A Chiweenie is a designer hybrid dog breed, the cross between a purebred Chihuahua and a purebred Dachshund, known for its small size, long body, and big personality.
The Chiweenie—sometimes called a Choxie or Chiwee—is one of those dogs that fits in a lap but thinks it owns the room. Born in the United States during the early 1990s, this crossbreed blends the Chihuahua’s alert confidence with the Dachshund’s stubborn loyalty. The result is a compact, vocal, and fiercely affectionate companion that thrives in apartments and small homes. Because it’s a hybrid, the American Kennel Club (AKC) doesn’t recognize it as a breed—but that hasn’t slowed its popularity among owners who want a low-shedding, big-hearted dog in a tiny package.
Physical Traits and Appearance
The typical Chiweenie stands 6 to 10 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 5 and 12 pounds. Its defining look comes from the Dachshund side—that long, low body—paired with a Chihuahua’s round face and dark, protruding eyes. Ears are usually floppy, and legs can be either short like a Dachshund or a bit longer like a Chihuahua.
Coat types vary considerably. Some Chiweenies have a short smooth coat, others a long silky one, and some inherit the Dachshund’s wire-haired texture. Whatever the type, the coat is typically soft and sheds very little—though the breed is not considered hypoallergenic. Colors include fawn, chocolate, black, white, blue, dapple, and combinations of those.
Temperament and Energy
If you want a quiet dog who naps all day, the Chiweenie isn’t it. This crossbreed is active, alert, brave, and famously vocal—they bark at anything that moves and plenty of things that don’t. A Chiweenie picks a favorite person and becomes deeply loyal and affectionate toward them, often following that person from room to room. Despite being small, they have a big personality and a feisty streak; they don’t always realize they’re tiny.
They get along well with other dogs and can live peacefully with cats if introduced as puppies. Their exercise needs are modest—short walks and indoor play suffice—which makes them ideal for city apartments. Grooming is straightforward too: weekly brushing and the occasional bath keep their low-shedding coat in good shape.
One caveat that owners regularly underestimate: the barking. Chiweenies were bred to be watchdogs (Chihuahua) and hunters (Dachshund), and both instincts come through loudly. Early training and consistent socialization can help curb excessive barking, but it’s unlikely to ever disappear entirely.
Health, Lifespan, and Common Conditions
Chiweenies have a solid lifespan of 12 to 16 years and are generally healthy, but they can inherit specific conditions from both parent breeds. The most important one to know about is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)—a spinal condition common in long-backed Dachshunds. Keeping your Chiweenie at a healthy weight and discouraging them from jumping off furniture reduces the risk.
Other potential issues include dental problems (Chihuahuas are prone to it), luxating patella (loose kneecaps), hypothyroidism, and, less commonly, hypoglycemia, diabetes, seizures, or hydrocephalus. Regular vet checkups and good dental care go a long way. The right diet for a Chiweenie matters too—high-quality food designed for small breeds helps manage weight and supports joint and dental health.
FAQs
Are Chiweenies good with children?
Chiweenies can do well with older, respectful children but are not ideal for homes with very young kids. Their small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury, and their feisty temperament means they may snap if handled roughly.
Do Chiweenies shed a lot?
No, Chiweenies are considered low shedders. Their coat—smooth, long, or wire-haired—produces relatively little loose hair. Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep shedding under control.
How much exercise does a Chiweenie need?
A Chiweenie needs about 20 to 30 minutes of activity per day, split between a short walk and indoor play. They adapt well to apartment life as long as they get regular opportunities to burn off energy.
References & Sources
- Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “Chiweenie Dog Breed Information.” Provides breed overview, size, temperament, and health guidance.
- Purina UK. “Chiweenie.” Covers breed history, appearance, and care needs.
- The Spruce Pets. “Chiweenie: Dog Breed Profile.” Details temperament variations, health risks, and training tips.
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.