Chipin (Chihuahua & Miniature Pinscher Mix) Info, Pictures, Facts & More

A small Chipin Min Pin Chihuahua mix dog looking up at the camera
Height:5 – 12 inches
Weight:6 – 10 pounds
Lifespan:12 – 16 years
Coat Colors:Stag red, black, chocolate, red, cream, fawn, parti-color, black & rust, chocolate & tan, fawn & white, blue & tan
Temperament:Energetic, independent, extremely intelligent, responsive, alert, outgoing, devoted
Suitable for:People living in small apartments; experienced fur parents; active human companions

A popular choice among mixed breed enthusiasts with active lifestyles is the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix, also known as the Chipin.

For starters, it is a cross between the Miniature Pinscher and the Chihuahua, two small dogs known for their huge personalities. Moreover, they are both intelligent and great at learning new tricks.

As a result, the Chihuahua Min Pin mix will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on anyone who encounters it. If you want to learn more about this designer breed and its characteristics, keep on reading this article.

What Is a Chipin?

Small Chihuahua Miniature Pinscher mix standing outdoors

The Chipin is the cross of the courageous Chihuahua and the outgoing Miniature Pinscher. Despite the tiny size of this crossbreed, the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix is known for being energetic, loyal, and protective of its family. Aside from that, the Chipin also boasts a fairly long life.

Surprisingly, the Chihuahua Min Pin mix is also popular in the United States, along with other mixed breed dogs, including the Golden Chi, Aussie Chi, and Malchipoo.

However, the American Kennel Club (AKC), Chihuahua Club of America (CCA), and the Miniature Pinscher Club of America (MPCA) do not recognize Chipin dogs.

Unfortunately, this lack of recognition prevents these small dogs from participating in AKC-sanctioned shows and competitions.

Some breeders may also find it hard to sell their Chipin puppies since they are ineligible for official registration.

Nonetheless, you can still register your Min Pin Chihuahua mix with the Designer Breed Registry (DBR), International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR), and the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC).

Chipin Origin and History

Similar to other mixed breeds, the origin and history of the Chipin dog breed can be complicated to trace. Luckily, the records from both the Miniature Pinscher and Chihuahua can help us learn more about this hybrid dog.

Starting with its purebred Chihuahua parent, the history of this small dog can be traced back to the 19th century. While there are many theories about where Chihuahuas came from, most people believe they originated in Mexico.

Furthermore, the Chihuahua was bred originally as a companion dog, and it remains sought-after for that reason today.

On the other hand, the Chipin’s Miniature Pinscher parent was initially developed in Germany to hunt rodents.

Although many think it is the miniature version of the Doberman Pinscher, this is not the case. In fact, many historians proved that Min Pins descended from Dachshunds and Italian Greyhounds.

After the AKC recognized the Miniature Pinscher in 1925, the breed’s popularity as a loving companion increased. As of today, Miniature Pinschers are one of the most popular toy breeds in the country.

The exact reason why the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix was bred remains unclear. Nevertheless, the rich histories of its purebred parents can help us understand its temperament, overall appearance, and personality.

Chipin Appearance

As a mixed breed, it is difficult to determine the exact appearance of a Chipin puppy. In the same litter, one Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix may resemble a Chihuahua, and another may take after its Miniature Pinscher parent.

Despite this unpredictability, we can still examine the distinct appearances of this hybrid canine’s parent breeds. This way, we can get an idea of what your puppy may look like as it grows.

A Chihuahua Miniature Pinscher mix can inherit any of the beautiful colors displayed by its Chihuahua parent, including merle, fawn, black, white, gold, and chocolate.

In addition, if it is a Miniature Pinscher and long-haired Chihuahua mix, it will likely display a long, shiny coat.

Even though it is natural for Chihuahuas to exhibit big, pointed ears, the other parent breed has floppy ones. Consequently, you might be tempted to crop the ears of your Chi-Pin if it resembles the Miniature Pinscher’s ears.

Watch this video of a Chihuahua Min Pin mix in action to have a better grasp on what it looks like:

Luna & Rocky's Walk! - ChiPin (Miniature Pinscher/Chihuahua Mix) Dogs

Chipin Size and Weight

An adult Chipin usually stands between 5 and 12 inches tall and weighs about 6 to 10 pounds. They often reach their full-grown size once they reach 12 to 18 months old.

The range of size and weight provided is based on the average weights and sizes of both the Chihuahua and Miniature Pinscher.

Based on the MPCA website, a Miniature Pinscher can grow up to 12.5 inches and weigh as much as 10 pounds. Meanwhile, Chihuahuas tend to be 6 to 9 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 3 to 6 pounds.

However, several aspects can influence the growth pattern of a Chihuahua Miniature Pinscher mix. This includes your furry friend’s gene pool, gender, and if one parent breed is a teacup.

From the numbers presented here, we can safely conclude that all Minchi mixes are small-sized dogs. As such, they’re suitable for aspiring fur parents who live in apartments or houses with limited space.

Chipin Temperament and Personality

While the Chipin’s temperament and personality may not be exactly like those of the Miniature Pinscher or Chihuahua, it still bears notable traits from both parents. Consequently, such a combination makes for an excellent family pet.

Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mixes are usually devoted, watchful, and protective pooches. Due to these qualities, they have a natural tendency to bark when threatened or provoked.

Some dog owners, however, often misinterpret their barking as a sign of aggression. That’s why the dreaded small dog syndrome can sometimes be an issue with this dog breed.

Regardless, you can prevent this by providing obedience training and early socialization to your potential pet. Fortunately, the Chipin is also known for being a very smart dog that is easy to train.

In terms of their behavior with other animals, Chipin dogs prefer to be the only pet in their household. But if you have successfully housetrained your Min Pin Chihuahua mix, introducing them to other dogs should not be a problem.

For cat owners who are planning to add a Chipin to their family, we’ve compiled nine easy tips to ensure the transition goes smoothly.

Chipin Lifespan and Health Issues

Contrary to popular belief that designer dogs are prone to develop severe illnesses, the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix is generally healthy. Unlike larger dogs, a Chipin dog has an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years.

Still, many factors can affect the longevity of these hybrid canines, such as their diet, lifestyle, and the expertise of the chosen breeder.

If you want to own a Chihuahua Min Pin mix, be aware that these crossbreed dogs can suffer from any of the following health issues:

  • Patellar Luxation: A common health problem in Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mixes is patellar luxation, which causes the kneecap to dislocate from its normal position. Moreover, it can cause pain, inflammation, and lameness in the joint, as well as a bunny hop-like gait.
  • Physical Trauma: Because of the small stature of Chihuahua and Miniature Pinscher mixes, these dogs are at greater risk for physical trauma. Furthermore, they could get injuries from jumping off furniture, running into objects like walls and doors, falling down the stairs, or being hit by a car.
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Progressive retinal atrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by the degeneration of the retina. In addition, PRA is one of the most typical causes of blindness in affected Chipin dogs, and it can occur at any age.

Apart from the health concerns above, it’s worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the health and lifespan of its Chihuahua and Miniature Pinscher parent. They play a crucial role in the overall well-being of a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix.

While some aspects of its health are out of your control, you can try other ways to guarantee that your mixed furry friend will live a long and happy life. Investing in pet insurance is one way to help ensure that.

How to Take Care of Your Chipin

Now that the Chipin mix is discussed in detail, it’s time to learn how to take care of this dog breed.

Of course, the type of maintenance that your fur baby needs will depend on its daily activities, diet, and general health. Thus, knowing the basics of dog ownership is vital if you want to keep your pooch fit and happy throughout its life.

In this part, you will be guided through the process of caring for a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix.

Food and Diet

When determining how much to feed your Mini Pinscher Chihuahua mix, consider its age, size, and parent breeds. Usually, little dogs like these need fewer calories in their diet since they are at greater risk of getting fat.

Based on our Chihuahua feeding guide, it is best to give small-sized canines amounts of food ranging from ½ to 1 ⅓ cups daily.

If you own a Chipin puppy, the general rule is to give it puppy food rich in proteins, minerals, and fats. You can also incorporate the recommended puppy supplements into its diet to achieve optimal health.

On the other hand, an adult Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix requires 35 to 40 calories of food per pound of its body weight each day. And for senior Chipins, ½ to 1 cup of dog food will suffice.

The choice of whether to feed a hybrid pooch wet or dry dog food is up to the owner, but in either case, it is crucial to pick one that provides the best nutritional value.

Cleaning and Grooming

Because Miniature Pinschers and Chihuahuas have easy-to-maintain coats, you can expect that the Chipin dog breed will be no different. Just like other dogs, though, this mix still needs regular brushing.

In addition, it’s suggested to bathe a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix once a month using a mild dog shampoo. Dog breeds with short coats are prone to skin disorders, so make sure to wash and dry your pet meticulously.

Furthermore, brushing the teeth of your Chi-Pin twice a day is necessary. Note, however, that you should use a brush and toothpaste made specifically for dogs.

As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to inspect your furry companion for signs of ticks, scabs, and nail infections as well.

Training and Exercise

In general, Chipin mixes are known for their intelligence and curious nature. Therefore, aspiring canine parents with the time and patience will find it easy to train these little dogs.

First off, teach your Chihuahua Min Pin mix how to obey basic commands such as sit, stay, and come. You may also want to instruct it to do tricks like fetching or rolling over. The more your mixed pup learns, the stronger your bond will be.

Additionally, train your Mini Pinscher Chihuahua mix to walk on a leash. Not only will this reduce the risk of injury, but it will also help you monitor its behavior around other pets.

If you like to make the learning process more fun and engaging for your Chipin, try using positive reinforcement techniques.

As active dogs, Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mixes need a good 20-minute walk or playtime in the dog park each day. But if you do not have the time to walk your pooch yourself, you can hire a professional dog walker.

How Much Does a Chipin Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses

Although the cost of a Chipin puppy from a well-respected breeder can be anywhere between $300 and $800, you can expect to pay more for certain features like color and coat length.

However, as with buying purebred dogs, the price of a Chihuahua Min Pin mix is only an initial investment. You should also prepare your bank account for future expenses such as potty pads, treats, a high-quality bed, and vitamins.

Below is a breakdown of the estimated expenses associated with owning a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix:

Type of ExpenseCost
Food and Treats$50 – $80
Food and Water Bowls$10 – $25
Bed$30 – $150
Crate$30 – $200
Leashes and Collars$15 – $50
Toys$20 – $30
Grooming Essentials$30 – $150
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications$50 – $200
Initial Vet Visits$100 – $300
Initial Vaccine Shots$75 – $200
Neutering or Spaying$50 – $500
Dog License$10 – $20
Microchip$40 – $60
Miscellaneous Supplies$15 – $30
Total Initial Cost$525 – $1,995

On top of the puppy price and initial costs listed in the table, you might encounter unexpected expenses as your designer pup grows. This includes vet bills, pet sitter fees, and training classes.

To gain a greater perspective on this topic, you can check out our article on how much its Chihuahua parent costs.

Places to Find Chipin Puppies for Sale and Adoption

After considering the estimated cost of owning Chipin puppies, you can begin to look for places where you can buy or adopt one.

Needless to say, finding a reputable breeder or shelter that will provide you with a healthy dog can be challenging. Aside from that, many puppy mills and dishonest breeders are still out there.

For Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix puppies for sale, check out the following advertising sites:

  • Lancaster Puppies – As one of the most user-friendly puppy advertising websites, Lancaster Puppies is your best bet when looking for a Chipin pup. This website allows aspiring fur parents to filter their search by breed, size, and location.
  • Petclassifieds.com – Another site where you can search for a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix is Pet Classifieds. With their helpful filters, you can find all the animals in your area that fit your search criteria.
  • Greenfield Puppies – Established in 2000, Greenfield Puppies offers a wide range of dog breeds, including those that are hard to find. If you are lucky, you might find a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix puppy here.

Other than the sources above, you can also check out our directory of the best Chihuahua breeders. Additionally, read our puppy buying guide before you purchase a Chipin puppy online.

If you want to adopt a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix, check out the following rescues and adoption sites below:

  • Ay Chihuahua Rescue (ACR) – ACR is an all-volunteer organization with a mission to rescue Chihuahuas in need and help them find loving homes. You can visit their website and ask if they have a Chipin dog available for adoption.
  • MO Min Pin Rescue (MMPR) – Founded in 2017, MMPR is dedicated to assisting and saving abandoned pure and mixed Mini Pinschers. You can adopt a rescue dog from them for around $200 to $400. If you’re interested, visit their website to see if they have a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix.
  • Petfinder – Petfinder is a reliable website that can help you find Chihuahua Mini Pinscher mixes and other pets available for adoption. This site works with many rescue and shelter organizations to provide a comprehensive list of adoptable animals.

You can also use our list of the best Chihuahua rescues and shelters for additional options. If you’re contemplating because you are new to the adoption process, our ultimate adoption guide can help get you started.

As a bonus, we have compiled a list of 13 ways to find free puppies in your area for adoption. Check out that article if you want to try your luck in finding a free Chipin.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Min Pin Chihuahua Mix

Although a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix has many noteworthy qualities, it may not be suitable for all households. So before making a decision, prospective owners should evaluate the pros and cons of owning one.

Let’s begin by discussing the advantages of owning a Min Pin Chihuahua mix:

  • Ideal for apartment dwellers: Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mixes make great apartment dogs. Thanks to their tiny build, they don’t take up much space and can live comfortably in apartments or small houses.
  • Compatible with active fur parents: The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix loves to play, so this energetic hybrid is perfect for you if you enjoy going on walks, hikes, and runs every day.
  • Responsive and highly trainable: The intelligent Chihuahua and the responsive Mini Pinscher are likely to result in an offspring that is attentive and eager to learn. Furthermore, most Chipins are loyal and affectionate towards their owners. Once they’re properly trained, they make great companions for any home.

Of course, no good thing comes without its drawbacks. The following are some of the disadvantages of owning a Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix:

  • May display destructive behavior: The Chipin mix, like the Miniature Pinscher and the Chihuahua, is prone to develop unwanted habits when left alone for long periods. Consequently, these dogs require owners who can provide lots of mental stimulation and exercise.
  • Prone to obesity: Chihuahua Min Pin mixes are more likely to become obese than other breeds. Unfortunately, the combination of overfeeding and a lack of exercise are the common causes of this condition. Their tiny stature also makes it difficult for them to maintain a healthy weight.
  • Has an extreme tendency to defend its territory: The Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix can be territorial towards other pets and people if not socialized early on. Thus, before getting a Chipin, determine if you have the time and resources to train it.

By understanding the factors above, you can identify if this designer dog is compatible with your lifestyle, personality, and environment. After all, choosing the right dog to be a companion requires careful consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mini Pinscher Chihuahua Mixes Smart?

Not only are Mini Pinscher Chihuahua mixes adorable pups, but they’re smart as well. In fact, they have proven themselves to be very trainable and eager to obey their people.

Do Chipins Bark a Lot?

Due to the vigilant nature of their parent breeds, you can expect that Chipins will bark a lot. While they can’t be used as guard dogs, they are very alert and will surely let their owners know if someone is approaching their home.

Do Chipins Shed a Lot?

Even though Chipins are low-maintenance canines, they tend to shed quite a bit. Nonetheless, with regular brushing, this shedding problem can be easily managed.

Are Chipins Hypoallergenic?

No, Chipins are not hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, their dander, saliva, and urine contain lipocalin allergens that can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Final Thoughts: Is a Chipin the Right Dog for You?

Overall, whether or not a Chipin is the right dog for you will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and experience. In most cases, the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix is not recommended for first-time fur parents.

They require constant attention and care to keep them happy and healthy. Moreover, this designer breed’s high energy level may be too much for some people who cannot handle such enthusiasm.

Potential Min Pin Chihuahua mix owners should also have the time and patience to provide basic obedience training, early socialization, and plenty of mental stimulation.

Nonetheless, the affection and loyalty you will receive from this mix will make the sacrifices worth making.

So, are you ready to bring a Chipin dog into your home? Let us know what you think about the Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua mix in the comments below!

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