Pomeranian Chihuahua Mix

What You Need to Know About Pomchi Crosses

A Pomeranian Chihuahua mix is also known as a Pomchi, and these small, furry dogs make excellent companions. A Pomchi is what we call a designer dog or a cross breed, which simply means it's a combination of two existing breeds of dog.

What is a Pomchi?

A Pomchi is a mixture between a Pomeranian and a Chihuahua. This can mean one of two things, depending on your breeder's preference. A Pomchi may be the offspring of two other Pomchis, but it may also have one Pomeranian parent and one Chihuahua parent (this is considered preferable). A Pomchi will combine elements of both Pomeranians and Chihuahuas parents.

What Should I Know About Cross Breeds?

Although crossbreeds are generally healthier and more robust than purebred dogs, they are more difficult to predict. With a pure breed it is easy to say how big your dog will grow or what its personality will be like. With a designer dog this prediction is harder, because your dog will inherit different traits from each parent. This is why we can only make educated guesses about crossbreeds based on what we know about the parental breeds.

How Big Will My Puppy Grow?

Pomeranians and Chihuahuas are both small breeds of dog. The average Pomeranian grows to between around 7 and 12 inches in height and weighs between 3 and 7 pounds. Chihuahuas are very small indeed, usually only growing to between 6 and 9 inches and weighing between 2 and 6 pounds.

A Pomeranian Chihuahua mix is therefore also going to be very small. We'd expect a Pomchi to be slightly smaller than the average Pomeranian whilst being slightly larger than the average Chihuahua.

What Will My Dog's Coat Be Like?

Pomeranians usually have medium length, straight hair that sticks out a little from their body. Chihuahuas are generally short haired dogs, with smooth coats, though there are longer haired varieties. Pomeranian Chihuahua mixes usually favour the Pomeranian coat, and generally have medium length, straight hair.

Are There Any Coat Concerns with Pomeranian Chihuahua Mixes?

It's unusual that a Pomeranian Chihuahua mix has a coat long enough to require trimming or styling. You will need to brush your dog regularly though, to keep him shiny and to prevent shedding, and you'll need to shampoo his coat as well. This breed will shed hair, especially during the spring and autumn.

What Will a Pomeranian Chihuahua Mix's Personality Be Like?

Pomeranians and Chihuahuas have very similar personalities, so it is likely that your Pomchi will have the same temperament. Both are affectionate breeds, lively and curious, and are sociable. They can be tough to house break, and will need strict training. Both breeds can snap, especially around strangers and small children, though brought up with a child in the house both will be fine.

How Much Exercise Does My New Pet Need?

A Pomchi is a very small dog, and so doesn't need lots of exercise or long walks. A short daily walk should be fine, and these animals are happy living in apartments. Pomchis are quite playful, however, so they appreciate a garden or a space inside the home where they can play.

Do these Dogs Have Any Health Concerns?

Designer dogs are usually healthier than purebred dogs. However, you will want to watch out for health issues that are associated with the parent breeds. Pomeranians have a tendency towards knee problems, as well as teeth and eye disorders. Chihuahuas often get rheumatism, colds and eyes problems. As with many small dogs, both breeds can have problems giving birth, and can suffer in cold climates.

How Do I Know if this is the Dog For Me?

Because Pomchis are small and need little exercise, they're great companion dogs, particularly for the elderly. They will be fine in families, though they may need time to acclimate to small children or to any other animals you may have in the house. If you're thinking about a Pomchi, then try calling a local breeder and arranging an appointment to visit his animals. You can also find forums online that are dedicated to Pomchi owners, which will give you an insight into what it's like to live with this breed.