Also known as the Chisenji or Basenji Chi, the Basenji Chihuahua Mix is a cross between the barkless Basenji and the petite Chihuahua. This tiny but muscular dog weighs around 22 to 24 pounds and stands between 16 to 17 inches tall.
While small in size, the Chisenji has a huge personality. Due to his alertness, the Basenji Chi also makes a great watchdog.
If you’re considering getting a Basenji Chi, read on to learn more about their temperament, appearance, history, health, and more to determine if this is the right dog for you and your family.
Table of Contents
Some Quick Facts About The Basenji Chihuahua Mix
| Breed Type: | Mixed Breed/Crossbreed/Designer Dog/Hybrid (Basenji and Chihuahua) |
| Size: | Small to Medium-Sized Dog |
| Other Names: | Basenji Chi, Chisenji, Chi-Ba, Cha-Ba, Baschi |
| Good Guard Dog: | No |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 22 to 24 Pounds |
| Average Height: | 16 to 17 Inches |
| Lifespan: | 13 to 17 Years |
| Apartment Living: | Yes, provided their exercise needs are met |
| Ideal for: | Active Individuals, Active Families With Older Children Who Have Enough Time to Exercise & Train Them, Those Looking for a Watchdog |
| Coat: | Short Coat |
| Coat colors: | Black And Tan, White and Brown, White and Red, White and Fawn, or Tricolor |
| Suitable for first time owners: | Not Recommended |
| Trainability: | Relatively easy to train (Housetraining can be difficult, especially if they take after the Chihuahua parent) |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
| Shedding: | Light to Moderate (They shed more in spring and fall) |
| Grooming Needs: | To maintain their coat in great condition they should be brushed weekly |
| Energy Levels: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 60 minutes of exercise every day is required (Walking, Hiking, and Running) |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Well trained adult Chihuahua Basenji Mix can stay alone for 6 to 8 hours. Just make sure they are well-exercised |
| Feeding and Diet: | 1 to 1.5 cups of high quality dog food twice a day. Of course, this amount varies depending on the dog’s age, size, and activity level. |
| Maintenance: | Low |
| Possible Health Issues: | Obesity, Hip dysplasia, Hypoglycemia, Eye problems, Dental problems, Breathing problems, Patellar luxation, Heart Problems, Bladder and Kidney Stones |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, Devoted, Stubborn, Brave, Protective, Gentle, Energetic, Affectionate, Alert, Loving, Friendly |
| Cat Friendly: | Yes, Especially If Raised Together and With Early Socialization |
| Dog Friendly: | Moderate, Early Socialization is Required (Many Basenjis are dominant and pushy toward other dogs of the same sex. Also many Chihuahuas don’t often get along with other dogs) |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes, they are best suited for families with older kids (Early Socialization Is Required) (They do need to be watched around smaller kids to prevent any unwanted accidents) |
| Drooling Potential: | Low |
| Barking Tendencies: | Low (Generally Quiet due to the Basenji’s influence) |
| Price: | Average $1500 – $2500 USD |
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What Is A Chisenji?
The Chisenji or Basenji Chi is the result of crossbreeding a Basenji with a Chihuahua.
This mix is small to medium in size and has a muscular body. They are watchful just like the Basenji but also friendly just like their Chihuahua parent.
The Basenji Chi can be a good watchdog because he is alert and intelligent. However, the Basenji Chi is vulnerable to health conditions like the Brachycephalic Airway Obstructive Syndrome. That’s because of the Chihuahua’s flat face and short nose.
This dog is ideal for anyone who needs an active, energetic, and intelligent dog for a pet companion.
Before getting a Basenji Chihuahua Mix, it’s important to do further research and find out more about their history, appearance, temperament, health, and living conditions.
The History of the Basenji Chihuahua Mix
Little is known about the origin of the Chisenji because this is a relatively new crossbreed. However, both parent breeds have a track record to guide us.
The Basenji (the Barkless Dog) was originally discovered in West Africa in the 19th century and was first introduced to Europe where the breed almost became extinct because of an infection.
In the 1930s, the breed’s fanciers made an attempt to revive it before finally bringing these dogs to England and the United States. Initially, Basenjis were used as hunting dogs.
On the other hand, the Chihuahua (the Mexican Miracle Dog) emerged in a Mexican city called Chihuahua in the 1950s (hence their name). However, the actual origin of the Chihuahua remains a mystery.
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What Does a Basenji Chihuahua Mix Look Like?
When it comes to appearance, temperament, and personality, each mixed breed puppy is unpredictable. That means that each Chisenji puppy could be different from others in terms of characteristics and personality traits.
However, Chihuahua Basenji Mixes are generally strong dogs with a muscular build. These small dogs have short legs, tiny lips, and a large head. They have large, erect ears, a short nose, and big, rounded eyes. Their tail is long, thin, and curved.
How Big Does A Chihuahua Basenji Mix Get?
The Basenji Chi is a mixed breed, so their size will depend on the size of each parent dog.
On average, this hybrid dog weighs approximately 22 to 24 pounds and stands between 16 and 17 inches tall.
Coat and Coat Colors
The Basenji Chi will most likely have a short coat that requires minimal maintenance and grooming.
Coat colors will most likely include black and tan, white and brown, white and red, white and fawn, or tricolor.
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Basenji Chihuahua Mix Temperament and Personality
The Chisenji may be small, but he has a huge personality. It is always fun being around a Chisenji thanks to his interesting personality.
These dogs are very loyal and highly devoted to their families. They are brave and protective of their families, especially if the Chihuahua’s side dominates. They can also be gentle due to the Chihuahua’s influence.
It’s important to ensure your Basenji Chi is busy with a chew toy or food item.
Other personality traits you can expect from your Basenji Chi include:
- High energy
- Inquisitiveness
- Intelligence
- Stubbornness
- Good family dog
- Quietness
- Calmness
Are Basenji Chihuahua Mixes Protective?
Yes! Basenji Chihuahua Mixes are protective and will alert you to strangers and intruders. This makes them fantastic watchdogs, but they do not bark much.
Are Basenji Chihuahuas Good With Kids?
Yes! The Basenji Chihuahua Mix gets along great with children. They will always have fun with children due to their active, energetic, and amusing nature. However, you should not leave these small dogs with kids alone as the young ones can mishandle them.
Generally, the Basenji Chi is compatible with kids if they are socialized early. Timely socialization can help improve their behavior around kids.
Are Basenji Chihuahua Mixes Good with Other Dogs?
Yes! A Basenji Cross Chihuahua is easily compatible with other dogs and animals.
Are Basenji Chihuahua Mixes Good For First Time Owners?
A Basenji Chi is not ideal for first time owners because of their stubborn streak and need for regular exercise. These dogs are also vulnerable to depression and separation anxiety so they need a lot of care and attention.
Do Basenji Chihuahua Mix Dogs Do Well In Apartments?
The Basenji Chi adapts well to apartment living, if trained and exercised regularly. This is because of their small size and love for other family members.
It is important to help them burn off some of their energy to prevent them from destroying your belongings. So give them enough interactive dog toys and take them out for their daily walks and other outdoor activities. That way, your Chisenji should be happy and satisfied.
Your Basenji Chi may also inherit the quietness of the Basenji parent, so you may not have to worry about getting in trouble with your neighbors.
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Exercise Needs
The Basenji Chihuahua Mix is a wonderful cross between two amazing dog breeds that are known for their loyalty and intelligence. The Basenji is christened the Barkless Dog while the Chihuahua is known to be friendly, loyal, and protective. These two parent dogs make a great team as far as exercise goes.
A great way to exercise your Basenji Chi is to take them out for walks. Daily walks allow your dog to explore the neighborhood and meet people and other animals.
Another way to exercise your Basenji Chi is to take them to a nearby dog park. That way, they can play and run with other canines in a controlled and safe environment. It also allows you to meet and interact with other dog owners who love their dogs as much as you do.
The Basenji Chihuahua mix needs at least 60 minutes or more of exercise each day to remain happy and healthy.
Being intelligent, your Basenji Chi will need mental stimulation so provide your pup with enough toys.
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Training
Intelligent dogs like the Chisenji can be strong-minded and stubborn. Although he picks up commands and tricks easily, he can also be independent-minded.
As the leader, be firm, confident, and supportive. Use treats and other positive reinforcements. Also, keep each session short to retain your dog’s attention.
Here are a few training tips for your Basenji Chihuahua Mix:
- For the best results, use lots of positive reinforcements.
- Use quality treats to ensure your pup looks forward to the next training session where they can get even more rewards.
- Train your puppy with care, love, and attention.
- Keep the sessions short but regular.
- Remain calm, confident, and patient when training your puppy.
- Since the Basenji Chi can be scared, be kind and avoid being harsh.
The best strategy is to start with housetraining when your Basenji Chi is still a young puppy. After basic training, you can proceed to obedience training. With patience, your Chisenji should be a well-behaved dog.
Do Basenji Chihuahua Mix Shed A Lot?
No. Basenji Chi dogs shed minimally, so maintenance should be a breeze. However, this dog may be unsuitable for people who would like to keep their homes free of any pet hair.
Grooming
Grooming a Basenji Chihuahua Mix should be easy because this dog has a short coat, which is less prone to developing mats or tangles.
Due to the low shedding tendencies, you can maintain their coat without interfering with your regular lifestyle.
Avoid bathing your Basenji Chi too frequently, as this would cause skin issues. Instead, bathe them just once a month and use deodorizing wipes for dogs to keep them clean.
Trim your pet’s nails to keep them comfortable brush their teeth regularly to maintain oral hygiene.
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Feeding and Diet
Every dog requires a proper diet to meet their nutritional requirements. High quality dog food containing the proper balance of high-quality proteins is suitable for your Chihuahua Mixed with Basenji. You can also add Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil because it is healthy for your dog’s coat and skin.
Probiotics are also ideal for a Basenji Chi because this hybrid dog is prone to various health conditions and probiotics help to protect their body. Supplements rich in Omega 3 fatty acids are also healthy for your dog’s hips, elbows, coat, and skin.
Make sure the supplements you buy are derived from natural or wild sources to help fulfill the nutritional deficiencies of a Basenji Chi.
Other than that, give your Basenji Chi fresh water for proper hydration.
Lifespan
The Basenji Chihuahua Mix has a long lifespan of around 13 to 17 years.
Basenji Chihuahua Mix Health Issues
Basenji Chi dogs can inherit genetic health issues from their parents. Their tiny size also makes them vulnerable to injuries, so keep them in a safe and comfortable environment where they cannot suffer accidental bruises or cuts.
Here are the most common health problems of the basenji Chihuahua Mix:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Allergies
- Congenital heart disease
- Diabetes
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Syndrome
- Epilepsy
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Patellar luxation
Since this hybrid dog is sensitive to health issues, you should be careful about his diet and living conditions throughout the year. Your Basenji Chihuahua Mix dog needs protection to enjoy a longer and healthier life.
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Finding A Basenji Chihuahua Mix For Sale
It can be difficult to find Basenji Chihuahua Mix puppies for sale. If you want a Basenji Chi puppy, you best bet is to go online and search for reputable breeders. While there are many sites that sell these puppies, you need to be careful about the sources as the puppy could be weak and unhealthy.
Be sure to do thorough research before purchasing a puppy to ensure you know exactly what you are getting. Ask several questions and check health certificates from breeders. Young puppies need care and attention. However, it you are ready to raise a Basenji Chi, you will be rewarded with a loyal and loving companion for many years to come.
How Much Does A Basenji Chihuahua Mix Cost?
Basenji Chihuahuas are gaining popularity for many reasons. These pups are very adorable. However, you need to know how much they cost.
The Basenji Chihuahua Mix price ranges from $1500 to $2,500, but this will depend on the availability of puppies, their healthy, and the breeder’s reputation.
Basenji Chihuahua Mix For Adoption
You can adopt a Chihuahua Basenji Mix from a rescue center. So if you want an already-trained pup, you can contact a rescue center near you. These dogs are typically already socialized and trained, so you don’t need to put in a lot of effort doing this.
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Other Costs of Dog Ownership
Here are a few other things your Basenji Chihuahua Mix will need:
- A dog crate like the MidWest Folding Crate for small dogs
- A dog bed like the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Collar
- Leash
- Food feeder and water bowls
- Grooming supplies like comb, brush, shampoo
- Treats
- Toys
- Nail clippers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Basenji Chihuahua Mix a good family dog?
Yes! Besides their cute looks and easy maintenance, Basenji Chihuahuas are great family dogs. They are known for their adoration for humans. They are adorable cuddle buddies who enjoy playing with children and adults alike. If socialized and trained early, Basenji Chi dogs can live and establish strong bonds with their owners and family.
Are Basenji Chihuahua Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
No. Basenji Chihuahua Mix dogs have short coats and are easy to maintain.
Can Basenji Chihuahua Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
No. These dogs don’t usually tolerate being alone. They attach themselves to people and can suffer from depression and separation anxiety when left alone for long.
How Long Can A Basenji Chihuahua Mix Be Left Alone?
Avoid leaving your Basenji Chihuahua Mix at home alone for longer than 6 to 8 hours as they can become bored and develop separation anxiety.
Are Basenji Chihuahua Mixes Hypoallergenic?
No. While these dogs shed minimally, they are not hypoallergenic.
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How Long Do Basenji Chihuahua Mixes Live?
The Basenji Chihuahua is generally healthy and has an average life expectancy of about 13 to 17 years.
Are Basenji Chihuahuas Lazy?
No. Despite being small in size, Basenji Chihuahuas are energetic, active dogs that need plenty of exercises and outdoor activities to stay happy and healthy.
Do Basenji Chihuahua Mixes Bark A Lot?
Basenjis are quiet and calm dogs that do not bark at all. Instead of barking, they make yodel-like sounds. A mix between a Chihuahua and a Basenji can be silent or one that does not bark much, so this mix is ideal for apartment living.
Are Basenji Chihuahua Mixes Hard to Train?
No. Basenji Chihuahua Mixes are easy to train because they are intelligent.
Do Basenji Chihuahua Mixes Like To Cuddle?
A Basenji Chihuahua Mix is affectionate and can be a great cuddle buddy for you.
Are Basenji Chihuahuas Aggressive?
While protective, Basenji Chihuahuas are neither aggressive nor dangerous to people or other animals. Proper training and socialization will help curb any aggressive tendencies.
Are Basenji Chihuahua Dogs Smart?
A mix between two intelligent breeds, the Barkless dog and the Mexican miracle dog, the Basenji Chihuahua Mix is smart and can learn tricks and commands easily.
What Are Some Negatives About Basenji Chihuahuas?
A Basenji X Chihuahua requires love, care, and attention to enjoy a long and healthy life.
- They are prone to depression and separation anxiety.
- They are prone to certain health problems.
- They need a specific diet routine.
- Puppies are quite expensive to buy and raise.
- It is hard to find a Basenji Chihuahua Mix for sale.
- They can be difficult to house train (especially if they take after the chihuahua parent).
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Is A Basenji Chihuahua Mix Right For You?
Although each puppy is unique, there are a few factors to consider before getting this mix. Basenji Chihuahua Mixes are very loyal, loving, and affectionate dogs. However, they need a lot of exercise because of their high energy levels. Without enough exercise, they can develop destructive behaviors.
Other Chihuahua Mixes
Love Chihuahuas but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Chihuahua mix breed dogs.
1. Chihuahua Affenpinscher Mix
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4. Chihuahua Golden Retriever Mix
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14. Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix
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