Chi Border Terrier Overview
- Parent Breeds:
- Border Terrier & Chihuahua
- Breed Nickname:
- Chi Border Terrier
- Size:
- Small
- Height:
- 8 to 16 inches
- Weight:
- 3 to 15.5 pounds
- Life Span:
- 12 to 16 years
- Coat Colors:
- White, fawn, gray, cream, brown, black.
Chi Border Terrier Characteristics
About The Chi Border Terrier
What Is A Border Terrier Chihuahua Mix Called?
A mix between a Border Terrier and a Chihuahua is called a Chi Border Terrier. They can also be known as Chi Terriers, but this might get confused with the other Chihuahua/Terrier mixes, such as Rat-Chis and Jack Chis.
The Chi Border Terrier is a small but mighty dog that loves to flaunt its massive personality for all to see. Don’t let their small size fool you – they’re larger than life! But will they work for your family? Our guide aims to answer that question.
Chi Border Terrier Breed History
There isn’t much information on the Chi Border Terrier breed.
Chihuahuas have been around since the 9th century.
Border Terriers originated in the UK.
There isn’t much on the Chi Border Terrier’s history as it is such a rare dog to see. Many of these dogs occur naturally without breeder intervention.
They’re not considered designer dogs, and there isn’t as much demand for Chi Border Terriers as there is for other mixed breeds, such as the Goldendoodle.
The Chihuahua is thought to have originated from Mexico as early as the 9th Century, but there are other theories some believe to be more plausible.
Even though the beginnings of the Chihuahua’s life remain a mystery, there’s no denying that they have now become one of the most beloved small breeds in the world.
The Border Terrier was first bred around the border of Scotland and England. Their original purpose was to protect sheep from foxes. They have been bred since the 1700s, now known as small and scrappy companion dogs.
Chi Border Terrier Personality & Temperament
Don’t enjoy being left alone.
Can experience small dog syndrome.
Intelligent dogs need mental stimulation throughout the day.
Chi Border Terriers are ideal for busy people who want a partner in crime to take on the world with. They love being with their owners – no matter what you’re doing! Thanks to their little legs, running errands also counts as their exercise.
They tend to favor one owner more than the rest, so they’re also good for single households. They’d prefer not to be one of many animals, and they’re too small to be considered good for families with small children.
Early socialization can prevent them from becoming territorial over you, and it can also help you train them to cohabit with other dogs and children. This will also prevent small dog syndrome from setting in, so it is imperative!
Border Terriers were originally working dogs, so they’re very intelligent and you can bet their offspring will be, too! Mental stimulation is vital to prevent them from becoming bored and therefore destructive.
Chi Border Terrier Health
Eye and mouth concerns are the most important to look out for.
Smaller dogs tend to suffer from more health concerns.
Life expectancy of 12 to 16 years.
Hip Dysplasia
Luxating Patella
Periodontal Disease
Heart Conditions
Spongiform Leukoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM)
Gluten Sensitivity
Eye Problems
Chi Border Terriers suffer from some of the same health concerns as their parent breeds. These Includes
Both Chihuahuas and Border Terriers suffer from many issues located in the eyes, mouth, and joints.
With so many health issues to look out for, it is so important that you keep up to date with your vet appointments. Your vet can diagnose these issues quickly and get treatment started right away.
Chi Border Terrier Training
Can be stubborn.
Very intelligent and eager to be challenged.
Favors one owner more than the other, so this person should be the trainer.
Border Terriers love to learn and are therefore good to train. However, Chihuahuas are known for their stubborn streak. The Chi Border Terrier will likely inherit both of these traits, making them more difficult to train in the long run.
As they will likely favor one owner over the other, the preferred owner should assume the role of trainer. This dog needs structure in their life, as change can lead to stress and further stubbornness.
They are intelligent and fearless, which can either be a recipe for success or disaster. Only use positive reinforcement, as negative can bring out their stubborn side.
As their owner, it is up to you to determine when the best time to train them is. They need to be happy, fed, rested, and willing to learn.
Chi Border Terrier Exercise Requirements
Can be stubborn.
Very intelligent and eager to be challenged.
Favors one owner more than the other, so this person should be the trainer.
Chi Border Terriers have small legs but plenty of energy. They need around 30 minutes of exercise a day, although this should be spread into multiple small walks.
Their energy levels deplete quickly, but they’ll also replenish themselves just as fast. So, multiple smaller walks are better than one long one, as they’ll get bored throughout the rest of the day.
Boredom leads to destruction!
Good exercise for Chi Border Terriers is walking around the block, doing errands, and playing in the yard. They’ll suit people who are home most of the day to accommodate these exercise needs.
They can live in apartments, but remember that they have small bladders and will need to be taken out every two hours.
Chi Border Terrier Diet & Feeding
Opt for premium food.
Offer smaller meals throughout the day.
Be careful not to choose food that will hurt their teeth or gums.
Offer high-quality dog food that is suitable for small dogs. This will have lots of protein for their muscles, as well as healthy fats and carbs for energy. Vegetables and added vitamins should also be present as these will help keep your dog healthy.
Chi Border Terriers tend to have issues with their teeth, and low-quality kibble can only exacerbate this. Choose premium kibble to ensure that it is not too hard for their teeth, which can cause unnecessary pain.
Since these dogs can suffer from gluten intolerance, it’s also worth looking for gluten-free food.
You may also be interested in:
Chi Border Terrier Cost
Costs $250 to $750.
Insurance might be higher due to more health issues.
Expect a Chi Border Terrier to cost between $250 and $750. While they might not be the most sought-after dogs, they are still considered valuable thanks to their parent breeds.
Choose a breeder that is trusted and has access to information such as parent history, screenings, and behavioral problems. Backyard breeders won’t have this information and therefore their cheaper dogs might suffer from more health issues.
Ongoing costs include premium food, higher vet bills and insurance premiums, and toys. The higher likelihood of health issues increases insurance and vet bills.