A Chihuahua Terrier mix dog has one Chihuahua parent and one parent from one of the Terrier group. often this will be a Yorkie, Pitbull, Rat Terrier, Fox Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier or Bull Terrier. Chihuahuas are the small dog with a big reputation, first bred for companionship in Mexico and now popular all over the world. Terriers are a group of breeds with working roots, hunting game or vermin. Combining the two can have a variety of potential outcomes in terms of health, temperament and pet suitability.
Contents
- Top Chihuahua Terrier mix breeds
- How big are Chihuahua Terrier mixes?
- Temperament traits and health
- Chihuahua Terrier mix puppies
Today I’ll look at all the possible Chihuahua Terrier combinations you can find. I’ll help you to match up with the right Terrier Chihuahua cross for your family and lifestyle. And give you tips for adopting or buying a healthy, friendly mixed breed puppy.
Chihuahua Terrier Mix Size
There’s no such thing as a typical Chihuahua Terrier dog. Part of deciding to get a Chihuahua cross terrier is working out which terrier breed you want to be included. And why you think that mix puppy will be a good fit for your family.
Usually a puppy’s full grown size is somewhere in between the sizes of their parents. Statistically it’s most likely to be somewhere in the middle. But there will always be outliers who fall at the largest and smallest ends of the scale.
The smallest Chihuahua terrier mix is the teeny Chihuahua Yorkshire terrier mix, which could be a scant 4lb. The biggest is the Chihuahua Bull Terrier, which could be ten times that.
Are Chihuahua Terrier Mixes Friendly?
With all these terrier breeds to pick from, is it possible to make general predictions about a Chihuahua terrier’s temperament? A little! They will all likely have high prey drive, a bold attitude and a very affectionate bond with their owners.
However, personality varies a lot between dogs, and some Terriers are different to others. A Chihuahua terrier’s temperament depends on upon the personality of their parents. And how well they are socialized and trained they are as young dogs.
When a Chihuahua and a terrier mate, their puppies could inherit all the virtues of their parents, or all the vices. Their Chihuahua and terrier traits could complement one another, or they could produce a more surprising combination!
Chihuahua Terrier Mix Health
For many pedigree dogs a small gene pool has caused health issues. Some of these will be reduced by having a mixed breed dog. But other inherited conditions could still be passed on from either parent. When choosing a Chihuahua x terrier puppy, you’ll need to consider all the health conditions linked to their lines.
The following issues are common to many of the Chihuahua Terrier mixes.
- luxating patella
- heart disease
- tracheal collapse
- eye problems
Luxating patellas
Luxating patella is the medical term to describe a kneecap slipping in and out of its joint because the top of the thigh bone is not properly formed. This can cause lameness and arthritis, and might ultimately require surgery to fix.
It’s an issue for Chihuahuas and all breeds of terrier, so both parents should have a document to confirm their knees have been recently examined by a vet and found clear of problems.
Heart disease
Purebred dogs in general are more prone to heart disease than their mongrel counterparts, and Chihuahuas in particular have and increased risk of being born with structural heart defects.
Any Chihuahua being considered for breeding should be examined for symptoms of heart defects before the mating goes ahead, as should Rat terriers and Bull terriers.
Tracheal collapse
This is a progressive disease where the cartilaginous rings which support a dog’s windpipe begin to degenerate. It is most common in middle aged, small breed dogs, including Chihuahuas.
The causes of tracheal collapse are complicated and not fully understood, but they are likely to include a genetic component, which means puppies of Chihuahuas are at risk too. Always ask your breeder if there is any history of tracheal collapse in the Chihuahua side of a puppy’s family tree.
Lens luxation
Hereditary lens luxation – when the lens in a dog’s eye comes loose from the fibers which hold it in place – is a common problem of terrier breeds. When it occurs it is very painful, and prompt surgery is necessary to mend it. DNA testing for the genes which cause lens luxation is available, and terriers should be tested for faulty gene before they are allowed to breed.
How Long Do Chihuahua Terrier Mixes Live?
As a rule of thumb, smaller dog breeds tend to live longer than their medium- and large-sized cousins. It’s not uncommon for terriers and Chihuahuas to make it well into their teens. A healthy Chihuahua cross terrier could easily hope to reach their thirteenth birthday.
Most of the time, longevity is all in the genes. Ask your breeder how much information they have about the lifespan of other dogs in your Chihuahua terrier’s family tree.
Popular Chihuahua Terrier Mixes
Chihuahuas have been riding high in the dog breed popularity stakes for a long time. Meanwhile, some terriers are better known than others, and some have better reputations as family pets. Unsurprisingly, the most popular Chihuahua and terrier combinations are those which feature the most popular terrier breeds:
- Rat Terrier Chihuahua mix
- Jack Russell Terrier Chihuahua mix
- Fox terrier Chihuahua mix
- Yorkshire Terrier Chihuahua mix
- Bull Terrier Chihuahua mix
Rat Terrier Chihuahua Mix – Rat Cha
Rat terriers are the all-American small working dog. Originally bred for hunting vermin and small game, their friendly nature and eagerness to please easily earned them a place in our homes as companion pets too.
Rat terriers are exuberant and energetic pets, and they still possess the stamina which made them sought after working dogs. Even if their Chihuahua inheritance means a Rat-Cha doesn’t need the same amount of physical exercise, expect them to need stacks of mental stimulation.
Rat terriers are typically more confident and easier to socialize than Chihuahuas, making them better pets for households with with children. However there’s no guarantee whether a Rat-Cha puppy will inherit this quality or not.
Rat terriers are slightly larger than Chihuahuas – the smallest Rat terrier is about the size of the largest Chihuahua – but their proportions and shape are remarkably similar. For this reason, their puppies pretty much look as you’d expect. Petite and smart, with large round eyes and outsized ears.
Overall, they might tend more towards looking like a Chihuahua, or more like a Rat terrier, and often you can even see both extremes in one litter.
Jack Russell Terrier Chihuahua Mix – Jack Chi
Jack Russell terriers owe their existence (and their name) to Reverend John Russell, a British fox hunting enthusiast in the 19th century. They wanted the perfect dog to drive foxes from their burrows. Like Rat terriers, Jack Russell terriers were considered a type rather than a breed until just recently.
Jack Russell terriers still have a strong drive to chase prey and dig for quarry. Their single-mindedness, combined with the fact they never seem to get tired, means that training them is not for the faint-hearted or short of patience. But every Chihuahua and Jack Russell terrier is unique, and when the right two meet, their puppies could be a perfect blend of the Chihuahua’s charm and the Jack Russell’s hearty robustness.
Jack Russell terriers are one size up from a Chihuahua. So their offspring are likely be a bit larger than your average Chihuahua, and a bit smaller than your average Jack Russell. Like Chihuahuas, which can have long or short hair, Jack Russell terriers have more than one type of coat. Smooth, broken (some longer hairs among the short) and rough (lots of longer hairs). This can make for some unusual coats on Jack Chi puppies.
Fox Terrier Chihuahua Mix – Chitoxy
Fox terriers are a very old English breed, and the smooth- and wire-haired varieties were among the first breeds to be registered by the AKC after its foundation.
More recently, the Toy Fox terrier was first registered in 2003, and it’s the Chihuahua and Toy Fox terrier mix which has gained popularity as Taco Terriers.
Fox terriers love to be part of a family, and like Chihuahuas the Toy Fox terrier tends to attach itself devotedly to one special person. They are bright and energetic, so a Fox terrier Chihuahua mix is not for you if you’re looking for a low-energy dog. Fox terriers come in three recognized strains, each with their quirks and foibles, so meeting them is the only really way to find out what kind of personality they’re going to pass on to their offspring.
Toy Fox terriers weigh roughly the same as Chihuahuas, so Taco Terriers really are dinky. They usually have short, single coats, which means that like Chihuahuas, they’re not fans of the cold.
Yorkshire Terrier Chihuahua Mix – Chorkie
Chihuahua Yorkshire Terrier mix pups, a.k.a. Chorkies, are the last word in tiny adorableness. Yorkies are so ornamental and behave in such a regal fashion it’s hard to believe they were once working dogs.
Like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire terriers rarely settle well in homes with small children, so Yorkshire Terrier Chihuahua mix pups are best suited to adult households.
(paid link) The Yorkie is another tiny dog, so Chorkies rarely weigh more than seven pounds. All Yorkshire terrier Chihuahua mix puppies have long hair which needs grooming every day. The exact color and thickness of their coat will depend on the appearance of their Chihuahua parent though.
Bull Terrier Chihuahua Mix
Also known as: Bullhuahuas. Bull terriers were originally bred from old breeds of bull dog and terrier in the early 19th century, and used for fighting. From unsavory beginnings they’ve made a successful transition into popular companion dogs. And these days a separate Miniature Bull terrier breed is recognized in addition to the standard Bull terrier.
Even the smallest Miniature Bull terrier is nearly twice the size of the biggest Chihuahua, which perhaps goes some way to explaining why it’s a less common crossbreed. Bull terriers and Chihuahuas couldn’t look more different if they tried. Combined with their difference in size, this means that predicting the appearance of their puppies is a real lottery.
Bull terriers unique and lovable, but they are not ideal for first time owners. Mischievous, energetic, and like Chihuahuas they are prone to stubborn disinterest in training. Bull terriers rarely get on well with other pets, and we don’t recommend getting a Bull terrier if you already have other dogs or cats living with you.
The worst case outcome of a Chihuahua x Bull terrier mating is a pup which turns out bigger than you expected, with inexhaustible reserves of energy and who terrorizes other pets. Always insist on meeting both parents and ask yourself if you’d get fed up or struggle with either.
Chihuahua Terrier Mix Breeders
Puppy farmers have been quick to fill the gap and meet the demand for designer dogs, and this means most of the Chihuahua terrier puppies advertized online have been born in puppy farms.
That isn’t to say that responsible Chihuahua terrier breeders don’t exist, you just need to be more vigilant about finding one. Our guide to recognizing puppy farms will help you pick the loving breeders from the profit-seekers.
Chihuahua Terrier Mix Puppies
Chihuahua terrier puppies should stay with their mom and siblings until they’re at least 8 weeks old. Many toy breeds need to be 12 weeks old before going to their new home. A very small Chorkie, for example, might need to stay with their mom a little longer still.
Kwisha says
Where are the pictures lol
Rhonda says
I have a beautiful Ratchi. She is my spoiled, very much loved baby. She love to run jump and play fetch, loves children and very protective of them, also of me her mom. And yes she rules the house hold. She’s precious
Kerry Hyndes says
I call my pup a chixy – she is a mini foxy x chihuahua and she is a spicy vivacious little tamale. I also call her parcour puppy and iggle piggle wiggle but her name is Kiki D (as in don’t go breaking my heart). She is pure joy and can get even the most dignified dog to go full puppy and play. She is beyond sociable and brings a huge dose of love to all – especially little little kids.
james white says
looking for a pup chihuahua york shire terrier mix where might i find one
Bruce Doxey says
WE RECENTLY LOST, LEXIE, OUR WIRE CHIWOXIE TO A TRAGIC ACCIDENT AND MISS HER EVERY DAY. WE HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIND A BREEDER TO GET A POSSIBLE REPLACEMENT BUT HAVE FOUND NONE ON THE INTERNET… PLENTY OF PICTURES BUT NO RESOURSES. HAVE BEEN CHECKING ADOPTION POSSIBILITIES BUT THE PET FINDER PLACES WANT A FEE TO GET EALY ACCESS AND WE HAVE BEEN ONE OF HUNDREDS APPLYING FOR THE SAME DOG.
pippa says
girl calm down jeeze
Christina Mercier says
PRoudRescuersof PuertoRico always have plenty of great chi mixes. I have two chi/terrier mixes – one with a little wirehaired terrier coat and the other short-haired. Great dogs – good health, teeth and very sweet and sociable, very playful even the 5 1/2 year old. I highly recommend them. On Facebook and have a site.
Ramon says
You cant replace Dogs My mom try doing the same thing It a whole diferent Family member Plss dont get the exact same Breed as lexie She Cant be Replace
Mike says
We have a 5 mo old Chihuahua Terrier mix. The pet store we bought her from was unsure of the terrier breed. Her looks and demeanor Indicate to me she is a Ratchi. She is a gorgeous black and tan with just recently upright prick ears. She is nearly fully housebroken. She loves to fetch and will drop whatever at my feet with a drop it command. She loves to play. Loves walking or running,. tons of energy. She loves other people and other dogs even large ones. Quite the girl
Bobbi Bartscht says
I was adopted by a homeless and starving Terchi (Chihuahua/Terrier mixbreed) 8 months ago. Belle weighs in at 12 pounds and stands about 12″ tall. She very much resembles a miniaturized Rat Terrier. She has a deformed hip, cataracts, and is deaf as a post.
She was already chipped when she was found and research through the vet’s office discovered that the chip was issued to a breeder in 2003, which makes Belle about 17 years old. The owners-of-record disclaimed any knowledge of her, so her adoption of me was finalized and we became a team.
She loves people and other critters (even cats). Big dogs intimidate her and she hides behind me and peeks around my leg. If she notices other critters or people walking past HER yard, she barks to alert me of intruders. And Heaven help the critter or human that comes near HER VEHICLE.
Wonderful gifts arrive in small packages!!!!
david gullikson says
I just rescued a six month old fox/chi, I THINK. She is a joy. Found as stray. I hope not intentional due to disease. She is still after three days, not potty trained, but smart as a whip. Mellow, wont bark, and follows me EVERYWHERE. Will continue to try to climb on my lap, and snuggle, to avoid the cold. She is off white, huge ears and loyal as Ive ever seen. I haven’t a clue about parents. Seems to take everything in stride. Not too much drive, will sit down and smell the roses.
All in all, the perfect mix. Intended to get an adult, but the pound had a Bissell funded pound event. 25 dollars, spay, etc etc, one month doggie ins, first vet visit paid, chipped, good to go. I did as well as is possible. Glad she was the only small dog available. Poor pit bulls.
Terrie says
Are the pit bulls mostly left to be put down at the pound? I had a pit/rotti mix and she was so loyal. There is a lot of ignorance and they got a bad name – in my opinion because they were not trained or supervised or contained- as they should have been. It is nonsense just like we humans do to each other for nationality or skin color. Discrimination.
Regina says
Agreed. I wish I could adopt a pit bull or rottie. I cannot due to my landlord and apartment complex. I hope to move back to Colorado and sad to say Pit Bulls will be confiscated and put down. It is the bad owners and not the dogs are the problems.
Sandie Stevens says
I lost my precious 13 1/2 yr old chihuahua…my 3rd chi,(not to mention the one litter of 3)! I thought I would never be able to love another….well ….Living alone w/o my “baby” was just too lonely, so I began looking after only 2 mos…..Well, God Blessed me with “Fred” just 11 days ago..I fell in love with his picture, (altho I swore I would NEVER have a male)!! He was found wandering, near death. Skinny, covered in fleas, full of worms and frightened…we will never know what he has been thru. The rescue organization said he was chihuahua and his noteable skin infection was cured..just waiting for hair to grow back…Long story short..we have rescued each other….his skin condition is bacterial. But after 1st visit to my vet we are working on it with diet and special shampoos, etc.. After researching…I believe he is a chihuahua-terrier mix, doesn’t matter…he is the sweetest, loving, playful, smart, funny little dude….I am in love and in for the long haul..I am getting much more exercize…(a good thing). I guess the moral of the story is….no matter how much you love your previous luvbug…you will never replace him/her….but will fill that void….Does not matter purebred or mixed..that bond will never be broken..just hope that Rainbow Bridge is plenty strong, cuz I’m going to have a herd of dogs, cats & “Rhoda the Rodent” (gerbil), running to greet me.. God Bless You ! GOD DOES NOT MAKE US TO BE ALONE…AND MY FURBABIES HAVE NEVER CHEATED!! LOL!
Deb Sweetman says
Very kind and encouraging words. I lostmy little Lhasa Aoso 5 months ago…I still well up talking about her, I miss her so much. Today I am going to pick up a little chi terrier mix we named ” Pico” short for pico de gallo. He was born in Texas. His mom was thrown on the streets and saved by a wonderful woman. Life goes on, as my Bailee would want.
DS says
Mine was suffering from terrible itching and loss of fur. Someone at the pet store said chicken was number 1 allergen. At the humane society they feed them what they have and seems 90% of dog food has chicken. Once his diet changed, His skin cleared immediately and his fur grew in as well. I have to give him ⅓ of a Benadryl (he’s 8lbs) if he gets chicken by a well-meaning person.
Runell Johnston says
God bless you.I understand hard times and living in your vehicle.Espically with a pet and anew one you try to train and give it a good start in life.Love makes the the big difference I think and your new baby is so lucky to have you.Im glad things are going better for you now.I lost my baby boy a couple mos. ago one of two that is and just got a Chihuahua terrier mix.My two guys are purebred chips.She is stubborn but very sweet and again,I feel love goes a long way.So, our best to you and may we both have a long happy life with our new babies!
Nicholas Horacek says
Where do I get one. .. I lost mine after 14 years chiuahaua terrior mini
Tara T Rector says
My jack-chi is a handful but has the sweetest way of giving love and really is like having another toddler lol. He is very anti-social with people but loves other animals as long as they are bigger than him. I Wouldn’t trade him for the world, love him to pieces….
Marty says
I just lost my little girl; she was a Wirehaired Terrier Chihuahua mix who was almost 18-years-old. I know that people tell me that was a good long run for a dog, but for me, it just wasn’t long enough. She had bonded to me, and since I retired two and a half years ago, we have been inseparable. Her name was Zoie, and she followed me everywhere. If she was asleep and I left the room, she would wake up and look for me. She was the smartest dog that I have had. I am heartbroken with the loss. Three nights ago, she died in my arms with me, begging for her to stay with me. I can’t replace her, but maybe I can fill the hole in my heart that was created when she was taken from me. After reading your article, I am concerned about getting a healthy dog.
PEGGY says
I am so sorry for your loss. I lost my 15yr old corgi mix s couple of months ago. Two days ago, the local shelter was having a half price deal. A little guy named Lewis, they said was chi/terrier mix. He stole my heart. It’s 4am & he’s asleep in the bed between my husband & I.
After reading your moving tribute, I look at Louie and say a little prayer for our babies that crossed the rainbow bridge and thank God for such wonderful gifts. I hope the pain of your loss can be eased by the beautiful memories you have. Thank you for teaching me more about chi/terriers. I can only hope Louie is half the dog of yours.
May God Bless
Terrie says
Hi Peggy and everyone else! I just lost my Zachary, a Golden Retriever at 7 yrs old and am just now coming out from under the bad after a month without him. He was suddenly taken down by a tic that attacked his kidneys. We have a survivor tho – Little Bit is a Jack Chi who was a goof, LOL – not an intentional breeding. She is loyal, a great watchdog, a bit jealous of other animals, and pulls back from new people tho she warms up to some pretty quickly. She had accidents at the previous house but never here with me in over 8 years. I think their situations say a lot about their behavior and her communication is the best I have ever seen in a dog. She is great and I wish you all the best with yours. God Bless. ps she was a rescue too, tho from a friend.
Nicki says
I lost my long haired Chihuahua, Choco, on May 12,2018. My heart will never mend. I still cry all the time for him. I had him 16 years and I miss him. My house is empty without him.
Shirley says
What about Lana, Elena, Sookie, Lola or Piper?
Susan Van Vliet says
I have a male Chiweenie/terrier (probably Cairn) mix possibly with some Chinese crested. I rescued him when he was just a little over a year (a vets office was taking care of him so he was well socialized and loved there). He is the best dog I could every hope for. They had named him Foo Man Chu because of his beard but I named him Cooper. He is black with a little white on his feet. His underbelly has almost no hair. He is a great watch dog which I wanted since I work from home. He doesn’t bark unless he hears something. He loves everyone, literally, especially kids. I have made a point of showing the kids in my complex how to approach a small dog. Cooper loves to give kisses. When he sees someone he knows his tail wagging could knock you over and he only weighs 10 pounds. The only issues I have had are the allergies and the luxating patella. He starts to skip a little when he has done too much. Although he could play with his bff for hours, it can take him a couple of days to recover so I watch that. He loves to lay in his bed next to my computer and WATCH ME work. Of course he loves belly rubs. He rides in the car very well. He is 5 now and is my superdooperCooper!
Allyzon T. says
We are thinking of adopting a chaweenie/ terrier mix. Do you have a photo of yiur dog?
Jennie says
My husband and I own a male wired haired terrier, we were told he is chiweenie, pom mix. he looks very much like a wired fox terrier. We are living with a couple that own a female chihuahua and now we are proud grand parents of 3 little puppies born on the 19th of January. 2 male, 1 female. I think I will be keeping the female. Junior (the dad – our dog), is a delightful little guy – definitely a mans dog – goes everywhere with my husband. I’m hoping for this little girl to be my loving little companion. Excited but not looking forward to the training period. It’s a short term effort with long term rewards if done in the correct manner. Praying for patience and strength! I can’t come up with her name yet – calling her Baby Girl – but….. any suggestions?
Jackson says
So I am the owner of my first small dog. I have always had dobermans or Shepard’s growing up. To be honest – I hate to admit I viewed small dogs as “girl dogs” and as annoying. I know how that sounds – trust me. At a construction site job in the middle of Ocala right after I lost everything to my fiance I found cheating on me and had my entire savings of 22 grand stolen from m and all 14 of my credit accounts ran into the ground taking me from a 750 to 450 credit score – I found an abandoned dog with no chip – not spayed – nothing. I was sleeping in my truck at the time or in friends couches. I took he with the intent of finding her a home but oddly I was the only one she would come to or have anything to do with. I actually was immediately taken by her facial expressions to be honest. About a week later I found a place to rent temporarily . Then I used money to get her spade and her shots and vaccinations an microchipped using my parents address in Las Vegas as well as their phone number. I never planned on keeping her so I called her Baby Girl – turns out she was only 6 months old. Now we live in Vegas – long story short and she is a little over a year old now an honestly I ant imagine a day without her. We had to sleep in my 68 Chevy pick up at times, and I had to spend my food money to make sure she ate and on more motels than I could afford to keep her out of the blazing heat – but we made it work – and now we are in an apartment in Vegas Andi am finally going back to school for sports medicine. To be honest this little family member saved my life as I was on the brink of suicide a couple of times. And the name Baby girl just stuck. I’ve had to learn alot about how to care for something so small as her weight is all of 11 pounds – most times my fears revolve around injuring her an have taken quite a few falls on my arse after almost stepping on her or her foot as to not put full weight on her, but I’m learning fast. So yeah – it a great breed and we are quite the odd couple. So If anyone ever spots a 6 foot covered in tattoos white guy carrying a tiny wire haired terrier chihuahau mix (with a little mohawk on her head thank you very much) say hi – cause that’s us – lol. Don’t know how it happened but it did – not to mention……. Now I’m trying to find another of the same mix to be her companion when I start full time classes so she won’t be lonely being at home alone while I am in school!!! WTF! Yup – I’m that guy now. And it’s worth every minute –
DoggyMom says
Good for you hanging in there with her!! They can change your for the better and break your ❤, but I wouldn’t live w/out mine! So glad you found your baby!!
Jenn says
Jackson
This is such an endearing story to me. We just rescued a Chiwawa (sp) and terrier mix. She is so sweet – we are not sure how big she will be but regardless we are happy to have her join our family.
Animals are special and dogs can fill your heart in bad times and good. I’m so glad you are happier and on your way to school. Congratulations.
Jenn
Terrie says
Love will do it everytime – you look into those big trusting eyes and something gets pulled on inside. Your heart. I think it is great that you sacrificed and cared for this little dog while you had other problems like getting back on your feet. Many with homes don’t care to consider saving a little life but you did it in spite of your circumstances. I believe that you deserve each other and many long years of joy ahead. God Bless
Amy says
Hi Jennie,
My husband & I just last week adopted a 2 month old female chihuahua/terrier mix from a shelter. She’s brindle colored and was named “Sassy” by the shelter. We changed her name to “VITA”, which in Italian means life. Being as my husband is half Sicilian, he chose that name for her. And she is definitely full of life! Just the sweetest little pup. Good luck with yours 🙂
April says
i lost my dog on my brothers birthday
Theresa says
Trixie
Kim Holtel says
I had what I think was a Chihuahua/Cairn Terrier mix but not sure. Her name was Mia and she weighed 7 lbs. I got her from a shelter; she was given up by a young couple when they separated and supposedly she was bought at a puppy mill and was listed as a Chiweenie (but there’s no way!). We got her at 9 months and she was a bit difficult to potty train but we got through it. She loved her cage and got along fabulously with our Golden Retriever. They were buddies. Unfortunately, she darted into the street and someone hit her; she died instantly. I am devastated because she truly was the BEST dog I’ve ever had. She had a HUGE personality for such a tiny dog and she was a loving snuggler who was always there when you needed her. She was killed this week and I am inconsolable. I want another one but I have no idea where to begin.
Chiterrier_fan says
Please only check shelters! I got mine at one and she is amazing. I’m sorry for your loss. I almost had a dog hit by a car when she dashed out when moving. Now I’m insanely careful as I’m sure you will be if you get another. These tiny dogs take extra care but they’re worth it!
Eileen says
Do you have a picture of. The dog. I just got one he isawsume. I think heis terrier but looks like chwa too. He is so smart he is 11 weeks old. and was 7. Lbs.
Melody says
My condolences on the terrible loss of your beloved companion.
In March I adopted what was thought to be a “Chihuahua/Cairn Terrier” cross when he was 2 months old, and he’s now just over 3 months. He’s a feisty little guy, 6 lbs., who is all puppy teeth and hasn’t quite figured out potty training yet. I adopted him from our local Animal Control shelter because those animals have a harder time than our SPCA rescues being adopted, plus the price is reasonable, and their care good.
I wrote because at animal rescue shelters there are so many crosses, not to mention purebreds. I’ve seen Chi/beagles, Chi/terriers, and Chi/small breeds, so you might start your search at the “Dog Pound”, SPCA, or other rescue shelters. So many animals need homes, as you already know. Good luck in your search…
Sincerely,
Melody
Sherilyn S. says
I have a, what i am discovering a Ratcha…she is intelligent, housebroke at 3 months, and at first frightened by children. But my job and life evolve around children. Now she loves them. Some people she does not like, no matter how hard they try to warm up to her. But once she likes you, she really likes you. She has anxieties over several things. Before a long car ride I have to give her melatonin. Loud noise petrifies her. She loves to cuddle up in the warm blankets as soon as they come out of the dryer. She burrows underneath her blankets…the warmer the better. She chases the cats, but doesnt hurt them. She barks alot, but a bark collar helps. She chokes easy, so you have to put on a vest type collar when going for walks. She follows me to every room…no matter. If I put on a space heater, shes the first one there. The cats are no match with her in catching mice. She has it within seconds of its being in the open. Shes fast! She loves squeaky toys, but wants you to throw it, and fight her for it. Then she shakes it to death! Shes extremely loyal to me. Her name is Gidget, and I love this little dog with all my heart.
Lynette White says
What you are describing is my RatCha to a ‘T’. I swore as I was reading your post I thought I was reading the bio for my babygirl. Such an amazing dog. Only thing for me is I got her as a second hand dog on her way to a shelter, so potty training was never done, nor was she trained at all. So getting her when she was about a year and a half meant that she is pretty much puppy pad trained for life, and sometimes rugs and beds. I know she knows no better, and I have to be vigilant about taking her out. But is she is so shy she wont go potty on a leash. Mine barks a lot as well, but only at things that move outside and sounds that are not in visual range XD. But I will say I wont train her against doing it as it alerts me to everyones presence and that is very useful in a home intruder situation. Anyways. I couldn’t have asked for a kinder, more loving dog, even if she is a littler nervous most of the time.
Than Oliver says
i have a male dog which i was told is a chihuahua, but i knew he must be a mix, so i did a dna test, according to that, one parent is full chi, the other is a rat terrier / parson russell terrier mix. his face and feet look more chi but he is heavy and to big for a pure chi which is why i looked into it.
Julie says
We also have a dog we found to be a mix , it turns out he is parsons Jack Russel / chihuahua mix and has turned out the biggest size he could have , we saw both parents and had pick if the litter so we now know we were duped and he was probably brought over with Irish travellers . As much as we love him , we are both pensioners and he is a lot more than we can handle and that’s why we chose a small breed , he was tiny when we had him at ten weeks and we have now discovered he must have been only five weeks old . Everyone should be aware if this when buying a puppy .
Faith says
Hi there, my little puppy dog is called pip. He is definitely a mix of the two dog breeds. He can be very snappy at strangers particularly men but he is a rescue dog so im thinking the fear comes from his past life. His akin is very itchy atm. He has has itchy skin before with no fleas. I was thinking he has allergies?
Victoria says
Chuckle…my Jachi even attacks dogs on TV….
rudy kolder says
Please repond re: health issues and your ra-chi.My Rosita lived to be 11 with seizures diagnosed at 5y5m attributed to liver disease. The liver disease is predominant in terrier breeds. May God bless..rk
Michael Hannigan says
Take it to the Er! Don’t take chances!
Deane harker says
I wish I knew what my precious little girl is. She looks like a chihuahua terrier mix, but I have no way of checking. I am her third mom and she is so smart, has the knee slip thing and probably the cough thing. She follows me around all the time and loves to chase squirrels. She weighs 7 lbs, has floppy ears, light brown legs and black and brown hair on her back. She’s two years old has a brown black and white muzzle with large brown eyes and cutest face. Also she is short haired. I don’t know how to put a picture here or I would.
Pat says
I was sure that I had some sort of Yorkie/Cairn Terrier mix. Just on a whim and when there was a sale, I ordered a DNA kit through wisdom panel. Imagine my surprise when it came back that Piper Is 62.5% Chihuahua and 37.5% something in the sporting group. That explains the loud bark. I believe she is long-haired Chihuahua because of her thick coat. I rescued her after she was found under a dumpster. She will warm up to another animal but it takes some time.
Abdrea says
My little baby is a chi/ terrier mix. He’s shaggy long hair black an white. He is so cute. People have acctully asked me if I would sell him. The neighbor wants to bread him with her puppy. I love him so much Auggie is the energetic and beat parvo Thank God He follows me every where. I think he loves me more than any human! He such a good friend
Norma says
According to your description of her, she has the same features as my new pup. & my pup is a Chihuahua & toy Fox Terrier mix! Breed known as Chisoxy, Chitoxy or Taco Terrier..she is now 5.1/2 months & weighs 7.890 lbs & we just adore her. she followed me everywhere & is like “gum on my shoe” Lol … So I have named her “CHICKLET”
Good luck with your pup!
Helga says
I have just taken on an 11 year old foxy/chihuahua cross and her same age poodle/Maltese boy. The foxy cross only weighs about 3.5 kg. She is a delightful dog. Well house trained and a good inquisitive walker. After two weeks she is very protective of us. She seems fine with other adults and children. Though we don’t have any. She loves chasing balls and we spend time doing that with her as otherwise she has too much energy. She is very very smart. She likes to follow you everywhere and lies next to you once she has been exercised. She was an escape artist but I have had the door open inadvertently and she seemed to have been happy to stay. I adore both these dogs already.
Vickie says
We have a rat terrier chi mix. He is the most well behaved dog I have ever owned. He is very smart. He loves people and cats but is definitely the most attached to my husband. He loves toys, car rides and walks. He goes completely crazy when he sees a motorcycle. He has been a joy to own.
Katherine D says
My rescue is Iggyboo, a cairn terrier/Chihuahua mix, weighing in at 10 lbs and only 8 inches tall, now at almost 3 yrs. He is very protective and loyal, and pretty much a lap dog. He loves to play with his toys, and is highly intelligent, often preferring his interactive toys over stuffed ones. I find myself constantly teaching him new words or playing new games. He hates children and often adults, but can warm up to people given a few minutes and a few kind words (treats help this process). He also can be a challenge to walk, being aggressive to other dogs, but responds very well to a clicker and a treat for distraction. So, generally I have had no issues with him on walks, but am always careful. He loves bedtime, and burrows under the covers, sleeping a full 8 hours straight, he gets upset if I roll over and wake him up and will growl at me, lol.
These are wonderful companion dogs, but from my personal experience I would say these dogs may not be the best around with children. But I’m guessing if you brought one home as a puppy it would be an easier transition that getting a rescue like I did.
They do like to be stimulated and enjoy your company, following you everywhere around the house (I do mean everywhere). If you are looking for a loyal and fun companion, you certainly can’t bet a terrier/Chihuahua mix, for sure.
Dagmar Pollex says
Your Iggypoo sounds very similar to my Chi mix personalty wise. We adopted him this February and he’s a quick learner generally. Very loyal and friendly once he gets to know people (and other dogs).
Mimi says
I have a 10 year old rat terrier-chihuahua mix who is 17 pounds. He is the sweetest dog I have ever met. He loves people and follows me everywhere around the house. He sleeps most of the day but he needs a daily dose of playtime. The only negative is that he can get aggressive toward other dogs (especially big ones!). But other than that, he is such a sweet and loving companion.
Faith says
My rat terrier- mix is about 8. He also barks at bigger dogs and strangers!
RatCha Lover says
It is really common. They are Chi’s at heart sometimes and they are bred as lap/companion dogs so they are naturally very protective of their owners. Especially to Larger dogs and humans. What I have found with my baby girl is that she has what I call “big dog syndrome.’ As in she thinks she is much bigger than she is. She’ll get up in another dogs face in a heartbeat if it meant telling them to stay away from me. Once I pet that dog and talk to her when I do it she calms down and after 5-10 minutes she is best friends with them. Humans too. lol. It is just their way of being there for you too. Even if it is unwanted. Best thing is to roll with it and show them its alright and eventually they learn. they are so smart.
Sandy says
We own a 10 lb chi/terrier mix who has some serious itchy under belly hair loss going on. She has tested negative for allergies and has been on hydrolyzed food now for a month with no changes to her hair loss. She also takes appoquel daily. Along with this, she will randomly pee in the house. She seems like a very bright dog, so this trait is very frustrating. Not sure what the next step will be but would appreciate hearing from others in this situation.
Melissa says
I have a chiuhuahua border terrier cross. He’s just about 16 months old. It’s just me and my husband and he loves us equally. He hates kids, always barks and growls at them. He surprisingly likes most other people, unless my husband isn’t around, he gets protective over me if men come around me. He likes all dogs, big and small. He jumps at them and is very playful. He’s also very snugly and sweet. I have noticed the tranchea problem with him though and also his eyes water all the time. He’s fixed and still only weighs about 5 lbs. he’s been hard to potty train- he wouldn’t go out into the snow until this year. I usually have to carry him on walks in cold and wet weather because he’s always shivering. he’s inquisitive, likes to wander.. we have to keep a close eye on him at the dog parks because he can wiggle his way under the fence to run after the dogs! Definitely the best dog I ever had, he’s got the most unique personality, he’s not ‘yappy’ for the most part.. just at night when I’m trying to sleep lol.
Jane says
Can you send a picture of him. I just got a puppy and the vet said she is a mix of a chihuahua and a shitzu but I thought she looked like a chihuahua mixed with a border terrier.