By Avatar photoShiloh Nevada Last updated: 18th October 2022

Chion

By

Avatar photo Shiloh Nevada
Last updated: 18th October 2022

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

Quick Description

Also known asPapihuahua, Chi-a-Pap, Pap-Chi, Chihuahua Papillon Mix
CoatWired, curly-tipped, medium
ColorsBlack, Black & Brown, Black & White, Chocolate, Cream, Dark Brown, Fawn, Golden, White
TypeToy dog, Companion dog, watchdog
Group (of Breed)Crossbreed
Life Span/Expectancy12 to 14 years
WeightSmall; 4-10 pounds (for full grown male and female)
Height (size)up to 11 inches
Personality TraitsLoving, courageous, social, active, protective, playful
Good with ChildrenModerately
SheddingAverage
Good with PetsModerately
BarkingYes
HypoallergenicYes
Country of OriginUSA
Competitive Registration/ Qualification InformationACHC, DRA, IDCR, DDKC

Video: Chion Puppy Playing Indoor


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

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.

Grooming

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.

Health Problems

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.

78 responses to “Chion”

  1. Anita Grace says:

    I am looking for a Chihuahua/Papillion mix no older than three months old or so a female Applehead on the Chihuahuas side, black and tan or black and white or brown and white in color.
    I want the ears totally up.
    Please send me a message.

  2. Josefina. Lopez says:

    i am looking for a long hair chihuahua to adopt. my phone number is 510 524 9862. a dog from 2–7 years old.

  3. G Hall says:

    I love my little chion! He is tiny (2.5 lbs) but so smart and athletic. Chions are fragile indoor dogs that imo should never be left outdoors unsupervised. Small children are not a good idea because they can be easily hurt or worse. And it’s true that their fur has no smell and they shed very little. They are a pleasure to have around. The only negative comment i could say is that they do bark and growl when appropriate although sometimes a bit too much. Also they are not overly friendly to strangers and will bite if tested. They love who they bond with and will fuss if they are separated from them. Socializing doesn’t change their tendency towards being aloof and cautious. Mine shakes only when cold not from fear. Not a big chewer or digger either. They really are sweet little babies. Somewhat cat like in personality but still very much a dog. I have a young male and open to breeding with a healthy female but only if you have responsible homes for the puppies in advance.

    • Scott says:

      I agree, I love this little puppy like I’ve loved no other!

    • Marge Staggs says:

      I’m looking for a Chion with brown and white long hair. My niece has one and I love him dearly. Please help me rescue one or adopt one.

      Please I live alone and recently lost my heart to a very special dog and now I’m all alone.Im 80 I’m in a apartment I wood cherish him❗️

      My son was killed in a accident, 2 brothers have All died in June @ July and now my dog. I just need a dog desperately. PLEASE HELP

      PLEASE HELP ME‼️‼️

  4. Michael J Masek says:

    I lost my chion-pug-shitzoo-rat terrier mix. She was the best dog i ever had. Only barked when somebody shows up UNANNOUNCED. Or if I got pulled over she went psychotic until after the traffic stop was done…. I have never seen her poop or had I have to clean it up because she always went in the woods or the neighbors yard… I only had to look out for eagles and fox, Wolf and bears since I live in Alaska. She thought she was a 20lb dog even though she was only 5lb. Either slept in my bed or my daughter’s. And another thing she loved showers I Never ever had to give her a bath because she always jumped in on her own while I was.. I’m still mourning over her death.. R.I.P MISS MAGGIE. I really want another one. She was my shadow, went with me everywhere. When I rode my motorcycle she rode in a backpack…. same went while riding snowmobile. Extremely smart dog, loving loyal. I never looked at her as a “DOG” she was family. I don’t believe in puppy pads. She learned quickly not to shit in the house. And she loves the snow. I’ve been looking for a pup for quite awhile without luck. Please somebody help me find one.

  5. Amy Weishaupt says:

    I am so interested in a chino. Does any one close to knoxville,tn have a pup for sale?

  6. Finnegan says:

    We have had our Finnegan for five years now and he still thinks he’s a pitbull.
    Someone gave him up at three weeks so we bottle and spoon fed him. I wouldn’t change anything about him, he is a smart headstrong little 9 lb ball of furry.
    He is protective of us and his siblings

    • Lyle Harms says:

      I have had my Popy for 1 year now. He loves people but attacks puppies up to 2 years old. These are dogs that are bigger breeds then him. He is very vicious when he attacks. GO BIG OR GO HOME. I have tried very hard to train this out of him but it is not getting better

  7. barbara morrissey says:

    Got a GOK(God only knows) free off Craig’s list..I’m a post stroke senior needing to walk daily with a manageble dog and he was a senior in need of a forever home as both prior owners could not care for him. .Great little guy., very well mannered.. still barks at anyone coming on the porch whom he does not know. Weight 19 #, height 13 inches,( he is tubby) Chihuahua or possibly spaniel eyes, Disposition gentle , playful, snuggly, growly at other dogs on walks but knocks it off when told “Dog Manners”.wavy tri color coat. Very good with my blind crippled cat. People are ok after proper introductions. Chip implanted in 2011 would have him be 10 in Feb 2019., says he is a Chihuahua mix. Can’t locate the person who put in the chip, address defunct, ditto phone number, Any guesses for breed?? So far have been Cava Lon, Austi Pap, Chion and Little Piece of Fluff avec growl..

  8. Mary says:

    My got a Chion from our local shelter. She is five years old and had not been fixed. The previous owner surrendered her due to “financial” reasons. After a week I made an appointment for a follow up visit after her spay and dental work (she’s lost 14 teeth total) with concerns regarding her eye sight. After testing it was determined she has retina degeneration. It’s apparently hereditary. Love her to the moon and back and it’s good she still has enough sight to get use to her new surroundings. Her and I will be a good fit.

  9. Bonita says:

    I am looking for a male chion. I have a 14 month old female.

  10. Renee Wood says:

    I have a male Chion 11 weeks we just left the vet he iweighs 3.6 pounds and we are looking for him a new home. We have been crate training him and he will not pee or poo in his crate. He is doing good with potty training. He is very lovable.

    • Hanneke says:

      Hi Renee! I’ve been looking for a Chion for quite some time and would love to hear and see more of your little boy! Could you PM or email me all about him, please? Our last baby was a long hair Chihuahua and we’re owned by a female Papillon now. Lol!
      Thanks!

      • Evelyn says:

        Hi Rene,

        Wondering about your little boy if you still have him, or anyone that might have a puppy. My family and I recently lost our jouyful Chion. I’m in the process of trying to suprise my family with a pup for over the holidays.

        Thank you.

  11. DIANA DELANEY says:

    hi everyone. Please let me known of chion’s groups. We rescued a 5 years old tricolour chion a year ago and it has been an adorable experience. True Love.

  12. Dianne Davis says:

    We just rescued a Chion puppy at one of our local shelters.. She weighed 2 pounds when we got her at 8 weeks. She is now 2 and ounces and is a feisty gal. But super sweet and loving. She is getting her second shots tomorrow and as soon as I get the go from the vet we will enroll in puppy class, I can tell she will need boundaries! She is so pretty, cream colored and super curious. Our other dog a full bred chihuahua hasn’t yet accepted her but does surprise us playing with the puppy on the floor. The puppy is quite determined in wanting the attention of our older chihuahua. Check your local shelters there is nothing more rewarding than rescuing an animal!!

  13. Sheila Richey says:

    Im looking for a toy paillon puppy can be mixed with Chihuahua. I lost my babies in house fire and would really like to have another. I live in Tuscaloosa Alabama. Please email me if someone knows or has one

    • Amanda says:

      We have 4 week old chions that we are going to need to re-home. We live in KANSAS CITY MISSOURI though

      • Theresa garofalo says:

        Hello Amanda,

        I have a Chion. I love him so much. Looking for a new addition. I live in Fort Lauderdale. I am so interested,

      • hanneke and roger bennett says:

        Hi! We are interested in getting a Chion and are wondering if you could send us some more information about them and their parents, their current environment, their vet care up-to-now, and their prices! We have an almost 2-year old full Papillon and a 4 year old grandchild. Thank you so much!
        Hanneke and Roger
        Southern California

      • Marysol Patton says:

        Hi do you have any chinos left?

      • Brad says:

        Hi Amanda. Our beloved Chion boy passed in April 18, we loved him dearly and have decided to get another if we can find the right one. We are in Missouri, live in a non smoking home and are looking for a family member that happens to be a dog. If you have a male Chion we would like very much to be considered as a forever home for him. Please contact me via email, and I will give you a phone number to discuss further. Thank you.

      • Chloe says:

        Amanda, do you still have any chions left? I live very close to KC.

  14. Paula J Loftin says:

    I have a Chihuahua Papillon mix. She was transferred to a local humane society from a kill shelter. She is the smartest dog I’ve ever had. I have searched high and low to find another one like her, but, have had no luck. She gets nervous when there is lots of family around. And she will bite if she thinks we are in danger. Nobody will ever sneak up on us in the middle of the night! I wouldn’t recommend this dog to a large loud family, but, they are great companions for a couple in a calm home. Wish I could find another one.

  15. Emma says:

    Does anyone know of a chion breeder in the U.K? I have a gorgeous Chion and want to give her a baby sister 🙂

    • Rick Brothers says:

      I have a handsome and regal and extremely intelligent male who is a golden copper color ready to go.best way to contact me is 941.879.3190…Rick

  16. Amie Rossborough says:

    I got my princess from a rescue and they told me she was a pom chi nut I think she looks exactly like a pap chi. Can anyone tell me what she is lol

  17. Linda Simmons says:

    We’ve had our little Lacy for about 1 1/2 yrs. She was a rescue dog. The vet thought she was Pap & Terrier mix, but I’m thinking Pap & Chihuahua. She is very smart & very loving. I get a kick out of watching her run. When excited, she almost hops like a rabbit! She is so little & so very joyful! Previously, my smallest dog weighed over 30lbs. Lacy clocks in at about 8lbs with a full belly! She loves our summers & isn’t too fond of the winters. She already has 2 sweaters since her fur is so thin. While she is my dog, I take a 2nd place to my Mom. Lacy adores her!

  18. Ken Rad says:

    My mom and step dad rescued Tucker from an abandoned house, he and his friend Sarah were both covered in fleas and had been neglected for weeks in the summer. After fixing them up and many vet visits, my mom kept Sarah and I took Tucker. He was just what I needed. I had just lost my roommate and was extremely lonely and sulking in my depression, but he was my reason to get out of bed every morning and to go outside and walk.

    It’s been over a year and I would give my life for him. He’s still a bit nervous around new people, but he’s the most loyal dog I’ve ever known, he’s my little spoon when we go to bed, never leave my side, and only barks when people come to the door or possibly threaten me.

    My depression and anxiety have recently gotten worse, but I’m hoping to register him as a therapy dog so that I can keep him with me in class to stave off my panic attacks.

  19. Becky says:

    Just lost my Mindy yesterday and my heart is breaking. She was such a good friend to my mom and myself. Fabulous companion to my mom, excellent watch dog, great with the grandkids, funny and silly, smarter than most people. No training required, she just knew how to fit into the family.

  20. Caryn Gerhart says:

    Got my Chihuahua Papillon mix from animal shelter. Can not believe someone abandoned her at Dollar Genrral’s busy parking lot. She is the best thing to happen to me. She is so loving, smart and takes me for great walks. Wouldn’t trade her for anything

    • Billie says:

      That was us. We got mine from the local shelter. He has been a joy. So smart and loving. Could not imagine someone letting him go. Their loss my gain.

  21. jay says:

    We have just got our little Chion Max, he is fabulous, so clever and funny, he was house trained within a week, could not believe it , such a clever boy, we love him dearly , don’t think we have to worry about loosing him as they live to twenty and more and we are in our 70’s so we will have to put him in our will I think ha ha , we take him to puppy class every week and everyone loves him and he is cleverer than a lot of the big boys,

  22. Colleen Drane says:

    I rescued my Chino (Emma) 2 1/2 years ago. Love her dearly. She is very loyal and lovable. She loves people and other dogs. She is the best dog I ever owned.

  23. Karen Gunter says:

    Our Chino (Star) is not a licensed Therapy dog but she came into my life at a kinda dark time and she saved me. They are such a sweet and loving breed and will make you laugh. She is very protective and Loyal. They love their daily walks and play time. We are Blessed to have her.

  24. Suzette Koshi says:

    I love my little Chion poochie. He sleeps on me and yes he loves to play with and bite his daddy cat and my

    chihuahua/shitzu. This is not a breed for small children. When he gets tired he gets alittle moody but he lets me know when he needs to recharge his batteries

  25. Jennifer Almestica says:

    Got my Chi on 6 months ago….love him to pieces…very loyal, energetic, fiesty…you must be consistent with training and if you are, it will be successful…he loves to go outside, run in the park…all in all a GREAT dog

  26. Rick says:

    We got our little 13 pound baby 2 years ago as a rescue, she was abandoned at a Safeway. Best thing that we have ever gotten at any supermarket! She is so smart, gentle, loving, faithful, athletic, she averages 22 miles a week hiking. I can’t say enough good about her. Our neighbor just today purchased a rescue Chion from a shelter, he is as sweet as our Frannie. Dread the day we lose her….

  27. Renee marshall says:

    I rescued my little chion 6 years ago. His name is Boz. He is the sweetest smartest dog I have ever had. Loves everyone and loves to play ball in the park.

  28. FRAN MICHELSON says:

    JUST GOT MY CHIN BUT SHE JUST SHAKES HAS NOT EATEN OR HAD ANYTHING DRINK SINCE I BROUGHT HIM HOME, HE SEEMS TO BE VERY FRIGHTEN OF EVERYTHING. HE IS 4 MONTHS OLD. AMY SUGGESTIONS.

    • Mary says:

      I don’t know if you will see this but I purchased my chion from a woman who needed to sell her for money. The dog weighed 4 lbs and shook constantly for several weeks. Eventually she shook less and less. Two years later she has come a long way but is still very cautious. I have never ever yelled at her. No problem. She trys real hard to be a good dog. Think she had been caged before I got her as she found my house and yard overwhelming and too big. She has finally learned to like her food and put on weight. She was afraid of everything and everyone. Now she is just wary. What it takes is a ton of your time and love. I am retired so have the time. If you work it may be difficult to give this dog what she or he needs. My email is mjrlovescats@gmail.com if you would like to chat more but the answer is lots and lots of love and attention.

    • Christy says:

      Just give her some time. She just needs to gain confidence. Just be patient and soft when you talk to her. That has always helped me when I had timid dogs. She’s also young. So she has lots of room to grow!

    • Parker M Bell says:

      Give her lots of love… they are very emotional. Please have her examined by a vet. Many vets will do an initial exam for very cheap.

  29. Kathy Adams says:

    My little chion was given to me by a wonderful family she is also a service dog for depression and anxiety she is all if 1 and a half pounds soaking wet people think im crazy she is so small how could she be a service dog. I thank god that I have her she does noy leave my side dosent bark and dances for a treet best dog ever.

  30. Nichole Matthews says:

    My chin is a service dog I have her for ptsd depression and anxiety I love her I got her when she was 4 weeks old she’s 3 now been my rock the last 3 years we’ve been through hell n back together I’ll be devastated when she goes m6 little angel will alwAys be loved though she was a chichauachu but her new. Get said she’s a chion of course I looked it up n saw she definitely was excellent dog

  31. Chachi's Mama says:

    Our little chion, Charlie, was the gentlest (yet spunky!) & most loving dog I’ve ever known. He passed away recently and I miss him terribly. I am looking for another after my wonderful experience with this sweet breed.

  32. john Ioannouu says:

    Best dog I ever had will break my heart when she goes.

  33. Rhonda says:

    I bought my Chion from a breader a year and a half ago my daughter has 2 from the same breaded a male and female they are small 3 &5# and have the brown coat she had hers for a couple years so thought I’d get one from the same place but got the black and white instead the breader said it was only the second time they ever had a black and white (all the others in the litter were the brown coat) needless to say he is not the little lap dog like my daughters he has grown double and triple the lengthy her dogs and weights 21# at last vet visit. Every one mistakes him for a boarder collie even my vet…lol….but he has become a great little companion to my husband and I. He is very active and loves to play with the laser every night. We got him a few months before we had to put our golden retriever/chow mix dog down. He is very loyal and loves people.

  34. Katie says:

    My little Chion was supposedly a “chihuahua” but looked just like the mom so guessing the mom was the generation 1. Definite characteristics of the Papillon including loving to fetch little toys, and chasing after flies! She is more feisty than our full chi, and can get herself into trouble with big dogs. Also loves to play stalk and pounce with the cat. Only weighs 3 lbs.

  35. Gregg Rasor says:

    Where can I find these dogs for sale? We just lost ours to old age! Best dog we ever had, and very loyal to my wife! She is broken hearted and I really would like to find one for her.

  36. Ahman says:

    This is really out of date. Pahuahua’s are a hardy dog. They handle all types of weather, well as long as they are on the move. Their ears need to be combed regularly and a nice bath monthly, they shun baths, but after they show lots of love and affection after. Their hair is unique in that it has little to no smell and should only be trimmed and not cut. They do like to rough house on the bed and floor, plus should be walked twice a day to keep the barking down.

    Food wise at a young age they like Apples and Banana’s, but as they get older a little raw meat is wonderful for them a few times a month. Dog food wise they tend to lean towards poultry and should not eat human food as they are prone to gaining weight.

    They are mixed tempered, depending on the mix of Chihuahua Papillon.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to our newsletter

Join our subscribers list to get the latest news, and updates delivered directly in your inbox.

Loading