German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix (Shep-Chi) Breed information
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix (Shep-Chi) Breed information
Laura Ballarin
September 3, 2023
The German Shepherd and the Chihuahua are two dog breeds that could not be more different from one another. The German Shepherd is large and powerful, while the Chihuahua is small and delicate.
So, what happens when you cross a German Shepherd with a Chihuahua? The truth is that you can't predict what you will get from that Chihuahua mix.
One thing is certain, crossing the two breeds can only be done via artificial insemination, as there is no way a female Chiuahua can naturally mate with a male German Shepherddue to their size difference.
Shep-Chi Quick Facts
Name
German Shepherd Chihuahua mix
Nickname
Shep-Chi
Breed group
Mixed breed
7 to 45 inches
Weight
8 to 60 pounds
10 to 14 years
Colors
black, tan, or a combination of both
active couples, families with older children
affectionate, loyal, territorial
high
high
high
Shep-Chi Origins
The Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs in the world, and they are known for their large ears and big personalities. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal and protective of their owners.
They are also intelligent and quick to learn tricks. While they can be independent, they also enjoy spending time with their people and being a part of the family.
Chihuahuas are active dogs, and they need daily exercise to stay healthy. They are also good watchdogs, as they will bark to alert their owners to any strangers who come near. If you are looking for a small but mighty companion, a Chihuahua might be the perfect dog for you.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a popular breed that is known for its loyalty and intelligence. The breed originated in Germany, where it was used as a working dog on farms and in law enforcement.
German Shepherds are large dogs, with males averaging about 30 inches tall and females averaging about 28 inches tall. They have a muscular build and a thick coat of fur that can be either black, brown, or tan in color.
German Shepherds are intelligent and easy to train, making them excellent pets for families with children. They are also loyal and protective, making them good guard dogs. However, German Shepherds can be aggressive if not properly trained, so it is important to socialize them from an early age.
The Shep-Chi
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are among the rarest of all dog breeds. This is due to the fact that these two breeds are very different in size and therefore can't mate naturally. The process of breeding them would involve artificial insemination, which is complicated and expensive.
When making a hybrid between two different dog breeds, it is important to consider the size difference.
In general, the female should be of the larger breed, as she needs to have the capacity to carry the litter.
This is particularly important when there is a noticeable size difference between the two breeds, as is the case with a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd.
The German Shepherd is typically nearly twice the size of a Chihuahua, meaning that the Chihuahua simply doesn't have the ability to carry a litter of German Shepherd hybrids. As a result, breeders need to be sure to use a German Shepherd female when creating this particular mix.
The German Shepherd Chihuahua mix is not recognized by the A.K.C.
Shep-Chi Appearance
The resulting offspring will inherit a random selection of characteristics from both parents. This means that it is impossible to predict exactly how a Chihuahua German Shepherd mix will look. However, there are some general trends that can be observed in most cases.
For instance, a German shepherd Chihuahua mix will typically be larger than a pure Chihuahua but way bigger than a German shepherd.
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are a mix of two very different-looking breeds, so they can take on the physical characteristics of either parent. They can have short or long coats that are either straight or wavy. They can be any color, but the most common colors are black and tan, black and white, chocolate and white, or blue and tan.
Shepchi dogs are usually between 8 and 60 pounds, and they stand 8 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. They have long faces with triangular ears, and their tails can be long or short.
Chihuahua German Shepherd Mix Temperament
The Chihuahua German Shepherd mix is a lively and active dog that loves to play. They are very loyal and protective of their family and make great guard dogs. They are also intelligent and easily trained.
However, they can be very stubborn and willful at times. They need firm, consistent training and socialization from an early age to prevent behavioral problems from developing. The Chihuahua German Shepherd mix is a versatile dog that can do well in a variety of homes, as long as adequate exercise and training are provided.
Shep-Chi and other pets
When it comes to getting along with other pets, it really depends on the individual dog's personality. Some Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes are very social and enjoy being around other animals, while others may be more aloof or even aggressive.
Generally speaking, however, Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes tend to get along well with other animals if they are introduced and socialized from a young age. It's important to remember that all dogs, regardless of breed, should be supervised around other animals until you are confident that they can play nice.
Shep-Chi Shedding
The answer is that all dogs shed, and there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic breed.
However, some dogs shed more than others, and the amount of shedding can depend on a variety of factors, including diet, health, and coat type.
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes tend to have double coats, which means they have a top layer of long guard hairs and a bottom layer of soft undercoat.
The undercoat helps to insulate the dog against cold weather, but it also tends to shed more than the guard hair. As a result, these dogs may shed more than other breeds, but regular grooming can help to minimize the amount of hair that is left around the house.
Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes are not hypoallergenic.
Shep-Chi Health
Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes typically have a lifespan of between 10 and 14 years.
While Shepchi dogs may inherit some of their physical and behavioral traits from their parent breeds, they also inherit the same health issues.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation is a medical condition that affects the knee joint. In dogs, it is caused by a dislocation of the patella, or kneecap. This can be a congenital defect, meaning that the dog is born with it, or it can be acquired later in life.
Patellar luxation can be very painful for dogs and can lead to lameness. It is most commonly seen in smaller breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers. German Shepherds are also susceptible to this condition.
Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy is a disease that affects the spinal cord and leads to paralysis. The disease is usually seen in older dogs, and it progresses slowly over time.
Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes are especially susceptible to the disease. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy, but there are treatments that can help to improve the quality of life for affected dogs.
How to find a Chihuahua German Shepherd Mix Puppy?
You can get a Chihuahua German Shepherd mix through a breeder or a rescue.
Breeder
To find a reputable breeder for a Chihuahua German Shepherd mix, conduct thorough research.
Look for breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, and who are transparent about their breeding practices. Take your time to get to know the breeder and their dogs, and ask plenty of questions about the breed, the specific litter you're interested in, and the breeder's experience and expertise.
Once you've found a breeder you feel comfortable with, be prepared to wait for the right puppy to become available.
Rescue
The best way to adopt is through a rescue. Not only will you be giving a deserving animal a much-needed home, but you'll also be getting a Shepchi that's been properly vetted, socialized, and cared for.
Plus, with so many rescue organizations specializing in mixed breeds like the Chihuahua German Shepherd mix, you're sure to find your perfect match.
Here are the most well-known Chihuahua rescues in the USA:
Chihuahua Rescue & Transport
https://www.chihuahua-rescue.com/
Texas Chihuahua Rescue – helping small dogs live big dreams
https://texaschihuahuarescue.org/
Arizona Chihuahua Rescue – Big Hearts for Little Dogs
German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Care
When caring for a German Shepherd Chihuahua mix dog, you must consider grooming, exercising, training, and feeding.
Grooming
The German Shepherd Chihuahua mix is unlikely to need professional grooming services.
With regular brushing at home, you can keep their coat healthy and free of tangles.
And while they may shed a little more than other breeds, they're still relatively easy to keep clean. In other words, if you're looking for a low-maintenance pet, the German Shepherd Chihuahua mix is definitely worth considering.
Training
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes need consistent training in order to reach their full potential.
Without proper training, they can be easily distracted and may exhibit shy or fearful behaviors. These dogs also have a strong prey drive, so it is important to teach them not to chase small animals.
With patience and consistency, German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes can be well-behaved and obedience-trained dogs that make wonderful additions to any household.
Feeding
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are not particularly picky eaters and will usually eat whatever food is put in front of them. However, it is important to make sure that they are getting a balanced diet in order to stay healthy.
A good mix of dry food and wet food is recommended, and you can also give them occasional treats such as bones or rawhide chews. It is also important to ensure that they have access to fresh water at all times.
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are generally active dogs, so they will need a lot of calories to maintain their energy levels. As a result, it is important to feed them high-quality food that is rich in proteins and fats.
Exercise
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are high-energy dogs.
They need at least an hour of exercise a day, and they love to play fetch. They also need plenty of mental stimulation, so make sure to give them lots of toys and time to run around.
If you're looking for a quiet, couch potato dog, this is not the breed for you.
Male vs Female Shep-Chi
There are a few key differences between male and female Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes.
Females tend to be smaller and have a more delicate build. They also tend to be more skittish, which can make them difficult to train.
Males, on the other hand, are typically larger and have a more muscular build. They are also generally more obedient and easier to train.
In terms of temperament, males tend to be more calm and relaxed, while females can be more high-strung and excitable.
Is it the Shep-Chi right for you?
Not great with small kids
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are not great with children for a number of reasons.
First, German Shepherds are bred as working dogs and have a lot of energy. They need an outlet for this energy, or they can become destructive. Chihuahuas, on the other hand, are bred as companion animals and tend to be very needy. They require a lot of attention and can become anxious if they don't get it.
Combined, these two breeds can produce a dog that is high-energy and high-maintenance, which is not ideal for families with young children.
They need extensive and consistent training
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes can be difficult to train. These dogs are often very energetic, and they can be easily distracted.
As a result, they require extensive and consistent training.
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are also known for being fiercely loyal, which can make them protective of their owners. This loyalty can be both a good and a bad thing, as it can lead to aggression if not properly managed.
Right for you
You have a lot of free time
You have an active lifestyle
You want a medium-sized dog
Not right for you
You don't have a lot of time to train a dog
You want a low shedding dog
You have young children
Shep-Chi FAQs
What is a German Shepherd Chihuahua mix called?
A German Shepherd Chihuahua mix is also known as a Shepchi.
What does a German Shepherd Chihuahua mix look like?
A Shepchi is a medium-sized dog with a short coat that can come in a variety of colors. They have long, pointed ears and typically weigh between 8 to 60 pounds when fully grown.
How long do German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes live?
German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes typically live between 10 to 14 years when properly cared for.