You’ll hardly find a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix, but if you do, you’ll know how interesting and incredible this hybrid is.
This mixed breed is a combination of a small dog and a tough big dog. Let’s dig deeper and discuss everything you need to know about this miraculous hybrid.
Table of Contents
What is a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix called?
A pup thatâs half Chihuahua half German Shepherd is what you get when you mate a German Shepherd with a Chihuahua.
As with most hybrid canines, the German Shepherd and Chihuahua Mix have various titles made by combining the names of their parent breeds.
Whether you call him a German Shepherd Chihuahua, Chihuahua Shepherd Mix, Chihuahua Shepherd, or German Chihuahua, the meaning is the same. All these names refer to the offspring of a German Shepherd mixed with a Chihuahua.
Can a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd mate?
Due to the size difference between the two breeds, Chihuahuas and German Shepherds canât mate, at least not naturally.
So, if youâre wondering, âhow can German Shepherd mix with Chihuahua?â the process involves artificial insemination.
When making a Chihuahua German Shepherd hybrid, the female has to be a German Shepherd. This rule applies for all canines with a noticeable size difference, as the smaller female doesnât have the capacity to carry the large hybrid litter.
Chihuahua mothers already have a rough time giving birth to Chihuahua puppies. Making them rear any bigger pups will be impossible.
German Shepherd vs Chihuahua
The main difference between German Shepherd and Chihuahua is that German Shepherd is a medium-to-large dog between 22 to 26 inches tall and weighs 49 to 88 pounds while Chihuahua is a small dog between 6 to 9 inches tall and weighs 4 to 6 pounds.
German Shepherds are heavy shedders so they require average grooming while Chihuahuas usually require minimal grooming.
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs that seem timid and nervous because they always seem to be shivering. They only weigh under six pounds, so one would expect them to act friendly and adorable.
But make no mistake; these tiny canines have âbig dogâ personalities and are very moody and grumpy towards people they donât know. They also have quite an attitude, and they often get themselves into bad situations with much larger dogs.
However, they are very loving and gentle with their human owners, and they get along with other small pets exceptionally well.
German Shepherds are very different from Chihuahuas, and the differences are not only physical. Theyâre over 26 inches tall and tip the scales at 70 pounds.
These fur buddies can be intimidating to unfamiliar people because of their size and wolf-like appearance.
German Shepherds are very loyal, fearless, and protective of their human families. Theyâre very smart and obedient, and their socialization training is swift. They are excellent watchdogs, suspicious of strangers, and they donât bark unnecessarily.
Chihuahuas are little companion pups, whereas GSDs are highly intelligent canines with an extensive range of working skills, ranging from guarding to being therapy dogs.
Other German Shepherd Mixes: German Shepherd Poodle Mix (Shepadoodle Complete Guide)
German Shepherd history
The German Shepherd Dog (or the GSD) is one of the most recognizable breeds of all time. These hard-working canines were first bred to herd sheep.
However, you can find them doing police work, search and rescue, guarding, being therapy dogs, and various other jobs.
These canines got AKC recognition in 1908, and since then, breeders have followed strict breeding practices to ensure their conformity to standards.
Unfortunately, these practices gave them a poor genetic diversity, which explains why the GSDs display a myriad of health issues.
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Chihuahua history
Chihuahuas have been famous for centuries. Hailing from Mexico, these little canines are the smallest breed recognized by the American Kennel Club. Chihuahuas weigh between two and six pounds and donât grow more than eight inches.
Although the AKC recognized the first Chihuahua in 1904, little is known about the tiny poochâs history before that. The earliest description of Chihuahuas can be traced back to the 16th century, and historians believe that the Chihuahuas were a food source for the Aztec people back in the day. Yikes!
Today, Chihuahuas are one of the most popular lap dog breeds. Theyâre the national dog of Mexico, and their popularity has made them the second most popular breed in America.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix physical appearance
The physical attributes of a German Shepherd Mixed with a Chihuahua can vary depending on which parent the pup takes after.
Being a mixture of two physically different breeds, these hybrids can have a random mix of their parental characteristics.
However, sometimes a Chihuahua mixed with a German Shepherd is born with physical characteristics closer to one of his parents, making them look more like German Shepherds than Chihuahuas or vice versa.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix coat colors
Like other canine breeds, the Chihuahua Mix German Shepherd comes in different coat colors.
While most of them are born with tan or fawn coats, they can also carry black, red, brown, or any other color coat.
Most of the colors that German Shepherd Chihuahuas mix come in are shades of brown.
However, the AKC recognizes about thirty coat colors for Chihuahuas and seven coat colors for GSDs. This variety means that a Chihuahua mixed with a German Shepherd can be a combination of colors from both breeds.
Related Article: Sable German Shepherd (Complete Guide)
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix size, height, and weight
Hybrid pups tend to display a random set of characteristics from both parents. The GSD Chihuahua mix will likely be bigger than a pure Chihuahua but smaller than a GSD.
Since the two dogs have a vast difference in size, you can get a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix in any size. For example, a Teacup Chihuahua mixed with German Shepherd would give you a Miniature German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix.
In any case, hereâs what a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix full-grown can look like in terms of size:
| Male | Female | |
| Size group | Small to Medium | Small to Medium |
| Height | 8-26 inches | 8-24 inches |
| Weight | 8-60 pounds | 8-50 pounds |
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix temperament and personality
The GSD is an incredible herder and even better guard dog. Theyâre a very intelligent breed that understands what you want to do before you say it, and they are great at obedience training.
The Chihuahua is an affectionate little furball. Theyâre intelligent, social, and fun to be with. Chihuahuas are little in size but big in personality.
Both breeds are affectionate and loyal, but the similarity ends here.
While the German Shepherd is intelligent, patient, and protective, the Chihuahua is bossy, possessive, and somewhat aggressive.
Combining the two canines can give a dream mix of personalities, or you can get a temperamental nightmare. Worst case scenario will be a pooch with the temper of a Chihuahua and the body of a German Shepherd.
Does German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix get along with other pets?
German Shepherds are not only great with people, but theyâre also friendly with other canines, cats, horses, and other household pets.
Chihuahuas are not only aggressive towards canines their size, but they can also get into conflict with larger animals too.Â
Your German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix wonât grow into a canine that hates other pets. However, it can grow into a pooch that doesnât get along with other animals.
Due to the contrasting personality traits of the two breeds, it isnât easy to predict.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix training
Without proper training, German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes can be difficult pets to live with. Luckily, you can train these pups without a lot of effort since they are intelligent, thoughtful, and obedient.
Socialization training should be your priority when youâre trying to get a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix to get along with other pets.
Taking them to puppy training classes and having them mingle with other dogs when theyâre young will also help them grow up to be polite and well-behaved dogs.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix exercise requirement
Chihuahuas and GSDs are pretty energetic dogs who need plenty of activity, both physical and mental. While Chihuahuas can do well with short walks, German Shepherds need an hour of exercise every day to keep them from becoming hyper-energetic.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes will also need moderately heavy activities, but the duration may vary depending on which parent they take after.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix grooming and cleaning
Chihuahuas can have short, medium, or long-length hair, whereas the German Shepherd has long, thick fur.
Both GSDs and chihuahuas shed their coats and need to be groomed and brushed to keep them clean and shiny.
If your German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix takes after the breed with the longer fur, expect to spend at least 30 minutes brushing it every week. Increase the frequency to twice a week during shedding months.
Cleaning their ears now and then and brushing their teeth twice a week will help keep ear infections and dental problems at bay.
You may also like: German Shepherd Teething Stages, Age & Timeline of Baby Teeth
Is German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix hypoallergenic?
No, the German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix is not hypoallergenic. The German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix sheds moderately and is not hypoallergenic.
A dogâs fur can only be hypoallergenic if it has little to no dander â dead skin particles that make people allergic to canines. Thatâs not the case with these furballs.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix food and diet
The right food for your German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix will depend on their age, size, and activity level. A high-quality dry kibble should be your puppyâs staple diet, alongside healthy snacks and treats.
Avoid high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt foods for your canine friends. You should also avoid human foods as they can cause gastrointestinal issues and toxicity in your furry friend.
To avoid the risk of bloat and hypoglycemia, we recommend feeding your German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix two small portions instead of one large meal per day. Itâs best to let your pup rest and digest his food before you take him out for exercise.
You can also buy a slow feeder instead of a regular doggy bowl. As the name implies, a slow feeder is designed to prevent your furry friend from eating too fast.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix common health issues
Both the GSD and the Chihuahua have a long list of health issues and diseases that stem from their parents.
If you have a Chihuahua or a German Shepherd or another dog breed and would like to know potential health issues they may be prone to, we highly recommend that you speak with your dog’s breeder or veterinarian.
Your dog’s breeder is a great choice since they know the health issues your pup’s parents may have. If both options aren’t possible, you could also use a dog DNA test. The one I used for my two canine friends was the Embark dog DNA test.
When the test results came back two weeks later, I was pleasantly surprised at how accurate the breed identification results were. The dog DNA test was also able to detect potential health issues my dogs may be susceptible to.
With that information, I was able to understand what health issues my two pups were prone to and how I can better take care of them.
Despite the many health risks, the GSD Chihuahua Mix is healthier than both parents. These canines can inherit âhybrid vigor,â or an increase in size and healthiness that comes with crossbred pups.
However, German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes could still inherit diseases that affect either parent, such as:
1. Patellar luxation
Patellar luxation is common among small breeds like the Chihuahua. This disease causes the patella, or kneecap, to dislocate randomly. The condition can be mildly irritating to severely painful, and it can require corrective surgery.
RELATED: Chihuahua Health Issues is a helpful article that goes over a list of 13 health issues that specifically affects Chihuahuas. You don’t want to miss it if you have a Chihuahua!
2. Bloat
Bloat can be described as a tubular swelling in the stomach, which can be fatal if it isnât addressed immediately. It can cause abdominal pain and vomiting, as well as abnormal breathing patterns.
3. Degenerative Myelopathy
Canine degenerative myelopathy is a spine disease common among GSDs. The affected dog can have severe trouble moving around, and the condition can lead to paralysis. Degenerative myelopathy is a heredity defect, and it worsens with age.
4. Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is the accumulation of excess cerebral fluid in the brain. Baby Chihuahuas have a natural opening in their skulls which sometimes fails to close as they age and allows the cerebral fluid to leak in. The canine may suffer from headaches, seizures, or even mental disabilities.
5. Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is improper development of the hip joints. In this case, the bones donât fit together correctly. The puppy may suffer from arthritis and pain when walking or running. Hip dysplasia is frequent among large canines such as the German Shepherd.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix lifespan
A German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix may live for up to 10 to 14 years. Although hybrid pups have a healthier life than their parents, there are so many variables that affect how long a pooch will live.
Age, diet, genetics, health history, and lifestyle are just some of the factors that can impact your petâs lifespan.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix puppy
The most important aspect of owning a Chihuahua German Shepherd Mix puppy is their training and socialization.
Your puppy needs to learn to listen and obey your commands and to behave around other dogs. You need to ensure that they are house trained and donât bark at neighbors or visitors.
The best way to take your German Shepherd Mixed with Chihuahua puppies out is to carry them in a backpack. This practice will prevent them from choking on the leash or getting caught up between your legs. As the pup becomes more confident, you may introduce the leash gradually.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix puppies mature quickly and would need high-quality food to nourish their growing bodies. Go for a dog food specifically designed to meet their nutritional needs.
Keep vet visits regular and vaccinate them for various illnesses and viruses during their first few months.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix price
The German Shepherd Chihuahua isnât a pup youâll come across often at the rescue center, and due to their unpredictability and the complicated breeding procedure, very few breeders try to produce German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes.
A GSD usually costs around $1,500 to $3,000, whereas a Chihuahua can cost about $500 to $1,500, depending on their coat, health, size, and breeder.
Their mix should cost less than both purebred parents.
However, their price usually depends on the breeder and how they market these pups. Even though the actual price of this pup should be less than that of the GSD and the Chihuahua, you may find a breeder selling them for a much higher price.
For those who want a canine pal without spending too much, thereâs always the adoption route. So, how can you find these furry pets up for adoption?
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix adoption
You can look for a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix online at one of the many doggy adoption sites. You can also contact a local shelter.
However, itâs highly unlikely that youâll be able to find a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix as easily as a more common cross.
Although there are pups belonging to numerous breeds awaiting adoption in shelters and rescue centers, itâs rare for someone to find a furry buddy fulfilling all their preferences. Most people simply search for a canine pal with the best potential to match their lifestyle and personality and go from there.
If you want a four-legged friend that matches your taste, consider purchasing from a licensed breeder.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix for sale
There arenât many breeders with Chihuahua German Shepherd Mix for sale. The procedure of breeding these mixed-breeds isnât straightforward, and most breeders prefer producing purebreds.
Until more breeders brave this process, itâs unlikely that youâll find a German Shepherd Cross Chihuahua for sale easily.
Be aware that hybrid dogs are not always easy to get your hands on. German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes are hard to come by, and due to their rarity, they may command a hefty price tag.
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix puppies for sale
This pup isnât easy to acquire; if you want to get your hands on one, you may need to contact a private breeder or go online.
However, avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders. Those places have poor conditions and donât have the pupâs best interests in mind.
Regardless of where you find Chihuahua German Shepherd Mix puppies for sale, you should ensure that the place is reputable before deciding.
Make sure that they can provide you with extensive information about the pupâs parents, medical history, and behavior traits. Most importantly, you should be able to check their living conditions.
Is the German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix right for me?
The Chihuahua parent tends to be hostile toward other canines. The GSD also has a bit of aggressive energy in his blood, though itâs not nearly as bad as that of the Pitbull or Rottweiler.
Combining the two canids can have unpredictable results, and youâll need to ensure proper training to get your German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix to behave.
When deciding whether to purchase a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix, consider the pros and cons.
With some work and training, your German Shepherd Chihuahua mix could be a delightful addition to the family.
Related Questions
A German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix can be 26 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh about 60 pounds.
Not naturally, but they can breed together through artificial insemination.
The smallest German Shepherd mix is one made by crossing them with Chihuahuas.
Some of the best breeds to mix a German Shepherd with are Golden Retrievers, Chow Chows, Border Collies, and Great Danes. These breeds combine really well with GSDs.
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The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Shepherd
https://www.britannica.com/animal/Chihuahua-dog
With over five years of specialized experience as an animal writer, my expertise lies in dog nutrition, health, behavior, grooming, and training. I am dedicated to delivering helpful and informative content that caters to the well-being of our furry friends. My primary goal is to empower pet owners with knowledge and ensure our canine companions thrive in health and happiness. In my free time, I love volunteering at local dog rescue centers.
