This dog is a hybrid between the Chihuahua and the Toy or Teacup Poodle dog breeds, and is known as a Chi-Poo. These pups have the best of both worlds in terms of size, energy, and friendliness with children. It's not uncommon to hear the word "Choodle" or "Poochi" used when referring to Chi-Poos.
Their versatility is unmatched by any other breed. People with an active lifestyle will appreciate their ability to live in both large and small homes, with or without a yard. Those looking for a lively dog that doesn't require a lot of activity but can also serve as a watchdog warning you to intruders and risks may consider getting a Chi-Poo. To learn everything there is to know about Chi-Poos, check out the list below!
Highlights
- Chi-Poos are a kind of dog that is a combination of several different breeds. Unlike their Chihuahua or Poodle parents, these puppies are not purebreds.
- They come in a wide range of hues, from cream to brown to blue to brindle to silver to grey to fawn to white. Some of their coats are pure, while others are made up of a variety of hues.
- The coats of these dogs tend to be medium in length, making them an excellent alternative for allergy patients. There are Chi-Poos with longer coats and Chi-Poos with shorter coats.
- Chi-Poos are able to adapt to any environment. They'll fit right in, no matter if you're a single individual or a huge family.
- Chi-Poos don't do well in cold or hot climates. You may need to apply doggy sunscreen in the summer if you live in a hot climate.
- As a little dog, the Chi-Poo is prone to being harmed by overly enthusiastic children. As a rule, Chi-Poos prefer to be around people or children of a certain age who can play nicely with them.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
5 to 20 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
5 to 15 inches
History
Designer breeders in the United States began purposefully blending Chihuahuas with Poodles in the 1970s, about the same time they began producing Cockapoos, to create the Chi-Poo dog breed.
The goal of the breeders was to develop a low-maintenance, clever, and autonomous dog by combining the two parent breeds. Dogs who are mixed breeds are less likely to suffer from health difficulties as well. As demand for Chi-Poos grew, so did the number of Chi-Poos being produced.
Though they were originally created as a designer breed, some Chi-Poos wound up in shelters or in the hands of rescue groups. Consider adopting if you've made up your mind about this breed.
Find Chi-Poo rescues, look up Poodle or Chihuahua rescues, as they may try to re-home mixed-breed puppies.
Although the American Kennel Club does not accept Chi-Poos, they are recognised by the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the International Designer Canine Registry, and the Designer Breed Registry.
Personality & Temperament
In addition to being content in its own company, the Chi-Poo is a dog that does not require a great deal of activity, making it an excellent choice for first-time pet owners. Those who can't keep their dog at home all the time or don't have the opportunity to take it on daily treks will appreciate this laid-back canine's laid-back disposition. They are also an excellent option for people who don't have a garden because of their compact size. Owners enjoy the Chi-low-maintenance Poo's nature, which is understandable.
When raised in a household with other dogs, the Chi-Poo develops an easy friendship with them. Although they are comfortable around humans, they tend to form closer bonds with one or two of their masters than with others. Some people may be wary of people they don't know, and they may appear aloof while they're with them. It's crucial to keep an eye on interactions between children and dogs because it's not unheard of for these fragile pets to get hurt while playing.
The Chi-Poo is an excellent watchdog who will alert you long before anybody else does if someone new enters the house. Your deepest slumber will be disturbed by their piercing yap, which can become bothersome in a busy household.
Care
In terms of care, the Chi-poo is a dog that requires little to no attention other than a few specialised food and grooming requirements. As a puppy, you should take this dog to the vet for a health test, and you should continue to see the vet at least once a year as an adult.
Health
Chi-Poos are known to live longer than other tiny breeds, although there are several health issues that are more common in the breed. Among them are:
Patellar Luxation
The Chi-Poo is no exception to the rule that smaller dogs are more susceptible to patellar luxation. A vet who does an orthopaedic exam and feels the kneecap popping in and out of position can typically detect the problem. In the long run, this unnatural movement can lead to arthritis and persistent inflammation in the affected area, resulting in pain and limited mobility.
Periodontal Disease
Poodles and Poodle crosses appear to be overrepresented among dogs with periodontal disease due to their small mouths. Brushing teeth and giving dry kibble, as well as using plaque-reducing treatments that can be added to food and water, can all help owners minimize their pets' chance of developing periodontal disease.
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
The heart's pumping efficiency is reduced when the mitral valve is malfunctioning. Imaging techniques such as echocardiograms and thoracic X-rays help confirm the diagnosis if heart murmurs are identified early in the disease. While MVD has no known cure, medicines can significantly decrease its progression.
Recommended Health Test
- X-Rays
- CT Scan
- Eye Examination
- Physical Examination
- Blood Work
Nutrition
For a Chi-Poo to have a long and healthy life, they need a balanced diet that includes all of the vitamins, minerals and nutrients they need to thrive. You can feed them two to three cups of food a day, which can be divided among them. You can feed them dry food, raw food, or canned food, and you can use whatever recipe you like. It's up to your dog to decide what he or she likes to eat, as neither parent breed has many dietary sensitivities or allergies.
It is important to remember that this breed tends to put on weight as it ages. As a result, supplying them with lean protein and heart-healthy fats is critical. High-calorie, empty-carbohydrate, and sugar-rich foods are detrimental to their well-being.
In general, you want to ensure that your pet receives at least 30% protein, 10% to 20% fat, and 1% to 10% fibre in each meal. Your dog's skin and fur will be protected by omega fatty acids and other supplements, as this breed is susceptible to skin irritation.
Antioxidants and probiotics are also necessary for the Chi-immune Poo's and digestive systems. Supplement their meals with additional nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and protein, as well. Avoid sweets that have been highly processed or have a high amount of sugar.
Grooming
The Chi-Poo's DNA ensures that they shed very little. When brushing, focus on the tail and other places with long hair, such as ears. Ideally, people should brush their teeth every day, but even brushing their teeth every two to three days can significantly prevent the building of calculus.
Exercise
Practicing the Chi-Poo demands a considerable amount of physical activity every day. Taking two 30-minute walks a day is enough to burn off any extra energy and keep them in good shape. Both indoor and outdoor activities are vital for children's well-being. Because of the breed's tendency to put on weight, you'll want to make sure your dog is getting enough exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
Your dog will have a blast playing fetch, chase, and tug-of-war with you. They enjoy playing, learning new skills, and generally having a good time. Toys that are multi-functional and may be played alone or with your family are ideal for them.
For the sake of their own well-being and enjoyment, this breed must be regularly exercised to prevent boredom. If the Chi-Poo has too much energy, or if they are not being properly cared for, they can be dangerous. Many pet owners' worst nightmares are realised when their pets destroy furniture, bark excessively and indulge in other misbehaviour. To keep them on their best behaviour, provide them with engaging toys and opportunities for physical activity.
Training
Both of the Chi-parents, Poo's as we indicated earlier, have a stubborn streak. This necessitates early training, as much as feasible. This type of dog will need a leader who can show them how to behave and react in the proper way. The best way to teach your dog obedience and behavioural training is to maintain a firm but compassionate control over them while using positive reinforcement strategies.
This dog has a short attention span and a short memory. I can guarantee that your rage or aggressiveness will be remembered for a long time. Make it more difficult for them to obey your instructions and make them more rebellious in training.
Generally speaking, training sessions should be brief and enjoyable. When they accomplish something right, reward them with lots of love and attention, but don't go on for too long. Having regular, short training sessions over a lengthy period of time has been found to be the most effective method.
However, don't be surprised if your Chi-Poo goes a little overboard. In other words, they're inclined to insist on doing things their way because they're independent and stubborn animals. However, they are eager to please, so it is likely that they will catch on soon.
In addition, this type of dog is able to recall any mistreatment, as well as any undesirable habits that they may have picked up. If you don't start training your child straight immediately, any habits they develop will be difficult to break. Associative behaviours such as biting of fingers and toes or barking excessively are all included in this category.
Children and Other Pets
Overexcited children might easily hurt a Chi-Poo due to its small size. It is preferable for Chi-Poos to be among parents or older children who know how to play gently. The Chi-Poo, on the other hand, can be an excellent playmate for youngsters who are taught how to approach and play with small dogs from an early age. Never, ever leave a tiny child alone with a dog, no matter how friendly it may seem.
With other animals, Chi-Poos can get along if they are introduced carefully and calmly, and early socialisation will help this go more successfully. It's better if they're exposed to other animals as soon as possible. Chihuahua parent qualities may influence this pup's desire to lead a pack in various dog families.
Chi-Poos can adapt to almost any home environment. It's important to keep in mind that early socialisation can help your pets get along better with other animals.
Puppies
Buying puppies from a reputable breeder who performs pre-purchase health screenings, like with any dog, is always recommended. Chipoo rescue groups exist, but they aren't specialised to the breed, so you may have to look for one at a rescue group for the Chihuahua or Poodles. Regular rescue shelters are less likely to feature a one-stop shop for homeless pets.
Dogs Similar to the Chipoo
The Chihuahua and the Poodle are the parents of the Chipoo, so if you're a fan, be sure to check them out. Many different breeds of dogs share evident similarities with the Rottweiler. As an example, consider the following:
Labradoodle
The Labradoodle, a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle, is one of the world's most popular designer dogs. Irresistible to those with sensitive skin, it's a gentle and loving companion. The Labradoodle is a dog that responds well to training as well. Service dogs, therapy dogs, and companion dogs have all been trained to use this breed.
Cockapoo
The Cocker Spaniel and Poodle hybrid dog was first bred in the 1960s. You can tell it's intelligent because of its large and affectionate personality; it's also hypoallergenic because it doesn't shed a lot.
Yorkshire Terrier
If you're allergic to dogs, you may want to avoid the Yorkshire Terrier, which was originally bred in northern England as a vermin hunter and has a long, silky coat of exquisite hair. Dogs are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. Small in stature, yet, it has a strong personality that dwarfs its diminutive stature.