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The Chi-Spaniel is a petite designer dog developed by intentionally breeding a Cocker Spaniel with a Chihuahua. Short and spunky, the Chi-Spaniel is a sweet and smart pooch that gets along with small children and other pets. An occasional barker, the Chi-Spaniel thrives in both apartments and large houses. This breed is also called a Chi Cocker, Cocker Chi, and Chispaniel.
Breed Overview
Height:
12–16 inches
Weight:
6–18 pounds
Lifespan:
12–15 years
Colors:
Black, blue, white, tan, brown, red, golden, silver
Suitable for:
Active families with or without children, couples, singles
Temperament:
Loyal, loving, smart, friendly
If you’re thinking about adding a Chi-Spaniel to your family, here’s everything you need to know about caring for this adorable little dog.
Chi-Spaniel Characteristics
Chi-Spaniel Puppies
The Chi-Spaniel is a small hybrid pooch with a big personality. Bringing together the best traits of their Cocker Spaniel and Chihuahua parents into one petite package, the Chi-Spaniel is a confident, bold, and alert dog with a sensitive side. If not properly socialized, this dog can be shy and timid around strangers.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Chi-Spaniel 🧠
Before you bring a Chi-Spaniel into your home, it is important to know if this designer dog will get along with your children and other pets. Thankfully, this petite pooch does well with both! Happy-go-lucky, intelligent, and deeply devoted, the Chi-Spaniel makes an excellent pet for almost everyone.
Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪
Yep! The Chi-Spaniel is a great family pet. He’s patient enough to put up with tiny tots and loves to play and get pampered. Due to his highly social nature, the Chi-Spaniel is prone to separation anxiety. Therefore, you should never leave this dog alone for long periods of time.
Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽
Absolutely! The Chi-Spaniel does well with other dogs and even the family cat. Early socialization is key to ensuring your Chi-Spaniel is calm and confident around other animals.
Things to Know When Owning a Chi Spaniel
Here’s everything you need to know about providing your Chi-Spaniel with the best care possible.
Food & Diet Requirements 🦴
The Chi-Spaniel is a small dog with moderate amounts of energy. As such, they will need a high-quality kibble that caters to their age, size, and exercise levels. Feed your Chi-Spaniel about one cup of dog food divided into two meals every day. Your Chi-Spaniel’s food will cost around $25 per month. Give your pooch occasional treats but never overdo it. Overfeeding your dog can easily lead to obesity and other related health issues.
Exercise 🐕
The Chi-Spaniel doesn’t need tons of vigorous exercise to stay happy. About 30 minutes of physical activity per day is perfect for this breed. Walk your Chi-Spaniel around the block, play fetch with them in the backyard, and provide them with plenty of engaging dog toys. Taking your Chi-Spaniel to the local dog park is a great way to let them play while interacting with other dogs. Always keep a close eye on your pet while at the park to ensure they stay safe.
Training 🎾
The Chi-Spaniel is a relatively easy dog to train thanks to their keen intelligence and eagerness to please. While quick to learn, the Chi-Spaniel can be somewhat stubborn and sensitive. Firm, positive reinforcement training methods work best for this breed. Always give your Chi-Spaniel plenty of praise and treats when they listen and obey you.
Grooming ✂️
The Chi-Spaniel should be brushed a couple of times per week to remove dead and loose hair and reduce matting. If your Chi-Spaniel inherited the floppy ears of their parent Cocker Spaniel breed, be sure to be vigilant about cleaning them since they are prone to infection. This is especially important after bath time. Brush your dog’s teeth daily and trim their nails as needed.
Health and Conditions ❤️
- Dry skin
- Ear infections
- Allergies
- Patellar luxation
- Hip dysplasia
- Overactive tear glands
- Glaucoma
- Hypoglycemia
- Hydrocephalus
- Hypothyroidism
An overall healthy dog that can live for up to 15 years, the Chi-Spaniel is still prone to certain health conditions as they age. The Cocker Spaniel’s droopy eyelids can be inherited by your Chi-Spaniel, leading to various eye issues. Other conditions include cardiomyopathy, Von Willebrand’s disease, and allergies.
Ensure your Chi-Spaniel stays happy by taking them to the vet for an annual wellness check, feeding them premium dog food, and providing them with plenty of exercise.
Male vs Female
Male Chi-Spaniels will be a little bigger than females. Both sexes have the same personality traits.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Chi-Spaniel
1. Cocker Spaniels Are a Disney Favorite
The Cocker Spaniel garnered international attention in 1955 after the lovable breed was featured in the animated Disney movie, Lady and the Tramp.
2. Chihuahuas Are the World’s Smallest Dog
In fact, the smallest Chihuahua ever to exist was named Milly. She never grew to be taller than 4 inches.
3. Many Celebrities Owned Cocker Spaniels
Prince William, Oprah Winfrey, and George Clooney are all fans of the breed.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a fun and fabulous little designer dog, the Chi-Spaniel could be the perfect pooch for you! Well-suited for apartment dwellers and homeowners, this cute little canine gets along with young children and other pets. Smart, sassy, and spirited, the Chi-Spaniel is prone to separation anxiety. If you work long hours or travel, often this dog isn’t ideal for you.
If you want to add a pocket-sized dog to your family, the Chi-Spaniel could be a wonderful pet for you!
Featured Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock
