Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mix (Toxirn Dog) Breed information
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mix (Toxirn) Breed information
By Laura Ballarin
Last updated on February 19, 2023 | 10 min read
Have you ever seen a Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mix? They're called Toxirns and they're the perfect dog breed if you're looking for a small dog that is playful, loving, and sturdy.
Toxirns are not as common as other Chihuahua mixed breeds, but they make great pets for families or single people who want a little bit of everything in their dog.
Be prepared to spend some time training them; like all terriers, Toxirn dogs can be stubborn at times. But with enough love and patience, your Chihuahua Cairn Terrier mix will become the perfect companion!
Toxirn Quick Facts
Name
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mix
Nickname
Toxirn
Breed group
Mixed breed
8 to 10 inches
Weight
6 to 18 pounds
12 to 15 years
Colors
white, brown, black, gray
families with older children, apartment dwellers
stubborn, loyal, affectionate, protective
moderate
moderate
high
Toxirn Origins
The Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a distinctive-looking dog, with large ears and a small stature. But where did this breed originate? The most commonly accepted theory is that the Chihuahua originated in Mexico and that it is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua.
According to this theory, the breed was first brought to Europe in the 19th century by traders and adventurers who visited Mexico.
The Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier is named after the Scottish Gaelic word for "stack of stone," and it is thought to have been used to hunt vermin among the stone piles left by early farmers.
However, there is no definitive evidence for this theory. Another theory is that the cairn terrier is descended from the Scottish Isle of Skye Terrier, which was brought to the mainland by Vikings in the 9th century.
The Toxirn
The Toxirn is a relatively new dog breed that first surfaced in the 1980’s in the USA. While the exact origins of the dog are mysterious, there are a few theories about how they came to be. One popular theory is that the Chihuahua Cairn Terrier mix was bred in response to a desire for a calmer and more hypo-allergenic version of the Chihuahua.
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mixes are not recognized by the A.K.C.
Toxirn Appearance
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mixes typically have the large ears and round head of a Chihuahua, combined with the shaggy fur and plucky disposition of a Cairn Terrier. These pups are usually between 6 and 18 pounds, and stand at 10 inches at the shoulder.
Toxirn Temperament
The Chihuahua Cairn Terrier Mix is a little dog with a big personality. He’s energetic and playful and loves to explore his surroundings.
Despite his small size, he’s not afraid to take on bigger dogs. He’s also a notoriously independent breed and is known for being stubborn and willful. But that doesn’t mean he’s not a loyal companion. Once he forms a bond with his owner, he’s fiercely devoted and will follow them anywhere.
Toxirn and other pets
Cairn Terriers are reputed to be generally good-natured and good with other animals. They were originally bred to hunt rodents, so they have a high prey drive. However, they are also typically very friendly and sociable.
Chihuahuas, on the other hand, are not always as good with other animals. They can be quite independent and even slightly aloof. However, they are also fiercely loyal to their owners and can make great companions.
So, what can you expect from a Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mix?
It really depends on which traits the puppy inherits from each parent. If he takes after his Cairn Terrier parent, he is likely to be good with other animals. If he takes after his Chihuahua parent, he may not be as good with other pets. As always, it is important to socialize your Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mix early and often to help him learn how to get along with other animals.
Toxirn Shedding
The Chihuahua Cairn Terrier mix is considered a low to moderate shedder. This means that they will lose some hair, but not as much as other breeds.
The Toxirn has a double coat, which helps to trap hair and prevent it from being shed.
He is bred to have a hypoallergenic coat, which means that it does not produce as much dander (a common allergen) as other dogs. The Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mix is typically only brushed once or twice a week, which helps to reduce the amount of hair that is shed.
Chihuahua Cairn Terrier mixes are not hypoallergenic dogs.
Toxirn Health
Chihuahua Cairn Terrier mixes typically have a lifespan of between 12 and 15 years.
While Toxirns may inherit some of their physical and behavioral traits from their parent breeds, they also inherit the same health issues.
Patellar Luxation
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mixes are prone to a condition called patellar luxation, which occurs when the knee joint is dislocated. This can be a very painful condition for Toxirn dogs, and if left untreated, it can lead to arthritis and other problems. The good news is that patellar luxation can be treated with surgery, and many dogs go on to live full and healthy lives after the procedure.
Hip Dysplasia
Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the brain, causing the skull to enlarge. It can be deadly if left untreated, and it is often seen in Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mixes. The cause of hydrocephalus is unknown, but it is thought to be hereditary. Symptoms include enlarged head, bulging eyes, seizures, and lethargy.
Toxirn Care
When caring for a Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mix, you must consider grooming, exercising, training, and feeding.
Grooming
The Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mix is a double-coated dog, meaning that they have an outer layer of fur (guard hair) and an inner layer of fur (undercoat). The undercoat is soft and dense, while the guard hair is coarse and wiry.
This combination provides insulation and protection from the elements, but it also requires regular grooming. The best way to care for a Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mix coat is to brush them regularly with a slicker brush and use a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair.
In addition, it is important to bathe them regularly (typically once per month) using a shampoo and conditioner designed for double-coated breeds.
Training
Chihuahua Cairn Terrier mixes are is very attuned to the emotions of those around them. As a result, they tend to be people pleasers who want to make their owners happy.
This trait makes Toxirn dogs excellent candidates for training courses, as they are highly motivated to please their instructors.
However, it is important to remember that Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mixes also have their own needs and feelings. While they may be eager to please, they can also become easily overwhelmed if they feel like they are not meeting your expectations. As such, it is important to be patient and understanding with your Toxirn, and to give them plenty of positive reinforcement when they do well.
Feeding
The amount of food you give your Chihuahua Cairn Terrier mix will depend on their age, activity level, and overall health. Generally speaking, however, most Toxirns need between ¼ and ½ cup of food per day.
This should be split into two meals, one in the morning and one at night.
If you are unsure how much food to give your Chihuahua Cairn Terrier mix, it is always best to play it safe and give them a little less rather than a little more.
Exercise
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mixes are high energy dogs that require at least 30 minutes of activity a day. These dogs are full of energy and need to be exercised regularly to prevent them from becoming overly excited or anxious.
A daily walk or run is a great way to provide your Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mix with the activity they need. In addition, playing fetch or engaging in other interactive games is a great way to keep your Toxirn mentally and physically stimulated.
Male vs Female Toxirn
One key difference between males Chihuahua Cairn Terrier and females is size. Males are typically larger than females, and they also tend to be more independent and assertive.
Female Toxirns, on the other hand, are typically smaller and gentler. They're also more prone to separation anxiety and may be more attached to their owners.
Is it the Toxirn right for you?
Not great with small kids
The Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mix is a popular dog breed, but potential owners should be aware that they are not always great with young children. The Cairn Terrier part of the mix is known for being bold and independent, while the Chihuahua part is known for being assertive and protective.
As a result, Toxirn dogs can be quick to bark and bite if they feel threatened.
They may also become possessive of their toys and food, which can lead to problems if there are small children in the home. For families with young children, it may be better to choose a different type of dog.
Great for apartment living
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua mixes are great for apartment dwellers because they are small and relatively low-maintenance.
Toxirns typically have a lot of energy, which means they may not do well in a small space if they don't have enough room to run around.
However, they are also very adaptable and can adjust to living in an apartment as long as they get plenty of exercise.
Right for you
You want dog that doesn't shed a lot
You don't have a very active lifestyle
You live in an apartment
Not right for you
You have young children or toddlers
You don't have a lot of time to train a dog
You want a dog who doesn't bark
Toxirn FAQs
What is a Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mix called?
A Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mix is also known as a Toxirn.
What does a Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mix look like?
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mixes typically have the large ears and round head of a Chihuahua, combined with the shaggy fur and plucky disposition of a Cairn Terrier. These pups are usually between 6 and 18 pounds, and stand at 10 inches at the shoulder.
How long do Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mixes live?
Cairn Terrier Chihuahua Mixes typically have a lifespan of between 12 and 15 years.