All those Chihuahuas you spy in those purses, pet strollers, or tote bags are adorable, but you might be looking at one of the seven popular mixed breed Chihuahuas and not a purebred Chi.
Here are seven Chihuahua mixes, ranked from most common to least based on data from the Wisdom Panel, and what you can expect from each cross:
- Chihuahua-Terrier: Get ready for adventure and exercise because these high-energy Chihuahua mixes are ready for all things fun and challenging that includes you.
- Chihuahua-Poodle (Chipoo): This super-intelligent, trainable, and responsive mix might keep you guessing, but the Poodle’s friendly, fun, and loyal temperament provides excellent balance.
- Chihuahua-Pitbull (Chipit): Fun-loving, gentle and patient, this loving little bugger is ready to please, play games and enjoy copious amounts of mutual affection.
- Chihuahua-Pomeranian (Pomchi): An outgoing Chihuahua mix with personality and sure to be outgoing with playfulness, energy, liveliness and love to spare – all delivered with a doggy smile.
- Chihuahua-Jack Russell (Jack Chi): Give this smart, busy, energetic, and very feisty mix a job to do, and you’ll both be happier for it.
- Chihuahua-Pug (Chug): A charming, outgoing mix that lives to please, is easy to train, and ideal for owners with moderate energy or families looking for a laid-back, loving pup.
- Chihuahua-Corgi (Chigi): Quick intelligence, strong independence and strength of character will keep these puppies active, lively and with big dog personalities in charge, without the need for constant affection.
How Common Are Chihuahua Mixes
Mixed-breed dogs with at least 10% Chihuahua ancestry account for 16% of all ancestry reports, according to Dr. Annette Louvière, data and veterinary genetics manager at Wisdom Panel.
If you are considering sharing your life with an adorable Chihuahua mix, know what dog breeds are represented to better understand your dog. And it can be hard to tell based on the looks. Visual identification is only correct about 25% of the time when guessing a Chihuahua mix based on looks alone — even for experts, says Dr. Louvière.
Chihuahua Temperament Mixes
“As with any mixed-breed dog, it’s hard to predict what a specific pup will look like, especially when it comes to temperament,” says Dr. Louvière. “Chihuahuas are known for their small size and big personality. They can be quirky, smart, and stubborn. They maintain close ties with their people and will shower them with affection.
Any Chihuahua mixed breed can make an excellent companion for a single owner or a family. The keys, as with any breed of dog, are patience, positive training, and socialization.
Whether you’re going through a shelter or a rescue to find your perfect blend, learning as much history as possible can help ensure a sustainable match. “Every puppy has a unique story, so it helps to know what you can,” says Dr. Lourviere. “Most likely you will receive an assessment of the dog’s behavior and current health status. The more you know, the better!
