The Chiweenie is an adorable cross between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund and has zoomed to popularity as a designer dog breed over the last few years. Since it is not a purebred dog, it is obviously not recognized by any registry, but its name, Chiweenie, is recognized by both the American Canine Hybrid Club and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club . . . whoever they are.
So, does there exist a standard for this adorable mutt? Conformation, size, color, haircoat, etc.? Probably not.
But since I have the cutest Chiweenie in the world, Tucker, I think he probably epitomizes the gold standard of the (non)breed. AND, when I peruse Chiweenie pictures on the internet, the majority of them look like him (though of course can’t quite compare).
What do you think of when you think of a Chihuahua? The classic, right? Smallish (though a bit variable in size), short-haired, big bat-like ears, and tawny gold in color. Like so:
And what do you think of when you think of a Dachshund? Also a classic: smallish (also variable in size, though the original model is larger than most Chihuahuas), short-haired, looong droopy ears, red in color, and quite long for its height (the proverbial weiner dog). Like so:
When you cross these two you get — ta da — Tucker! A Chiweenie! My little man, here.
I mean, how gorgeous is THAT cross?!
I know. I know. Both breeds come in standard, mini, and teacup sizes. Both come in black and tan. Both have long-haired varieties (like my Frida, a long-haired, teacup Chihuahua, pictured here just for your continued viewing pleasure).
But it’s the old originals: the tawny, mid-sized Chihuahua and the loooong, red weiner dog that set the gold standard for Chiweenie parents, if you want my opinion. And even those hybrid dog clubs, or whatever they are, caution the prospective Chiweenie person to take extra care in making sure their puppy’s heritage is pure and strong — the good ole classic Chihuahua and Dachshund!
All I can say is, if you’re a dog person, and in the market for a small one, do not pass go and grab yourself a genuine Chiweenie. And prepare to be enchanted!
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