Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mix (AKA The Chi Heeler): Breed Profile

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The Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix, also known as the Chi Heeler, is a crossbreed of two very popular dog breeds – the Chihuahua and the Australian Cattle Dog. This mix is not as common as some of the other designer dog breeds, but it is quickly gaining popularity.

People are drawn to this breed because of its unique physical appearance and its friendly temperament. In this post, we will take a closer look at the Chi Heeler and learn more about what makes it such a great dog breed!

Let’s jump right in.

Table of Contents

What Is A Chi Heeler?

A Chi heeler is a cross between a Chihuahua and an Australian Cattle Dog. Also known as a Heeler Chi, this hybrid dog is a small but mighty package of energy and loyalty.

Though they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), Chi Heelers are gaining popularity as family pets due to their affectionate nature and low-shedding coats.

What Was The Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mix Bred For?

The Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix was bred primarily for the purpose of being a companion dog. This is a designer breed that didn’t have an intended working purpose in mind when initially breeding this dog.

While they still have the energy and eagerness to please from their Australian Cattle Dog parent, they’re mainly used as loving family companions.

Where Do Chihuahuas Come From?

Chihuahuas are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and it’s easy to see why.

These tiny dogs are full of personality, and their long-standing association with celebrities like Paris Hilton has only increased their appeal. But where do Chihuahuas come from? Surprisingly, the answer is a bit of a mystery.

According to one popular theory, chihuahuas are descended from the Techichi, a type of dog that was favored by the ancient Aztecs. The Techichi was believed to have special powers and was often kept as a companion by Aztec nobles.

Another theory suggests that chihuahuas are actually descended from Chinese Crested Dogs. This theory is based on the fact that both breeds share many physical similarities, including their large eyes and pointy ears.

However, there is no concrete evidence to support this theory, and it remains largely speculative.

Regardless of their origins, there’s no denying that chihuahuas are unique dogs with a long and fascinating history.

Where Do Australian Cattle Dogs (Heelers) Come From?

Australian Cattle Dogs are a true icon of the Australian Outback. These tenacious and hardworking dogs have been a vital part of life in the bush for generations, and their unique skills have earned them a reputation as one of the most versatile and reliable breeds around.

Today, Australian Cattle Dogs can be found all over the world, but their origins can be traced back to the 19th century. It was during this time that British settlers began to arrive in Australia, bringing with them their own herding dogs.

However, these dogs were not suited to the harsh conditions of the Outback. So the settlers set about creating a new breed that could withstand the heat and dust of the Australian landscape.

Over many years of careful breeding, they eventually developed the Australian Cattle Dog. This dog would go on to become an essential part of life in rural Australia.

Thanks to their fearless nature and impressive working ability, Australian Cattle Dogs have played a vital role in shaping the history of Australia. They are truly a breed like no other.

Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mix Appearance & Traits

chi heeler puppy — PC: @rocket_boutiquedog

Size (Weight & Height)

The Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix is a small dog breed, with adults typically weighing between 15 and 30 pounds. They are also relatively short, with most dogs standing no taller than 16 inches at the shoulder.

Same as with other dog breeds, males tend to be larger, and females tend to be slightly smaller and lighter.

Coat Colors & Texture

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes more often than not inherit the unique coat pattern of their Australian Cattle Dog parent. While their coat colors can vary from brown to black to white, they almost always have black spots throughout their coat as well. The coat itself is fairly short and can be either straight or slightly wavy.

Some Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes might also inherit their Chihuahua parent’s long, silky coat. These dogs typically have one solid color over their entire body, with common colors including white, black, brown, and cream.

Shedding & Grooming

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are moderate shedders that require regular brushing to help keep their coats healthy. A few times per week should do the trick.

These dogs also need to have their nails trimmed on a regular basis, and their teeth should be cleaned/brushed at least once per week.

Like all dogs, Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes also need to have their ears checked and cleaned on a regular basis to help prevent infection.

In general, they’re relatively low maintenance dogs.

Are Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mixes Hypoallergenic?

No, Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are not hypoallergenic. They do shed moderately, so if you’re allergic to dogs, this may not be the breed for you.

Ears & Tail

One of the most distinguishing features of the Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix is their ears. These dogs have long, pointy ears that stand erect on top of their head. Their tails are also relatively long, and they often curl up over their back when they’re relaxed.

Eye Color

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes typically have brown eyes, although some might have blue or green eyes.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix is 12-15 years.

This is a relatively long lifespan for a dog, and it’s due in part to the fact that both the Chihuahua and Australian Cattle Dog are smaller and relatively healthy breeds.

Although, as with all dogs, there are certain health conditions to be aware of.

Common Health Issues

The most common health issues Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes face are hip dysplasia, eye problems, and patellar luxation.

Hip dysplasia is a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally, and it can be pretty painful for dogs. Eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma are also relatively common in this breed. Patellar luxation is a condition where the kneecap pops out of place, and it can cause lameness in affected dogs.

Fortunately, all of these conditions are relatively easily managed with proper veterinary care.

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are also relatively prone to weight gain, so it’s important to ensure they get enough exercise and eat a healthy diet. Obesity can cause a whole host of health problems in dogs, including joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes.

Because of their relatively long lifespan, Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are also at risk of developing certain cancers.

Overall, Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are relatively healthy dogs. But like all dogs, they’re susceptible to certain health problems. So it’s important to be aware of these conditions and to take steps to prevent them.

Trainability & Intelligence

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are intelligent dogs that are typically straightforward to train.

These dogs are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods such as treats, praise, and belly rubs.

Like all dogs, Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes need early socialization and obedience training. Socialization helps them become well-rounded dogs, and it’s essential to prevent problem behaviors such as aggression or becoming overly clingy.

It’s also a good idea to add some variability into their training. Because they’re smart, they can quickly get bored with the same old tricks/behaviors and become stubborn.

Activity Level & Exercise Needs

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are relatively active dogs, and they need a moderate amount of exercise. A good amount of daily exercise for these dogs is 30-45 minutes, but more is even better.

These dogs typically do well with a daily walk or play session, and they also enjoy hikes, runs, and other outdoor activities.

Like all dogs with working backgrounds, Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes benefit from having a “job” to do. They’re smart dogs, and they need to be kept mentally stimulated.

So it’s a good idea to give them some basic obedience training and to teach them tricks or other behaviors. This will help to keep their minds active and prevent boredom.

You can also keep their minds occupied through interactive toys and games such as food puzzles.

Temperament & Behavior

Do Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mixes Bark A Lot?

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are typically pretty quiet dogs. They’re not known for being particularly yappy or barky, although some individual dogs may be more vocal than others.

Do Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mixes Like To Cuddle?

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are typically quite affectionate dogs. They’re often very devoted to their owners and enjoy being close to them.

These dogs typically like to cuddle, and they enjoy spending time snuggling on the couch or in bed with their owner.

Of course, all dogs are a bit different. But if you want to increase the likelihood of them enjoying cuddling, you’ll want to give them plenty of positive experiences cuddling when young.

This can help ensure they enjoy cuddling as they age because of the positive memories they have of being close to loved ones.

Are Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mixes Good With Kids?

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are typically good with kids, though some individual dogs may be better suited for homes with older children.

These dogs can sometimes be a little too enthusiastic for very young children, and they may accidentally knock them over. But as long as they’re supervised around small children, they typically do just fine.

Are Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mixes Good With Other Dogs?

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are typically good with other dogs. They’re often very social dogs and enjoy being around other canines.

Although, some may do better around other dogs than others. But if you want to increase the likelihood of them getting along with other dogs, it’s important to start socializing them early.

This means exposing them to other dogs in a positive way so they can learn to enjoy their company as well as how to be okay with other dogs around.

Are Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mixes Good With Strangers?

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes are typically good with strangers. They’re often very friendly and outgoing dogs and enjoy meeting new people.

The best way to ensure they’re good with strangers is to socialize them from a young age. This means exposing them to different types of people in positive ways so they can learn that unfamiliar people are potential friends as opposed to potential threats.

It’s also important to teach them basic manners and how to behave around strangers so they know how to act politely and respectfully.

Are Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mixes Good Apartment Dogs?

Chihuahua Cattle Dog mixes can do well in apartments, but they’re typically better suited for homes with yards.

So if you live in an apartment, you’ll need to ensure they get plenty of exercise outside. This means taking them on regular walks, runs, or hikes.

Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they can become destructive and overly vocal, which is the last thing you’d want while living in an apartment.

What Is The Price Of A Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mix?

The price of a Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix can vary depending on a number of factors.

This includes things like the breeder’s experience, the dog’s coat color and pattern, whether or not they have any health issues (the parent’s pedigree), and where you live.

Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1500 for a Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix.

If you’re looking for a show-quality dog, you can expect to pay closer to the higher end of that price range or higher.

If you’re looking for a pet-quality dog, you can expect to pay somewhere in the middle, with some options of puppies being closer to the lower end of that range.

Always do your research before you buy a puppy and make sure you are getting a healthy dog from a reputable breeder.

Where Can You Buy A Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mix?

cattle dog chihuahua mix on couch — PC: @my_sons_are_dogs

There are a few places you can find a Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix. However, they’re still a relatively newer designer breed, so you may have some challenges finding new litters of them.

Here are some places to start your search:

Both have Chihuahua mixes, and Australian Cattle dog mixes available for adoption. Whether they have any Chi Heelers available will depend, of course. But they would be good people to contact to see if they were planning on breeding any in the future or know someone who is.

As previously mentioned, always remember to do your own research when contacting a breeder.

Similar Breeds To The Chihuahua Cattle Dog Mix

Final Thoughts

The Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix is a unique and special breed that is perfect for those looking for an active, loyal, and loving companion.

While they may be a bit challenging to find, they are definitely worth the search! Just make sure you do your research before purchasing one, and always buy from a reputable breeder.

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