German Shepherd Chihuahua mix. Sounds like the weirdest combination, huh? However, the end result is pretty damn adorable!
This mix may be the ideal breed for folks who desire a dog with the loyalty of a German Shepherd and the sass of a Chihuahua.
Because they are hybrids, German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes come in a broad range of sizes, dispositions, and temperaments. This makes it difficult to predict what to anticipate, although these dogs tend to share several characteristics, such as intelligence, alertness, and loyalty. They have brash personalities as well.
Although German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes take a lot of training, care, and love, they are well worth the effort because of their commitment to their owners.
The German Shepherd Chihuahua mix is a wonderful pet for pet owners searching for a joyful new addition to their home. Continue reading to learn everything there is to know about this fascinating breed. Here’s our complete guide.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix
Like you could already guess, this is a designer breed. In most cases, the dog’s are of a medium sized frame, with characteristic of both parent breeds.
There is one rule for the breeding of these dogs. It’s always bred with a female GSD and a male Chihuahua. Biologically speaking, a female Chihuahua would have no chance of carrying out the pregnancy with these puppies. As they are simply too tiny to do so.
While we are still waiting for an official name of this designer breed, some cute unofficial names are Chipard or even Sheuahua.
Is it possible for a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd to mate?
Chihuahuas and German Shepherds are unable to mate naturally due to the size difference between the two breeds.
“How can a German Shepherd mate with a Chihuahua?” you might think. Artificial insemination is used in this method.
The female of a Chihuahua German Shepherd cross must be a German Shepherd. Because the smaller female can’t bear the huge hybrid litter, this rule applies to all dogs with a substantial size difference.
Chihuahua females have a difficult time giving birth to Chihuahua puppies as it is. It would be impossible to get them to have even bigger puppies.
Chihuahua vs. German Shepherd
Chihuahuas are little dogs who shiver constantly, making them appear frightened and uneasy. They’re just around six pounds, so you’d expect them to be nice and cute.
But make no mistake: these little dogs have “big dog” personalities and can be temperamental and irritable around strangers. They also have a strong personality and are frequently involved in conflicts with much larger canines.
They are, nevertheless, quite affectionate and kind with their human owners, and they get along swimmingly with other little pets.
German Shepherds and Chihuahuas are incredibly distinct dogs, and the differences are not only physical. They stand over 26 inches tall and weigh over 70 pounds.
Because of their size and wolf-like appearance, these furry friends might be terrifying to strangers.
German Shepherds are devoted, courageous, and protective of their owners. They’re intelligent and obedient, with quick socialization training. They are great watchdogs who are wary of strangers and do not bark excessively.
GSDs are highly intelligent canines with a wide range of working abilities, ranging from guarding to being therapy dogs. Chihuahuas are little companion puppies, but GSDs are highly intelligent canines with a wide range of working skills, ranging from guarding to being therapy dogs.
History of the German Shepherd
The German Shepherd Dog (also known as the GSD) is one of the most well-known dog breeds in the world. These hardworking dogs were developed to herd sheep in the first place.
They are working dogs. We can see them as police dogs, search and rescue dogs, guard dogs, therapy dogs, and a variety of other occupations.
Breeders have maintained careful breeding techniques to guarantee their adherence to standards since these dogs were recognized by the AKC in 1908.
Unfortunately, these techniques resulted in a lack of genetic variation, which explains why GSDs have so many health problems.
History of the Chihuahua
Chihuahuas have a long and illustrious history. These tiny canines are the smallest breed approved by the American Kennel Club, hailing from Mexico. Chihuahuas are little dogs that weigh two to six pounds and grow to reach around eight inches long.
Although the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the first Chihuahua in 1904, little is known about the little pooch’s past. The first description of Chihuahuas is from the 16th century, and historians think that the Chihuahuas were formerly a source of food for the Aztecs. Yikes!
Chihuahuas are becoming one of the most popular lap dog breeds in the world. They’re Mexico’s national dog, and their popularity has made them America’s second most popular breed.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Personality
Chihuahuas and German Shepherds are two amazing and loyal, but still very different dog breeds.
Chihuahuas are cocky, bossy and a bit extreme. Their personality is too big for their bodies. You just have to love them for how outgoing and full of themselves they are, as if they have never seen their tiny reflection in a mirror.
German Shepherds on the other hand are disciplined, loyal, protective, and cool-headed. They are a working breed and helping humans lays in their DNA.
Combine these two and you will get quite the mix! If you are lucky, your German Shepherd Chihuahua mix will be highly intelligent, a bit stubborn, but still loyal and affectionate. However, if they aren’t well trained, their stubbornness can easily get out of hand. Then they could reflect the darkest side of the personality from each parent breed.
Another big issue is that this designer dog may bark. A lot. And they can go on for the whole night barking at nothing in particular.
That’s why it’s so important to start setting boundaries and training your dog at an early age.
Are they good family dogs?
Families with little children should avoid German Shepherd Chihuahua mix dogs.
The small stature of Chihuahuas and the roughhousing behavior of children do not mix well. Children who play rough with smaller German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes can cause serious injury.
Furthermore, this combination has a proclivity for aggression, which is a hazardous attribute to have around tiny children. Children are more likely to be bitten by German Shepherds and crossbreeds than by any other dog breed.
These dogs may get violent if kids approach them too soon, touch them in an unfavorable way, or make strange sounds.
While socialization training may help to mitigate these violent tendencies, it’s best to be cautious than sorry, therefore parents with small children should avoid getting this breed.
Before introducing this breed into one’s household, parents must ensure that their children are old enough to comprehend dog safety.
To avoid bites or other injuries, children should be aware of the signals of hostility displayed by dogs, such as growling or exposing their teeth.
Before their parents have this crossbreed, their children should learn how to appropriately engage, touch, and play with dogs.
Living with a German Shepherd Chihuahua mix
If you are a person who enjoys being active, you will adore this dog breed. It enjoys playing outside with toys and its owner to release all of its pent-up energy.
If you do not take the time to go outdoors and play with your dog, he or she may be a handful. The good news is that this is a small to medium-sized dog that would fit well in an apartment or even a condo.
A residence with a yard would be great, but this dog shouldn’t have any issues if you live in a smaller place.
This dog breed would be great with kids since it can spend a lot of time and get a lot of exercise playing with them.
Trainability
Getting involved with training your dog and socializing him from the start will make your life so much easier. If you don’t train your German Shepherd Chihuahua mix dog from an early age, chances are that you will end up with an awfully stubborn canine. And their stubbornness truly has no limits. They are highly intelligent, and independent thinkers. And as great as that sounds, if not trained well — they will fall into destructive behaviors simply out of boredom.
Thankfully, they are very easily trained. You will still need patience, time snd some positive reinforcement. However, if done with the right techniques, it can be an enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. Potty training is important too.
A positive attitude, rewards, treats or even the help of a professional dog trainer will do wonders. Either way, don’t take the training lightly, because you could deeply regret it.
Exercise
Regardless of whether your Chihuahua German Shepherd mix is a little or medium-sized dog, it will require a significant amount of activity. Each day, your dog will require between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise.
This exercise need can be broken up into smaller chunks throughout the day. Outside, you and your dog may engage in a variety of enjoyable activities.
This mixed dog type enjoys playing with a variety of toys outside. You may buy chew toys or even a frisbee to use as a tool to get your dog moving.
If this mixed breed does not receive enough exercise, it may become destructive. It’s critical not to let the German Shepherd Chihuahua mix alone for extended periods of time. This might lead to your dog being disruptive in your home as a result of pent-up undesirable behavior.
Feeding and nutrition
Because this mixed dog breed can range in size from small to medium, it’s essential to feed your dog according to its weight.
If your dog is still a puppy, he or she should be fed puppy food. When your dog reaches adulthood, he or she should be fed adult dog food.
Depending on the size of your dog, you’ll need anywhere from 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 cups of high-quality dog food. Consult your veterinarian if you’re still unclear about how much food to feed your German Shepherd Chihuahua mix
Grooming
You’ll need grooming products for your mix, whether it’s a short-haired dog or a medium-length haired dog. Brushing your dog will help to lessen the quantity of hair that will fall all over your house.
Because this mix will have a German Shepherd percentage, it will shed a lot. A de-shedding brush or a regular pin brush can do a great job grooming your dog and trapping stray hairs.
The dog will only need to be bathed when it is really filthy. Keep an eye out for redness or inflammation in your dog’s ear. If your dog gets an ear infection, this will be a significant indicator for you.
Make sure your dog’s nails are also clipped. This should happen naturally when your dog goes outdoors, but if it doesn’t, you’ll either have to hire a groomer or do it yourself.
Health Issues
Genetically speaking, crossbreeds or designer breed dogs are meant to inherit the best gens of each parent breed. That would then reduce the possibility of health issues and diseases. However, different factors will still play a huge role in the overall health of your canine.
These factors mainly are the food that he eats, the amount of exercise he gets and of course his everyday lifestyle. Generally taking good care of your dog will boost his health tremendously.
Make sure you don’t overfeed your canine and give him enough exercise to get that excessive energy out of his system. That way you will also reduce the chances of your dog barking at night. He will simply be too tired to do it.
However, even with the best care this crossbreed may be prone to some of the diseases their parent breeds are sensitive to.
Most commonly, Chihuahuas are prone to patellar luxation, while German Shepherds suffer from hip dysplasia.
Their crossbreed could inherit either one of these diseases. However, you will lower the risks by simply searching for a responsible and reputable breeder. Backyard breeders are more likely to breed unhealthy dogs, so don’t just go for the breeder with the lowest price.
Most common health problems
Hip Dysplasia
Canine hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint becomes unstable as a result of both developmental and environmental factors. Dogs are prone to this bone and joint disorder. The femur does not meet the pelvic bone appropriately, causing the bones to wear out prematurely.
Later in life, your dog may develop arthritis, which can be excruciatingly painful. This ailment shows itself as a peculiar walk, shaky posture, or limping, all of which are plainly seen in your beautiful pup. To preserve your dog’s quality of life, discuss care with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Patella Luxation
Many toy dog breeds, such as Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, Pugs, and Pomeranians, suffer from this health issue. Genetics and the form of the bones are the main causes of patella luxation, commonly known as slipping kneecaps.
The patella, or kneecaps, are located within the tendon of the thigh muscles. The tendon is a stiff, inelastic band of tissue that connects the muscle to the bony connection. The patella will be loose and move back and forth underneath the tendons if your dog has this condition. In an attempt to reassign the kneecap to its proper position, he may limp on the affected leg and stretch it occasionally.
Obesity
Obesity in dogs can be a serious health issue. It’s a dangerous condition that can lead to or exacerbate joint pain, metabolic and digestive difficulties, back discomfort, and heart disease. When he looks at you with those soulful eyes, it’s tempting to offer him food, but you can “love him to death” with leftover human food and doggie goodies.
Hypothyroidism
In this condition, the thyroid gland produces an exceptionally little amount of hormones. A common sign of this illness is infertility. Some of the more noticeable symptoms include obesity, mental dullness, drooping eyes, low energy levels, and irregular heat cycles. The skin gets thick and black, and the dog’s fur becomes harsh and brittle, falling off. Hypothyroidism is treated by giving the dog daily medication for the remainder of his life. Thankfully, a dog who receives daily thyroid medication can have a long and happy life.
Bloat
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV or Bloat) is a condition that affects dogs with deep, narrow chests. This indicates that your dog is more vulnerable than other breeds. The stomach twists on itself and fills with gas when a dog bloats. The twisting cuts off the stomach’s and sometimes the spleen’s blood flow. If left untreated, the sickness can kill your dog in as little as 30 minutes. Your dog may retch or heave (but nothing comes out), be agitated, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up). Preventive surgery, which involves tacking or suturing the stomach in place so that it does not twist, is a possibility.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels are abnormally low, and it is more frequent than you might believe. Glucose is a sugar produced by the digestion of food that can be present in our bodies.
Hypoglycemia is most commonly caused by a puppy’s poor diet and lack of food. While a puppy needs to move around more, such as when exercising or walking, he or she requires more glucose to function.
Because glucose fuels the body for energy, a young puppy with hypoglycemia will be tired. The puppy will become weak and lethargic without the energy-giving glucose. In severe situations, the puppy may have a seizure and, in the worst-case scenario, become comatose and die.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a prevalent cause of blindness in older dogs. His eyes’ lenses grow more opaque—in other words, fuzzy instead of clear. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and go on to have happy lives. Surgical excision of cataracts and vision restoration may also be an option.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye condition that might have a negative impact on the quality of life in your pup. This usually happens later in life as a result of retinal degeneration. Retinal dysplasia is the name for the early-onset type, which is observed in puppies. This is when the retinal cells do not mature properly.
The dog becomes partially or completely blind in both cases. While the disease isn’t a death sentence, it can have a significant influence on your dog’s quality of life. Consult your veterinarian about your dog’s alternatives, as well as what to do if he becomes blind.
Life expectancy
Both Chihuahuas and GSDs have a fairly long lifespan. Does that mean that their mix breed is going to live a long and healthy life as well? Well, first of all let’s see how long each of the parent breeds actually live.
Chihuahuas are one of the longest living dog breeds, with their lifespan being up to 20 years. On the other hand, GSD also have a long lifespan, however it’s still significantly shorter than the one of a Chihuahua. On average, German Shepherds life from 12 to 14 years.
The mix breed is expected to fall somewhere between these two and live for around 16 years. Your dog is always more likely to live a longer and healthier life if you decide to get him from a reputable breeder.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Puppies
If you’re certain you want a German Shepherd Chihuahua mix, the next step is to start looking for one. Avoid places that offer designer mixed breed dogs, such as puppy mills or pet stores.
The methods are typically unhealthy, and your dog will be born with a variety of genetic disorders. Look for a reliable breeder who can provide you with a happy, healthy puppy.
Because both breeds cannot naturally produce together, it is difficult to locate a breeder that sells the German Shepherd Chihuahua mixed breed.
The Chihuahua male will almost certainly require assistance, and the breeder may be forced to generate the puppies using the Chihuahua’s sperm on their own.
Because it is so rare and difficult to breed both of these breeds together, this may also raise the price of this mixed dog breed. Because every breeder is different, I can’t tell you an exact amount that you’ll pay.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Litter Size
In mixed breed dogs, determining litter size might be challenging since you never know what you’ll get.
In a single litter, German Shepherds can have anything from eight to fifteen puppies. A litter of Chihuahuas can contain three to five puppies, although some Chihuahuas can have as many as 10.
In a single litter, your mixed breed can have anywhere from four to eight puppies. This will be different for each dog.
What is the price of a German shepherd Chihuahua?
A full-bred German shepherd might cost somewhere between $800 and $3000, while a full-bred Chihuahua can cost anywhere between $500 and $1500. The cost of a German shepherd Chihuahua mix, on the other hand, might be difficult to determine because to its rarity. Visit a reputable breeder who offers this mixture to get a better idea of how much a German shepherd Chihuahua mix costs.
Honest breeders will seek for and present you information on both breeds. If you want to learn more about this breed, talk to a local breeder.
Rescues
A German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix can be found on one of the many dog adoption websites. You can also seek help from a local shelter.
A German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix, on the other hand, is far more difficult to come by than a more popular cross.
Despite the fact that shelters and rescue organizations have puppies of many breeds available for adoption, it’s difficult for someone to locate a furry friend who meets all of their requirements. Most individuals just look for a canine companion that best fits their lifestyle and personality, and then go from there.
Consider buying from a registered breeder if you want a four-legged pal who fits your preferences.
Breeders
There aren’t a lot of breeders who sell Chihuahua German Shepherd Mixes. Breeding these mixed-breeds is a difficult process, and most breeders prefer to produce purebreds.
It’ll be difficult to locate a German Shepherd Cross Chihuahua for sale until more breeders brave this method.
Keep in mind that hybrid dogs aren’t always simple to come by. German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes are difficult to come by, and because of their scarcity, they may fetch a high price.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix FAQ
Is it true that German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Dogs are aggressive?
The answer is yes – if they aren’t well trained. The key to a well-mannered German shepherd Chihuahua mix adult dog is socialization training for the German shepherd Chihuahua mix pups. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good attributes while discouraging undesirable ones.
Can A German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Be Left Alone For A Long Time?
It might be determined by the offspring’s stronger gene. If the German shepherd gene is more powerful, it may require more regular workouts. German shepherds, as extremely bright dogs, require both physical and mental stimulation. It is important to engage in regular activities and exercise.
If the Chihuahua has the stronger gene, they can be left alone for extended periods of time. Make sure they have plenty of food and water, as well as a warm habitat. But, at the end of the day, don’t forget to snuggle with them.
A German shepherd Chihuahua mix requires moderate activity in general. It’s not enough to just let them run about in your yard; you must interact with them.
Do German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes Have a Strong Bond with Their Owners?
Yes, they may develop strong attachments to their owners even at an early age. Make sure they are trained to be alone while they are still pups to avoid territorial instincts as they grow into adult dogs.
Are German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Dogs Dedicated to Their Owners?
Because loyalty is a frequent characteristic of both German shepherds and Chihuahuas, it’s probable that this quality will be handed along to their offspring. As a result, the answer is ‘yes,’ these dogs are faithful to their owners.
Is it true that German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes shed?
Shedding may be determined by the dog. Light shedding is common in Chihuahua and German shepherd mix dogs with short coats. Longer-haired animals may shed more. Vacuum cleaners are recommended for cleaning the shedding of these pets.
What is the average lifespan of German shepherd Chihuahua mix dogs?
Dogs mixed with German shepherds and Chihuahuas can live up to 20 years. This hybrid, on the other hand, is prone to cardiac issues. It’s best to see whether any of the parent dogs (German shepherd or Chihuahua) has any serious ailments that might be passed on to the puppies.
Are German shepherd Chihuahua Mixes good dogs?
This might be determined by the puppy’s stronger gene – whether it’s a German shepherd or a Chihuahua.
The disposition of a German shepherd Chihuahua mix might differ from one individual to the next. However, this mix is generally loyal, clever, and aggressive against other dogs or people. To become well-mannered adult dogs, they will require much training.
Final words
As pets, German shepherd Chihuahua mixes are a fantastic choice. They are devoted to, loyal to, and protective of their human companions. German shepherd Chihuahua mixes may be well-mannered around other people and animals if properly taught. Good reinforcement can help children develop positive attributes while reducing the development of negative traits.
Make sure to get them some exercise and play with them every day, since they like being around humans. To keep them healthy, give them the right amount of high-quality food. Keep an eye out for genetic diseases from either parent dog, although hybrids like the German shepherd Chihuahua mix are often healthier and live longer.
Shepherd dog from Germany Small children may be harmed by Chihuahua mix hybrids. They have a tendency to growl, bark, and attack youngsters if they are not monitored. It is critical that these puppies receive proper training in order to mature into well-behaved canines. They are not recommended for families with little children, but they are OK in the company of older children.
Because German shepherd Chihuahua mixes can inherit genes from both parents, they might have the greatest or worst qualities from both parents. They may be highly possessive and aggressive against strangers. When they’re still pups, the objective is to properly teach them and socialize them with other people and animals. At its finest, this hybrid is bright, loyal, self-sufficient, and has the foresight to serve.
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