There are two dog breeds that are very different from each other: German Shepherds and Chihuahuas. The Chihuahua is petite and sensitive, but the German Shepherd is huge and strong. What then results from breeding a German Shepherd and a Chihuahua? In actuality, you never know what to expect from a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix.
One thing is for sure: because of their size differences, female Chihuahuas and male German Shepherds cannot mate naturally. Artificial insemination is the only method available for crossing the two species.
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German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix History
The Chihuahua
The world’s tiniest canine breed, chihuahuas are renowned for their enormous ears and lively dispositions. Chihuahuas are highly devoted to and protective of their owners despite their diminutive stature.
They can pick up tricks quickly and are bright as well. They like being a member of the family and spending time with their people, even though they are capable of being independent.
Because they are energetic dogs, chihuahuas require regular exercise to maintain good health. They make excellent watchdogs since they will bark to let their owners know if any strangers approach. Chihuahuas are little dogs that make great companions if that’s what you’re searching for.
German Shepherd
Popular breeds like the German Shepherd are prized for their loyalty and intelligence. Germany gave birth to the breed, and farmers and police enforcement employed it as a working dog there.
German Shepherds are enormous dogs; the average height of a male is around 30 inches, while the average height of a female is around 28 inches. Their thick coat of fur, which can be tan, brown, or black in hue, covers their strong frame.
German Shepherds are smart and simple to teach, which makes them great companions for households with young children. They are excellent guard dogs since they are also devoted and vigilant. German Shepherds should be socialized from a young age onwards since they can become violent if not trained properly.
The Shep-Chi
Mixtures of German Shepherds and Chihuahuas are among the rarest dog breeds. This is because these two breeds are so unlike in size that natural mating cannot occur. They would need to be bred through the difficult and costly method of artificial insemination.
It is crucial to take the size difference into account while creating a hybrid between two distinct dog breeds.
Since she must be able to deliver the litter, the female should ideally be of the larger breed. when there is a discernible size difference between the two breeds, as there is between a German Shepherd and a Chihuahua, this is very crucial.
A Chihuahua just cannot give birth to a litter of German Shepherd hybrids since the German Shepherd is usually almost twice the size of a Chihuahua. Thus, when developing this specific mix, breeders must make sure they employ a German Shepherd female.
The American Kennel Club does not recognize German Shepherd/Chihuahua mixes.
Shep-Chi Appearance
Both parents will contribute a random assortment of traits to the developing baby. As a result, it is hard to say with certainty what a Chihuahua German Shepherd mix will look like. Nonetheless, there are a few broad patterns that are typically discernible.
A German shepherd Chihuahua mix, for example, will usually be much larger than a pure Chihuahua but still much smaller than a German shepherd.
Because they are a cross between two radically different-looking breeds, chihuahua German shepherd mixes might inherit the physical traits of either parent. Their coats can be straight or wavy, and they can be short or long. Although they can be any color, black and tan, black and white, chocolate and white, or blue and tan are the most popular combinations.
Shep-chi dogs typically weigh between 8 and 60 pounds and have shoulder heights of 8 to 26 inches. Their tails can be long or short, and they have long faces with trapezoidal ears.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Temperament
The German Shepherd/Chihuahua mix is an energetic canine that enjoys playing. They are excellent security dogs since they are fiercely devoted to and guardians of their family. They are easily trained and bright as well.
But occasionally, they can be incredibly obstinate and forceful. To stop behavioral issues from arising, they require early socialization and tough, regular teaching. As long as they have enough exercise and training, Chihuahuas and German Shepherd mixes make excellent house pets.
Shep-Chi Health
The average lifespan of a mixed Chihuahua German Shepherd is 10–14 years.
Shepchi dogs have many characteristics with their parent breeds, both in terms of appearance and disposition, but they also inherit similar health problems.
If you want to know what health problems your furry friends may be prone to, we recommend that you speak with your dog’s breeder or veterinarian.
Your dog’s breeder will be aware of any potential health issues that your puppy (mixed breed or not) is predisposed to depending on the health of his or her parents.
If none of these choices are available, you could also conduct a dog DNA test. I’ve utilized the Embark dog DNA test on two of my canine family members. I enjoy how this dog DNA test can identify breeds and detect health issues.
When the test results arrived two weeks later, I was pleasantly pleased by how exact the breed ID was.
Furthermore, the health detection allowed me to learn more about the health issues that my two dogs are prone to and how I may aid to better care for them.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia, a disorder characterized by deformed hip joints, is common in Chihuahua German Shepherd hybrids.
This may result in arthritis, discomfort, and possibly lameness. While smaller breeds such as the Chihuahua German Shepherd mix are susceptible, giant breed dogs are the ones that typically exhibit this illness. Hip dysplasia can be caused by a number of variables, such as genetics, nutrition, and exercise. Surgery and/or medication are usually used to treat the illness.
Degenerative Myelopathy
A condition called degenerative myelopathy damages the spinal cord and causes paralysis. The illness typically affects elderly canines and develops gradually.
Puppy Mixtures of German Shepherds are particularly prone to the illness. Dogs with degenerative myelopathy do not have a cure, although there are therapies that can help them live better.
Patellar Luxation
A medical issue called patellar luxation damages the knee joint. It is brought on in dogs by a dislocated patella, or kneecap. This may be an acquired condition later in life, or it may be a congenital defect, meaning the dog is born with it.
For dogs, patellar luxation can cause excruciating pain and eventually lameness. Smaller breeds like Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas are most likely to exhibit it. German Shepherds are prone to this illness as well.
Shep-Chi Care
A German Shepherd/Chihuahua mix dog requires consideration when it comes to food, grooming, exercise, training, and shedding.
Shedding Level
The truth is that there is no breed that is hypoallergenic and that all dogs shed.
Nonetheless, some dogs sweat more than others, and a number of variables, such as nutrition, health, and coat type, can affect how much a dog sheds.
German Shepherd and Chihuahua mix dogs typically have two coats: a soft undercoat on the bottom and a long guard hair on top.
Although the undercoat sheds more frequently than the guard hair, it aids in protecting the dog from the cold. These dogs may therefore shed more than other breeds, though frequent brushing helps reduce the quantity of hair that ends up in the house.
German Shepherd and Chihuahua mixes are not hypoallergenic.
Grooming
It is doubtful that the German Shepherd/Chihuahua mix will require veterinary care.
You can maintain the health and detangle of their coat by giving it regular brushing at home.
They may shed a bit more than other breeds, but they still require little upkeep. Said another way, the German Shepherd/Chihuahua mix is a pet that requires very little care if you’re searching for something low-maintenance.
Training
For German Shepherd/Chihuahua mixes to grow to their full potential, they require regular training.
Without the right training, they may behave timidly or fearfully and become easily sidetracked. It’s crucial to train these dogs not to chase tiny creatures because they have a high prey drive as well.
German Shepherd and Chihuahua mixes may become well-mannered, housebroken dogs that are a great asset to any family with enough time and effort.
Exercise
German Shepherd and Chihuahua mix dogs have a lot of energy.
They enjoy playing fetch and require at least an hour of exercise each day. Give them lots of toys and outdoor playtime since they require a lot of cerebral stimulation as well.
This breed isn’t for you if you’re searching for a calm, lapdog.
Diet
German Shepherd chihuahua mix Because they are not very fussy eaters, typically consume whatever is placed in front of them. But in order for them to remain healthy, it’s crucial to make sure they’re eating a balanced diet.
It’s best to give them a balanced diet of both wet and dry food. You may also occasionally give them treats like rawhide chews or bones. Making sure they always have access to clean water is also crucial.
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are typically energetic dogs. This is why they require a high-calorie diet to stay energetic. It is crucial to offer them nutritious food that is heavy in fats and proteins as a result.
Is German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix The Right Choice For Me?
Doesn’t Get Along With Kids
For several reasons, German Shepherd/Chihuahua mixes are poor family pets.
First of all, German Shepherds are energetic canines that were developed as working dogs. They must release this energy or they risk becoming harmful. However, because they are intended to be companion animals, chihuahuas are typically highly needy. They need a lot of care, and when they don’t get it, they may feel worried.
When combined, these two breeds can result in a high-maintenance, high-energy dog that is not suitable for households with small children.
Shep-Chi And Other Pets
The personality of each dog actually determines how well they get along with other pets. While some mixes of Chihuahua and German Shepherds are rather gregarious and love spending time with other animals, others could be more distant or even hostile.
However, if they are introduced and socialized from an early age, Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes usually get along well with other animals. It’s crucial to keep in mind that all dogs, regardless of breed, need to be watched carefully with other animals until you are sure they can get along.
They Require Consistent Training
German Shepherd Mix breeds of dogs can be challenging to train. These canines can be quickly sidetracked and are frequently rather lively.
They therefore need intensive and ongoing training.
German Shepherd chihuahua mixes In addition to their fierce loyalty, they are also recognized for their tendency to be protective of their owners. This allegiance has benefits and drawbacks. If not controlled, it might result in hostility.
Shep-Chi Male vs Female
Male and female mixtures of German Shepherds and Chihuahuas differ in a few important ways.
Females typically have a more delicate frame and are smaller than males. Additionally, they can be challenging to teach because of their tendency to be more timid.
In contrast, males tend to be bigger and have a stronger physique. They are also easier to train and often more docile.
Males are typically calmer and more laid back, whilst females might be more tense and erratic in their temperament.
Quick Breed Summary
| Breed Characteristics | |
| Size: | 7-26 inches |
| Weight: | 8-60 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 14 years |
| Coat: | Short, smooth |
| Color: | lack, brown/black |
| Do They Shed: | Not much |
| Temperament: | Loving, loyal, and playful, Easy to train, Distrusting of strangers |
| Intelligence: | intelligent |
| Socialization: | They don’t get along with kids, strangers, and other pets |
| Alternative names: | Chihuahua German Shepherd mix |
| People Skills: | Tend to love only one person |
| origin | Unknown |
| suitable for | Apartments, families, a companion, and experienced dog owners |
Final Thoughts
The final truth about this crossbreed is that this breed is still new and there is still so much to know about it. However, depending on the data we have the German Shepherd chihuahua mix could be a loyal, loving companion for the elderly, singles, and families without kids.
Adopting this new breed will need a special approach because of unknown outcomes such as temperament, size, and more.
If you are already adopting a German Shepherd Chihuahua, would you tell us something about the breed in the comment section?
Here is a video of a German Shepherd chihuahua mix playing with her toy. Enjoy!
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