The Chion is a toy dog that is a cross between the Chihuahua and the Papillon. Most individuals of this breed are the result of first generation crossbreeding. These brave-heart canids are alert, loyal and loving.
With a sleek appearance and a small head, these dogs would look at you with expressive, round eyes, just beside which stand their triangular, erect ears. They can have small to medium size coat hair. Their nose is dark, and the legs are short and thin in contrast to their long, hairy tail. Because of their size and disposition, these small size dogs can make good family pets, though they are somewhat rare to find.
Also known as | Papihuahua, Chi-a-Pap, Pap-Chi, Chihuahua Papillon Mix |
Coat | Wired, curly-tipped, medium |
Colors | Black, Black & Brown, Black & White, Chocolate, Cream, Dark Brown, Fawn, Golden, White |
Type | Toy dog, Companion dog, watchdog |
Group (of Breed) | Crossbreed |
Life Span/Expectancy | 12 to 14 years |
Weight | Small; 4-10 pounds (for full grown male and female) |
Height (size) | up to 11 inches |
Personality Traits | Loving, courageous, social, active, protective, playful |
Good with Children | Moderately |
Shedding | Average |
Good with Pets | Moderately |
Barking | Yes |
Hypoallergenic | Yes |
Country of Origin | USA |
Competitive Registration/ Qualification Information | ACHC, DRA, IDCR, DDKC |
Chions are intelligent, but not very quiet-natured. They do bark at times, especially when unknown people are around, or at any noise or anything suspicious. Though they might not like strangers in the first place, but wouldn’t take long to warm up with them, warding off their characteristic shyness.
Though they are primarily good with children and enjoy playing with them, but situations might not always be too safe. These dogs are delicate and too small to be handled by young or rambunctious kids. So, frequent supervision is recommended. It is also advisable to keep an eye on the Chion’s eyes as your pet is prone to getting its eyes injured easily. They might also have the tendency to display aggression towards other dogs. Because some chions would bark excessively, they might not be a good option for those living in apartments.
The chion can make great companions to its owner and family. These dogs are also known for their caring nature and a sweet demeanor. They are watchful and protective of those they are fond for. Instead, they would expect a little attention and spending some affectionate time with them.
Take them out for a short walk or jog, and to your nearby dog parks to help them release their energy. It is also wise to let them play off-leash, if you have a safe and enclosed yard for this zealous canine. Also, keep it without a leash when indoors.
Regular checkups are important to keep your chion in the pink of its health. Do not skip the vaccinations. Here is the list of vaccinations recommended for your little one:
Your chion might be easy to train if it is not obstinate, or rather headstrong. Chions are usually very intelligent and smart, and can quickly pick up trainings and tricks, and can learn lots of other things provided its trainer is firm and patient. But do not be rude to the puppy.
Be consistent enough to establish an image of your leadership to its eyes. But begin training at an early age, when the puppies are brought home from the rescue or from breeders. Give them general potty, crate and obedience trainings like you would, to any other dog.
Teach them proper etiquette, and how to behave well with other pets and dogs, as also with strangers. For this purpose, you can help them by getting them acquainted to more and more new faces. Ask your friends and neighbors to visit you for a practical lesson so as to keep away any behavioral issues in your pet’s adulthood.
You can serve them quality meals twice daily. If you would rely on dry kibbles, be sure you stick to high quality. Else you can always stick to the same dietary routine like the other breeds of its size and activity levels. Because both its parent breeds, the Chihuahua and the Papillon, thrive on a diet that includes poultry, so you can safely conclude that Chions will do well on such a diet as well.
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