Chiweenie - Appearance | Size | Temperament | Shedding | Exercise

Churro the Chiweenie (Photo: @churro_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

By helloBARK!
Updated on 17 August 2021

The Chiweenie is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund.

These hybrid dogs are usually quite small given the size of each of the parents.

Although they’re commonly referred to as a Chiweenie, they can go by a number of other names, including the Mexican Hot Dog, the Chihiweenie, the Chawinnie, Doxiwawa, Dachuahua and the Chiwee.

The Chiweenie breed, which started to grow in popularity in the 1990s, aren’t recognised by the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club.

However, this small cross breed have been granted status by American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, International Designer Canine Registry and Designer Breed Registry.

In this article, we’ll learn more about the Chiweenie size, the Chiweenie appearance, the Chiweenie temperament, Chiweenie exercise, Chiweenie shedding and a lot more.

We spoke to Buster (@busterthechiweenie), Minnie (@minnierescuechiweenie), Pegasus (@pegasus.the.chiweenie), Spike (@spikethechiweenie), Leila (@leia_the_chiweenie) and Churro (@churro_the_chiweenie).

Chiweenie Size

Spike the Chiweenie (Photo: spikethechiweenie / Instagram)

Chiweenie are usually relatively small dogs that can range from 7 to 10 inches in height and weigh between 12 and 25 pounds. However, some Chiweenie could be taller or smaller and lighter or heavier.

Amanda provided us with an idea about Minnie’s size.

Minnie is about 11 pounds! Just the right size that I can easily pick her up. She loves to be carried around in her travel bag as well.

Hilary explained Spike is a small pup.

I would describe Spike as a small dog. He’s definitely more similar sized to a Dachshund than a Chihuahua. His frame is long like a Dachshund but he definitely has Chihuahua legs.

Chiweenie Appearance

Peggy with Thor (Photo: @pegasus.the.chiweenie / Instagram)

A Chiweenie’s appearance could vary depending on each member of the cross breed. They’ll usually have a long body akin to their Dachshund parent, while they can have a small head like their Chihuahua parent.

They’ll usually have brown or hazel eyes and black or brown nose. Chiweenie can come in lots of different colors considering the wide variety of Dachshund coat colors. There are over 25 different colors and patterns for a Doxie, so there’s a lot of possibilities for a Chiweenie’s coat color.

Jessica gave us an idea about Leila’s appearance.

She is black and tan with white markings. She has longer legs like a Chihuahua but a long body like a Dachshund. She has a very unique look. Once you see a Chiweenie, you’ll be able to spot them anywhere.

Here’s how Churro’s mom described his appearance.

Chiweenies are the best of two adorable worlds! Think of us as taco hot dogs! We are part Chihuahua representing the cute small breed that is fun and often feisty and then we are also long and strong representing our Dachshund side (aka Weiner/Weenie Dog!) So it’s like getting two dogs for the price of one!

Chiweenie Temperament

Leila the Chiweenie (Photo: @leila_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

Chiweenie may be small but they can have big personalities. These little dogs can have a lot of energy, making them ideal for active dog owners. They’re loyal dogs that will likely become attached to their pet parents. The Chiweenie could inherit a stubborn steak, which is a personality trait associated with both parents. This Mexican Hot Dog could be excessive barkers given this is a trait associated with the Chihuahua, or a Chiweenie could have a high prey drive given the Dachshund parent was traditionally used to hunt pests. Some of our Chiweenie owners gave us an insight into their dog’s personality.

Amanda gave her perspective on Chiweenie temperament.

Chiweenies are very loving and loyal! They are social and do sometimes have the attitude of a “big dog in a small dog’s body!” But overall are smart dogs.

Candy provided us with an insight into Pegasus’ personality.

At my house we have 3 dogs. We have one Golden Retriever, and two Chiweenies. Pegasus (Peggy) is the first Chiweenie I’ve ever owned. She is 9.5 years old. We enjoyed having her so much that a few years later we rescued Thor, an all black medium sized Chiweenie. Like people do, they each have their own distinct personality. Peggy is a tiny dog. She loves people, is smart, and is able to go with the flow. Thor is anxious and barks at people and dogs he doesn’t know. Peggy never barks! I don’t think this is typical Chiweenie behavior. We just lucked out.

Chiweenie Separation Anxiety

Minnie the Chiweenie (Photo: @minnierescuechiweenie / Instagram)

Have you heard of separation anxiety? I wasn’t familiar with the chronic canine condition before I got my Alaskan Klee Kai, who both suffered with separation anxiety. This chronic disorder usually manifests itself when a Chiweenie – or any dog – is left alone or their pet owners are about to leave the home. If your Chiweenie suffer with separation anxiety, some of the potential symptoms include barking, howling and whining, chewing and digging, or defecating or urinating.

Sam hasn’t experienced any separation anxiety with Buster.

They do love being around their people, but they do fine when left alone.

Amanda has managed to successfully work on Minnie’s separation anxiety.

When I first adopted Minnie in 2016, she had separation anxiety. But with some training and treats, she knows I will always come back to her! The best is when I get home from work and she stays right by my side the entire night!

Candy provided us with an insight into her experience with this issue.

Puppies, no matter the breed, need extra watching over and possible containment to keep them safe. When they were pups, we’d crate our Chiweenies. Now our family leaves the pups uncrated every day while we go to work/school. They nap and relax until we get home.

Do Chiweenie Make Great Family Pets?

Spike the Chiweenie (Photo: spikethechiweenie / Instagram)

Chiweenie can make good family pets provided all the members of the home are educated on how to handle, interact and play with these small dogs. While Chiweenie will enjoy some playtime in the garden or a game of fetch, their small size means they’ll need to be handled with care. They may be spunky but they can still be prone to injuries, especially considering the Dachshund breed are known for back problems.

You should never leave a child alone unsupervised with a dog irrespective of breed or mix.

Amanda has enjoyed a positive experience with Minnie in a family setting.

In my case, yes! The stereotype that small dogs don’t like children, is completely false in our case! Minnie is so sweet and LOVES children! She has great patience and it is so cute to see her play with kids. Since they are down on her level, it is fun.

Churro is the ultimate family pet, according to his mom.

Chiweenies are the ultimate family pet! We are cuddlers, we love to play, we love doing tricks, we love making friends and we love making humans laugh with all our antics!

Are Chiweenie Easy To Train?

Churro the Chiweenie (Photo: @churro_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

While the famous book called The Intelligence Of Dogs doesn’t rank the Chihuahua or Dachshund particularly high on their list of smart canines, the Chiweenie owners we spoke to felt that this cross breed are moderately clever.

Hillary shed light on her training experience with Spike.

Based on my experience with Spike, I would say Chiweenies are definitely middle of the road. I’ve been able to train Spike to do some great things with no problem but he’s definitely not as quick to learn as other dog breeds.

Churro is a super smart Chiweenie.

We are very smart and love to be challenged intellectually! So if you have treats or affection, we are ready to learn! I personally know 11 tricks on command and am trying to twain my human to go on YouTube so they can learn to teach me more!

Are Chiweenie Easy To Potty Train?

Peggy with Thor and Luna (Photo: @pegasus.the.chiweenie / Instagram)

Chihuahuas and Dachshunds are two breeds that have a reputation for being difficult to potty train. The Chiweenie can also be tricky to housebreak.

Candy shed light on her struggles to potty train Peggy and Thor.

In my experience, neither Chiweenie was easy to potty train. That might be the breed, or it might be because both pups were around one pound when they came to live with us. That’s a tiny bladder when it comes time to hold it! Now, however, neither Thor or Pegasus have accidents in the house and they always let me know when they need to go out.

Chiweenie Exercise

Leila the Chiweenie (Photo: @leila_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

Given the Chiweenie is a combination of two tiny dog breeds, it’s unlikely your Dachuahua will need a lot of exercise every day. Wag Walking recommend a walk around 30 minutes on a daily basis for your Chiweenie.

Churro gets around 2 hours of playtime a day.

I am a young Chiweenie and require a minimum of 2 hours of playtime with my brother, Pancake and my humans. I also enjoy long walks on the beach to get my energy out!

Are Chiweenie Hypoallergenic?

Minnie the Chiweenie (Photo: @minnierescuechiweenie / Instagram)

A hypoallergenic dog is a canine that doesn’t trigger your allergies because they don’t shed or produce a lot of dander. The American Kennel Club reiterate on their website that there’s no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog irrespective of what you may read online or claims made by breeders. The AKC put forward a number of breeds that have hypoallergenic qualities. Neither the Chihuahua or the Dahcshund are listed so it’s safe to say that your Chiweenie won’t be hypoallergenic.

Here’s what Amanda has to say on this topic.

They are not hypoallergenic. We use the Furminator weekly to eliminate the excess fur, shedding happens more in the summer months for us, but like most dog mom’s will say “dog hair is just confetti!”

Do Chiweenie Shed?

Buster the Chiweenie (Photo: @busterthechiweenie / Instagram)

Chihuahuas and Dachshunds are both moderate shedders, usually shedding a lot during the change of the seasons. So if you’re thinking about Chiweenie as a pup, you should be prepared to find some hair on your clothes, on the furniture or in corners around your home. Having said that, if you own a Chiweenie with a dash of Poodle, you may have a mixed breed that doesn’t shed quite as much as the Chihuahua Dachshund mix like Churro.

I can’t speak for all Chiweenies because I actually have a bit of poodle in me too (shhh) so I don’t shed much at all. My parents had a Chiweenie before me and he also did not shed. I think most short hair Chiweenies are not big shedders!

Do Chiweenie Need Regular Grooming?

Spike the Chiweenie (Photo: spikethechiweenie / Instagram)

Your grooming schedule for your Chiweenie will depend on their shedding. If you’ve got a Chiweenie that sheds frequently, it’s a good idea to brush your hybrid dog at least a couple of times a week to remove dead hair, dirt, debris and potential allergens. However, if your rescue Chiweenie pup isn’t a big shedder, you might get away with a brush once a week.

Jessica provided an insight into Leila’s grooming routine.

Chiweenies are very low maintenance when it comes to grooming. I only need to brush her once in a while.

Do Chiweenie Smell?

Churro the Chiweenie (Photo: @churro_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

This is a question that we noticed popped up on Google on the topic of the Chiweenie cross breed. Candy answered this question based upon her experience with Peggy and Thor.

I think all dogs have their own scent, but they aren’t stinky dogs, even without regular bathtub bathing.

Chiweenie Health Problems

Peggy the Chiweenie (Photo: @pegasus.the.chiweenie / Instagram)

Most mixed breeds are stereotyped as healthier dogs that purebred pups. While there may be a wider genetic pool, some hybrid dogs can still be prone to health issues. It’s a good idea to look at the health issues affecting the parents to see whether your Chiweenie could be susceptible to any problems. Some of health conditions to be aware of include:

• Patellar Luxation
• Intervertebral Disc Disease
• Hemophilia
• Spina Bifida

Sam fortunately hasn’t experienced any health issues with Buster.

I haven’t experienced many health concerns with them, but I do notice that mine seem to get seasonal allergies.

Are Chiweenie Fussy Eaters?

Leila the Chiweenie (Photo: @leila_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

Any dog can be picky with their food for a variety of reasons. It could indicate a behavioral or health problem. If you’re concerned about your Chiweenie’s eating habits, you should speak to your vet.

I’ve experienced life with fussy eaters after my Alaskan Klee Kai became picky with their meals. However, I haven’t looked back since I made the switch to fresh dog meals from a dog food delivery company. You can check out the leading options in the USA here and the UK here.

Sam shed some light on her experience with Buster.

Normally no, but mine have gone through some phases where it has been difficult to get them to eat all of their breakfast or dinner.

Minnie isn’t fussy at all.

Minnie is luckily not a fussy eater! I feed her “small batch fresh ingredient kibble” from a local Charleston company. On the weekends I treat her to a scrambled egg mixed in! She enjoys pretty much anything that is safe to feed her!

Candy says neither Peggy nor Thor are fussy eaters.

Neither of my Chiweenies are fussy eaters. They are both highly motivated by snacks. In fact, they’ve never met a snack they didn’t like! Neither dog has food allergies, and that is helpful too. Peggy and Thor’s favorite snacks include popcorn, carrots, and pizza crusts. They like all treats from the store and have never had any problems with any dog food brand I’ve tried in the past.

Spike eats normal dry food.

In my experience, no. We feed Spike normal dry dog food. We just switched his food and he has no issues at all. He’s never refused to eat his food too. His favorite snacks are lettuce and carrots.

Chiweenie Price

Minnie the Chiweenie (Photo: @minnierescuechiweenie / Instagram)

If you’re thinking about getting a Chiweenie, it’s a good idea to speak to your local rescue shelter to see if they’ve got a member of this cross breed that needs a forever home. The Chihuahua Dachshund mix can be commonly found in local rescue shelters.

Churro’s mom had some advice for prospective Chiweenie owners.

Can you believe that most Chiweenies are actually adoptable! Many Chiweenies are available for rescue! We are amazing companions for old and young humans and you can save a Chiweenie’s life by checking on petfinder.com to see if one is available in your area for adoption!

Are Chiweenie Expensive?

Buster the Chiweenie (Photo: @busterthechiweenie / Instagram)

If you’re thinking about adopting or buying a Chiweenie (or any dog for that matter), you’ll have to consider the monthly costs of owning a pup. This includes dog food, vet costs, pet insurance, essentials like dog beds and toys – and much more.

Candy provided us with an insight into the costs of owning a Chiweenie.

Chiweenies are smaller dogs, so they do not eat a lot at one time. They have short fur, so grooming isn’t required, unless you want their nail trimmed by a pro. Neither Peggy or Thor have eaten anything crazy and thus required an emergency vet visit. They just need their yearly vet visits.

Do Chiweenie Get Along With Other Dogs And Pets?

Spike the Chiweenie (Photo: spikethechiweenie / Instagram)

Here’s what Jessica had to say about her experience with Leila.

My Chiweenie is very selective with other dogs. She has been friendly with some dogs right away but has taken a little longer with others. I am not sure about other pets.

Do Chiweenie Bark A Lot?

Churro the Chiweenie (Photo: @churro_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

As we mentioned above, Chihuahuas are a dog breed that are often stereotyped as yappy dog. Dachshunds can also have a trademark, deep-throated bark. Therefore, there’s a chance a Chiweenie will be a big barker. However, every dog is different. If you’re concerned about your Chiweenie barking too much, it’s a good idea to speak to a dog behaviorist.

Candy highlighted how every Chiweenie is different.

Thor is a nervous boy. He was a rescue, who I believe was taken from his family too soon (he came to us as an emergency situation). As a result, he might be more high strung than the average Chiweenie. Pegasus never, ever barks. She will play fight with the other dogs or me and bark and growl then, but I don’t think that really counts. Now is probably a great time to mention that none of my dogs would ever bite. Even when I stick my hand in their mouth while playing.

Hillary revealed that Spike loves to have a bark!

One of Spike’s favorite activities is barking out the window at anyone who walks by. So, yes he barks a lot and any other Chiweenie I’ve met has also enjoyed barking a lot.

Are Chiweenie Aggressive?

Peggy the Chiweenie (Photo: @pegasus.the.chiweenie / Instagram)

Hillary explained that Spike is quite protective.

Spike is definitely fiercely protective of me but he loves meeting other dogs and humans. I think each dog is different depending on ton of different factors. Chihuahuas and dachshunds definitely have a bad reputation but I really think it comes down to each individual dog.

How Many Hours Does A Chiweenie Sleep?

Leila the Chiweenie (Photo: @leila_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

As small dogs, it probably won’t take a lot to tire out a Chiweenie. Having said, it’s still important to give this cross breed sufficient mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis.

Sam shed some light on Buster’s sleeping pattern.

They seem to match my sleeping pattern at night and sleep anywhere from 8-10 hours. During the day they do have zoomies for an hour here or there, but are mostly pretty relaxed dogs.

Do Chiweenie Like To Cuddle?

Minnie the Chiweenie (Photo: @minnierescuechiweenie / Instagram)

Although some websites write that Chiweenies are likely to prefer playtime rather than a cuddle, Sam revealed that Buster is a big cuddler. This just goes to highlight that every Chiweenie is different.

They LOVE to cuddle, and especially like to burrow under covers to do so.

Are Chiweenie Sociable Dogs?

Buster the Chiweenie (Photo: @busterthechiweenie / Instagram)

Here’s Hillary’s perspective based upon her experience with Spike.

Spike loves meeting other dogs and humans.

What Else Do I Need To Know About Chiweenie?

Spike the Chiweenie (Photo: spikethechiweenie / Instagram)

Sam warned that the Chiweenie can struggle with cold temperatures, so it might be a good idea to investment in a small jacket or jumper for your Mexican Hot Dog.

They get very very cold very easily. I would highly suggest having jackets for them in the winter time, or you might have some accidents in the house because they get too cold too quickly trying to potty outside.

Would You Recommend Chiweenie To First-Time Owners?

Churro the Chiweenie (Photo: @churro_the_chiweenie / Instagram)

Here’s what Spike’s mom Hillary has to say:

I would! Spike is my first dog that I had living on my own and he’s been great. He was a fantastic apartment dog too when we were renting.

Jessica doesn’t believe Chiweenie are a suitable choice for an inexperienced dog owner.

No. Chiweenies are very stubborn and hard headed which can make them hard to train. I recommend Chiweenies for more experienced dog owners.

Chiweenie Pros And Cons

Peggy the Chiweenie (Photo: @pegasus.the.chiweenie / Instagram)

The Pros

Buster/Sam: In my experience, they are very friendly dogs to people and other dogs of all sizes. They love to cuddle and are very good at comforting their humans. Overall great dogs!

Minnie/Amanda: They are very loving and loyal to their owners. Being small in size, they can go everywhere with you! I could go on and on with the pros of my rescue Chiweenie!

Peggy/Thor/Candy: There is no pup as cute as one who is part Chihuahua and part Dachshund. With those big heart melting eyes and long bodies they are as adorable as can be. They also love to snuggle and don’t make your legs fall asleep while laying on your lap! In short, I would never trade my Chiweenies for any other dog. They such love-bugs and they’ve made my life so much more fun! I highly recommend the breed if you’re looking for a tiny to small/medium sized dog!

Spike/Hillary: He’s extremely loyal, he’s small so he’s easy to manage, he’s a great companion, he’s not super high energy.

Leila/Jessica: Very loving and protective; Low maintenance; Not much of a barker; Energetic and playful so they are very fun to have around.

Churro: We are loyal, friendly, lovable, loving, cuddly, funny, sweet and give amazing puppy dog eyes! We are also a combo of two cute breeds so you get two dogs in one!

The Cons

Minnie the Chiweenie (Photo: @minnierescuechiweenie / Instagram)

Buster/Sam: They do shed which not everyone can handle when looking for a dog to bring home. It’s not a con most of the time, but they really do love to be with their humans and touching them constantly. So sometimes you don’t always get personal space around them, but that’s still a bonus majority of the time!

Minnie/Amanda: None really! She is protective of me sometimes, but is my sweet little girl! I know since they have Dachshund in them they may have back problems, but we have small stairs for her to jump up on the couch and bed.

Peggy/Thor/Candy: Chiweenies can have delicate backs, because they are so charmingly elongated. Pegasus has injured herself a few times by jumping off furniture, but she’s a tiny gal, so that doesn’t help either. A few days of pain meds or muscle relaxers from the vet and she’s a good as new in a few days.

Spike/Hillary: The biggest con is that he barks a lot but other than that he is perfect in every single way.

Leila/Jessica: Stubborn- makes training a little harder; Very territorial so they can become aggressive in certain environments.

Churro: We look extremely cute in hot dog bun costumes on Halloween so we tend to get a lot of attention and steal hearts! So technically Chiweenies are big time thieves!