Chi-Chi

He is not recognized by the F.C.I.

Origin
Mexico <> China -> U.S.A.
Translation
Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Chi-Chi

The Chi-Chi is a hybrid created by crossing the Chihuahua and the Chinese Crested Dog. Typically small, weighing between 1.8 and 4.5 kilos, the Chi-Chi is an intelligent, friendly dog that loves to play and can be seen with or without hair. These hybrid dogs do well with children and can be left alone at home or in a yard with supervision and company for long periods. If time spent alone becomes excessive, a tendency towards separation anxiety has been noted. Sometimes messy and noisy, the Chi-Chi is a good watchdog as it barks when meeting strangers. Chi-Chi are often good at both climbing and jumping, and learn quickly.

History of the Chi-Chi

The hybrid known as the Chi-Chi is a new breed of dog with no detailed history. However, the two breeds that combine to create the breed have a long history.
        

A little of the Chihuahua

        
Theories on the origin of the Chihuahua vary. One theory is that the breed came from China on Spanish trading ships. Once in the Americas, it was crossed with native dogs. The best-known theory is that the breed is descended from the Techichi dog, which was revered by the Aztecs for its spiritual and healing properties. This little dog was believed to have the ability to guide the soul to the underworld. What is confirmed is that around 1850, these dogs were discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico, and a few were eventually brought to America. They were registered with the American Kennel Club in 1904.
Standard of the Chihuahua

A little of the Chinese Crested Dog

There are also many theories about the origin of the Chinese Crested Dog. Some say the Aztecs had the dog and used the breed to warm their beds, while others say the Chinese Crested Dog is a cross between the Mexican Hairless Dog and the Chihuahua. There are claims that the breed began in Africa, where it was called the African Hairless Terrier. From Africa, it was transported to Chinese trading ships in the 13th century, where it was used to catch rats and trade with merchants. The presence of the Chinese Crested Dog in Europe was first seen in the 1800s in paintings and later in photographs. While interest in the Chinese Crested Dog grew over the following century, it wasn't until 1991 that the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Standard of the Chinese Crested Dog

Appearance of the Chi-Chi

Chi-Chi appearance can vary. A small dog, the Chi-Chi will generally weigh between 1.8 and 4.5 kilos. The Chi-Chi can come in any variety of colors and can have a short, smooth coat, long fluffy hair or be hairless with patches of fur on its body. Most of these hybrids will have white hair on their belly, legs or chest. This hybrid will usually have a high forehead and a nose the same color as its body. Its eyes will be round or almond-shaped, and although most hybrids' eyes don't bulge like the Chihuahua's, some do. The Chi-Chi's neck is long and its body somewhat rectangular in shape. Its tail is generally long and curved, and if it's glabrous, the tail will have a patch of hair at the top.

Temperament of the Chi-Chi

The Chi-Chi is a bright, energetic dog, friendly and playful. A loyal dog, it will get on well with family members and may find a special bond with one or more of them. Generally easy to live with, Chi-Chi have a great personality and can act boldly towards new animals and people, a quality that makes the breed a good watchdog. Although the Chi-Chi can be left alone, if left for too long it can become stressed, leading to shedding, self-aggression in the form of biting or scratching, rude behavior or efforts to escape. Chi-Chi will get on well with children, but it's important that children learn to be kind to him. Training your Chi-Chi will require you to be firm and patient, while providing positive reinforcement in the form of rewards and praise.

Needs and activities of the Chi-Chi

Chi-Chi will need regular exercise, which may include walks, trips to the dog park and indoor and outdoor play. It's a good idea to keep an eye on its hind legs when jumping or climbing stairs. Some Chi-Chi will inherit the Chihuahua's fragile legs, and since the Chi-Chi is naturally curious and wants to explore, it may jump to a place from which it shouldn't jump. The Chi-Chi is not made for extreme temperatures, so if it's cold, make sure he has a sweater and in hot weather, don't allow him to exercise.

Maintenance of the Chi-Chi

Your Chi-Chi's grooming needs will depend on the coat he inherits. For long-haired dogs, daily brushing is important. Short-haired dogs need brushing only once a week. A hairless dog should be wiped with a damp cloth several times a week, and lotion and sunscreen should be applied daily to prevent sunburn. Your Chi-Chi's eyes should be cleaned regularly to prevent infections from developing. This is particularly important for those who inherit the Chihuahua's large eyes. Regular dental care is important because these hybrid dogs are prone to dental problems, and their teeth need to be brushed three times a week. Your Chi-Chi's nails should be trimmed regularly and he should be bathed as needed.

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