Why The Chihuahua Terrier Makes Such A Great Pet
The Chihuahua Terrier is derived from a Chihuahua and a Rat Terrier, often also referred to as a Rat-Cha. They are recognized by the well-known Designer Dogs Kennel Club as well as the established American Canine Hybrid Club. They are loyal, intelligent, energetic and amusing dogs who compliment any home and are always willing to please their owners.
While some people think of a dog derived of two breeds as a mutt, technically speaking, a mutt is the result of two dogs with unknown ancestry. A designer breed such as the Chihuahua Terrier is bred from two different pure bred dogs with known and documented ancestry.
This charming and adorable breed has become a favorite and has exploded in popularity. They have a nice smooth coat, big eyes and ears and with their petite size, they are perfect for apartment dwellers.
Like most other mixed breeds, a Chihuahua Terrier does seem to have less health issues than its purebred parents. They exhibit not only physical characteristics of both the Chihuahua and the Terrier, but the fabulous personality traits of each as well.
The Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog in the world and one of the most famous dogs in the United States due to the never-ending Taco Bell commercials. They typically stand somewhere between six to nine inches tall and weigh an average of six pounds. On occasion, pet Chihuahuas may weigh a bit more than this but this is the qualifying weight average.
Chihuahuas are both short and long-haired in an array of colors and patterns. They can certainly be overwhelmingly hyper because of their constant need for attention and do not do well in a home where they are frequently left alone.
These dogs are often known for being aggressive and biting if they are frightened. They are prone to small dog syndrome so their big mouths and little size will sometimes find them in trouble with larger dogs. Chihuahuas are ideal dogs for single people because they prefer to devote most of their attention to just one person and will often get quite jealous if someone new is introduced to the relationship.
Due to their over-sized eyes, they are prone to eye infections and have a high risk for low blood sugar. These are a long-lived breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years or more.
The Rat Terrier
The second part of the Chihuahua Terrier equation is the Rat Terrier, a small, entertaining, working dog. Back in the 1930s these dogs were a must on most farms however, they are a much rarer breed today. They come in many colors including brown, blue, black, multicolored and a small amount in lemon or red with white spots.
These are very light-shedding dogs which makes them ideal for allergy sufferers, when they do shed, it is only a small amount after winter. The Rat Terrier typically weighs between 10 and 25 pounds and stands around 15 inches tall.
Compared to the Jack Russell Terrier, these dogs are substantially calmer, less aggressive and much easier to train. They are highly intelligent and love to be around many humans and other dogs which is a welcome trait to add to the standoffish Chihuahua.
The Result
The Chihuahua Terrier is such a loved breed because they tend to have the best characteristics of both ancestors. The friendly personality of the Rat Terrier seems to diminish the aggressive qualities of the Chihuahua. These dogs do well in social situations and are quite easy to train. While Chihuahuas are not typically good around small children, the Chihuahua Terrier does well with people of all ages.
It is important when purchasing a Chihuahua Terrier puppy to take the time to find a reputable breeder. They should be able to show you documentation of both blood lines and allow you to observe the personalities of both parents. It is also always a good idea to ask for references from both their veterinarian and past customers.
When you bring your puppy home be sure to socialize it well from an early age and engage in obedience training sessions.
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