What should you know about the Italian Greyhound Chihuahua Mix? Is this the right puppy for you? Well, let’s try to dissect everything about the relatively new designer breed.
This puppy is a small, smooth-coated dog that is loving and devoted. If you are considering a new puppy for your household, and you have your sight set on the Italian Greyhuahua, let’s take a look at it.
Meet The Breed
This mix is known as the Italian Chihuahua or Greyhuahua. It is a small dog with a bundle of energy. If you want an energetic, at the same time lazy and cuddling puppy, this might be the right pet for you.
This offspring is the result of crossing an Italian Greyhound dog breed and a Chihuahua dog breed. Both dogs are relatively small, with the Chihuahua being one of the smallest puppies in the world.
Your mixed breed can be an amazing companion, provided you socialize it properly. You have to understand you are working with two breeds that are not the friendliest. A Chihuahua is a bit aloof around strangers, while the Greyhound is friendly, yet shy.
But more on the Chihuahua Greyhound mix personality later on. First, let’s talk about the parents of this designer dog.
Meet The Parents
Whenever you want to get a mixed breed, you have to look at the parents. There is no official breed standard for mutts because the American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize them. So, let’s take a look.
Italian Greyhound
The first parent breed is a unique and special dog, favored by royalty throughout history. This elegant and graceful puppy is famous for its sleek and slender build. They have a reputation for being the fastest dog in the world, but they are also couch potatoes.
You might think their regal appearance translates to high maintenance. But the truth is the opposite. These dogs are low maintenance. They have a short coat that needs minimal grooming. Let’s take a look at the common personality traits of the Greyhound.
- These puppies have a deep affection for their owners and love nothing more than cuddling in your lap
- Intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement and mental stimulation training
- They can be a bit sensitive, and easily become stressed in certain situations
- While they are friendly dogs and do not show aggression, they are a bit shy and reserved around strangers. It takes them time to warm up
- Naturally curious dogs that enjoy exploring
Chihuahua
Now let’s talk about the mighty Chihuahua that originates in Mexico. One of the most special and beloved dogs, they have won the hearts of many pet owners.
As one of the smallest dogs in the world, they are perfect for apartment living or for people who do not have a lot of space. And they make it easy to travel with.
Do not let their small size fool you. Chihuahuas are dogs that pack a lot of character in their small size. Here are some of the common personality traits of these Mexican dogs.
- Spunky, sassy, and full of energy, this puppy has a lot of confidence
- They can be quite vocal and opinionated
- Can be aloof around strangers and larger dogs
- Very adaptable, they can thrive in different living situations
Appearance
When you cross two different breeds, you cannot always be certain about the appearance of the offspring. Why? Because there is no breed standard set by The American Kennel Club. However, we can talk about what we can expect. And after all, there are Chihuahua Italian Greyhound mix puppies that we have seen.
While Greyhounds are known for their regal appearance, Chihuahuas are compact and made to be cute. The latter comes in different shapes. When combined, they result in a dog that has the grace and elegance of the Greyhound, but in a less dramatic body type.
Their length and size are in between the Chihuahua parent breed and the Italian Greyhound parent. They might have prick ears like Chihuahuas, or fold over like Greyhounds. Sometimes, they end up in between the two.
One thing is certain, an Italian Greyhound Chihuahua mix will have a short coat. Both parents have short coats, so expect their offspring to be the same.
Now, let’s talk about size. This hybrid dog can grow up to 14 inches. Yet, generally, they grow in the lower bracket of 10 to 14 inches. The Italian Greyhuahua weighs between 8 and 15 pounds, still making it a small dog.
Temperament
Small, yet mighty. This is one way to describe the personality of the Greyhuahua. After all, this dog takes its personality from a Chihuahua. These little guys are curious and might chase after everything around them. As puppies, they like to chew on everything and explore the world through chewing.
They are a loving handful and have the energy of the Chihuahua to back them up. This might surprise you, but they are also couch potatoes. They have no problem cuddling and sleeping the whole day. A common misconception about the Greyhound is that this racing dog loves to run the whole day.
In the family, they usually bond strongly with one person. That can be with any person in the family. And while they love the entire family, Chihuahua Italian Greyhound mix puppies bond the strongest with one alpha leader in the home. That attachment is stronger than the love and affection with the other family.
And as we said before, although these puppies love attention, they are happy to be a couch-potato. After all, Chihuahuas have a reputation for being lap dogs.
Training
Intelligent and small, these dogs can be a handful in training. This small dog breed has a stubborn streak inherited from both parents.
Yes, both parents are intelligent dogs that pick up commands and cues. But they are not always willing to train and work. Hounds can be stubborn, and Chihuahuas are among the more stubborn canines in the world.
That can make training a challenge. The good news is that they respond well to positive reinforcement. Use dog food and treats to motivate your puppy to train. And always reward their good behavior with some affection as well. They will love it when they get attention from you.
Socialization is another thing you have to pay attention to. Remember, one of the parents has a tendency to be aloof around strangers, while the other is reserved and shy. It is your job as a dog owner to make sure your small dog is comfortable around people. Praise and reward any human interaction. And socialize them as young puppies while they still love everyone around them.
Exercise Needs
We said before that the Italian Greyhound has a reputation as a running and racing dog. But that doesn’t mean he needs to run the entire day. This might surprise you, but this mixed breed doesn’t need as much exercise.
Two walks per day are more than enough. In total, they need between 30 and 45 minutes of exercise per day. Divide it into two walks, and spice up the exercise with some playtime. You can try games that prompt your Greyhound Chihuahua Mix to chase something. For example, even a chase game between you and your puppy can help improve the bond and work as exercise.
Mental stimulation is a must as well. These intelligent dogs need something to work their brain. But they are not on the same level as a Border Collie, for example.
Health
Designer breeds are generally healthier than any purebred dog. They do suffer from the same health issues, but to a lower degree and percentage. With that in mind, this mix suffers from patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and hip dysplasia.
But do not worry. Chihuahuas and their mixes are among the healthiest dog breeds. They easily live between 14 and 16 years, usually in the upper bracket.
Grooming
When you have a puppy with a short coat, you might think that grooming is a breeze. But even dogs with shorter coats need regular brushing. And they do shed, just not that much. Generally speaking, you need to brush your puppy once per week to make sure that dead hair is off its body.
And no, you cannot get a hypoallergenic dog when you cross these two.
Why Shouldn’t You Get One?
- Can be vocal and opinionated, especially barking at people they do not know
- Sensitive dogs that can develop separation anxiety when left alone for longer periods
- Training is a challenge, both parents have a stubborn streak
Why Should You Get One?
- Affectionate and loyal, these puppies bond perfectly with the family
- They are low maintenance in terms of exercise and grooming needs
- A small dog that is adaptable to different living situations and you can take with you anywhere
