German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix: Free Ultimate Breed Guide 2023 -

Everything you need to know about a German Shepherd and a Chihuahua Dog mix.

German Shepherd – Chihuahua Mix: Can They Mate?

Can a German Shepherd and a Chihuahua mix? Yes, a female German Shepherd can mix with a male Chihuahua, but always with the help of experts because there could arise serious problems due to their size differences. However, you should be 100% sure and ready for a mix of these two unique breeds because their children will be very exceptional.

A QUESTION OF TIME

A vast body of researchers suggests that the ‘big bang’ in the domestication of dogs is focused between 12500-15000 years ago.

However, recent genetic studies suggest that such an event took place long ago and before our ancestors started forming the first living and working communities as agricultural communities. This type of community was already evidenced about 120000 years ago, mainly in Asia and Europe.

Genetic traces of the ‘New World Dog’ can be compared with the genetics of more than 100 breeds, proving that our ancestors migrated to other continents, especially from Asia to Europe and from Europe to North and South America bringing with them different types of dogs, bred them with the local dogs and they gave life to a new existence, with many similarities, behavioural and conformational traits between them.

And so, comparing the genetics of well-known breeds of herding dogs from different places of the world, we find their ancestors. Breeding based on conformational or behavioral traits, mainly during the 20th century, gave a net result of more than 400 types of dogs, recognized distinct breeds.

Entering the 21st century, researchers finally start heeding light on how all complicated conditions such as cancer, obesity or heart diseases can develop in all breeds of our canine friends -especially in all those upcoming breeds.

We are trying to identify the risk factors by collecting all the necessary information. This significant step will reduce all those risk factors by unlocking the genetic codes and lead to humans with many benefits for our entire species.

Is it also just another nature’s miracle or a bizarre human need for continuous evolution and perfectionism? Time will show.

What Are The Origins Of The German Shepherd Dog?

The Phylax society, formed in 1891, aimed to create standardized breeding in Germany. One of its members, Max Von Stephanitz, while attending one of the dog shows of that time, started to believe that dogs are creatures ideal for working issues. On that show, he observed a dog called Hektor Linksrhein.

He was so amazed by the animal’s intelligence and loyalty, that he made no second thoughts about purchasing him. Right after, he gave him a new name. He named it Horand Von Grafrath.The master of Horand Von Grafrath, Max Von Stephanitz, immediately founded the first Society of the German Shepherd Dog. With Horand as a father dog with the passing years and the proper mating nowadays, we have this amazing breed.

What Is The German Shepherd Dog Breed Standard?

The very first impression we may have regarding the appearance of a German Shepherd Dog is of a unique, muscled and powerful breed. Its skeletal construction was based on ideal proportions relative to the long length of bones and angulations.

At first sight, we can admire the intelligence and the symmetric proportions. However, the length of the body could be more harmonious with the height at the withers as it appears to be greater. Expression and temperament are unique. Also unique is the suitability of any work. It fits perfectly for any versatile utilities, herding, as a guard and as a service dog.

German Shepherd Dogs have sizeable wedge-shaped heads not very proportional to their body. The nose is black and large. The jaws are strong, and they cut like scissors. Their almond eyes are very expressive, sparkling at times like the stars, and you can easily understand their mood from the way they look at you.

The always-standing erect ears are pulled back when they move or run. Their movement is solid and full of effort, having a slightly smooth trot.

The coat can vary from the natural stock coat, long stock coat or long hair.

These fluffy creatures can really make you go crazy!

What Are The Colors Of A German Shepherd Dog?

Generally, talking about the colors of a GSD, we focus primarily on the degrees of black saddle, tan and gold. The darkish tan (brown), rich red to gold, or simply shades of gold. Some of the GSDs got light grey markings. However, we also meet blues, albinos or whites that do not match the standards of this breed.

Do German Shepherd Dogs Have A Good Temperament?

Self-assurance, loyalty, courage, tractability as well as ascending ability are the main characteristics that make this unique breed perfect. A dog is essential to be balanced to be a good companion. Still, most of all are self-confident to join any protection service and herding utilities. It is a dog full of vitality and enthusiasm.

With the proper training sessions, they can quickly adapt to any environment and defend themselves, their owner, his owners’ properties and possessions—a magnificent breed to watch and live with. Socialization has been a must since the early years of this breed.

Of course, it is not aggressive on its own. Still, the massive instinct for protection makes it highly energetic, a fact that can be fatal if not handled with care and correctly.

In every case, before you decide to start a life with a GSD, think well and twice first. A nice talk with adequate dog trainers will make you understand the character and how you should act and treat them inside and outside your limits.

They love to be physically near you, and most dog breeds love to be cuddled. If you have babies in the family, in every case, it is good to give space to interaction only if your GSD is already socialized and properly trained. Personalities in dogs, as in humans, can vary, but in every case, it is better to keep closer to your kids, the females of this breed, than the male ones.

What Is A German Shepherd Dog’s Standard Size?

When it comes to discussing the standard breed type of a dog, it is of great importance to define the standard size for each breed. It is essential to know how to measure a dog. Height should be measured vertically, plumping from the ground to top withers and directly behind the ulna joint.

For male GSD, the standard height at withers is defined as 60-65cm and a weight of 30-40kg. Females are slightly smaller in size with height at withers at 56-60cm and weight of 20-30kg. Each centimetre describes a different size from small to under medium, to medium, above medium and large.

Any other size can be defined as a fault. Excess of the above size and weight standards during exhibitions and dog shows is the main reason for banned dogs and faults.

Health Issues Of A German Shepherd Dog

The GSD can present different things during its lifetime, different weaknesses as:

Severe Hip Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia
Degenerative Spinal Stenosis
Degenerative Myelopathy

Ear infections
Jaw defects
Albinism

Various Deformities

We can easily open a topic of a huge discussion focusing on each of the weaknesses mentioned earlier, but this will be shown in a more analytic way in another, more detailed article.

History And Facts About Chihuahua

THE SON OF TECHICHI

Thesis and opinions about the history of one of the smaller breeds in the world vary. Still, they all have a scientific basis and give much food for thought.

This tiny little dog was discovered about one and a half centuries ago in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. From there is how it took its name. Researchers and breed specialists support that the ancient Aztecs and Incas developed the breed, and it had a great religious significance. Pictures of small Chihuahuas are found in ancient paintings in various locations of Mexico.

Some people also believe that this kind of dog, due to its small size, was easily transported from the Spanish conquerors in Mexico in the early 1500.

The Toltecs, who existed in what we call Mexico nowadays, possessed a breed of dog called Techichi. As for them, this breed is the progenitor of what we call Chihuahua today.

The first examples of the breed were meant to travel abroad. They arrived in the early 19th century in the United States of America. The breed became very popular during the 1930s and 40s, with the famous Latin Music band leader Xavier Cugat carrying a tiny Chihuahua during his shows.

The President of Mexico chose an unusual way to introduce this tiny little dog to the public by donating one to the famous Opera singer Adelina Patti. She gave her a small bouquet containing a small puppy. It became very popular when it first appeared in dog shows in late 1890.

What Are The Standards Of The Chihuahua Breed?

Chihuahuas belong to the toy group of dogs. They have extremely graceful charm and a saucy expression. Their temperament is of a classic terrier-like temperament. HOT!

The body is off the square, hence, slightly longer when measured from the point of shoulder to the point of buttocks than height at the withers. Shorter bodies of this breed are more common in males.

Their head is a perfect ‘apple’… Their eyes are small and round, well-balanced and sparkling, always depending on color. We can see examples with different colors in both eyes. Their ears are not very proportional with the rest of their head, are slightly bigger and always erect.

They are funny but always more upright when they are alert. The jaws are lethal weapons! Don’t try to abuse them or make them angry; you will understand at once why such behavior is prohibited. The tail is moderately long, almost always with a loop touching their back.

Chihuahuas have different types of coats. More common are those with smooth coats and short-haired. Not uncommon but not so preferred are the ones in a long coat, long-haired ones.

They move firmly, giving the impression that gravity has another sense when you see them walking or running.

What Is The Standard Size Of A Chihuahua?

Generally, the female Chihuahua ranges from 15 cm to 23 cm. The length of the body is between 24 cm to 38 cm. Their normal average weight is between 1.5 kg to 2.8 kg if they eat properly regularly. A dog that weighs more than this standard weight for sure has issues of obesity.

Here, as in German Shepherd Dogs, the excess of the standard size and weight is a reason to ban a dog during an exhibition and a dog show. Standardization is defined under all Breed Groups and Associations worldwide.

Is Chihuahua Dog Good As A Family Pet?

There is a big discussion about this sassy little breed’s adaptability and super-sized personality. It’s all about an extremely self-confident dog with a big tendency to bark. Very territorial and with a high sense of affection for its beloved ones. However, it is common sense that this kind of dog offers feistiness for the human that chooses to have it as a pet.

When this human thinks that the tiny size makes it ideal for children, it’s better to consider it a little more. Being small and tiny does not mean that when you are frightened or feel threatened, you cannot bite. The ugly truth is that a chihuahua does not care about the size, ferocity and aggressiveness of other dogs.

As a vigilant dog, it is essential to be socialized from the earliest stage of its life. Intruders or strangers overpassing the limit of the territory will find themselves in front of a surprise. They love treats and praises, mostly when those treats come with positive reinforcement during training that, in every case, requires a lot of consistency and patience.

Chihuahuas are clannish and prefer companions of the same breed as pets. So, if you want to introduce another breed to your tiny typhoon, think about the better choice for them. As puppies, they are not so easy to be socialized with as they are timid.

They usually bond only with one person they recognize as their unique master, parent and friend. They are excellent watchdogs, very sensitive and reserved at first sight. Be aware of the sounds and movements you make because they can become unpredictable.

Which Are The Main Colors Of A Chihuahua?

Chocolate, white, blue or red is the most common colors. Still, they can come out with a combination of different colors, mostly the long coat ones having as main ones including the fawn, black and tan, chocolate matched with white. Despite the big words of breeders who want to define themselves as experts, they only trust color mixtures different from those mentioned earlier. It’s a trap!

What Are The Most Common Weaknesses Of A Chihuahua?

Buying your puppy from a responsible breeder will help you make sure that you will get a healthy pet. The adequate documentation of both parents of your puppy will make clear everything about the condition of the new member of your family. The most common mistake breeders or inexperienced owners make to breed their dog when it is younger than the age of 2 or 3 years.

The most common weaknesses your pet can get are the following:

Pulmonic Stenosis

Heart Murmurs
Collapsed Trachea
Open Fontanel

Shivering
Hydrocephalus
Hypoglycemia

Patellar Luxation

We will further speak on each of the above health complications more accurately and analytically.

Is German shepherd mix with Chihuahua… Impossible?

Have you ever thought of the perfect love, and what does this look like? Or better. What does that love feel like?

How many of us felt not so comfortable, at least once in a lifetime, in front of a taller, bigger or more muscled partner? Can you imagine the NBA MVP player Yannis Antentonkounbo falling in love with a shorter 50cm woman? Or let’s be more precise. Can you imagine Jonquel Jones, the WNBA MVP falling in love with a dwarf? When the heart speaks, everything is possible in humankind, but this does not work the same with animals.

For all those passionate about German Lager beer and Mexican tacos and burritos, this new breed mix of German Shepherd and Chihuahua will give them a sea of emotions and hard work to do to live in harmony with such a strong temperamental dog.

If you love strong emotions, adventure and fun, this mix of breeds is the right one for you.

Can A Chihuahua Mate With A German Shepherd Dog?

Yes a Chihuahua can mate with a German Shepherd Dog. However, it is not recommended due to the significant size difference between the two breeds. This could lead to health issues for both animals and their offspring.

Still, if done carefully, they can produce healthy puppies that are an ideal mix of traits from both breeds. Such dogs tend to be loyal, and loving but also energetic and protective, making them perfect family pets. Furthermore, they often have longer life spans than either parent breed alone, so many potential dog owners find this hybrid appealing as well.

Undoubtedly, GSDs and Chihuahuas are two of the most loving and fanned breeds worldwide. The ‘engagement’ between these two little ‘fury devils can bring out various dogs based on different characteristics… Most of the time, the appearance of the Mexican Uber Alles friend is of a small to medium size dog. Some of them get the Chihuahua traits, some others the GSDs ones.

Of course, no word about mating a male GSD with a female Chihuahua! You can easily understand the reason. The only option available for such a goal is to give a little help to a male Chihuahua and keep at ease with the efforts of a German Shepherd. Sounds difficult, no? Well, we will not get into further details about this at this point! WE CAN ONLY SAY: DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME! A TEAM OF SPECIALISTS CAN SHOW YOU THE WAY!

The German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix is an interesting combination of two beloved dog breeds. While it might seem impossible, this unique hybrid has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its small size and loyal nature. It’s a perfect companion for those who want a loving pup that isn’t too big or too small.

The German Shepherd Chihuahua mix is also known for being intelligent and energetic but not overly aggressive, making them great family dogs as well as good guard dogs if trained properly. They are also fairly easy to train, so don’t be intimidated by their mixed heritage! If you’re looking for an adoptable pup with the best qualities from both worlds, the German Shepherd Chihuahua mix may just be the perfect fit!

What Is The Size Of A German Shepherd Dog – Chihuahua Mix? (Height/Weight)

As in all different breeds that can mate between them, the result can vary from mix to mix depending on different factors. Remember at this point that we speak about hybrids and not about a breed that is coming out handling with care every small step of the procedure of its evolution itself.

Usually, this union can give life to puppies that grow into normal dogs with a height from 18 cm to 110 cm and an approximate weight from 3.5 kg to 25 kg.

Does The German Shepherd And Chihuahua Dog Mix Have The Right Temperament For A Newbie Dog Owner?

Considering the mix of these two breeds as a revolution in a new breeding context, the new owner of a dog like this should know the true facts and have accurate knowledge about their descendants. Such dogs have huge personalities. Owning a new breed like this is not a privilege; it is mostly a responsibility. Deciding to give space and time in our lives to these little creatures, we need to understand what a commitment a dog’s ownership entails.

They depend on us for food, shelter, joy, and in general, for a good living.

Being as intelligent as the GSD Chihuahua mix means you need to be at least as smart as your pet is. Their ancestors were extremely high-intelligence dogs and tended to mimic their owners. So do not think that everything depends on the genes of your dog! Check yours too!

This type of new breed has the same tendency of vigilance and sense of protection as their parents have. They love to define their territory and want you to be part of it. They are playful, and they become hot if they are not respected by you or others, like dogs of the same or another breed.

Take always the advice of an expert trainer or vet doctor for the very first steps of your puppy and during its growth. You will undoubtedly be capable of making your little friend adapt to your new reality and vice versa. The ancestors of such a mix are dogs with a unique vitality. If trained properly can adapt to their family, and with the right interaction of all the members, they may have the best quality time.

What Are The Recommended Health Tests For Your German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Puppy?

As their ancestors are keen on undesirable health conditions, this upcoming new breed is also vulnerable to various health complications.

To avoid any bad surprises, prevent and help your little companion, from time to time, make a general checkup focusing mostly on the following:

Cardiac Exam
Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Patella Evaluation

Average Lifespan of a GSD Chihuahua Mix

On average, a GSD Chihuahua mix typically lives for 12 to 15 years. This is slightly longer than the average lifespan for both German Shepherds (10-14 years) and Chihuahuas (12-20 years). Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, as some dogs may live longer or shorter lives due to genetic factors or lifestyle choices.

If you want to increase the lifespan of your GSD Chihuahua mix, there are several steps you can take. Providing good nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate health care are all critical in keeping your dog healthy and happy. Additionally, reducing stress in its environment and providing plenty of love and affection can also help increase its lifespan.

How To Feed A German Shepherd – Chihuahua Dog Mix?

We, animal lovers, love to treat our small friends with the best food and treats when they do something we like. Unfortunately, the sense of firm shape and fitness is missing from our fluffy companions. Quite often, we need to correct their nutritional habits.

At every stage in the life of a dog, it is important to be respected and so on to be fed with the highest quality food. Puppies, Juniors and Adults are the main categories of a feeding procedure. We avoid giving food to puppies that can be masticated only by adults, even those of the same breed. The food’s size, quantity and quality are the factors that make a dog grow up healthy.

In this case, the GSD Chihuahua mix is a hybrid dog and must be very careful at every stage of its growth.

Genetically, both breeds tend towards obesity. This can affect the vital organs of our beloved dogs, such as the heart, kidneys and lungs and worsen conditions such as dysplasia.

The amounts of food must be measured in weight, calories and fat, avoiding in every way to exceed and make them dependents of treats.

To offer the best healthy food, we need to remember that this type of mixed breed is hyperactive, and we need to exercise daily.

How To Groom Your German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix?

If our dog comes out with a smooth coat line, then occasional brushing and bathing will be enough for a dapper look. In the case of a long-haired coat, you must brush carefully right to avoid tangles and mats at least once a week. Ears checking and removing wax is a must for further health conditions, as well as good dental care by brushing the tooth regularly and upon the recommendations of your vet doctor.

The Importance Of Training Your German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix

German Shepherds and Chihuahuas are both extremely intelligent breeds by nature, different in many characteristics but at the same time very similar in many others. You can imagine the result of mating these two breeds. What kind of an ‘Einstein dog’ comes out!

In order to have a well-balanced dog due to its temperament, it is of the greatest importance to have a proper training program with a variety of sessions dedicated to different issues. Since their ‘childhood’, when they are small puppies, it is a MUST to socialize with other dogs and humans. As well as human babies so they do not feel them as rivals, avoiding any probability of excessive jealousy.

For this breed, it has been a total challenge since the very early years to get into this kind of training reality for themselves. GSDs and Chihuahuas are extremely possessive and stubborn breeds, which, if taken for normal, can lead to very unpleasant situations. They pretend to have the continuous attention of their master; they like to be in strict contact with them as children with parents do.

The trainer’s work is to show them the real limits, follow the commands, respect the time and space of others, live harmoniously with the rest of the family members, accept the plurality of the essences, be correct, and understand what is right and what is wrong.

Especially for families with small children or babies, the German Shepherd-Chihuahua Mix hybrid is twice as MUST the early training. Children and babies in the absence of danger can provoke this loyal but, at the same time, extremely dangerous breed if not properly trained well.

Tips For German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix To Consider

Choose your GSD Chihuahua mix puppy from a breeder who is an expert, and refrain from experimenting with such different breeds of dogs.
The mix of a German Shepherd Dog and a Chihuahua can be unfriendly toward other dogs and humans. Be sure you have put in a lot of effort and patience to train them.
I prefer a puppy with both parents and a good temperament and character. An aggressive dog can give birth to a future aggressive puppy—genetic tests on the health conditions of parents’ temperamental factors.

A full-time responsible breeder will never sell a puppy of this mix to homes and owners with babies and small children.
Make sure you have enough time to dedicate to this mix of breeds. They need at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise daily.
Monitor your dog’s health continuously, groom them and visit your vet whenever you need to, even if you think an issue will be solved by itself.

Feed your dog the same accurate way as you feed yourself. You cannot be a good owner if you do not respect yourself.
Remember that German Shepherds and Chihuahuas are strong personality dogs. Keep them from establishing the rules. Otherwise, you will abandon your comfortable poltroon because your ‘alter ego’ asked you to move. Ground and space rules are a MUST with this mix.
Never hesitate to ask for the support of a specialist in training both breeds of this mix. For sure, this person knows more than you know.

Special care must be taken in ‘cold weather’. However, your special mix can be easily adaptable if your pet has quality time with beloved ones.

In Conclusion

The German Shepherd Chihuahua mix is an ideal match for owners who want a new canine companion that can easily fit into their lifestyles. Their intelligence and loyalty mean they are great for families and those who live alone or with roommates. They have minimal care requirements, so even busy dog owners won’t have to worry about providing them with the proper attention and exercise necessary for optimal health.

In addition, these dogs are known to be friendly and loving towards their owners, making them perfect companions if you want an animal that will always be there when you need it most. So if you’re looking for the perfect adoptable pet that requires minimal effort but provides maximum love in return, look no further than the German Shepherd Chihuahua mix!

By George Tsakalos