Ultimate Guide To The Chipit – The Pitbull Chihuahua Mix

The Chipit may sound like a tasty snack food, but in reality it’s the name of a new designer dog hitting the streets. A mix between the Chihuahua and the Pitbull, the Chipit packs a lot of personality into a compact little body.

Have you ever heard of a Chipit? If not, you’re going to want to buckle up. We’re about to learn all about this unique and totally off of the wall hybrid and discover if this mix would be the right addition to your home or family.

Let’s get started.

The Pitbull Chihuahua Mix At A Glance – A Breed Overview

Pitbull Chihuahua Mixes can vary in size and weight.

We’ll be honest, a Pitbull Chihuahua Mix doesn’t sound like a very plausible hybrid. I mean…how?

But, where there’s a will there’s a way, and this dog does exist. The Chipit is a mix between the American Pitbull Terrier and the purebred Chihuahua, and is most often produced via IVF for obvious reasons.

Since the Pitbull Chihuahua mix varies so greatly in size and appearance, it can be difficult to nail down a standard for the dog. That said, there is a general range of specifications we can list for you to consider when considering a Chipit.

Take a look.

Classification: Crossbreed

Average Height: 12 to 18 Inches

Average Weight: 15 to 45 Pounds

Average Temperament: Devoted, People-Oriented, Intelligent, Energetic

Average Lifespan: 10 and 13 Years

Common Health Issues: Patella luxation, granulomatous meningoencephalitis, hypothyroidism, hip and elbow dysplasia, and skin allergies.

Clubs That Recognize The Chipit: None currently

Best Suited For: The Pitbull Chihuahua mix is best suited for active families and those who understand high-energy dogs. They do best in homes with owners with a flexible schedule and time to commit to training and socialization.

The Crossbreed Controversy – What You Should Know About Designer Dogs

Predictability can be left up to chance when it comes to first and second generation Chipit dogs.

The Chipit is obviously not a purebred dog, but he’s also not a Mutt. Instead, the Pitbull Chihuahua mix is what is known as a designer dog, hybrid dog, crossbreed or mixed breed. Essentially, this means that the Chipit is a dog specifically created by selecting two purebred parents to breed.

Crossbreeding in the canine kingdom is nothing new. In fact, records show that this practice has been going on since nearly the beginning of the canine/human relationship. Most of the purebred dogs of today were created through the practice of crossbreeding in an effort to enhance certain traits and characteristics.

So, why is crossbreeding dogs so controversial today?

Well, it’s not the practice itself that has stirred up a debate so much as it is the buying and selling of first and second generation crossbreeds like the Chiipit. You see, it takes generations of perfecting and breeding before a dog can be considered a purebred and sold as such.

However, over the past two decades designer dogs have become quite popular. This has led to an uptick in breeders breeding and selling first and second generation crossbreed dogs for top dollar, with many hybrids selling for even more than purebred dogs.

The problem with this comes down to predictability. One of the benefits of a purebred dog is that time has been taken to ensure its standard. This includes the breed’s appearance, temperament, health and lifespan.

A crossbreed like the Pitbull Chihuahua Mix, on the other hand, is unpredictable in all of these aspects.

That said, there are those who consider mixed breeds to be healthier than purebred dogs thanks to their wider gene pool. In a theory known as Hybrid Vigor, some experts suggest that cross breeds and mixed dogs are less likely to suffer from genetic health issues than their purebred counterparts, who have undergone generations of inbreeding to maintain breed standard.

Unfortunately, this theory is not accepted yet by everyone, although it is promising. With that said, it’s important to consider the potential health issues, temperamental traits, and other characteristics of both parent breeds when considering investing in a hybrid dog.

You should also note that crossbreed dogs like the Pitbull Chihuahua Mix are not recognized by most major breed clubs, nor are they eligible for show.

Of course, if you’re simply looking for a canine companion to spoil rotten, then none of this will matter to you. With that noted, let’s move on and discuss the Pitbull Chihuahua Mix in regards to temperament, health and more.

Keep reading.

Chipit Temperament – Is The Pitbull Chihuahua Mix A Good Family Dog?

Chipits can be affectionate and loyal, though they may be a bit stubborn.

The Chipit is a mix between the Chihuahua and the Pitbull, so to get a better idea of what your Pitbull Chihuahua Mix’s temperament might be like, it’s best to take a closer look at these two breeds.

The Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the smallest dog in the canine kingdom, but don’t let their size fool you. Temperamentally, these guys are giants. They are famous for their human-like personalities and their stubborn disposition.

Because of their small stature, many owners allow Chihuahuas to rule the roost, and this can be problematic for owners who aren’t aware of what they are getting into with this demanding breed.

However, with the right owner, Chihuahuas make wonderful companions. They are friendly, independent, and relatively low maintenance.

Still, they aren’t the ideal dogs for children. This is mostly due to their fragility, though they are also impatient and don’t enjoy being handled roughly.

That said, when properly trained and socialized, Chihuahuas can get along well with older, more gentle youngsters.

The American Pitbull Terrier

The American Pitbull Terrier is not nearly as independent as his Chihuahua counterpart. This is a dog who is loyal to a fault and does best with owners who can be around him often. He is eager to please and highly energetic, although he can have a bit of a stubborn streak.

Pitbulls are family oriented and enjoy children. They are known to be gentle and affectionate with people, although due to their high prey drive, they may have a difficult time getting along with other dogs.

What To Expect Out Of Your Pitbull Chihuahua Mix Temperament

The Pitbull Chihuahua mix’s temperament can vary, and he may be more like one parent breed over the other. However, most Chipit owners find that this hybrid is an affectionate, family-oriented dog who does best in homes where he is the only canine.

He gets along well with people of all ages, though he can be prone to separation anxiety and stress if left alone for too long. Crate training your Chipit can help reduce potential behavioral issues, as can ensuring your Chipit is properly trained and socialized.

Midwest Home Dog Crate

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A basic dog crate like the above crate by Midwest Homes is perfect for a dog like the Pitbull Chihuahua mix. It is designed to fold flat for easy storage and has a leak proof bottom in case your dog has accidents or spills his water while you are away.

In order to ensure your Chipit does well in his crate, it’s important to make it as comfortable as possible for him. We recommend investing in a divider while your Chipit is young so he can grow into his crate. We also recommend investing in comfy bedding and refraining from ever using your dog’s crate as a place of punishment.

When it comes to raising your Chipit with children, it’s important to remember that all dogs have the potential to bite. While the Pitbull is known for having the deadliest jaws in the doggy world, he’s not one of the most aggressive.

On the flip side, the Chihuahua is one of the least harmful but is also one of the most aggressive.

For this reason, it is important to work with your family and especially children on the respectful ways to interact with the family dog. We also suggest sitting down with your family and taking time to learn about basic canine body language.

Doing this will not only help you and your family build a better bond with your Pitbull Chihuahua Mix, but it will also help reduce the chances of a bite in the future.

The Importance of Training And Socializing A Chipit Dog

It’s important to begin socializing your Pitbull Chihuahua Mix at an early age.

As we mentioned briefly above, training and socializing your Pitbull Chihuahua mix is one of the best and most effective ways to ensure he grows up happy, healthy and well rounded.

How To Properly Socialize A Chipit

Socialization is the act of introducing your Pitbull Chihuahua mix to the world around him and helping him learn what is safe. It is often easiest to socialize a dog when he is young, although you can work with dogs of any age when it comes to socialization.

To help your dog adapt and build confidence, it’s recommended that you introduce him to as many new experiences, sights, sounds, people, places and things as possible. Try and ensure these experiences for him are positive, and avoid forcing your Pitbull Chihuahua mix into a situation that is clearly frightening for him.

If you plan on raising your Chipit with children, it’s important to introduce him to children early on. Get him used to being handled, carried, and having his ears, nose, tail and paws touched.

Properly socializing your dog not only helps build confidence and reduce fear, but it can also help reduce behavioral issues like fear-based aggression, destructive behaviors, and more.

How To Properly Train A Chipit

Training your Chipit is just as important as socializing him is, and it’s never too early or too late to begin working with a dog on training. When it comes to the Pitbull Chihuahua Mix, remember that this is a hybrid that is going to be trainable, yet stubborn.

You can help reduce frustration during training by keeping sessions short, repetitive and gamelike. Use quality dog treats to help keep your Chipit’s attention, and if he becomes bored, allow him to have a break.

Avoid punishing or scolding your Pitbull Chihuahua mix during training, as this can lead to a breakdown in the bond between you and your dog. It can also reduce the effectiveness of the training sessions and make learning more difficult for your Pitbull Chihuahua Mix.

Instead, stick with positive reinforcement like treats and praise, and be patient. The Chipit is an intelligent dog, and the more he trusts and respects you, the more willing he will be to obey you.

Exercise And Mental Stimulation Requirements For A Pitbull Chihuahua Mix

Chipits are incredibly clever and energetic, and they’ll require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

All dogs require routine exercise and mental stimulation each day to stay happy and healthy, and the Pitbull Chihuahua mix is certainly no exception. Though his size and weight can vary, even the smallest Chipit dogs require daily exercise.

Most experts recommend that Chipit dogs get at least an hour or more of exercise each day. This exercise can include walks, jogs, hikes or runs. You can also meet your Pitbull Chihuahua Mix exercise needs by playing fetch or frisbee with him in a securely fenced backyard.

When exercising your Chipit, it’s important to use the proper equipment. Pitbull Chihuahua Mix dogs can be prone to pulling on leash, especially if they inherit their Pitbull parent breed’s energy and high prey drive.

Instead of turning to choke chains and prong collars, which can be harmful and dangerous, experts recommend using no-pull front clip harnesses. These harnesses have been found to not only be safer, but also much more effective.

The PetSafe No Pull Dog Harness

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The above dog harness is widely used by a number of dog trainers throughout the US, and it is designed to reduce pulling naturally without causing pain or discomfort to your dog. This harness works by clipping in the front of your dog’s chest as opposed to his back, which reduces your dog’s natural urge to pull.

If your dog does pull on a walk, the front clip will redirect him back to you instead of forward, which helps guide him and teach him proper walking manners. When utilized with treats and praise, this front clip harness is a wonderful training tool.

And, just as exercise is important for your Pitbull Chihuahua Mix, so is mental stimulation. Exercising your dog’s brain is vital to his overall health and will have a huge impact on his behavior with you and others.

Remember, the Pitbull Chihuahua mix is an intelligent dog, and intelligent dogs can be prone to anxiety, stress, and destructive behaviors if their minds are not kept busy, especially while you are gone.

To challenge your Chipit, it is a good idea to invest in interactive toys or puzzle toys that make him work for treats or food. We also suggest investing in a KONG and filling it with healthy, dog-appropriate treats.

Along with toys, you can also help keep your Pitbull Chihuahua mix engaged by keeping up with routine training. Once you have established a tight bond with your Pitbull Chihuahua mix, there is no reason he won’t enjoy learning new cues and tricks.

It’s also a good idea to make him work for things he wants like toys, food and walks. Teaching him cues that utilize impulse control before he gets big rewards will not only keep him mentally happy, but it will also keep behaviors in check and make you and your dog’s bond even stronger.

Grooming Your Chipit Dog

Grooming a Pitbull Chihuahua is relatively easy, though they still require routine care.

When you think about routine care for a Chipit, one of the last things on your mind might be grooming.

However, all dogs need to be routinely groomed, including the Pitbull Chihuahua Mix. Although it is true he is not the heaviest shredder, he does still shed and sheds most twice a year during the shedding season.

For this reason, he will need to be brushed on occasion with a quality deshedding tool to help keep his coat healthy and lose fur under control.

Your Chipit is also low maintenance when it comes to bathing. He will only need to be bathed once every month or so, unless he gets into something particularly dirty in the meantime.

When you’re bathing your Chipit, be sure to use a quality dog shampoo that will not strip your dog’s coat of its natural oils.

Soothe Dog Shampoo

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Since Pitbulls in particular can be prone to suffering from skin issues and skin allergies, we would recommend using a hypoallergenic dog shampoo for bath time. The above dog shampoo Soothe is specifically designed to help calm skin issues and reduce itching.

It is made with olive oil, shea butter and oatmeal and can be used on dogs with sensitive skin.

Along with bathing and brushing, yoru Pitbull Chihuahua mix is also going to need his nails trimmed or ground down regularly. Doing this will help reduce cracks or splits that can lead to pain and infection in your dog’s paws.

We also suggest cleaning your dog’s ears often to reduce the chances of ear infections or buildup of debris, and brushing your Chipit dog’s teeth once a day using a toothpaste and toothbrush that is safe for pets.

Pitbull Chihuahua Mix Lifespan And Health Issues

The Pitbull Chihuahua Mix, like all dogs, can be prone to a number of health issues.

While we did speak briefly about hybrid vigor, it’s a good idea to cover it in more detail here.

Remember, although there is a chance your Pitbull Chihuahua Mix will be a healthy dog overall, there is also a chance he could suffer from any of the same genetic health issues his purebred parents are predisposed to.

With a lifespan of 10 to 13 years, the Chihuahua Pitbull Mix can be prone to:

• Patella luxation
• Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis
• Hypothyroidism
• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• And Skin allergies

Many of these above ailments can be compounded by a poor diet, improper grooming practices, stress, anxiety, or lack of exercise or mental stimulation.

You can help reduce the chances of your Pitbull Chihuahua mix suffering any of the above genetic health issues by ensuring you get your dog from a reputable source. It’s also important to keep your Pitbull Chihuahua mix on a quality dog food specified for his age, weight and activity level.

Experts recommend that Chipits eat a healthy dog food that is high in real animal protein and free of poultry, especially due to the fact that Pitbull Chihuahua Mix dogs can be prone to suffering from skin allergies, which are often a result of a poor diet.

For this reason, it’s best to look for a quality dog food that is also free of additives, by-products, fillers, corn, soy, wheat and gluten. Instead, pick dog foods that contain vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, carbohydrates, and a dog food that is a good source of water.

Canidae Pure Grain Free LID Dog Food

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Limited Ingredient diet dog foods can be beneficial for dogs who suffer from skin allergies or food sensitivities because they don’t contain ingredients known to exasperate certain issues. Canidae is a high quality dog food brand that contains natural and healthy ingredients.

For a Pitbull Chihuahua mix, we would recommend the lamb and pea recipe or the salmon and sweet potato recipe.

However, we should note that this dog food is grain free. While grain free dog foods do have their benefits, new studies have found that some grain free foods can raise risks of heart disease and other issues in some dogs.

If you’re not sure which dog food would be best for your unique Pitbull Chihuahua Mix, your best resource is always going to be your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist you trust.

What Is The Ideal Home Type For A Pitbull Chihuahua?

The Pitbull Chihuahua mix will do best in homes with backyards where they can burn off excess energy.

Are you considering a Pitbull Chihuahua Mix? If so, it’s not only important to consider if this type of dog would be ideal for your home and lifestyle, but if your home and lifestyle would be ideal for him.

Remember, Pitbull Chihuahua mix dogs are high-energy, athletic, stubborn, intelligent, and affectionate. They become very bonded with their family and require a committed owner with a flexible schedule.

And while these dogs can get along well with children when properly trained and socialized, it’s important to monitor youngsters around the Chipit to ensure everyone is getting along safely.

The ideal home type for a Chipit hybrid would be a home with space enough for your dog to move or burn off excess energy. That said, smaller Pitbull Chihuahua mix dogs can do well in apartments so long as their regular exercise and mental stimulation needs are met.

Otherwise, larger Chipits will appreciate having a securely fenced backyard where they can run, play and burn off excess energy.

You And Your Chipit – How To Go About Picking A Good Breeder Or Rescue

Chipit dogs are not the most common crossbreed sold, but you should be able to find a reputable breeder with plenty of research.

If you’ve decided that the Chipit is the right dog for you, congratulations are in order. This crossbreed certainly makes the ideal companion for the right person, and we’re excited that’s you.

But before you pull the trigger and buy yourself a Chipit dog, it’s important to do some research. Remember, getting your dog from a reputable source can make all the difference in the future when it comes to health and behavior.

If you are looking for a Chipit puppy, avoid going through backyard breeders or online sellars. Instead, stick with reputable breeders who have a history with breeding this type of crossbreed and who understand the importance of reputable breeding practices.

Most responsible breeders will typically offer paperwork and certificates of health proving their puppies have been health screened and cleared of any serious health issues. Sometimes breeders even offer you the chance to meet your puppy’s parents to get a better idea of what they will grow up to look or behave like.

You also have the option of going through a rescue to adopt your Chipit, although this may take more time and research. That said, there are plenty of benefits of rescuing a dog, and one of those benefits is price.

On average, adopting a dog is generally a fraction of the cost of going through a breeder. Furthermore, many dogs that come from shelters will have undergone a medical exam and even done a bit of behavioral testing before being placed up for adoption.

Just remember that whichever way you choose to go about getting your Chipit, the most important thing is that you take your time, do your research, and trust your source.

We hope this has been a helpful guide on the Chipit dog! Now we want to hear from you. What do you think about this unique and adorable hybrid?

Leave us your thoughts about the Pitbull Chihuahua mix in the comment section below.