The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix is often known as the Chipin. This tiny pup has a friendly, playful personality and can be quite entertaining to share a home with! They are also relatively low maintenance with easy grooming and limited exercise needs. And they’re ideally suited for small living spaces, yet make an alert watchdog.
However, as a result of their strong personalities and delicate structures, these dogs are not well-suited for homes with kids. If left alone too much they can suffer separation anxiety and as a result, become destructive. Their small size also means you need to be mindful of avoiding accidents and injuries, both at home and while out on walks. There is a lot to consider!
Contents
- Coats and colors
- Temperament and behaviors
- How healthy are they?
- Buying puppies vs adult dogs
A Purebred Past
Mixed lapdogs like the Chipin are a relatively recent fad, but this hybrid does have a rich history if you dive back into the pasts of their purebred parents.
Despite the similar name, the Mini Pinscher is not a much smaller version of the Doberman Pinscher. They are believed to have originated in Germany several hundred years ago as a barnyard ratter. Breed historians consider them to be a cross between the Dachshund and the Italian Greyhound.
The diminutive Chihuahua is the world’s smallest dog breed. Their ancestry appears to date back to pre-Columbian times.
The Aztecs were said to have refined the larger, heavier Techichi, an ancestor of the Chihuahua, into a smaller, lighter dog. Americans visiting Mexico in the mid-1800s became fascinated with these tiny dogs found in the State of Chihuahua and brought them home.
Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix Appearance
This mixed breed’s appearance can vary depending upon which parent he takes after. Even within the same litter, one puppy can look more like the Miniature Pinscher, while his siblings take after the Chihuahua.
One thing is certain: he will definitely be cute.
His short, smooth coat will come in many colors, but most likely will be black and tan. Other colors include: cream, chocolate, golden black, white, and tan. If the Chihuahua parent was long-haired, the Chipin mix may have a longer coat as a result.
Size and Structure
Based on two rather distinctive dogs, you’ll find your puppy has a defined look. The head will be small and round, and they will have a tiny pointed muzzle, dark eyes and huge ears. Small and compact, the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix will usually weigh between 5 and 11 pounds. Height will range from 7 to 12 inches.
Temperament Traits
As with appearance, temperament can vary with mixed breeds. The Miniature Pinscher is known to be intelligent, independent, and energetic, while the Chihuahua is loyal, sassy, and entertaining.
Both of these dogs think they’re the center of the universe and will lap up attention!
Despite their size, Chihuahuas can be aggressive. The Miniature Pinscher can also be antagonistic if not socialized properly.
Each of these breeds is protective of those they love and as a result they make excellent watchdogs. You can expect your Mini Pinscher Chihuahua mix to want to be around people all of the time.
Both parent breeds can suffer from separation anxiety and get bored easily if left alone. This can lead to destructive behavior. They will likely be suspicious of strangers and must be socialized early, especially if other pets are in the home.
Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix Behaviors
The Mini Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is known to have a stubborn streak. Consistency is key. This is a dog who can become distracted. Patience, consistency, and plenty of praise and treats are required for successful training.
It’s not uncommon for potty training to be a problem for small dogs, and the Chihuahua and Mini Pinscher are no exception. Once poor toilet routines have been established it’s very difficult to retrain. Establishing a schedule and sticking with it early on is essential.
Crate training is an excellent tool when you’re not at home. Dogs will avoid soiling their own space if possible.
Socialization
Any breed requires early socialization. This means exposing them to a wide variety of people, places, and situations as soon as possible.
It’s very important that a small dog like the Chipin gets accustomed to being handled so they don’t become aggressive and bite.
Exercise
While the Chihuahua can usually get enough exercise trotting around a small space and going for short, slow walks, the Miniature Pinscher is a very active and athletic dog.
There’s a good chance your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix will require plenty of exercise. Two good walks and daily outdoor play sessions may become part of your routine.
This is not only to keep him fit and trim, but also to avoid behavioral problems like digging, chewing, and excessive barking.
Miniature Pinscher and Chihuahua Health
Being small is a health advantage for dogs. However, being too tiny can create some special problems.
Dental problems
Little dogs have little mouths and teeth crowding makes decay more likely. Daily cleaning, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding high sugar content is your best defense against dental problems.
Eye problems
Vision issues, some of which may cause blindness, can be a significant cause for concern for both parent breeds. The Chihuahua is especially at risk for a host of eye diseases including glaucoma, cataracts, corneal ulcer, lens luxation, and cherry eye.
Other issues
Heart defects are a leading cause of death among older Miniature Pinschers.
Patellar luxation, in which the kneecap pops out of place, is a common concern for both the Miniature Pinscher and the Chihuahua.
Other health problems found in the Mini Pin include Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. This involves disintegration of the hip joint, and hyperthyroidism.
Chipin’s Lifespan
The Miniature Pinscher has a lifespan of 12 to 16 years and the Chihuahua 14 to 16 years. Your puppy is therefore likely to live well into their teen years.
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Rescue vs Buying
There are some advantages to adopting a dog. Busy families might find it easier to adjust to an older dog than to an energetic puppy. This is particularly true for first-time dog owners.
Getting a dog from a shelter will almost always be less expensive. In addition, they will typically have their shots as well.
Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix Breeders
In the last two decades, the popularity of mixed breed dogs has soared, so although this is a more unusual combination they are still not too hard to come by. The important thing is to ensure that your chosen breeder is producing puppies ethically.
The parents should be loved pets despite being used for producing puppies. They should know their name and have an obviously strong bond with their owner.
Any good breeder will be happy to answer any questions you have about their dogs. Be sure to see where the puppies were living, meet the parents and ask to see their health certificates.
