Should You Get A Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix? We’ll Help You Decide!

Have you ever heard of the Chipin? The name sounds charming, and we assure you that the dog it accompanies is certainly so. The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix may not be the most well-known crossbreed in the canine kingdom, but he’s a fast rising star amongst those who are fans of sprightly, spirited toy dogs.

And if you’re wondering if the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is right for you, you’ve come to the right place. Join us today as we talk more about this darling little dog.

What Is A Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix?

The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is sometimes known as the Chipin.

The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is a crossbreed dog, which means he is the offspring of two different purebred parents. In this case, his parents are the purebred Miniature Pinscher and the purebred Chihuahua. On the surface, both of these dogs have similar characteristics.

They are both lean, toy breeds with spunky temperaments and adoring dispositions. However, they are truly two very different dogs, and it’s important to consider this when considering investing in their hybrid offspring.

So, what can you expect out of a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix? Let’s take a look at an overview of this hybrid.

Common Names: The Chipin

Height: 8 to 12 Inches

Weight: 5 to 15 Pounds

Temperament: Independent, Energetic, Intelligent, Sassy

Best Suited For: Singles, Couples, Seniors, Families With Older Children

Hypoallergenic: No

Lifespan: 10 to 12 Years

Health Issues: Dental Disease, Hip Dysplasia, Eye Injury, Low Blood Pressure, Heart Disease, Obesity, And Tracheal Collapse

Clubs That Recognize The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix:

None

Where Does The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix Come From?

The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is a mix between two small, lively little dogs.

The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is a newer hybrid to the scene, which means there is still a lot we have to learn about him. Many experts consider the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix’s story as still being written.

That said, we can learn more about the Chipin by taking a quick look at the histories of his parent breeds. Let’s begin with the Miniature Pinscher.

Meet the Miniature Pinscher

Also known as the Min Pin, the Miniature Pinscher is a muscular little toy breed ranging between 8 to 15 pounds. He hails from Germany, where he was likely bred by way of mixing Dachshunds with Greyhounds to create a small, agile vermin hunting dog.

Today, the Miniature Pinscher is often mistaken for a bred-down version of the Doberman. In spite of their similar appearance, the Min Pin has no relation to the Doberman Pinscher whatsoever.

Min Pin dogs are family favorites, adoring with children and other pets when raised properly and serving as a wonderful little watchdog for their families.

Meet The Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is considered the smallest purebred dog in the canine kingdom. This pint-sized pup ranges in size from 3 to 6 pounds. Hailing from Mexico, the Chihuahua sits proudly as Mexico’s national dog.

He comes in two coat varieties and several different colors and patterns, but what the Chihuahua is most famous for is his incredible spunk. Sassy, upbeat, independent and bossy, Chihuahuas are best suited for single dog households and homes without children or, at the very least, children who are older and very gentle.

Because your Chipin is a cross between both the Chihuahua and the Miniature Pinscher, chances are he could have varying traits. This is part of the crossbreed controversy that you should be aware of.

What Else Should You Know About Crossbreeds?

Although crossbreeds like the Chipin are adorable and beloved by their owners, they are also somewhat controversial. Most newer generation hybrids are not recognized by major breed clubs in the United States, nor are they eligible for competition or show.

Crossbreed dogs like the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix are also deemed more unpredictable when compared to their purebred counterparts when it comes to health, temperament and appearance.

However, there are some pros that come with buying a crossbreed dog. For example, the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix has the benefit of what is known as hybrid vigor.

Hybrid vigor is the idea that crossbreed dogs may be healthier than purebred dogs thanks to their widened gene pool.

This could mean that Crossbreed dogs are less susceptible to the same genetic health issues of their purebred parents. That said, they also have a longer list of health issues to contend with, as they now have two sets of genes from two different purebred parents.

Either way you look at it, there are pros and cons to both a purebred and a crossbreed.

But what matters most is that you understand what you are getting with the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix, and that you understand this dog needs a good and committed owner in order to thrive.

So with that noted, let’s learn more about this dynamic little dog.

The Average Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix Temperament

The Chipin can get along with older children, though some may not tolerate youngsters.

Both the Miniature Pinscher and the Chihuahua are friendly and affectionate when well trained and socialized, though the Chihuahua is known to be more standoffish and even nippy with smaller children. This could also be true for a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix.

You should be aware that the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is known to be vocal. This makes him a wonderful watchdog, as we mentioned above, though this can also be frustrating for anyone living in smaller areas with thin walls.

The good news is that you can work to train your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix when and when not to bark, though we can’t guarantee that training will stick.

Though highly intelligent, Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dogs can be willful. If your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is more like his Chihuahua parent, he may also be more attached to one person in the household over the other.

However, if your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is more like his Min Pin parent, he could be a lively little family dog.

Keep in mind that the Chipin may not realize his own size, which could be problematic on walks or playdates with other dogs. Monitor your Chipin around larger dogs and be sure he is properly socialized at an early age.

It’s also very important to monitor young children around your Chipin and work with your family to learn basic canine body language. This will help everyone have a better understanding of the family dog and can even strengthen the bond between you and your Chipin in the long run.

The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix – Tips On Training And Socialization

The Chipin can be nippy if handled too roughly, and he’ll need to be trained and socialized at an early age to get along with other pets and children.

All dogs need consistent training and socialization starting at an early age, and the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is no exception.

Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dogs may have different temperaments depending on the parent breed they take after most. If your dog is more like his Min Pin parent, he may be more agreeable and eager to please. If he is more like his Chihuahua parent, he may be a bit stubborn or willful.

Either way, training and socialization should begin early for your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix and be consistent throughout his lifetime.

When it comes to socialization, it’s important to get your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix used to being gently handled at a young age by children, especially if you plan on raising your Chipin in a home with youngsters.

It’s also a good idea to introduce your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix to as many new experiences as possible. This should include other dogs, cats, people, children, places, sounds, sights and environments.

You are not always in control of how your dog perceives certain experiences, but it helps to try and ensure that new experiences are positive for you Chipin. Helping him discover that the world around him is a safe and fun place while he is young will help ensure he grows up happy, healthy and well rounded.

Training your Chipin should be done using positive reinforcement techniques utilizing treats and praise, so steer clear of negative reinforcements like punishments and scolding

This can cause your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix to shut down or even become fearful of you or aggressive.

Small dogs like the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix get a bad rep for being “untrainable”, but this is simply not true. Toy breed dogs are just as trainable as large breed dogs, though they can be more difficult to potty train.

This is because it can be more difficult to recognize when a smaller dog has had an accident inside. If you don’t find and clean your dog’s potty accidents thoroughly, your dog will be more likely to repeatedly go in the same spot.

For this reason, we recommend keeping your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix in a designated area of the house until you are certain he is potty trained. You might also consider a puppy playpen.

Puppy Playpen

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A puppy playpen like the one listed above is actually perfect for small puppies like the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix. It allows them the freedom to roam and play, but it protects your carpets and flooring from accidents. It can also be helpful to have a playpen for your puppy during his teething stage.

To encourage successful potty training using a puppy playpen, it’s best to take your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix outside and to the same potty spot several times a day, and immediately after eating or drinking.

Small dogs like the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix may be also good candidates for potty pads.

BV Pet Potty Pads

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Potty pads are useful for smaller dogs for a few reasons. First, smaller dogs have a more difficult time holding their bladder as long as large breed dogs. If you are gone often during the day, investing in some quality potty pads can help provide your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix with a place he can use the bathroom and reduce accidents.

Potty pads are also helpful if you live in the upper level of an apartment building or if you struggle with mobility.

That said, even if you utilize potty pads for your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix, it’s still important not to skimp on exercise.

Let’s learn more.

The Exercise Needs Of A Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix

Though small, the Chipin is an active little hybrid and he’ll need routine exercise each day.

Although he is quite small, the Chipin dog is known for being active. He likes to keep busy and will not do well if left to his own devices cooped up in a house all day. While he is small enough to have many of his needs met inside your home, it’s still important you dedicate at least thirty minutes a day to playtime and exercise with your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix.

Exercise could include a few different activities, such as a brisk walk through the neighborhood, a fun game of fetch in a securely fenced backyard or play area, or a game of tug of war, chase or tag inside your home.

When you are walking your dog, keep in mind that the Chipin comes from two breeds who may have a high prey drive. If he takes after his Min Pin parent, he could be especially prone to taking off smaller animals.

It’s very important to be sure you walk your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix on a leash when outside of your yard to ensure he doesn’t get away from you and wind up in a dangerous situation.

It’s also important to walk your dog on a harness as opposed to just a leash and collar alone. This is because the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix can be prone to tracheal collapse, which can be caused when pressure is put on his fragile trachea.

Voyager Step-In Dog Harness

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A harness specifically designed for small breed dogs like the harness above is ideal for a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix. This harness is a step in harness, which many dogs prefer as it does not pull over your dog’s head and ears.

The harness hooks securely in the back and should fit snug, and it is designed to reduce pulling and to not put pressure on your dog’s throat. This can prevent choking and potential damage to the trachea.

Along with physical exercise, the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix will also need plenty of mental exercise.

Mental stimulation is just as important to a dog’s overall health as physical stimulation, especially for a dog that is as clever as the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix.

Chipin dogs will enjoy puzzle toys that utilize treats, and they will also like learning new tricks and cues from you so long as you keep the training sessions short, fun and gamelike.

Basic Grooming And Diet Needs Of A The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix

Chipins need their teeth brushed daily and their nails ground down every few weeks.

Chipin dogs have short, smoothe coats that shed moderately year round. They may not be ideal for allergy sufferers, though they are not terrible when it comes to dandar and loose hair.

You can help combat loose hair and seasonal shedding by ensuring your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is brushed at least a few times a week using a quality deshedding brush for small breed dogs.

Bathing a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is also necessary, though they do not need baths as frequently as some breeds. A bath once every couple of weeks using a dog safe shampoo should suffice, unless of course your Chipin becomes especially dirty in between this routine.

Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dogs will also require routine care when it comes to the care of their teeth and nails.

The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dog’s nails can grow rapidly, and they can easily crack or split if left too long. This can lead to infection and pain for your dog, so be sure to have your dog’s nails trimmed or ground down at least once every few weeks.

Your Chipin should also have his ears cleaned regularly to keep them free of buildup, debris and moisture that could lead to ear infections.

Last, we should note that many toy breeds struggle with tooth decay at a higher rate than large breed dogs.

To combat dental disease, we recommend brushing your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dog’s teeth at least once a day using a dog safe toothbrush and toothpaste specified for canine use.

Dog Tooth Brushing Kit By Arm & Hammer

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We like the above tooth brushing kit by Arm & Hammer for small dogs like the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix. This kit includes two different toothbrush options and a toothpaste that is safe for dogs to consume.

The toothpaste is even flavored to have a taste your dog will enjoy, which can help make the toothbrushing experience easier for everyone involved.

Is The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix A Healthy Dog?

As hybrid dogs, Chipins can be relatively healthy. That said, they can be prone to some genetic health issues.

Mixed breed dogs like the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix do have the benefit of hybrid vigor, as we touched on above. That said, they still have the potential to suffer from any of the health conditions common in their purebred parent breeds.

This may mean that their list of health issues is doubled in comparison to purebred dogs, so it’s extra important to be vigilant with your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix and to have a good idea of what he may be predisposed to.

According to experts, the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix has a lifespan of between 10 to 12 Years. He can also be prone to a few of the following health issues:

• Dental Disease
• Hip Dysplasia
• Eye Injury
• Low Blood Pressure
• Heart Disease
• Obesity
• And Tracheal Collapse

You can help combat some of these health issues by following a few tips from experts below.

Be Sure You Get Your Dog From A Reputable Source

When you are looking at sources from which to obtain your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix, it could be tempting to go through the first breeder or shelter you find. Unfortunately, if you’re not careful you could wind up with a sick puppy.

Do plenty of research and make sure you are going through reputable sources when obtaining your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix. Avoid backyard breeders, online sellers, or those selling puppies for much more or much less than average.

Consider Having Your Chipin Health Screened

If you go through a reputable breeder, you’ll likely be offered health certificates proving your puppy has been screened and cleared of any serious health conditions. If you rescue your dog or go through other sources to obtain your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix, you might consider health screening.

A canine DNA kit can help provide you with a wealth of information about your four legged friend, including any potential health issues he may be at risk of suffering down the road.

Keep Your Chipin On A Quality Diet

Chipin dogs should eat a high quality diet specified for toy breed dogs. This dog food should also be specified for your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dog’s specific age.

Avoid dog foods that contain unnecessary ingredients like additives, fillers, corn, soy, wheat or gluten. Instead, choose dog foods that contain real meat protein, fatty acids, carbs, vitamins, minerals and that contain a good source of water.

Don’t Skip Vet Visits

Last, it’s very important to keep up with routine vet visits with your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix. Most vets recommend that small breed dogs under the age of 9 be seen at least once a year. Once they reach the ages of 7 to 9, they should begin to be seen at least twice a year for routine wellness checks.

The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix And You

The Chipin can make a wonderful companion for the right owner. Is that owner you?

Trying to decide if a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is right for you can be challenging, especially if you have children or other pets in the home. With that in mind, let’s sum up what this cute little canine is all about.

The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix, also known as the Chipin, is a toy breed dog ranging in weight from 5 to 15 pounds. For this reason alone, the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is probably not the ideal dog for families with very young children or with larger, more rambunctious dogs already in the home.

That’s not to say that you can’t raise a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix in a home with children and other pets. You will just want to be cautious and be sure you monitor your Chipin carefully to ensure everyone is getting along safely.

The ideal home for a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix would be a home with active seniors, singles, couples or families with older children. Chipins don’t need a backyard and can do well in apartments, though they can be vocal.

They also need routine exercise and playtime, and are simple to groom. Overall, Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dogs are healthy, affectionate, independant and playful. They make wonderful travel buddies and great little lap dogs.

Tips On Finding A Healthy Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix Puppy Or Rescue

Stick with breeders who understand the importance of responsible breeding practices to ensure you get the healthiest puppy possible.

Have you decided that the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix is right for you? If so, congratulations!

While we do know that Chipin dogs are generally healthy, it’s still important to cover some basics about how you can go about finding the healthiest puppy or rescue through a shelter or breeder.

When Going Through A Breeder

On average, a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix puppy through a reputable breeder generally costs between $160 and $600. This is a relatively low price when it comes to designer dogs, which is great news if you’re looking for one of these pint sized pups.

That said, it’s still important to do plenty of research and make sure you are going through breeders who understand the importance of responsible breeding practices. As we touched on above, it’s important to go through breeders who can provide you with certificates of health proving their puppies have been screened and cleared of any serious health issues.

It’s also important to avoid backyard breeders, online sellers, or anyone selling puppies for far too much or much too little than their average cost.

When Going Through A Shelter

Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dogs are not especially popular just yet, nor are they very well known. This could make finding them at a shelter a bit more difficult, and you may need to be put on a waiting list if you have your heart set specifically on this mix.

The good news is that there are several shelters and rescues that specialize in Chihuahuas and Miniature Pinscher breeds, which means they may also specify in any of those listed mix dogs.

If you are looking specifically for a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dog to rescue, you might start by researching these types of shelters.

When going through a rescue, there is typically a fee that covers an initial vet exam and the overhead care the shelter incurred by taking in a dog.

This fee can range in price from around $250 to $500.

If you’re not sure which route to take when deciding how to obtain your Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix dog, don’t worry. It’s fine to take your time and weigh the pros and cons.

The most important thing is that when you do get your dog, you’re as prepared as possible so the two of you can have a long and happy life together.

We hope this has been a helpful guide on the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua Mix. Now we would love to hear from you!

Tell us what you think about the Chipin mix in the comment section below.