Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Chi-Chi (Chinese Crested & Chihuahua Mix): Info, Pictures & Care

Chi-Chi

While the Chi-Chi might not be the best-known puppy on the street, there’s a reason that they’ve entered the designer breed dog mix. They’re outgoing and energetic, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get the hypoallergenic traits from their Chinese Crested lineage and their spunky attitude from the Chihuahua.

Breed Overview

Height:

12 inches

Weight:

4–10 pounds

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Colors:

Brown, black, fawn, cream, and white

Suitable for:

Apartment living, families with older children, and previous pet owners

Temperament:

A bit yappy and nervous but fun, playful, and energetic

What else can you expect from this hybrid pup, and why is there such a drastic difference in the size and appearance from dog to dog? We answer all those questions and more here!

Chi Chi Dog Characteristics

Energy
+
High-energy dogs will need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy, while low-energy dogs require minimal physical activity. It’s important when choosing a dog to make sure their energy levels match your lifestyle or vice versa.
Trainability
+
Easy-to-train dogs are more skilled at learning prompts and actions quickly with minimal training. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice.
Health
+
Some breeds, due to their size or their breeds potential genetic health issues, have shorter lifespans than others. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet.
Lifespan
+
Some dog breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every dog will have these issues, but they have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Sociability
+
Some dog breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other dogs. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed, it’s important to socialize your dog and expose them to lots of different situations.

Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-03

Chi Chi Dog Puppies

Just because these dogs are small doesn’t mean they aren’t a handful. On the contrary, they have an extremely playful temperament and energy to spare. Still, their smaller size makes them great for apartments and is a big reason their average lifespan can reach 15 years.

However, they are notoriously difficult to train, especially if they take after their Chihuahua parent. The Chinese Crested and the Chihuahua are also vulnerable to a few health conditions that can be passed down.

Finally, while Chi-Chi Dogs are great around other pets and kids, their smaller size can make them a bit timid, and they can nip when they feel threatened. Early socialization and training are vital to keeping this in check.

Parent Breeds of the Chi-Chi
Image Credit: Left- Phuttharak, Shutterstock | Right – Peteris Zalitis, Shutterstock

Temperament & Intelligence of the Chi-Chi Dog 🧠

While a Chi-Chi is often stubborn, don’t mistake that for a lack of intelligence. Chi-Chi dogs are incredibly smart and loyal; they just have a strong will and like to do whatever they want. This is especially true if they take after the Chihuahua, but this also means they’re more likely to have a spunky and outgoing attitude that makes them a joy to own.

However, if they take after the Chinese Crested, they’ll be extremely smart but easy to train. The tradeoff is that they’ll also be lazier and less free-spirited throughout the day.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

While a Chi-Chi is affectionate, you must be especially careful if you have small kids. Chi Chis are tiny, and stumbling children and wandering hands can quickly lead to an injured dog or a nipped child.

We recommend only getting a Chi-Chi if you have older children.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

In the same way that a Chi-Chi is good with kids, they’re good with other pets, too. But you must be careful around larger dogs and other big pets because a Chi-Chi Dog is so small. While a Chi-Chi is unlikely to start any problems, clumsiness and accidents can quickly lead to an injured pet.

Just remember that socialization is key with any dog, so if you’re looking to keep your pup happy around other animals, it’s best to train and socialize them early.

Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-03

Things to Know When Owning a Chi-Chi Dog

Before you head out and adopt a Chi-Chi, it’s best to understand what you’re getting into. From how much they eat to common health conditions to keep an eye out for, we’ll cover everything that you need to know here.

Food & Diet Requirements

A Chi Chi doesn’t have any special dietary requirements, but they need a high-quality kibble to keep them healthy. The good thing about such a small dog is that high-quality food will last a long time, so you don’t have to worry about spending much money to feed them. It’s best to look for small-breed formulas and speak to your vet to help you develop a healthy diet plan.

Exercise

A Chi Chi is a high-energy dog, so you must take them for daily walks to prevent destructive behavior. Since a Chi-Chi is smaller, the walks don’t need nearly as long as you would need with a larger pup.

Just shoot for an hour of activity for your Chi Chi Dog daily, including indoor and outdoor activities.

Training

If your Chi Chi takes after a Chihuahua, training them will require a bit more work. Still, training them early and often is critical, as is persistence. With their Chinese Crested lineage, you must stick exclusively with positive reinforcement.

Otherwise, you’ll end up with a timid dog that doesn’t want to be around you, which is the last thing you want to happen.

Grooming ✂️

Grooming is a bit of a mixed bag with a Chi Chi. If you get a hairless pup, you only need to brush out the tufts of hair about once a week. However, you need to brush a fluffy Chi-Chi daily and take them to a groomer for a monthly trimming.

You’ll also need to bathe your Chi Chi Dog occasionally, and you should brush their teeth a few times a week.

Health and Conditions

While most Chi-Chis are healthy, they can inherit a few genetic issues from their parents. The best thing you can do is watch for these potential concerns while keeping your Chi-Chi Dog on a strict diet and brushing their teeth daily.

If you do your research when selecting a breeder, the chances of getting a Chi-Chi with any of these issues are slim.

Minor Conditions
  • Dental problems
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems
Serious Conditions
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Dry eye
  • Obesity

Male vs Female

There are a few differences between a male and female Chi Chi Dog. First, males are larger than females, but that depends on which parent they take after. Second, males tend to need more human interaction than females. So, if you’re looking for a dog to follow you around all day and be a lap dog, a male might be a better choice. However, a female might fit your home better if you spend long hours away.

Finally, neutering is cheaper than spaying, and a male can be a little more affordable up front.

Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2025-03 3 Little-Known Facts About the Chi Chi Dog

1. Chi Chi Dogs Have Highly Varied Physical Traits

All mixed-breeds take different parts of their appearance from each of their parents, but few dogs have two parents that vary as much in appearance as the Chi-Chi Dog. That’s why you can have hairless and fluffy Chi-Chis and everything in between.


2. Chi Chi Dogs Are Prone to Separation Anxiety

The Chi-Chis can suffer from separation anxiety, and this problem only worsens if you don’t train them early on. Get your Chi-Chi puppy used to the fact that you will leave and return, even if you don’t plan to be gone that often.


3. Some Chi-Chi Dogs Are Hypoallergenic

Even though breeders tried to capture the Chinese Crested’s hypoallergenic traits, they were only partially successful. Not every Chi-Chi is hypoallergenic, but it’s a little easier to tell than other crossbreeds.

If they have the Chinese Crested’s hairless appearance, there’s a good chance that you have a hypoallergenic dog. But on the other hand, if they look more like a Chihuahua, they’re likely still producing dander.

Final Thoughts

While there’s no guarantee of what you’re getting from each parent breed, the appeal of a Chi-Chi is undeniable. You could get a playful pup that’s hypoallergenic or a non-hypoallergenic dog that just wants to laze around all day.

No matter which traits your Chi Chi Dog inherits, you’ll have a lovable and cute companion that will make a great addition to your home. If you’re interested, we have several Chihuahua Mixes and Chinese Crested Mixes for you to explore!


Featured Image Credit: Eric Isselee, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

My Dog Got Stung by a Bee: Our Vet Explains What to Do

Any vet who works in an emergency clinic can attest to the surprisingly high frequency at which dogs are stung by bees. Some...

Dog Seizures: Causes, Signs, Treatments & Care (Vet Answer)

If you’ve ever seen your dog have a seizure, you know how horrible it can be. Most of the time, a seizure lasts...

12 Best Gourmet Dog Foods in 2025 – Top Picks & Reviews

We all want what is best for our canines, and premium food can be just the way to ensure that happens. Gourmet dog...

Are Bubbles Safe for Dogs? Everything You Need to Know!

Dogs absolutely love bubbles. They go bananas for the soapy little spheres. Bubbles can provide a great outlet for exercise, mental stimulation, and...

More related

Can Dogs Have Grape Jelly? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

Dogs love to sample from the garbage can if it’s within reach. One food they might accidentally get into is grape jelly. But...

Alaskan Husky: Dog Breed Info, Pictures, Traits & Care

Are you ready for a dog that can run for miles that never tires? If so, the Alaskan Husky is your pooch. These...

How Big Do Golden Retrievers Get? Vet-Verified Average Weight & Growth Chart

Golden Retrievers, often referred to as Goldens or Goldies for short, are beloved family pets often featured in movies and shows. You’ll also...

How to Tell if a Dog Has a Fever: Vet-Reviewed Tips & What to Do

It’s heartbreaking to watch your pet endure a fever. Like humans, dogs experience a fever when their body temperature is higher than normal....

Keep reading

5 Dog-Friendly Burrito Recipes You Can Make Today (Vet Approved)

Did someone say burrito? Burritos have become a desired cuisine in the U.S., and we’re sure no dog would turn their nose up at the chance for a taste. However, burritos cooked for humans are not particularly friendly for dogs,...

Dog-Friendly Burrito Recipes You Can Make Today

8 Best Dog Foods for Bladder Stones in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Bladder stones are not only painful and can leave your dog feeling miserable, but they can also lead to serious and dangerous health concerns. There are many options out there for food, and each food will do something different depending...

brown dog sniffing a dog food

10 Best Organic Dog Foods in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

There are currently no rules that manufacturers need to follow when calling a dog food natural or organic. As such, you need to check the ingredients and sources yourself to ensure that what you’re buying is natural. Furthermore, you have...

labradoodle puppy with dog bowl

Royal Canin Dog Food vs Hill’s Science Diet: 2025 Comparison, Pros & Cons

There are dozens of dog food brands, and each offers several varieties. This leads to many products to sort through, a great deal of research, and too much misinformation. You want the best food possible for your dog, but you...

Dogster_Dog Food Royal Canin vs Hill’s Science Diet

Can Dogs Eat Sage? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

Sage is a commonly used herb in the kitchen that flavors foods and is also used in essential oils, creams, ointments, and medicines. If you cook with sage or have it growing abundantly in your garden, you may wonder if...

Can Dogs Eat Sage

Can Dogs Eat Dairy? Vet-Verified Nutritional Guide & FAQ

If your dog has ever expressed interest in sharing your bowl of ice cream or glass of milk, you know how tough it can be to say “no” to them. But is sharing dairy products with your dog safe? Unfortunately,...

Can Dogs Eat Dairy

10 Vet-Verified Foods That Dogs Can Eat on Christmas (With Pictures)

Most dogs are foodies that want to eat whatever you’re eating. So, it’s no surprise if you find your dog sniffing around and staying close by your side while you prepare Christmas dinner. Fortunately, there are several common ingredients that...

Dogs Can Eat on Christmas

Can Dogs Eat Calamari? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Risks

Calamari is an Italian word for squid, which is exactly what calamari is. You can find calamari in most seafood restaurants, and it’s a favorite among many seafood lovers. If you bring your pooch to a seafood restaurant that allows...

Can Dogs Eat_calamari