While the chiweenie may not be exactly "america's favorite" dog, it is fast gaining popularity.
But first, let's take a look at the definition of the chiweenie, as it is a relatively new breed.
A few years ago, the chiweenie would have been simply called a "mutt".
Today it is classified as a designer dog, a mixed breed with a name.
A chiweenie is a cross between a chihuahua and a dachshund.
The American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, and the International Designer Canine Registry recognize the chiweenie.
A chiweenie is a small dog that usually weighs between 5-12 pounds.
It can have a short or medium length coat.
They come in a wide variety of colors including brindle.
They have a sweet temperament and they are loyal to their owners.
They are playful, make terrific lap dogs, and are generally happy.
I would say that the biggest issue anyone can have with a chiweenie is potty training.
They are notoriously hard to potty train.
As a matter of fact, if you don't do crate training, it'll probably take your chiweenie months to get fully potty trained.
Like all small dogs, chiweenies not only have a tiny bladder, their accidents are hard for the owners to see, so the repeat offenders can keep eliminating unnoticed extending their potty training period indefinitely.
Chiweenie dogs, as a rule, require plenty of exercise.
Like all small dogs, like teacup chihuahuas for example, these hybrid dogs are also to be watched carefully when outdoors because they can easily become prey to wildlife, including birds of prey, and even large dogs.
The chiweenie care is easy.
They don't require much more than brushing and they don't shed much.
As is the case with small breeds, Chiweenies can live up to or even past the age of 15.
They are healthy dogs, in general.
The best part about chiweenies is their training.
They are quite intelligent and love to please, so they learn fast--as long as the owner figures out how to deal with their stubbornness that is.
Chiweenies can be quiet or barkers, like most small dogs.
The reason we love the chiweenie so much is that it combines the best features of the chihuahua and the doxie.
A chiweenie is adorable, easy to care for, and loves to make eye contact.
They also have a real cute nickname: mexican hotdog.
One last thing.
Because chiweenies are small, yet not as fragile as a chihuahua, they can live without problems in homes with young children and other dogs.
If you're looking for a small dog, I highly recommend you give the chiweenie a shot!