Jack Russell terriers and Chihuahuas are both popular little dogs for entirely different reasons.
So, what happens if we have a half chihuahua half Jack Russell terrier hybrid? The Jack Russell chihuahua mix should be an adorable cross, but is this the case?
This guide will ask some of the most important questions about this dog.
How big do Jack Russell chihuahua mix get? Are they well-behaved and easy to train? How long does a chihuahua Jack Russell mix live? How can I get one?
By the end, you should be a little better informed about this curious little mix breed.
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Table of Contents
What do you call a Jack Russell chihuahua mix?
The name of these cross breeds is always important.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]There are two alternative names here. They are the Jack Chi and the Jackhuahua. [/thrive_text_block]While Jackhuahua puppies sound cute, this guide will stick with Jack Chi, as this is the more common term with owners and breeders.
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The look of this Jack Chi dog
What about the Jack Russell terrier chihuahua mix size?
Many of these dogs will end up resembling a smaller version of the Jack Russell. They tend to have a similar build and shape, just with the thinner muzzle and erect ears of the chihuahua.
The tail can vary. Some have a more erect tail like the chihuahua, while others see a curl in their tail, like the terrier.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]The Jack Russell chihuahua mix weight is usually anywhere between 8 and 18 pounds, depending on which parent they take after the most, as well as their gender. The height is around 15 inches.[/thrive_text_block]Further Reading: The Best Dog Beds For Small Dogs (Top 14)
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The chihuahua Jack Russell mix coat and shedding
The coat type here is often closer to that of the chihuahua, which means short and dense.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]This means minimal shedding and some even class them as hypoallergenic. [/thrive_text_block]The coat marking will vary depending on the genes of the parent. Some can be black and others white. Many will have the black, brown, tan and white markings of the Jack Russell.
However, what about a long haired Jack Russell chihuahua mix?
Owning one of these is going to mean a little more maintenance and vacuuming than the other type.
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The heritage of the Jack Chi
This is clearly very much like a Jack Russell terrier in its look, with a few hints of the Chihuahua coming through.
However there is sometimes some concern over precisely which terrier is involved with the breeding here. The Jack Russell and Parsons Russell are similar dogs and both could potentially become involved in this mix.
A great way to find out the truth is with a DNA test, such as Embark Breed Identification Dog DNA Test.
This test also helps those that think they may have been mis-sold their pet. There are some dubious pictures of Jack Russell chihuahua mix dogs online that look a lot like a corgi cross or some other mix.
There is also the chance to learn more about any potential genetic health risks.
[easyazon_infoblock align=”center” identifier=”B01EINBA76″ locale=”US” nw=”y” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″]The health of this dog
So what about any Jack Russell cross chihuahua health problems?
The good news here is that there are few major risks.
There are some issues with allergens, such as grass and some dietary issues. There are also some eye problems that may come over from the chihuahua genes.
There is also a little more fragility with this mix than a pure Jack Russell, with definite issues with the cold too.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]the Jack Russell chihuahua mix life expectancy is anywhere between 13 to 18 years, depending on its general health. [/thrive_text_block]Recommended: Discover The Deadly Secret The Dog Food Industry Is Spending Millions To Make Sure You Never Find Out
This means a long term investment. Those with concerns about the diet, health care and other issues with this Jack Chi should turn to Kingdom of Pet’s The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health.
This helps with everything from the best dry dog food for this small breed to dealing with allergies.
The personality of this Jack Chi
You will find many different guides online that praise this dog for its gentle, friendly and devoted nature.
This is often true with the right training and socialisation. They can be quiet, friendly dogs that make great companions for young families.
However, there are some traits to the Jack Russell chihuahua mix temperament that must be controlled as they can get a little out of hand.
The first is the issue of hyperactivity and prey drive.
These problems come from the Jack Russell side of the family. There is a good chance that these dogs will be a little hard to tire out.
They may perhaps also be a little difficult to control without a strong hand and pack leadership.
Positive approaches are always essential, but leadership is important too.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]This energy should be directed into play time and exercise, where the dogs can burn off energy, chase balls and bond with the family. [/thrive_text_block]This is where it may help to invest in some interactive dog toys. This really gives the animal time to use their brain and defeat some prey.
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The second issue is the risk of nervousness and other neurotic tendencies with the chihuahua genes.
Then there are the potential behavior issues that come from the chihuahua side of the family.
The chihuahua has the potential to be a devoted, loving dog. However, they can take this too extremes. Some get very possessive of their owners and a little bit jealous when other people and animals come round.
This can also mean that they are pretty wary of strangers. This is bad news for those families after a loving family pet, especially those that don’t take the time to socialize the dog and nip this in the bud.
[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]The dog may end up favoring one family member. They may love the mother because she gives them all the attention, and then get snappy around the kids and father. [/thrive_text_block]Further Reading: Tips On How To Calm Your Dog During Thunderstorms (The Natural Way)
How to train a Jack Russell chihuahua mix
Clearly, it is essential that these dogs get the best training possible from a young age.
Doggy obedience schools could be an issue with all those other people and animals around. Also, their stubborn streak may cause them to fall behind in classes.
This is a problem because they need so much consistent training to get results. This is not the easiest dog to train, so going it entirely alone isn’t ideal either.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]The best approach here is to turn to an online guide, such as Doggy Dan the Online Dog Trainer or Secrets to Dog Training. [/thrive_text_block]
These online guides are an accessible alternative to obedience schools where owners can use step-by-step approaches in their own home.
These guides cover lots of issues, from housebreaking to leash training, and are suitable for all breed types.
The leash training sections are vital for a Jack Russell and chihuahua mix because of that prey drive and anxiety.
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Finding a breeder with Jack Russell chihuahua mix puppies for sale
There are clearly some pros and cons here with the training and behavior of these dogs.
They need a dedicated, responsible and experienced owner. If you believe that you fit that description, you can then take the time to research potential breeders in the local area.
Take your time with this process to find those offering healthy pups at the right Jack Russell chihuahua mix price.
[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]Ignore those charging thousands for teacup versions of this dog, or rare colors. There are so many color types that nothing is a guarantee. Also avoid those with super-cheap puppies that might be poorly bred within bad conditions. [/thrive_text_block]Meet the litter, parents and breeders before committing to a sale. The more you know about a pup and its circumstances, the better the experience for all concerned.
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The alternative here is to find a Jack Chi for adoption
The problems raised in this guide show that this dog can be too much to handle for some families.
There is a good chance that a cute pup became a hyper, possessive nightmare that they couldn’t train properly. This leads to these dogs being put up for adoption in shelters. This is the perfect opportunity to save the life of a dog in need.
The downside here is that if it is a Jack Russell chihuahua mix full grown, there may be an uphill battle with future training and behavior correction.
Only adopt one of these dogs if you have the confidence to succeed with it.
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Is this Jack Chi right for you?
Don’t get too caught up with all the cute photos of Jack Chi puppies for sale. They may look sweet and innocent, but they are a demanding little dog.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]There is no doubt that this can be an adorable, loving little bundle of fun – but only with the right owner and training. [/thrive_text_block]Those that are too soft will end up with a nervous, energetic little thing that flinches at the cold and strangers, and also chases after pets.
Those that use their experience can deal with these problems early to form a loyal, well-behaved animal.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]It takes a lot of hard work and patience, so only go for this Jack Russell Chihuahua mix if you are sure you can handle it. [/thrive_text_block]Featured Image Credit: Source