History
The Chiweenie was first bred in 1990 but became famous in the past 5 to 10 years. It is a dachshund chihuahua mix. They can have varieties in temperament and appearance and several generations are responsible for their uniform look.
Varieties
- Teacup Chiweenie
- Chiweenie-Pomeranian mix
- Chiweenie- terrier mix
- Long haired Chiweenie
Temperament and Personality
Chiweenie full grown dog is an energetic one who loves to play and cuddle with owners and even with other family members. However, they can become a person’s shadow if they share a close bond, but they might not be comfortable with younger children and other pets, although together upbringing can ease the latter days. They are excellent guard dogs, but they bark very loudly and can be stubborn a little.
Care
Exercise
Chiweenie puppies are small dog, and requires regular practice, just a daily walk and a short play session will keep them fit and mentally stable. They are suitable for apartment life and they love playing with family or owners.
Grooming
Being a low shedder, they require minimal grooming session like brushing of its hair twice or thrice a week to keep a check of mats. Monthly bathing and weekly brushing can prevent them dirt and tooth decay respectively. Clean its ears once a week and trim its nails if grown too long and do not cut it from a low level as it can bleed.
Health Concerns
Though it is a healthy breed, can be prone to a common health issue, that is an allergy. It can also inherit some of the problems from its parents like hypothyroidism, diabetes, seizures, invertebral degenerative disc disease, hypoglycemia, patellar luxation and some other dental problems.
Training
Due to the stubborn nature of the Chiweenies, their preparation can be time-consuming and onerous one. However, they are an intelligent breed but require a consistent, firm and patient trainer. Their teaching period should be short and full of rewards like treats and praises. Try to avoid harsh tone because they can be more resistant and teach them to socialize during their puppy-hood as they cannot bare other pets or children.
Feeding
The pup and the adult Chiweenie needs less amount of food for about ½ to 1 cup of good quality dry dog food to keep its teeth strong and the food should be split into two or three meals every day.