The Chihuahua Dachshund mixed breed, also more affectionately known as the “Chiweenie” or the “Mexican Hotdog,” has risen to popularity quite quickly over the last decade. Their small stature and loyal personality has made them the most convenient pet to have in the home, and their playful spirit just lights up any household. Little is known regarding the Chiweenie however, except that it has been given designer dog status by the International Designer Canine Registry (ICDR), but this little dog has a lot more bark than we’d know by just looking at him.
Where did the Chiweenie Originate?
From as far back as 1990, the Chiweenie made its entrance into North America by breeders who’s initial decision was to create a pup with both the characteristics of the Dachshund and the Chihuahua. Their main intention was to create a tiny, loyal, playful dog with lots of personality, and I think it’s safe to say they did an amazing job. Nearly 2 decades later, the Chiweenie can be found in households worldwide, and is suitable for a majority of family structures, especially single persons.
Still wondering if the Chiweenie is for you? Here are 8 facts about the mexican hotdog that will help you to make that decision.
8 facts about the Chiweenie
- They are watchdogs. – Though these pups average around 8 inches in height and no more than 10 pounds in their weight, they make for some of the best watchdogs, much like their purebred parents. Chiweenies are known to be very protective and vigilant, and tend to become a little agitated when someone new enters their space. Their alertness and watchfulness are what make them perfect guard dogs, and you can be sure to be awakened by a series of sharp barks if anything goes amiss.
- They love to be the center of attention. – Because of the personality of both the Chihuahua and the Dachshund, Chiweenies are known for their playful demeanor, but they also love to snuggle up with their owners. These pups have become very popular as companions for persons who are single, and they thrive in an environment where they are the center of attention. It is not advisable to have a Chiweenie in a household with small children, as the focus would be ideally on the children rather than the dog, but older children are perfect.
- They are not easily trained. – Unfortunately, one downside of getting a Chiweenie as a pet is that they are not easily potty trained. This flaw is attributed to the Chihuahua,who is also known to be stubborn in nature, and is inherited by the Chiweenie. While it is not an impossible task to potty train a Chiweenie, it will take lots of time and focus. Ideally, most Chiweenie lovers get a professional doggy potty trainer to teach the Chiweenie how to eliminate outside, and after they get it, you’re in for a comfortable ride with your energetic playful pup.
- Chiweenies rarely if ever look alike. – While the formula for creating this hybrid is simply a Chihuahua and a Dachshund, it is very rare that Chiweenies come out looking the same. These dogs vary in colours from white, brown, and blond among many others, in sizes from between 5 to 10 pounds as a pup up to 25 pounds full grown, and even in coats, from silky smooth textures to being very rough. Because of this, Chiweenies have been dubbed with many different names and nicknames, such as the Doxihuahua and my personal favourite, the Mexican Hotdog.
- They’re ideal for small apartments. – Because of their relatively small size, small apartments are ideal spaces for Chiweenies. As long as these dogs have space to run around and play in, they’ll be perfectly content. Simply ensure that your dog has a little space for himself, or even a little playpen to get his exercise, and both you and your Chiweenie will be a match made in heaven.
- They require very little maintenance. – An added benefit of having a Chiweenie as a pet is that they require very low maintenance. This attribute is also a major reason why this dog is so convenient to owners worldwide. When it comes to being fed, simply watching the portions that your Chiweenie prefers will make you an expert on how they like to be fed. Because Chiweenies tend to consume the same amount each day, this makes feeding a lot easier. When it comes to grooming, a simple monthly trip to a dog groomer is all you need, but if you decide to do it yourself, ensure that the nails are trimmed and a bath is given monthly.
- They have health issues and allergies. – A small disadvantage of having a Chiweenie is that they contain the same health concerns and allergies as their parents. These issues include luxating patellas (the kneecap slipping out), hypoglycemia and even dental health concerns. To avoid these health issues and allergic reactions, ensure that the Chiweenie only has high quality dog food, and be sure to take your annual trips to the veterinarian for a checkup. If possible, taking a look at the medical history of the Chiweenie’s parents can provide warning signs as to issues the may encounter.
- They live very long lives. – The average Chiweenie is noted to live anywhere from 13 years up to 16 years with proper care, thanks to the longevity genes from both its parents. This is an added bonus for a lot of households and families because they don’t have to worry about their dog dying. This also makes the Chiweenie a suitable gift for young couples, newlyweds and children who are going off to college for the first time (considering hey live off dorm).
Ready to get a Chiweenie now? These little dogs are sure to add value and spice to your life, not to mention lots of love and joy. There are plenty of reasons why the Chiweenie is so loved, they are loyal, playful and love to cuddle with their owners, but the absolute best trait is that they don’t take over your life! These dogs need little maintenance and don’t need a lot of time outside. Is the Chiweenie the right dog for you?