Characteristics of a Chihuahua-Manchester Terrier Mix

Manchester terrier and Chihuahua mixes have behavioral traits that may be easier to predict than some other mixed breeds since these breeds have several similarities. The biggest surprise might come down to their appearance.

While the Manchester terrier has distinct colors and markings, the Chihuahua is less consistent, presenting with a wider range in their coat. They have different personality traits but share common features that will probably stay in the realm of your expectations. As smaller dogs, they have some potential health issues in common with each other and with other dogs around the same size. However, there are some important things to note when it comes to their health., which are somewhat unique.

The appearance of this breed can be hard to predict. They may look mostly like one breed or the other or just like a Manchester terrier and Chihuahua mixed together. Since the Manchester terrier could be larger than the Chihuahua, the size of their offspring may vary. Manchester terriers come in two sizes: standard (22 pounds maximum) and toy (12 pounds maximum). This will affect the size of your Chihuahua mix but not his behavior. Manchester terrier Chihuahua mixes may reach a maximum height of 12 to 14 inches at the withers (shoulders) and weigh anywhere from 7 to 16 pounds.

It's common to see these dogs with a short, smooth coat that's tan with black spots. However, they can sport other colors too, such as fawn, red, black, brown, and cream, and they may have various markings. Their eye color may be dark brown, reddish-brown, or sometimes blue.

These two breeds have some similar traits, which makes it a bit easier to predict the behavior of their offspring. Manchester terrier Chihuahua mixes are loyal companions. They're friendly, playful, and affectionate, but they shouldn't be left alone with children. They may require a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation, but they also like some cuddle time after a walk.

While they love the company of their humans, they're also independent, self-assured animals who can be left alone as long as they have the things they need to feel safe and comfortable. These dogs are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement, so they should be rewarded with lots of praise and some treats (not too many) when training efforts are successful. They should be socialized from a young age.

These dogs need very little maintenance as far as grooming goes. Don't bathe your Manchester terrier Chihuahua mix any more often than once a month because it can dry out their skin and make them vulnerable to disease, but you can make an exception if your dog gets really dirty from playing or rolling around in something gross. Moisturizing shampoos and conditioners can help to combat dry skin.

A good brushing a few times a week to a few times a month is usually enough to keep her coat healthy. Cut her nails once every three to four weeks or more frequently if they're about to touch the ground. Do a weekly ear inspection for infection but healthy ears usually only need to be cleaned once a month.

Both the Manchester terrier and the Chihuahua breeds are prone to having certain health issues, which may be passed along to their offspring. Juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy is a heart disease that's known to affect Manchester terriers as well as several other breeds. They are also known to develop patellar luxation, or "loose knees," a condition where the kneecaps move out of place. This can severely affect your dog's limbs over time.

The toy variety may be susceptible to breast cancer and canine pyometra. Chihuahuas are prone to having heart conditions as well, called patent ductus arteriosus and mitral valve disease. They are also known to have patellar luxation, eye disease, and epilepsy. Several tests are recommended for this dog:

• Cardiac exam
• Ophthalmologist evaluation
• Thyroid evaluation
• Von Willebrand's disease DNA test
• Patella evaluation
• Legg-Calve-Perthe radiographic
• JDCM DNA Test

Manchester terriers have a genetic sensitivity to anesthesia caused by reduced production of the CYP2B11 enzyme, which breaks down the drugs. This may affect any Manchester terrier mix breed and is important to know in case your dog ever needs surgery.