Chipoo or Poodle Chihuahua Mix

Chipoo or Poodle Chihuahua mix is a designer breed that is becoming more and more popular every day. This type of dog is the perfect combination of two very popular breeds – the Chipoo and the Poodle Chihuahua mix. If you are looking for a unique and trendy dog, then this may be the right breed for you!

History

The history of the Chipoo is a bit of a mystery. Some say that the Chipoo was first bred in the United States, while others believe that the breed originated in Mexico. Regardless of where they came from, one thing is for sure: Chipoos are becoming increasingly popular all over the world.

While Chipoos share many characteristics with both Chihuahuas and Poodles, it is unclear exactly how or when the breed was created. Some believe that Chipoos were bred intentionally to create a dog with the best qualities of both breeds. Others believe that Chipoos are simply a result of two popular breeds being crossed accidentally.

Chipoos are still relatively rare, but their popularity is growing. Thanks to their adorable appearance and pleasant temperament, Chipoos are becoming a popular choice for families all over the world.

Appearance

In terms of appearance, Chipoos inherit the best of both worlds. They have the small, delicate features of a Chihuahua with the thick, luxurious coat of a Poodle.

Chipoos come in a wide variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and apricot. The head is typically round and cute, with large, alert eyes. The ears are floppy like a Poodle’s, and the tail is long and curly.

Due to their small size, Chipoos are fragile and can be injured easily. They should be handled gently and with care.

Size

Because they are mixed breed dogs, Chipoos can vary quite a bit in size. The average Chipoo weighs between six and eight pounds and stands about nine to twelve inches tall at the shoulder.

Chipoos are loyal, loving, and intelligent dogs who make great companions for people of all ages. They are energetic and playful, but also enjoy cuddling up on the couch for a movie night.

Height

The average height of a Chipoo is between eight and twelve inches. However, there are Chipoos that are as small as six inches and Chipoos that are as tall as fourteen inches.

Usually, the height of a Chipoo depends on the height of its parents. If both the Poodle parent and the Chihuahua parent are on the small side, then the Chipoo will likely be small as well. Conversely, if both the Poodle parent and the Chihuahua parent are tall, then the Chipoo will likely be tall as well.

Weight

The average weight of a Chipoo is between four and seven pounds. However, there are Chipoos that weigh as little as two pounds and Chipoos that weigh as much as eleven pounds.

Make sure to keep your Chipoo at a healthy weight to avoid any health problems associated with obesity. You can do this by feeding your Chipoo a high-quality diet and making sure they get plenty of exercise.

Coat Colors

In terms of coat colors, Chipoos can come in a wide variety. Some of the most popular Chipoo coat colors include:

• Black
• White
• Brown
• Cream
• Apricot
• Red
• Silver
• Blue

Interestingly, Chipoos can also have what is known as a “merle” coat. A merle coat is characterized by patches of colors that are intermingled or mixed together. Merle Chipoos are often very striking and beautiful dogs.

The coat of a Chipoo is one of the things that make this hybrid so unique. If you are thinking about getting a Chipoo, then you will have a wide range of coat colors to choose from!

Physical Needs

The physical needs of a Chipoo are not that different from other small dogs. They need plenty of exercise, a good diet, and regular grooming. A Chipoo that does not get enough exercise is likely to become bored and destructive.

A Chipoo’s diet should be well-balanced and nutritious. Like all dogs, they need plenty of protein and fat. However, Chipoos are also prone to obesity, so their diet should be carefully monitored.

Chipoos need to be groomed on a regular basis. This includes brushing their fur and trimming their nails. Chipoos also need to have their teeth brushed regularly. Failure to properly groom a Chipoo can lead to health problems.

While the physical needs of a Chipoo are not particularly demanding, they do require some special care. Chipoos are prone to obesity and dental problems, so their diet and oral hygiene must be carefully monitored. Chipoos also need regular exercise and grooming to stay healthy and happy.

Energy Level 

The energy level of a Chipoo is generally high. They are very playful and active, and love to be involved in whatever their family is doing.

They do not like being left alone for long periods of time and may become destructive if bored. Chipoos need daily exercise, such as a good walk or run, to burn off excess energy.

Therefore, you need to be prepared to provide them with plenty of attention and activity if you adopt one. While Chipoos can be good with children, they may not be the best choice if you have very small kids in your home since they are so active and playful.

They can also be too rough for very old or frail people. Chipoos are generally friendly, but may bark excessively if they do not get enough attention or exercise.

If you live in an apartment or do not have a lot of time to devote to your dog, a Chipoo is probably not the right breed for you.

Exercise Needs

In terms of exercise needs, the Chipoo needs around 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, which can be in the form of walks, playtime, or even just running around in the backyard. If you have an active lifestyle, a Chipoo would likely make a great companion as they’ll be able to keep up with you.

However, if you live a more sedentary lifestyle, this breed may not be the best fit as they can become easily bored and destructive when left alone for too long. Chipoos are also known to be escape artists, so if you have a Chipoo, it’s important to make sure your yard is secure.

Overall, the Chipoo is a high-energy breed that does best with an active family or individual. If you think you can provide the Chipoo with the exercise they need, then this may be the breed for you!

Temperament

The temperament of the Chipoo is a happy one. They are outgoing and very social dogs that enjoy being with people.

Chipoos have a lot of energy and need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They make great family pets and get along well with children and other animals.

If you are used to a relaxed lifestyle, then you might find it a bit challenging to keep up with a Chipoo. But if you are active and enjoy an energetic lifestyle, then a Chipoo would be the perfect match for you!

Playfulness

There is no doubt that the Chipoo is a playful dog breed. They are known to be very active and love to play with their toys.

This mix is the perfect combination of two playful breeds. The Chipoo will stay playful well into adulthood and will never outgrow their need for playtime. Therefore, don’t be surprised if your Chipoo brings you their toy every few hours to play fetch or tug-of-war.

The Chipoo is also a very curious dog breed. They are always exploring their surroundings and love to investigate anything new. This can sometimes get them into trouble, but it’s all part of their fun-loving nature.

Behavior Towards Children

When it comes to children, Chipoos are generally good natured and patient. They have a lot of energy, but they’re also content to just sit and be petted.

That said, every dog is different and you should always supervise children around any animal. Chipoos do best in homes with older children who can treat them respectfully. Some kids might not want to play with a Chipoo because they tend to be too active for them.

Therefore, if you’re looking for a Chipoo as a family pet, make sure that all members of the family are ready and willing to take on the responsibility of owning a dog. They’re not low-maintenance pets by any means.

Behavior Towards Other Pets

As for other pets, the Chipoo is iffy. It depends on how it was raised and socialized as a puppy. If it was around other animals often, then it will likely get along with them just fine as an adult.

However, if it wasn’t introduced to other pets at a young age, it may be wary or even aggressive towards them. The Chipoo’s behavior towards other animals is something you should definitely discuss with the breeder before bringing one home.

Behavior Towards Strangers

When it comes to meeting strangers, the Chipoo is usually shy and reserved. It may take some time for them to warm up to someone new, but once they do, they are very affectionate.

However, there is also a tendency for a Chipoo to be aggressive towards strangers, especially if they feel threatened in any way. This is something that you will need to keep an eye on if you have a Chipoo as a pet.

The best way to socialize a Chipoo is to expose them to as many different people, places, and situations as possible from a young age. This will help them to become more confident and comfortable around new people and situations.

Chipoos are also known to be very protective of their family and home. They will bark at strangers who come near, and they may even try to bite if they feel that their family is in danger.

Again, socialization is the key to helping a Chipoo feel comfortable around strangers. If you can introduce them to new people and situations on a regular basis, they will learn that there is nothing to be afraid of.

Health

Health-wise, the Chipoo is a fairly robust and resilient little dog. They are, however, prone to the same health conditions that affect both Chihuahuas and Poodles.

These include eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy; heart disease; von Willebrand’s Disease; luxating patella; and Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease.

Chipoos that are born from first-generation parents often has fewer health problems than those born to purebred parents. It is always advisable to buy a Chipoo puppy from a reputable breeder who can provide health clearances for both the dam and sire.

Lifespan

The lifespan of a Chipoo is around 12 to 15 years. They are a hybrid breed, so they tend to inherit the best traits of both parent breeds which often results in a longer lifespan than purebreds.

If you want your Chipoo to have a long and healthy life, make sure to feed them a high-quality diet and take them on regular trips to the vet. This way, you can catch any health problems early and treat them before they become serious.

Shedding

Because both Poodles and Chihuahuas are not heavy shedders, the Chipoo usually does not shed much either. If you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog, then the Chipoo is a good choice.

They do require regular grooming, however, to keep their coat looking their best. You need to make sure that you brush them at least once a week and bathe them every two weeks. If you are not careful, their coat can become matted and tangled.

Grooming

Grooming a Chipoo is not as difficult as one might think. They only need to be brushed about once a week, and their coat does not require trimming.

Chipoos also do not shed very much, making them a good choice for those with allergies. Bathing should only be done when necessary, as it can strip the natural oils from their coat.

Ears should be checked regularly and cleaned as needed to prevent infection, and nails should be trimmed monthly.

If you do not have enough time to groom your Chipoo at home, there are many professional groomers who would be happy to do it for you.

Drooling

Chipoos are not droolers. Therefore, if you’re looking for a dog that doesn’t slobber or drool, this may be the right breed for you.

However, it’s normal for a Chipoo to drool if he’s excited or nervous. If your Chipoo is drooling more than usual, it could be a sign of dental problems, heat stroke, or an underlying health condition. If you’re concerned about your dog’s drooling, talk to your vet.

Weight Gain Tendency

The Chipoo has a tendency to gain weight easily, so it’s important to keep an eye on their diet and make sure they’re getting enough exercise. They are also prone to health problems like allergies, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation.

Make sure to be attentive to your Chipoo’s diet so that they don’t end up gaining too much weight. They should also get plenty of exercise to stay healthy and fit.

An obese Chipoo is at risk for developing health problems like joint pain, diabetes, and respiratory difficulties. If your Chipoo starts to gain weight, talk to your veterinarian about the best way to help them lose the excess weight safely. They will be able to create a tailored plan for your pup that includes the right amount of exercise and a healthy diet.

Common Diseases

As mentioned, Chipoos are prone to the same diseases that affect both Poodles and Chihuahuas. Some of these conditions are more common in Chipoos than others. Here is a list of some of the most common health problems Chipoos face:

Allergies

Chipoos can be allergic to pollen, grass, flea bites, and other things in their environment. Allergies can cause a Chipoo to have itchiness, redness, and hair loss.

Eye Problems

Chipoos are prone to a number of eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and cherry eye. Make sure to have your Chipoo’s eyes checked regularly by a veterinarian.

Ear Infections

Chipoos are prone to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears. Ear infections can cause Chipoo pain and discomfort. If you think your Chipoo has an ear infection, take them to the vet as soon as possible.

Dental Problems

Chipoos are prone to dental problems, such as tartar buildup and gum disease. Make sure to brush your Chipoo’s teeth regularly and take them to the vet for regular checkups.

Cancer

Sadly, Chipoos are also susceptible to cancer. Cancer is a leading cause of death in both Poodles and Chihuahuas. If you notice any changes in your Chipoo’s health, make sure to take them to the vet right away.

While Chipoos are prone to some health problems, they can still be healthy, happy dogs with the proper care. Make sure to take your Chipoo to the vet regularly for checkups and vaccinations. With proper care, your Chipoo can enjoy a long, happy life.

Training

It’s important to train your Chipoo early on. Like all dogs, the Chipoo needs to learn basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and heel. But with this mix’s high intelligence levels, they can also be easy to potty train and housebreak.

Start training your Chipoo as soon as you bring him home at around eight weeks old. With early socialization and obedience training, your Chipoo will grow into a well-mannered dog.

Difficulty Level

Training a Chipoo will only be difficult if you are not consistent. They are highly intelligent and pick up on things very quickly. Chipoos are easily bored, so you will need to keep their minds active with new tricks, games, and obstacles.

If you are consistent with your commands and remain calm yet firm, your Chipoo will understand what is expected of them. Crate training is recommended for this breed as they are prone to separation anxiety.

Intelligence

The Chipoo is an intelligent dog that is easily trained as long as you use the right method. They are quick learners but can also be stubborn at times.

Be consistent with your commands and praise them when they do something you ask. Like most dogs, the Chipoo loves treats so using these as a form of positive reinforcement is often very effective. Do not punish your Chipoo if they make a mistake as this will only make them fearful and less likely to want to please you.

Tendency to Bark

One thing you should know about Chipoos is that they have a tendency to bark…a lot. If you live in an apartment or condo, this may not be the breed for you (unless, of course, you don’t mind your neighbor’s complaints).

Chipoos need space to run and play, so a backyard is a must. If you live in the city and don’t have a backyard, daily walks or trips to the park are a must.

Chipoos who get enough exercise tend to bark less compared to those who don’t get enough exercise, so keep that in mind when deciding if this breed is right for you.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness is often a problem with small dogs, and the Chipoo is no exception. If you don’t want your Chipoo to nip at your heels or jump on visitors, you’ll need to be diligent about teaching bite inhibition.

Fortunately, socialization can go a long way toward curbing mouthy behavior. Start taking your Chipoo pup to puppy class as early as possible, and expose him to as many different people, animals, and situations as you can.

Obedience training is also important for Chipoos. Not only will it help with mouthiness, but it will give you a well-behaved dog who’s a joy to be around.

Tendency to Chase

One thing you should know about a Chipoo is that they have a tendency to chase. This is because of their hunting instincts.

If you have other pets at home, it’s important to keep an eye on your Chipoo when they are around them. Otherwise, they may try to hurt or even kill your other animals. Make sure to keep your Chipoo on a leash when you’re out and about so they don’t chase after any animals they see.

Adaptability

The Chipoo is an adaptable breed, able to live in a number of different environments and climates. They are active dogs, but can also be content to lounge around the house all day if that is what their owner desires.

Chipoos enjoy being around people and get along well with other animals as long as they are properly socialized. Otherwise, they might end up chasing after smaller prey.

This breed is intelligent and can be easy to train, but they can also be stubborn at times. Chipoos need an owner who is firm yet loving, and willing to put in the time to train them properly.

Apartment Living

Chipoos can make great city dogs. They are perfect for small apartments or condos because they only take up a small space in your home.

However, you need to make sure that you give your Chipoo plenty of exercise. While Chipoos don’t need a lot of space to run around, they do need some form of exercise every day.

A good way to tire out your Chipoo is to take them on multiple short walks throughout the day. You can also play fetch or catch with them in your apartment.

New Owners

When it comes to meeting new owners, the Chipoo is a total social butterfly. It loves to meet new people and will happily greet them with a wagging tail.

However, it can also be quite shy at first so it’s important to give it time to warm up to you. Once it gets to know you, it’ll be your best friend for life!

Don’t be surprised if your Chipoo follows you around the house or wants to sit on your lap all day – they just love being close to their humans.

Sensitivity

Chipoos are sensitive to their owner’s emotions and can be prone to anxiety. They will cuddle with you if they feel that you’re sad or upset, and will try to make you feel better.

Chipoos are also very in tune with their owner’s energy levels. Therefore, you won’t have a problem when it comes to getting your Chipoo to exercise – they’ll be more than happy to join in on any activity you’re doing.

The Chipoo is a breed that loves to please its owner, so training them can be a relatively easy task. However, because they are so sensitive, you’ll need to use positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise.

Being Alone

Unfortunately, the Chipoo cannot be left alone for long periods of time as they are prone to separation anxiety. This means that if you work long hours or are frequently away from home, the Chipoo is not the right dog for you.

They need someone who is around most of the day and can give them plenty of attention and companionship. If you are considering getting a Chipoo, make sure you are prepared to provide them with the time and attention they need.

Cold Weather

Chipoos can tolerate cold weather better than their Chihuahua cousins, but they are still not built for prolonged exposure. If you must take your Chipoo out in the cold, make sure to bundle them up in a warm coat or sweater. And always keep an eye on them to make sure they’re not shivering too much or seem uncomfortable.

If you live in a particularly cold climate, it’s probably best to keep your Chipoo indoors most of the time during the winter months. But as long as they’re getting plenty of exercise and playtime inside, they should be just fine.

Just make sure they have a warm, cozy spot to snuggle up in when they need a break from the cold.

Hot Weather

When it comes to hot weather, Chipoos don’t do well. They are susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, so it’s important to keep an eye on them when the temperature starts to rise.

If you live in an area with hot summers, you’ll need to take extra care to make sure your Chipoo stays cool and comfortable. One way to keep your Chipoo cool is to keep them inside during the hottest hours of the day.

You can also try giving them a cool bath or putting ice cubes in their water bowl. If you take your Chipoo outside, make sure to provide plenty of shade and water. And never leave your Chipoo in a car, even for a short period of time. This is because cars can quickly heat up, even on mild days.

If you think your Chipoo is overheating, look for signs of heat stroke. These include heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting. If you see any of these signs, immediately move your Chipoo to a cool area and contact your veterinarian.

Feeding

You must feed your Chipoo a high-quality diet to prevent health problems. Chipoos are prone to dental issues, so it’s important to give them crunchy foods that will help keep their teeth clean. Avoid giving your Chipoo table scraps, as this can lead to obesity.

If you’re not sure what type of food to feed your Chipoo, ask your veterinarian for recommendations. Your vet can also tell you how often to feed your dog and how much food they should eat each day.

How Often

The Chipoo or Poodle Chihuahua mix is a small, active dog. Therefore, feeding them twice a day should be plenty, with smaller meals in the morning and evening. If you have a puppy, they may need to eat more frequently as they are growing and developing quickly.

Make sure to consult with your veterinarian about how often to feed your Chipoo or Poodle Chihuahua mix, as they will be able to give you the best advice based on your dog’s individual needs.

How Much

To determine how much to feed your Chipoo, you’ll need to consider his age, activity level, and weight. Puppies up to six months old need four meals per day. Because they have small stomachs, it’s best to split their daily allotment into smaller portions and feed them every few hours.

At best, you should feed your Chipoo about one cup of food per day. This is the equivalent of about 250 calories.

If your Chipoo is very active, you may need to feed him a bit more. Conversely, if he’s on the lazy side, you may need to reduce his intake slightly.

The best way to gauge how much your Chipoo needs is to monitor his weight. This way, you can make sure he’s neither too skinny nor too overweight. If you have any concerns about your Chipoo’s weight, talk to your veterinarian.

How to Care for Chipoos

Caring for a Chipoo is not difficult, but there are a few things to keep in mind. They are small dogs, so they need less food and exercise than larger breeds.

However, they are also high energy and require plenty of playtimes. Here are a few tips on how to care for your Chipoo:

• Feeding: Chipoos should be fed two to three times a day. Smaller meals are easier for them to digest. You can either feed them dry food or wet food, but make sure it is high quality and nutritious.
• Exercise: Chipoos need at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. This can include walks, runs, or playtime.
• Grooming: Chipoos require regular grooming. They should be brushed at least once a week, and their nails should be trimmed every few weeks.

If you follow these tips, your Chipoo will be healthy and happy!

So, Should I Get a Chipoo?

If you want a dog that will stay small, doesn’t require a lot of exercise, and is good with children and other pets, then the Chipoo may be a good choice for you. They are also relatively easy to train and housebreak.

However, like all dogs, they need proper socialization and training from an early age. If you think the Chipoo is the right dog for you, then you should look for a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy puppy.

Be prepared to pay between $600 to $1200 for a Chipoo puppy from a good breeder. You may be able to find one for less, but beware of puppies that are being sold for significantly less than the going rate.

These puppies may come from unethical breeders or may have health problems. Chipoos are not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Chipoo Organization.

So, if you’re looking for a small, hypoallergenic dog that is good with children and other pets, then the Chipoo may be the right choice for you. Just be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder before bringing one of these adorable pups home.

FAQs

Is a Chipoo hypoallergenic?

Yes, Chipoos are hypoallergenic. This is because Poodles are hypoallergenic and Chipoos inherit this trait from their Poodle parent.

What does a Chipoo look like?

A Chipoo typically has a coat that is a mix of the Poodle’s curly fur and the Chihuahua’s smooth coat. They often have floppy ears and big, dark eyes. Chipoos can come in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and cream.

What is the lifespan of a Chipoo?

The average lifespan of a Chipoo is 12-15 years. If you want your Chipoo to have a long and healthy life, be sure to feed them a nutritious diet and take them for regular checkups at the vet.

How big will a Chipoo get?

Chipoos are typically small dogs, weighing anywhere from four to ten pounds. They usually stand between eight and fifteen inches tall at the shoulder.

Is a Chipoo a good dog?

Yes, Chipoos are good dogs. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. They are also loyal and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their owners. Chipoos make great companion animals for both families and singles alike.

How often should you wash a Chipoo?

You should wash your Chipoo as often as necessary to keep them clean and healthy. This will vary depending on how active your dog is and how often they get dirty. However, a good rule of thumb is to give them a bath every two to four weeks.

Final Thoughts

Getting a Chipoo or Poddle Chihuahua mix is a great way to get the best of both worlds. They are intelligent, loving, and make great family pets.

While they may not be the most popular breed, they are certainly a unique and wonderful breed that is worth considering if you are looking for a new furry friend. Just make sure to do your research before getting one, as they are a high-energy breed and require daily exercise.

Author

Nicole Barnett