Chi Spaniel Dog Breed

The Chi-Spaniel, as a mixed breed, is not an official member of any breed group. Neither does any info exist about the true origin of a Chihuahua mixed with Cocker Spaniel; while a Cocker Spaniel mixed with Chihuahua has probably existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. The Chihuahua and Cocker Spaniel mix likely gained popularity during the designer dog "explosion" in North America in the late 20th century. These sweet, enthusiastic little dogs make great companion pets, particularly for those living in apartments.

A few Cocker Spaniel and Chihuahua mix facts: they're small-sized, averaging 10 inches at the shoulders in height and 15 pounds in weight; their coat length and texture can vary depending on the Chihuahua parent's coat type, but most often they're medium to long and silky, and they shed moderately; and they'll become upset if left alone for long periods.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Chi-Spaniel:

The Chi-Spaniel is an interesting, sometimes unpredictable mix. This hybrid is the offspring of two breeds that are quite different in some ways, especially regarding temperament: the Cocker Spaniel is extremely sweet and often pretty timid--while the Chihuahua, while friendly and playful, is scrappy, stubborn, and even aggressive. This blend of traits makes for a unique hybrid that can be friendly or mean, passive or dominant--and sometimes all of those at different times!

The Chihuahua-Cocker mix has a coat that can vary from fairly short to long, depending on whether its Chihuahua parent's coat is of the Smooth or Long variety. The coats don't shed too much, and they come in a wide variety of colors, usually in multi-colored patterns.

Temperament-wise, the Chi-Spaniel is affectionate and playful, but can be a mixed bag regarding the treatment of others (see above). They can get along well with kids and other pets, but they might be like the Chihuahua and try to dominate other dogs. Chi-Spaniels also--unless they're super-stubborn, again like the Chihuahua--respond well to training. And their watchdog skills can vary from not so great (like the Cocker) to excellent like that of the Chihuahua.

While the Chi-Spaniel is pretty energetic, these small hybrids don't need a ton of exercise. A short walk or two every day, combined with a brief period of play, should be plenty.

The Chi-Spaniel, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these hybrids may suffer ailments common to the parent breeds including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and various allergies. Smaller, more Chihuahua-like dogs might also be prone to dental issues (and will need their teeth brushed regularly), and shivering which excited or cold.

Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for the Chi-Spaniel is 12-16 years.