German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix
The German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix is a mixed Dog Breed between the German Shepherd and the Chihuahua. Yes, this can actually exist and does make for a rather interesting looking fellow. Obviously, the only way for this to happen is for a male Chihuahua to breed a female Shepherd with some help. Continue reading below to see more information on the german shepherd Chihuahua mix puppies, temperament, and german shepherd Chihuahua mix puppies for sale.
While we really recommend that you acquire one through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their German Shepherd mixed with Chihuahua puppy. That is, if they have any for sale. Always screen your breeders as much as possible to ensure that you are getting as high a quality dog as is possible. If intentionally bred, typically it is a German Shepherd Chihuahua mix.
If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals.
Here are some pictures of the German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix History
Here is a brief history of both the Shepherd and the Chihuahua. Being that this is a mixed breed dog, there isn’t a lot of history to it. However, we go more in depth to the history of both breeds.
As his name suggests, the German Shepherd originated in Germany, where he was created in the nineteenth century primarily by Captain Max von Stephanitz, who wanted to develop a dog that could be used for military and police work. The result was a dog that encompassed striking good looks, intelligence and versatility. World War I put a dent in the breed’s burgeoning popularity because the dogs were associated with the enemy. German Shepherds braved artillery fire, land mines and tanks to supply German soldiers in the trenches with deliveries of food and other necessities. After the war, movies featuring Rin Tin Tin and fellow German Shepherd Strongheart brought the breed back into favor. American audiences loved them. For a time, the German Shepherd was the most popular breed in the United States.
The Chihuahua became famous recently for a couple of reasons: The “Yo Quiero Taco Bell?” ad campaign and, more recently, the tendency of rich, attractive and famous young women to haul these small dogs with big attitudes around in stylish and expensive oversized purses. The Chihuahua is a native of Mexico. Their ancestors were believed to be spirit guides that protected souls as they traveled through the underworld. They are often times found buried with ancient Aztecs for this reason. No one really knows how long they have been here, but we do know it has been a long time.
Some dog experts say they were among the first native dogs of the Americas, others that they were brought to the New World after the Spanish conquest of Mexico. Still others believe the little dogs may have originated as miniaturized versions of pariah dogs, the nondescript brown dogs with prick ears that result when dogs are left to breed on their own with no selection for color or other specific characteristics. Whatever the case, the breed takes its name from the state of Chihuahua, where late-19th-century American tourists first encountered the tiny canines.
Awesome videos of German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix puppies
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Size and Weight
CHIHUAHUA
Height: 6-9 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 6 lb.
Lifespan: 10 -18 years
GERMAN SHEPHERD
Height: 22 - 26 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 75 - 95 lb.
Lifespan: 10 - 14 years
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Personality
The German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix might have a rather peculiar personality. They can certainly be aggressive with people and aggressive with other dogs. It is extremely important that you socialize them as much as possible. That goes for all dogs, socialization is key to a well behaved dog! They will require a good deal of exercise and will appreciate having the ball thrown for them often. They will also enjoy long walks and hikes, which is easier on their joints than running. They won’t do well being left alone in the house for long periods. He is energetic and his behavior will be a lot better if you give him the exercise he needs.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Health
All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. If they won’t do this, then look no more and don’t consider that breeder at all. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition.
The Chihuahua mixed with German Shepherd might be prone to the following: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of health problems that affect the breed. A careful breeder and one who truly cares about the breed itself, screens their breeding dogs for genetic disease and breed only the healthiest and best-looking specimens. One of the most common health problems with dogs is obesity. Keeping this under control is your responsibility.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Care
Since both the Chihuahua and the German Shepherd shed year round, you can expect your German Shepherd Chihuahua mix to shed year round too. Make sure that you have a good vacuum around to clean up after them. You will also want to make sure that they are brushed several times a week to prevent shedding absolutely all over the place. Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. The more that you get them used to being brushed the more they will enjoy it. Make sure that you comb from head to tail and take it easy on them.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Feeding
A lot of times diet is done on a per-dog basis. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U.S. are overweight. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia.
A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet.
