The Chihuahua Pitbull mix, also known as a Chipit, is a designer dog breed that results from the crossing of a purebred Chihuahua and a purebred Pitbull, two of America’s favorite dogs. Of course, this is a very unusual cross, and you may come across one in shelters, and we always encourage you to adopt instead of picking up a Chipit from a breeder.
Cute as these dogs are, they are the progeny of two of the scariest breeds in the world too. After all, the only thing more terrifying than a mean Chihuahua is a black Pitbull. If you are considering getting one of these feisty fellows, be sure to also read our article on how to train a stubborn dog.
So to decide if the ChiPit (Bullhuahua) is for you, then read on to learn all about them.
History of the Pitbull X Chihuahua
The exact origin of the Chihuahua Pitbull mix is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the United States. The crossbreed was first introduced in the early 2000s, as part of the trend of designer dogs that began in the late 1990s. Breeders hoped to create a dog that would combine the loyalty and protective instincts of a Pitbull with the compact size and lively personality of a Chihuahua. Of course, plenty of Chipits may have happened from an accidental breeding.
To understand this mix breed better, we need to look at the parent breeds:
The Chihuahua is a small breed of dog that is believed to have originated in Mexico. The exact origins of the breed are unclear, but it is thought to have descended from a small, ancient breed of dog called the Techichi. The Techichi was kept by the Toltec people in Mexico and was considered to be a sacred animal. The Chihuahua was later discovered by European explorers and brought to Europe, where it quickly became popular among the upper classes. Today, the Chihuahua is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.
The Pitbull, on the other hand, has a much more controversial history. The breed was originally developed in England in the 19th century for the sport of bull-baiting. However, when bull-baiting was banned in 1835, Pitbulls were bred for dog fighting instead. These dogs were bred for their strength, courage, and tenacity, and were often mistreated and abused by their owners. Today, the Pitbull is still associated with dog fighting and is banned in some countries, but many Pitbulls are loving and loyal pets who make great companions.
Appearance of a Pitbull Chihuahua Cross
The Chihuahua Pitbull mix is a small to medium-sized dog, typically weighing between 15-35 pounds and standing between 10-20 inches tall. The appearance of this breed can vary widely depending on which parent they take after more. Some may have a muscular and athletic build like their Pitbull parent, while others may have a more compact and petite body like their Chihuahua parent.
Their coats can also vary, with some having short and smooth coats, while others may have longer and fluffier coats if they come from a . Common coat colors include black, brown, white, brindle, and fawn. However, their coat may be any color.
This video of Chipit puppies does a give an idea what they look like when they’re little:
The Chipit is not a hypoallergenic dog and is not good for allergy sufferers.
Personality & Trainability Of The Chipit
The personality of a Chihuahua Pitbull mix can vary depending on the traits they inherit from their parents. Generally, they are loyal, affectionate, and protective of their families. They are known for their high energy levels and playfulness, making them a great choice for active families.
As with all breeds, socialization and training are key to ensuring that the dog is well-behaved and easy to live with. Early socialization with other dogs, people, and different environments is essential for this breed. They respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques, and consistent training will help them to learn obedience and good behavior.
They are moderately trainable with consistency and patience. They need plenty of reward, and they love their people. But they don’t always get along well with other animals. Smaller Chipits may be snappy with small children.
General Care of a Chipit Puppy and Dog
Taking care of a Chipit involves providing proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, and attention to ensure their overall health and well-being.
Energy Levels
Chipits are generally known for their high energy levels and playful personalities. They are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Exercise Needs
To meet their exercise needs, Chipits require daily walks and playtime. They can also benefit from activities such as agility training, fetch, and obedience training. It is essential to provide adequate exercise to keep them physically and mentally healthy.
Grooming Needs
Grooming a Chipit is relatively easy, as they have short hair and do not require frequent bathing. However, they may shed moderately, and brushing their coat once or twice a week can help keep it healthy and shiny. Their ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and their teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent dental problems.
Nutritional Needs
As with all dogs, a Chipit’s diet should be balanced and appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level. High-quality dog food with the appropriate levels of protein, fat, and carbohydrates is recommended. Owners should avoid overfeeding their Chipits, as they can be prone to weight gain and obesity.
How Much Does a Pitbull Chihuahua Mix Puppy Cost?
On average, you can expect to pay between $200 to $800 for a Chipit puppy from a reputable breeder. It’s worth noting that while you may be able to find cheaper Chipit puppies from backyard breeders or puppy mills, these puppies may come with health and behavioral issues.
Adopting a Chipit from a rescue organization or shelter is another option that can be more affordable and also give a loving home to a dog in need. The adoption fees for rescue dogs can vary depending on the organization, but they typically range from $50 to $400.
Longevity and Health of the Chipit
The life expectancy of a Chihuahua Pitbull mix breed, can vary depending on several factors, such as their overall health, genetics, and lifestyle. However, on average, they can live between 10 to 15 years.
Like all dog breeds, Chipits can be susceptible to certain health problems. Some of the common health issues that Chipits may face include:
- Dental Problems – Due to their small size, Chipits are prone to dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and plaque buildup.
- Joint Problems – Chipits may be prone to joint problems such as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation, which can cause discomfort and lameness.
- Eye Problems – Chipits can inherit eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy.
- Allergies – Some Chipits may develop skin allergies, which can cause itching, hair loss, and skin infections.
- Obesity – Chipits are prone to weight gain and obesity, which can lead to several health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
It’s essential to take your Chipit for regular veterinary check-ups, maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine, and provide appropriate grooming and dental care to help prevent and manage these health issues. Early detection and treatment of health problems
Final Thoughts
The Chihuahua Pitbull mix is a relatively new breed, but one that is becoming increasingly popular. They are loyal and affectionate pets that are well-suited to active families. Proper socialization and training are key to ensuring that they are well-behaved and easy to live with. While their appearance can vary widely, this breed is a unique and interesting mix of two beloved purebred dogs.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.