A cross between a Chihuahua and a toy terrier: features, character description and content
Among pet lovers, crossbreeds are rapidly gaining popularity. Rare and expensive species are no exception. It is worth noting that mestizo (animals that were obtained by mixing varieties) are not considered purebred. The main feature of such dogs is the fact that pets are a mixture of external data and characters of both parents. We will devote this article to a cross between a Chihuahua and a Toy Terrier. Consider the conditions of keeping this breed and other features.
Characteristic
When two breeds of dogs are mixed, the pet loses its breeding value. Those who breed and sell mestizo puppies often try to convince the buyer of the pedigree for the sake of a higher cost. When the pet is still very young, it is very difficult to accurately determine the appearance of the animal in the future. The main visual characteristics are formed (shape of the body and head, coat color) when the dog is one year old. Earlier, you can determine the possible color. Its rudiments are formed at the age of 3 months.
Character traits
It is worth noting that Toy Terers and Chihuahuas are considered companion pets. Metis, obtained from a cross between the two species, retained the characteristic features of these breeds. At the same time, pets demonstrate their attitude towards the owner in completely different ways. Chihuahuas have a jealous disposition, but calmer compared to active and dynamic representatives of the second species.
Regardless of the differences in the characters of mestizos, they do not like to be alone. When pets are left alone for a long time, they start to get bored.This leads to psychological distress and even illness. The character includes certain complications.
If the dog doesn't like something, it may even bite. In this regard, it is not recommended to have such a pet for a child. To find a common language with the mestizo will have to try.
additional information
You need to take your pet for a walk on a leash. This is a must, especially if you are walking near a road or planning to socialize your dog. Animal behavior can be unpredictable. The leash will help protect your pet from harsh actions and aggression. As for the temperament of the puppies, they are inherently active, dynamic and cheerful disposition.
Appearance
In most cases, the features of a toy terrier prevail in a mestizo, which is an advantage in terms of the structure of the head. Chihuahua's short snout sometimes causes breathing problems. For mestizos, erect ears are characteristic. The physique in dogs can be varied and it is almost impossible to predict how the structure will develop. Despite this, there are certain signs for mestizos:
- thin paws;
- compactness;
- fit.
Advantages and disadvantages of the view
Positive sides:
- due to its small size, the dog can be kept in small apartments;
- because of the playful nature of the dog, it will be pleasant to spend a lot of time with the owner;
- devotion;
- simple and unpretentious care;
- mestizos like to walk in the fresh air for a long time.
Disadvantages:
- pets obtained in the process of cross-breeding are difficult to train;
- sometimes the pet can show aggression;
- neutral attitude towards everyone except the owner;
- due to a jealous disposition, the dog can become uncontrollable;
- mestizo should not be started in a house where children live.
According to experienced dog handlers, it is possible to cope with all the above disadvantages with the help of perseverance and perseverance. Competent training will make your pet a reliable and cheerful friend.
Health
Breeders note that mestizos boast excellent health. Despite this claim, some breeders feel differently, reporting that dogs are often unwell and unwell. This may be due to the fact that in some cases, when breeds are crossed, the genetic diseases of both species are mixed.
If you decide to have such a pet for yourself, remember that it is extremely important to closely monitor the health of the dog's oral cavity. The formation of tartar should be prevented. Another prerequisite is vaccinations. An experienced veterinarian will help you with this and will give your pet all the necessary injections.
The health of dogs is also threatened by parasites. To prevent their appearance, it is necessary to conduct regular examination of the dog by a specialist. It is much easier to protect an animal from harmful organisms than after treatment.
Unfortunately, food allergies are not uncommon for this breed. This applies not only to mestizo, but also to representatives of both species, from which a new species was bred. It is impossible to determine in advance whether pets will suffer from this ailment or not. Experts advise to carefully choose food for the animal.
The life expectancy of pets is considered to be high and ranges from 10 to 13 years. This indicator depends on nutrition, care and conditions of detention.
If you notice any negative changes in your pet's health, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Feeding
It is not recommended to use exclusively dry food for feeding mestizos. Such a diet will cause problems in the functioning of the kidneys, in addition, the tooth enamel will begin to wear off quickly. If the owners do not have the opportunity to use another type of food, it is necessary to pre-soak the granules before feeding the dog. Also, do not forget to add wet food to your pet's diet.Natural food for feeding mestizo can and should be used.
Be sure to exclude allergenic foods from your diet. The ideal menu should be balanced.
Maintenance and care
Pets are great for keeping in houses and apartments, however, they can be outdoors for a long time and walk with pleasure. For walks in the cold season, you should protect the mestizo from frost with special clothing for dogs. Due to their short hair, they quickly freeze and must be protected from hypothermia.
When choosing a location for your pet, choose a draft-free location. Also, the room should be at a comfortable temperature. In the eating area, two bowls are set up - with water and food. The litter box should be placed in a secluded area because dogs often feel shy and uncomfortable.
Choice of accessories
Before you go to the zoological store for a collar and leash, you need to indicate the following selection parameters. Products must be comfortable, which cannot injure or harm the dog. As for the vests, it is recommended to purchase clothing for the whole season. Even in spring and autumn, there is a risk of illness.
During the molting period, you should comb your pet once a day. To do this, use a special brush. The rest of the time, combing the coat is desirable at least once a week. You need to bathe your pet much less often. Enough 3-4 times a year. It is recommended to use pet shampoos. A couple of times a month, you should clean the ears of the animal, and also cut off excess hairs there. The nails are trimmed as they grow.
Training
Dogs must be socialized, otherwise they will not be comfortable outside the house. Mestizos need to be taught the correct behavior and familiarized with the basic commands. In the process of training, the following features should be considered.
- Do not force dogs to train. The whip technique will not give positive results.
- It is best to do the training in a playful manner. It is necessary to maintain the interest of the pet for fruitful training.
- During upbringing, it is necessary to use the features of their character, namely: curiosity and the desire to spend time in the company with the owner.
Remember to reward your dog's efforts. In addition to tasty treats and strokes, they respond remarkably to intonation. Praise has a positive effect on animals.
Specialist recommendation
Despite their small size, pets often show a dominant disposition. Mestizos inherited this character trait from terriers. If the dog begins to be cunning, this behavior should be stopped immediately. Do not forget that a person should take the leadership position in the relationship with the dog. Otherwise, the animal will not obey. It is necessary to occupy the upper step immediately after acquiring the dog, until its character is spoiled and is only being formed.
For the characteristics of the two breeds, see the next video.