The Chi Chi is a designer breed created by crossing the Chinese Crested and Chihuahua. They are characterized by a rectangular-shaped body along with an apple or wedge-shaped head like their Chihuahua or Chinese Crested parents respectively. They even have bright and round or almond shaped eyes, a slightly arched neck that appears long and slim, narrow shoulders, slender and straight legs as well as a C-shaped tail that is curved and held over the back especially when they are excited.
Other Names | Chichi |
Coat | Short, Powder Puffed, Hairless or Long |
Color | Black, White, Gray, Brown and White, Dark Brown, Cream and Chocolate, |
Breed Type | Crossbreed |
Group (of Breed) | Designer |
Lifespan | More than 10 years |
Weight | Between 6 and 10 pounds while some can even be of only 4 pounds after growing up fully. |
Size and Height | Small; Below 12 inches |
Temperament | Friendly, Alert, Lovable, Energetic, Bold, Gentle, and Loyal. |
Good with Children | Yes (Mostly with those belonging to the family) |
Barking | Frequent ( Alerting its masters about the presence of a stranger) |
Litter Size | About 8 pups |
Hypoallergenic | Unknown |
Shedding | Minimal |
Competitive Registration/ Qualification Information | DRA, ACHC, DDKC , DBR, IDCR |
Originated in | U.S.A |
Though the history of this modern day designer dog is unknown, it might have been developed with the intention of creating an intelligent watchdog just like its parents, though with a smaller stature.
These dogs possess a friendly, playful and intelligent nature getting along superbly well with the members of its family though they may develop a special attachment with a few of them. In spite of their cordial and amicable, they may be bold and indifferent towards animals as well as strangers on encountering them for the first time. This trait of its makes it excel as a watch dog though it may be messy and noisy at times.
The Chihuahua-Chinese Crested mix can be by themselves for a considerable period in an open yard or apartment. However, being left alone for a very long time makes them develop several behavioral issues such as losing hairs from stress, biting or scratching themselves, showing rudeness or attempting to escape. They have a wonderful rapport with kids, but the little ones should be taught to handle these dogs in a gentle way rather than behaving roughly or rashly with them. In fact, special care should be taken for the hairless variety as they have no hair on their skin to protect from wounds or scratches. It is always safe for an adult to supervise the child’s interaction with these dogs to ensure the latter’s safety.
Being excellent at climbing and jumping, they can surprise you by leaping higher than you can think, a trait attained from the Chinese Crested. Thus, if you cannot spot your little dog, search for him on top of the wardrobe or upon your piles of clothes. However, as it has delicate legs, it is essential to keep a watch on them while on stairs or even help them get down the sofa if they are unable to jump as they may easily fall off leading to injuries. The Chi Chi dogs are not adaptable to extremes of weather, getting sun burnt when left in the scorching heat or chilled if exposed to the bitter cold.
These smart dogs are quick learners, thus needing to be trained in a firm, patient and tactful way with a lot of positive reinforcement techniques like rewards, praise, play and cuddles implemented to yield good results. Imparting socialization and obedience training from their puppy days will help them develop a pleasing personality. Owners can use their intelligence in a positive way by teaching them a host of new tricks that will come of great aid to them while participating in dog shows or sports like obedience and agility.
These dogs require half to one cup of dry dog food on a daily basis along with a nutritious diet. However, overfeeding is to be strictly avoided as they can be obese because of excessive eating.
I am a 51 year old diesel mechanic and shared this old ball of dirt with a Chihuahua Powder Puff Chinese Crested mix named Rufus for 15 years. He was the best, smartest and most loving little guy I ever had the pleasure of hanging out with. He passed a year ago last Easter and I still can’t talk about him without both smiling and tearing up. I would recommend this breed to anyone who wants a friend for life. I used to tease my wife saying Rufus loved me more than she did because if I locked them both in the trunk of my car then came back in a couple hours… Only Rufus would be happy to see me. 🙂 One of these days I’ll get another just to make sure Rufus wasn’t a fluke.
I have a chi chi the problem i have is she definatly does like men how can j get her to stop barking at my own usband every time he walks into a room?
hello i have a chichi named daisy and i started training her by myself at the age of 4 1/2 shes pretty smart she can sit,stay,over a bar up to 1 or more feet tall and 3 feet wide,spin,sit pretty,shake,paw,high five,stand,dance,name,go to a place,down,stick em up,pray,