Chion

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.

Chion Pictures

Temperament and Behavior

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.

Care

• Exercise

• Grooming

• Health Problems

These are basically indoor dogs and need a little bit of space to run around and play, while burning their calories at the same time. They would remain active throughout the day, playing with the kids and other members of its family. These energetic dogs, however, love to spend time outdoors.

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.

They are average shedders. Only a little bit of gentle brushing is enough in maintaining a chion’s coat. Brush them at least twice to thrice a week to maintain the natural luster and oiliness of their coat. You might also want to vacuum-clean you furnitures and carpets. This should keep both you and your dog clean. Also, do trim their nails regularly. If you find your chions are in need of a bath, give them.

Primarily, chions, like most other crosses, are healthy in general. Some chions, however, have been recorded of having a fontanel (a soft spot in the skull). You can find out in the first place whether your chion has one in which case, enough care should be taken so that this sensitive area gets all protection from injury. This breed may also be prone to catching colds. So take enough care especially when it is a young puppy.

Vaccinations

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:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
• Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster

Training

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.

Diet/Feeding

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.

Interesting Facts

• Chions are often bred back to Chihuahuas or Papillons.