What happens when you combine a canine with roots from the Roman Empire with a pup descending from the ancient Aztecs? A unique and unusual pup known as the Rottweiler Chihuahua mix!
This type of designer canine is indeed a combo that is quite unpredictable; you can either get a great working dog with dominant Rottweiler genes or a small companion doggie with a bold character.
Without further ado, it’s time to discover everything about this interesting cross between two completely different breeds, which makes the whole journey through this article even more fascinating!
What Is A Chiweiler?
This is a very interesting cross of two dog breeds that don’t seem to have anything in common, yet make quite an amazing crossbreed.
Generally, Rottchis are loyal and protective pets, but no one can claim that every mixed-breed puppy will possess the same traits.
Due to the fact that descendants of different breeds typically acquire the characteristics of both of their parents, it is impossible to make an accurate prediction regarding the characteristics that will be exhibited by this particular hybrid.
Examining the physical features as well as the temperament of the parents is the most accurate technique to predict the outcome of a crossbreeding experiment.
Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix: Appearance
It is almost impossible to predict what kind of pup you will get after crossbreeding a Rottie and a Chihuahua.
These two purebred canines have completely different sizes, stature, and other physical features; therefore, there are numerous possible combinations that could come out as a result.
The Chirott can inherit genes from both parents, but one gene will always be more dominant, which is why some Chiweilers are small and others are medium-sized dogs.
How Big Do They Grow?
The genes that this crossbreed inherits from both of its parents determine how big it will get as it gets older.
According to the size of the parent breeds, the Rottweiler Chihuahua mix can be expected to grow up to 18 inches (20 at the most, but on rare occasions), which is why they either end up as medium or short-sized pups.
Their weight follows the same pattern as their height, which is why most Chirotts weigh up to 60 lbs at the most.
There are certain cases in which Rottchis might appear bigger than usual, so don’t be surprised if you come across a hybrid that is 20 inches tall and weighs 80 pounds. Although it’s a rare occurrence, it’s not completely impossible either.
Now, if there’s an above-average Chiweiler, it’s natural that there’s a below-average Chiweiler as well.
The smallest Rottie and Chihuahua cross will be up to 12 inches high, and will weigh up to 35 lbs max.
As you can see, there’s a great disparity between the mixed puppies of the Chi and the Rottie, which just proves that you can never know for sure what the result of the breeding process will be.
Coat Types
When it comes to the coat types and colors, Rottchies can be divided into two categories, just like their Chihuahua parents: short- and long-haired pups.
However, no matter whether their smooth coat is short or long, they can be colored in a wide range of both Chihuahua and Rottweiler hues and patterns, including:
Shades:
Chocolate
Black
Rust
Blue
Cream
Red
Golden
Fawn
Silver
Patterns:
Tricolor
Bicolor
Merle
Sable
Brindle (blue or black)
Spotted
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As you can see, there are plenty of possible shade and marking combinations that these designer canines can come in, although some colors, like black, might be more dominant than others.
Therefore, don’t be surprised if almost every one of your Chirott puppies contains at least a dark or pure black spot on their coat.
Grooming
Photo from: @fourleggedjourney
Although both Rottweilers and Chihuahuas shed during the year, keeping them clean isn’t an issue at all.
The same goes for their crossbreed, which usually has short and shiny coat hair.
The most important step in grooming a Rottweiler Chihuahua mix is brushing, which should be done regularly to prevent dirt from piling up on its skin, which, in turn, might result in a skin disease caused by an infection.
Also, if you use a good brush for Rotties or Chihuahuas (depending on the type of coat), you’ll be able to brush out all the excessive hair that would usually end up on your rug or your couch.
However, don’t forget about bathing your pup as well. You can brush out most of the dirt, but without a good shampoo, you won’t be able to properly clean the dog’s skin underneath the coat, which is the perfect habitat for all sorts of bacteria and fungi.
Your Rottchi should be bathed at least every eight to twelve weeks, which is generally considered the time at which most dog breeds should be bathed.
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Should You Use Wipes?
Dog wipes are one of the best inventions for the hygiene of your pet as it enables you to clean certain areas of your pup’s body that get dirty easily or places that might get infected because of the moisture and bacteria that are retained.
Still, these wipes can’t be used in place of bathing. Even if you use this type of grooming equipment regularly, you will still have to bathe your Rottchi every two or three months (at most).
Other Grooming Needs
When you hear the word ‘grooming’, the first things that come to your mind are hair trimming and baths.
However, dog hygiene isn’t just about washing, cutting, and brushing your canine’s hair.
Chihuahuas usually have long and thick nails, and their cross with the Rottweiler has pretty much the same issue. Therefore, nail trimming is an important part of the grooming process for Chiweilers.
If you decide to trim your pup’s nails at home instead of at a salon, bear in mind that this can be a very painful process if you don’t use the right tools.
Also, brushing your canine’s teeth is an essential part of taking care of your pup, especially a Rottweiler Chihuahua mix’s teeth.
Their teeth might be as strong as a Rottie’s, but there’s a chance that these crossbreeds will inherit the sensitive teeth from Chihuahuas.
If you don’t want your pup to end up without teeth, you should definitely take care of their dental hygiene.
Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix: Temperament
Photo from: @armanironaldo
What could you possibly get when you cross a canine of medium size and the strength of a large dog with a pup that might be small, but highly energetic and of unpredictable behavior?
Truth be told, there are many possible combinations, but most of these hybrids end up being fiercely energetic pups with good herding instincts and even better guard-dog traits.
The occasional behavioral patterns of this cross might imply that they inherit signs of aggressiveness from Chihuahuas, but that doesn’t have to be the case with every hybrid pup.
Some of the most common personality traits that are related to Chihuahua and Rottweiler cross pups are:
• High intelligence
• Defensiveness
• Loyalty
• Stubbornness
• Hostility towards strangers
• Boldness
Does A Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Show Signs Of Aggression?
Chihuahuas aren’t the only breed in this mix that is characterized as an aggressive dog breed.
Unfortunately, Rottweilers are often considered dangerous simply because of their looks and protective nature, which might be seen as aggressive behavior, even though Rotties rarely show signs of true aggressiveness.
Almost every dog breed can display a certain kind of aggressive behavior during their life, so it’s not a surprise that Rottchis sometimes become hostile as well, especially towards people they don’t know.
If you notice that your Rottweiler Chihuahua mix puppy barks more often than it should or that it starts nipping and snarling, it’s time to intensify the obedience training.
Generally, aggression in canines, including Chiweilers, can be put under control with good training methods and programs.
Experienced owners usually don’t have issues training their pups, but if you’re not sure whether you’ll be able to show dominance to your dog, it would be better to pay a professional dog trainer.
Are Rottweiler Chihuahua Crossbreeds Good Family Pets?
Rottweilers are great with kids, which is why they’re usually considered good family dogs.
This isn’t so surprising as much as the fact that Chihuahuas are also great family pets, but only if they’re treated well.
Chis will do everything they can to protect the ones they love, but they might not be the best choice for inexperienced owners who aren’t used to strong-willed canines.
Therefore, the cross between these two breeds usually results in a pup that might not be a good family dog, such as a Labrador or a Golden Retriever by nature, but they can be trained to be the best versions of the Rottweiler Chihuahua mixed-breed family companion.
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Is A Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Healthy?
Photo from: @fourleggedjourney
In order to speak about the well-being of Rottweiler Chihuahua mixed breed pups, we first need to address the health of the parent breeds.
Find out below what you can expect from your Rottchi in terms of its health predispositions and genetic heritage.
Chihuahuas
This small dog is considered to be one of the healthiest canine breeds that has a long life expectancy, along with Beagles, Poodles, and Huskies.
However, these pups might experience certain health issues during their lifetime as well regardless of their shape and small stature.
Cardiovascular diseases, teeth and gum issues, along with joint problems are just some of the most common issues that might appear during their lifetime.
However, most of these conditions can be treated if the symptoms are noticed in time.
Rottweilers
It’s interesting to notice that even though they’re generally considered a physically healthy canine breed with only health issues like hip dysplasia (that most dogs develop) or eyesight problems, they are often characterized as a very sensitive breed.
Rotts can be very clingy, and they might become overly attached to their owner all of a sudden simply because they were out for a couple of hours.
Separation anxiety can lead to serious behavioral issues that might end up in destructive behavior, which is why the Rott owners should socialize their pups from early puppyhood, and train them to spend time with other people and pets as well.
Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Health
Now that we know more about the parent breeds’ health of this crossbreed, it’s easy to imagine what could be the possible outcome.
Hybrid canines are thought to be healthier than their purebred parents usually because these crosses are intentionally bred to get the best traits of both parent breeds in one canine.
That is why it might seem confusing that there are so many health problems listed in the paragraphs below if crossbreeds are indeed healthier than purebred pups.
However, breed-mixing is often unpredictable, and even though breeders expect the best outcome, sometimes mixed-breed pooches might inherit a few health issues, too.
Common Health Problems Of The Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix
Photo from: @peteynjack
Hypothyroidism
This type of condition is often characterized by unusual weight changes, along with different behavioral patterns and low energy levels.
Canines that suffer from hypothyroidism are more prone to obesity, doggy lethargy, and the loss of coat fur.
This type of health issue is a sort of canine sickness that results from a deficit in the hormones produced by the thyroid gland.
That is why it’s important to get the best quality food for Rotties or Chihuahuas depending on which genes are more dominant.
Hypoglycemia
Small dogs are often prone to this type of medical condition, which is characterized by a sudden drop of sugar in the blood to the point where it can become life-threatening.
Some of the most common symptoms that might appear in Rottchis are changes in skin color, shaking, seizure attacks, and coordination problems, as well as the rejection of both dog food and drinks.
Dogs that have hypoglycemia might seem as if they’re looking at something, even though they’re just staring at nothing.
If treatment is not administered, there is a risk that the dog will pass away, particularly if it inherits the small growth from the Chihuahua.
Elbow Dysplasia
This is one of the most typical illnesses that appear in a great number of dog breeds, along with hip dysplasia.
Pitbulls, Mastiffs, Rotts, and other bully dog breeds are prone to these conditions as these are mostly related to the large canine breeds.
If you notice that your pet can’t walk properly or suddenly starts limping, there is a high chance it might have elbow dysplasia.
Chiweilers are very energetic, so if you notice that the doggy’s enthusiasm for walks and going outside has dropped, there’s certainly a physiological issue behind it.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
This condition has been a health concern for many years among pet owners, who usually get very distressed as soon as they see blood coming out of their dog’s nose, reproductive or urinary tracts, as well as the mouth in some cases.
Although this isn’t a completely harmless disease, it’s a genetic disorder that usually causes milder bleeding.
However, if your pet starts bleeding heavily, you should take it to the doctor immediately, so they can give your pet a blood transfusion.
Separation Anxiety
It’s possible that your puppy will experience anxiety issues if you leave him alone for longer periods of time.
The destruction of furniture and other items in your home while you are away is a symptom of this condition. There can be other signs of destructive behavior as well, such as excessive digging, sudden mood changes, etc.
The Rottweiler Chihuahua hybrid is a sensitive type that may experience isolation more than other breeds despite the fact that this trait is common in many dog breeds.
If this is the case, you should seek the advice of a canine behavioral expert. You can also insist on socialization in the early period of the pup’s life to get them used to other people and pets around them.
Hydrocephalus
Photo from: @peteynjack
When this illness occurs, there is a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain that forces the ventricular pressure to grow, which ultimately results in the loss of brain tissue for good.
However, if the Rottchi is affected by this disease, there are certain chances that it won’t leave such serious consequences, especially if the case is of a rather mild intensity.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
PRA is the abbreviation for Progressive Retinal Atrophy, which is a condition that causes dogs to completely lose their eyesight.
It’s difficult to accept the fact that your pup might not be able to see well anymore, especially because there are no known treatments that might help your doggie keep its eyesight.
This condition has a slow development that starts with eyesight problems and ultimately leads to cataracts and utter blindness. Night blindness is the initial symptom of this condition.
Heart Murmur
A disturbance in the normal flow of blood through the heart’s chambers is the root cause of this condition that appears in dogs the same way as it does in humans.
Even while cardiac murmurs aren’t dangerous in and of themselves, they can be indicators of more severe underlying cardiac diseases.
That’s why it’s important to recognize the symptoms in time and react before they get more serious.
Younger canines usually experience this type of condition, be it a Rottweiler, a Chihuahua, or their mixed breed dog.
Patella Luxation
What elbow dysplasia is for large dogs, luxating patella is for small doggies, as this condition frequently appears in smaller dog breeds.
Essentially, this is a condition in which the kneecap is dislocated from its regular position, which causes a great amount of pain and the inability to walk.
Chis are usually prone to this condition because of their size, but it’s not excluded that their crossbreed with a Rottie might also have an increased risk of getting this condition.
Pups may experience difficulty walking, which might not be noticeable in the beginning, but they may lose the ability to walk altogether if it’s not treated in time.
Dental And Periodontal Conditions
Teeth problems are common in small breeds of canines like Chihuahuas. As I mentioned above, Chis have sensitive teeth and gums, which is why it’s no surprise if the Rottchi’s teeth start to decay, especially if they’re not regularly cleaned.
You may avoid this problem by giving your dog daily teeth-brushing and dental cleaning.
There are days when this might feel a bit tiresome, but it’s nothing compared to the health of your pet.
Pulmonary Stenosis
This genetic illness is characterized by irregular blood flow through the heart as a result of an abnormality of the pulmonary valves, which can be present at birth.
In order to compensate for the increased demand placed on it, the heart must beat faster in order to move blood away from the heart.
The most common symptoms include heavy breathing, arrhythmia, or even fainting.
Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Lifespan
Photo from: @peteynjack
One of the best things about the Chihuahua dog breed is their life expectancy, which is longer than a great number of other purebred and mixed breed doggies.
Chis are expected to live up to twenty years, which is quite impressive, especially if you take into consideration that the average lifespan of canines is usually up to 15 years at the most.
On the other hand, a Rottie’s life expectancy is between eight and 10 years, which is much lower, but the average lifespan for large canines.
Therefore, the average life expectancy of a cross between these two breeds would be somewhere between 11 and 15 years.
Some pups can live either longer or shorter, but they’re rather considered exceptions than a rule.
A dog’s lifespan depends on many factors, and their genetic background is just one of them.
There is a good chance that the hybrid’s vitality, gender, size, and overall well-being will come into play in this situation.
Therefore, there is no assurance that the offspring will take after either of their parents in terms of the characteristics they possess.
Rottweiler Chihuahua Training
Photo from: @fourleggedjourney
The independent nature of the Rottweiler Chihuahua mixed puppy will make it challenging to train them, and you may find that one-on-one training sessions need a significant amount of time investment on your part.
Thankfully, both of its parents are intelligent dogs, which will make up for the stubbornness of their offspring, and it will help the puppy to be more open to socialization training and obedience classes.
However, you will need to use a lot of positive reinforcement in order to train these pups, or else there will be no effect. Early socialization and obedience are key factors in the adaptation of this kind of puppy into a family environment.
However, although Chis are sometimes stubborn and aggressive, they’re eager to please their dog owner in any way they can.
There are chances that the Rottchi will take after its Chihuahua parent, but again, it all depends on the dominant gene.
A reward system has proven to be a good training method. Therefore, try to reward your puppy for successfully completing a task with a tasty treat and some cuddling.
Just keep in mind that you should refrain from shouting or becoming angry at them when they don’t listen.
Puppies are unable to comprehend the concept of rage, and being around it may cause them to become frightened and aggressive.
Wrapping Up
A Rottweiler Chihuahua mixed puppy is truly quite an interesting crossbred pup that can be a great watchdog and protector of its family.
However, if you want to get the best out of it, then you should follow its daily exercise requirements, which are quite high, considering that both parent breeds have high energy levels.
One thing is for sure: they are hard-working pups just like their Rottweiler parents, even though they usually inherit their size from the Chihuahua side.
Unfortunately, canine organizations such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), and the Kennel Club (KC) still don’t recognize the majority of hybrid canines as official dog breeds.
Who knows… maybe one day, if the regulations change, Chiweilers will become an official canine breed just like their parents!
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