CHIZER

Apartment Living

Good for 1st Time Owners

Tolerance Levels

Affection for Family

Kid Friendliness

Stranger Friendliness

Ease of Grooming

General Health

Trainability

Prey Drive

Exercise Needs

Energy Level

History

The Chizer is a hybrid obtained by mixing a Chihuahua and a Miniature Schnauzer. They originated in the United States around 2009. It was recognized first by the Designer Canine Registry.

Temperament & Personality

This dog can have the character of either or both their parents’. It is a gentle, playful and sweet pet. If small children and other animals try to tease it, then the dog gets snappy and finds it difficult to adjust. Proper socialization will help them to get along well in families not having small children. It will also help in dealing with strangers as chizers are shy by nature. They are good as guard dogs and bond closely with their family if pampered. These dogs are loyal, protective and love attention.

Exercise

Chizers are very energetic and suit well to apartment life. They do not need a yard for their exercise needs. Indoor plays provide enough stimulation to their mind and body, but outdoor sessions will also be helpful. A short walk two times a day will be enough and visit a park where it can socialize with other pets and children.

Grooming

This depends on the coat of the Chizer. A long coat needs to be brushed regularly to remove tangled hairs. A shorter coat does not require regular brushing and it is easier to maintain. The facial hair will also need constant grooming and trim the nails when they are too long. Frequent bathing will affect the natural oils in the dog’s skin. Check the ears and eyes on a weekly basis for signs of infection. Brush their teeth no less than two times per week.

Health Problems

A chizer can inherit health issues like urinary stones, eye problems, patellar luxation, collapsed trachea, etc. Look for health clearances of the dog’s parents before buying.

Training

These dogs are moderately easy to train. They tend to nip and be aggressive so early socialization is necessary. Use positive techniques, rewards and praises to cheer them. Stay consistent and firm and make sure that it does not develop any bad habits. It gets easily distracted and loses focus so the training area should be without disturbances. Although they don’t tolerate cold well, sometimes take it out for walks in the winter season.