The Rare Chihuahua Mix That's Both Loving And Loyal And Usually Is Found As A Rescue

While many focus on purebred dogs to determine the best fit for them, mixed breeds are often under-championed pets despite their numbers. A 2017 study by PLOS One showed that mixed breeds make up between 44% and 53% of pet dogs in the U.S. and the shelter dog population is around 80% mixed breed. This variety means potential pet parents can find unique mixes when adopting a dog from a shelter. However, the Chihuahua-German shepherd cross, lovingly called by some owners as 'shepherdhuahuas,' can offer the loyalty of a German shepherd with the affectionate nature of the Chihuahua.

Although the shepherdhuahua can have the desired smaller size of a Chihuahua and the possibility of carrying the favored patterning of a German shepherd, they're limited by their rarity. For potential pet owners, you will only ever likely find one in a shelter. The breed is also not recognized by the American Kennel Club, which results in their inability to get broader recognition in shows or by accredited breeders.

Breeding dogs of drastically different sizes has its issues in creating mixed breed dogs. In both artificial insemination and mating, a large male with a small female presents medical concerns regarding the size of the offspring. Finding suitable mates with the desired temperaments of two drastically different-sized dogs is a challenging balance for any potential breeder. The difficulties in breeding, limited numbers, and lack of AKC recognition make the charming Chihuahua-German shepherd cross a highly uncommon breed.

All dogs are unique, with their breed only accounting for 9% of a dog's total personality. Still, a Chihuahua and German shepherd cross may carry a mix of traits from both breeds. Chihuahuas are easy to identify, thanks to their small size and big attitude. They can make excellent family pets because of their loving nature, though they can also cause a stir and be very vocal about their needs and what they do and don't like. The breed also has abundant energy, making them a very playful companion.

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German shepherds are often the definition of loyalty, with many pet parents touting them as one of the best dog breeds for protection. They are also an athletic breed that requires a lot of energy and mental stimulation to stay content. The German shepherd is noted for being diligent and hardworking and is often employed in various jobs like police and service dogs.

While the shepherdhuahua remains a rare mix, their adorable size, chance of carrying those definitive German shepherd markings, and potential to combine the positive traits of the two favored breeds make it an exciting prospect for potential owners. Still, welcoming any mixed-breed dog into your home can provide joy, love, and entertainment; it doesn't have to be an uncommon chihuahua-German shepherd cross to find that once-in-a-lifetime connection.