix does well with the standard diets unless otherwise directed by the veterinarian. We recommend high-quality food made for small dogs to avoid common digestive issues and dental problems.
They can get overweight, so monitor their diet closely and limit treats unless used for training or teeth cleaning. Obesity in these dogs can cause further health problems like:
- Chronic respiratory infections
- Tracheal collapse
- Joint damage
Do Chihuahua Poodle Mixes Make Good Family Pets?
The small size of the Chipoo allows them to thrive in apartments and houses. They do well as a family dog but are better suited to older children or homes with no kids.
They’re social animals and will want attention. Leaving them alone for long periods of time may result in destructive behavior.
Since the Chipoo is crossbred, they can have different temperaments and be somewhat unpredictable. But if you love both Chihuahua and Poodle temperaments and don’t mind which combination you end up with, then you should be happy with the outcome.
Pros And Cons Of Getting A Chihuahua Poodle Mix
Cons:
- May be excitable and overprotective
- May be harder to potty train
- Small dogs need greater care and caution when handling and playing
- Doesn’t like to be left alone for long periods of time
Pros:
- Great for small-space living
- Intelligent and playful
- A great companion animal
Chipoo Adoption
It isn’t always easy to find the cross you’re interested in. At times it’s much more difficult than finding a purebred from a reputable breeder! But if you can find a puppy or adult Chihuahua Poodle mix, it’ll surely warm your heart to be able to adopt a dog in need of a good home.
Adopting a rescue dog also often has the added advantage of enabling you to know what the dog will be like, since dogs in need of adoption are frequently a little bit older. The cost of adoption will also be lower than getting a puppy from a breeder.
For some suggestions as to where to look for a Chipoo adoptee, take a look at the list of rescues found here.
Finding A Chihuahua Poodle Mix Puppy
Due to the small size of this breed, newborn puppies require a lot of care, so reputable breeders can be difficult to find. You also may need to travel to get your puppy.
Before purchasing a dog, insist on health screening for issues that commonly impact Chihuahuas and Poodles to ensure the puppy is healthy. Ask the breeder to see certifications of these screening tests.
You should also meet the mother, and the father too if possible. Make sure that they are both friendly and confident, and have an obvious bond with their owner.
They should also have a purpose in life beyond producing puppies, whether that’s as a show dog, agility dog, or an adored family pet.
A good breeder will ask you lots of questions, and happily answer all of yours too. They will show you evidence of the parents health checks and have had all their puppies flea treated, wormed and checked by the vet.
Chipoo Puppy Price
Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,400 dollars for a Chipoo puppy. The average price falls in the $950 dollar range but may vary depending on the location and breeder.
Look locally first for a breeder to reduce the cost. When you locate one with a puppy, ask for references to check out the breeder before buying.
Where to Avoid
It’s incredibly important that potential owners avoid buying from pet stores and puppy mills. These irresponsible and at times cruel businesses are simply out to make a profit, often at the expense of the health and happiness of their puppies.
For more information on finding a puppy from a reputable breeder, check out our step by step puppy search guide.
It isn’t always easy to find the mix you want, but as crossbreeds (also known as “designer dogs”) are growing in popularity, it isn’t impossible either!
Raising A Chihuahua Poodle Mix Puppy
Caring for a vulnerable Chipoo puppy is a big responsibility. There are some great guides to help you with all aspects of puppy care and training.
You’ll find them listed on our Chihuahua Poodle mix puppy page.
Chipoo Products And Accessories
Choosing the best products for a mixed breed can be tough! So we’ve put together some great guides to help you decide what will suit your Chipoo best. Check them out below.
Comparing The Chihuahua Poodle Mix With Other Breeds
The Chi Poo has a lot to recommend it—but it also has some things in common with some other mix breed dogs!
Take a look at the guides to these other mixes for comparisons and similarities.
Similar Breeds
The Chihuahua Poodle mix isn’t for everyone, of course.
If you like certain features of this mix but aren’t sure about others, take a look at these suggested mixes that may more closely fit what you’re looking for.
In addition to the mixes found in the section above, one of these may be a better option for you and your situation.
Chihuahua Poodle Mix Breed Rescues
These rescue centers are located in various places around the world, so you can search for your local area.
Do you know of any other rescues for this mix or the parent breeds? Leave us a comment below!
References And Resources
- Gough A, Thomas A, O’Neill D. 2018 Breed Predispositions to Disease In Dogs and Cats. Wiley Blackwell
- O’Neill et al. 2013. Longevity and Mortality of Dogs Owned In England. The Veterinary Journal
- Schalamon et al. 2006. Analysis of Dog Bites In Children Who Are Younger Than 17 Years. Pediatrics
- Duffy D et al. Breed differences in canine aggression. Applied Animal Behavior Science 2008
- Strain G. Deafness prevalence and pigmentation and gender associations in dog breeds at risk. The Veterinary Journal 2004
- Packer et al. 2015. Impact of Facial Conformation On Canine Health. PlosOne
- Glennon E. 2015. Instead of a “Designer Breed,” Consider the Undoodle: The Otterhound. American Kennel Club
- Beuchat C. 2015 Health of Purebred Vs Mixed Breed Dogs; The Actual Data.
- Leroy G. Genetic Diversity, Inbreeding and Breeding Practices in Dogs: Results From Pedigree Analyses. The Veterinary Journal, 2011
- Chihuahua. University of Prince Edward Island CIDD Database, 2011
- Poodle, Standard. University of Prince Edward Island CIDD Database, 2011
- Scidler, C. Chihuahua. Federation Cynologique Internationale, 2010
- Logan, Ellen. Dietary Influences on Periodontal Health in Dogs and Cats. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2006
Dee says
“Poo Chi”
I tell everyone who asks that my dog is a poochi. To me, “poochi” is just clt to be.
Also, my dog’s fur is a little bit more towards the long hair Chihuahua but like her sisters which are more poodle looking, my dog doesn’t shed. I’m told that her two brothers which are way more Chihuahua looking do shed. So even within the litter there can be variations.
Try to get your puppy between 4 and 6 months which is the time to highly socialize the puppy. I took my dog to a different daycare three times a week for a month in order to get her highly socialized. She doesn’t have to be at the daycare any longer as the dog park works too. As one of the trainers I talked to said, socialization is not just a few dogs a couple times a week.
I’ll even go as far to say that it is imperative that this is done because even though she loves to meet other dogs, animals, and other people, after she turned one she started to develop being overprotective of me. When on leash she barks her head off and sounds like the meanest dog alive. This one aspect of her is one that is a little bit tough because it’s not a refresher course that she needs, it’s something I have to keep up every single day so that she is more relaxed on walks and so she stays socialized, (I. e., doesn’t become a mean dog to the other dogs, animals, and people.
That said, her energy is through the roof. My dog is always jumping on to people’s legs so that they don’t have to reach so far down to pet her. This is problematic with little kids because she loves to kiss and when she goes on her hind legs, she’s right at the little kids’ faces, causing the kids to panic and reasonably so. She has to be chaperoned around any kids she first meets.
Dee says
should have said:
“is just meant to be”
in first paragraph.
Sandra DeDio says
I recently found out that my mix was a Chi Poo. I had his DNA done. I was told he was a Maltese Bichon Mix, he does have seizures, don’t know if that is normal for them but mine does. But I wouldn’t give him up for the world.
Zara says
My poodle prince was mating next-door neighbors dog Chihuahua back in 2005 I called the coodles the breed mixed?
Sarah says
In 1969 I adopted a Chihuahua Poodle mix. At that time they were called Chicapoos. No idea when that changed.
Jean Marmon says
I’m looking for a best friend poodle,or chi or mixes….my last passed at 18 yes old in oct 2019..missing cuddler????
Sara Sabel says
Hey. My name is Sara and I live in Sweden. I search for chihuahua/poodle mix ar Google just because i want to find If maybe maybe i could find a pic like my dog Kiara Who is a chihuahua/poodle mix. And so i found this side and The dog in this text is exactly like my dog, almost i thought it was my dog. I would be so happy if I could get contact with The owner so I can show her/him pictures of my Kiara. It is awesome. My english is not The best but I do my best ? thank you!!
Gracie says
What kind a food dog you give your dog mine is a puppy 2 months?