The Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix is a small mixed-breed dog with plenty of energy, a zest for life, and undying loyalty to its owners. The Cocker Chi, as it is otherwise known is a moderately active breed with an affectionate, even-tempered nature.
The Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix inherits the best of each parent breed, the loyalty and protective nature of the Chihuahua, as well as the doting, cheerful disposition of the Cocker Spaniel. This makes for a perfect family pet!
The Cocker Chi is also well-suited for apartment living, due to their small size.
Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix – At a Glance
| Weight: | 6 – 18 pounds |
| Height: | 12 – 16 inches |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 15 years |
| Coat Colors: | Black, blue, white, tan, brown, golden, silver |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, friendly, loving, loyal, affectionate, active |
| Most Suitable For: | Active families, single individuals, couples |
What Does a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Look Like?
Like all designer dog breeds, the Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix will inherit its physical appearance from each parent breed with a healthy mixture of both! Your Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel may also look more like one parent than the other due to the prevalence of one set of genes or another.
Your Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix will likely inherit the double coat of the Cocker Spaniel, along with the smooth, silky texture of the coat. Your Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix may come in a variety of colors, though it may also have a black muzzle, as with many Cocker Spaniel mixes.
Its most prevalent Chihuahua genes will likely be found in its smaller size. Chihuahuas stand between 6 – 9 inches tall, whereas Cocker Spaniels are between 14 – 17 inches tall. Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mixes can be found in a combination of colors (listed above) or as a solid color.
It will likely inherit the forward-flopping, triangular ears of the Chihuahua, along with the dark muzzle of the Chihuahua, although it could also inherit the lengthy ears of the Cocker Spaniel.
As with many mix breed dogs, their physical appearance can be difficult to predict.
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The History of the Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix
Unfortunately, little is known about the history of the Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix. However, it was likely created between 1990 and the early 2000s when crossbreeding became popular throughout the United States. It was at this time that many different mixed-breed dogs were created.
Fortunately, there is plenty of history to learn about their parent breeds: the English Cocker Spaniel and the Mexican Chihuahua. We’ll take you through the history of each parent breed to give you a better picture of where the Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix came from.
The History of the Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a Spanish dog breed best known for their cheerful disposition, friendly character and active personality. They’re gentle and kind pets, beloved by everyone from the elderly to the young and active family unit.
Despite misconceptions that the Cocker Spaniel is an English breed, the dog actually originated in Spain as far back as the 14th century, when they were called “Spaynels”. It wasn’t until centuries later when they were divided into the English Cocker Spaniel and the larger, American Cocker Spaniel.
The American Cocker Spaniel was bred as a hunting dog, used to hunt duck, quail and other small game. In North America, Cocker Spaniels’ typically have their tails docked, whereas English Cocker Spaniels tend to have full tails.
Cocker Spaniels come in a wide range of color patterns and color combinations, but their double coat requires regular brushing.
How Popular Are Cocker Spaniel in the United States?
The American Cocker Spaniel has been catching on in the United States and have been owned by various celebrities including Prince William, George Clooney and Oprah Winfrey.
Ever since their designation by the American Kennel Club in 1946, the American Kennel Club has kept tabs on the popularity of the American Cocker Spaniel. In 2021, American Cockers were the 29th most popular dog in the United States.
Who Are Cocker Spaniel a Good Dog For?
Because of their size, temperament and affectionate nature, the Cocker Spaniel has long been a favorite pet of many Americans of different family dynamics. Their soulful expression of love and devotion to their owners make them a family favorite.
Their size and demeanor make them perfect companion pets for the elderly and their athleticism and exercise requirements (while not being too strenuous), are sure to keep you on your toes.
How Did Cocker Spaniel Come About?
Cocker Spaniels first originated in Spain in or about the 14th century, but were first popularized in England in the proceeding centuries and have gained popularity steadily among the British public, including members of the Royal Family.
When Did We First Cross-Breed The Cocker Spaniel?
Like most designer dog breeds, crossbreeding of the Cocker Spaniel became popular in the United States in the 1990s and early 2000s. This resulted in several popular Cocker Spaniel crossbreeds, such as:
- Corgi Cocker Spaniel Mix (Corgi Cocker)
- Border Collie Cocker Spaniel Mix (Border Spaniel)
- Chow Chow Cocker Spaniel Mix (Chow Spaniel)
- Boxer Cocker Spaniel Mix (Boxer Spaniel)
- Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix (Doxie Spaniel)
The History of the Chihuahua
The Chihuahua’s history stretches back to the mid-19th century, when they were first noted in the Mexican state of the same name. Although, their lineage is thought to stretch back to the 9th century, when the Aztecs controlled large swathes of South America. The Chihuahua is thought to descend from the Techichi, a small mute dog kept by the Toltec Peoples as far back as the 9th century.
Their smooth coat, sharp character and alert disposition have endeared them to many people in the United States – where they arrived at the turn of the 20th century – including many American celebrities including Reese Witherspoon, Demi Moore and Britney Spears.
How Popular Are Chihuahuas in the United States?
Outside of celebrity ownership, the Chihuahua is one of America’s most popular small dog breeds, ranking in 37th in 2021’s most popular dog rankings, according to the American Kennel Club.
Who Are Chihuahuas a Good Dog For?
Given their small size and moderate activity levels, the Chihuahua is a favorite among the elderly and those who prefer smaller breeds. Despite their prevalence in suffering from separation anxiety – leading to destructive behavior – they do much better in a house & yard than in an apartment.
How Did Chihuahuas Come About?
The precise history of Chihuahuas is a mystery, as they were first noted in the Mexican state of Chihuahua in the mid-19th century. Although, they are thought to descend from the Techichi, a small, mute dog of similar appearance to the Chihuahua that was noted in the 9th century, during the time of the Aztecs.
When Did We First Cross-Breed The Chihuahua?
Crossbreeding of the Chihuahua only recently gained popularity in the United States, despite the breed being in the country for more than a century. Several popular Chi crosses were developed in the 1990s and early 2000s. These crossbreeds include:
- Pitbull Chihuahua Mix (Pit Chi)
- Corgi Chihuahua Mix (Chigi)
- Border Collie Chihuahua Mix (Border Chi)
- Doberman Chihuahua Mix (Doberchi)
- Schnauzer Chihuahua Mix (Schnauzer Chi)
How Important Is a Dog’s Temperament to Your Family?
Before you get a dog, you need to decide why you’re getting one and what you’re looking for in a dog. Are you looking for an active companion? Or are you looking for a more laid-back breed?
If you have children, you’re going to want a breed that’s able to be relaxed and calm around younger children.
There’s plenty to consider to getting a dog, and finding a temperamental match is one of the most important aspects of dog ownership. That way, you can put more time and energy into loving your dog, rather than training it out of it’s temperamental tendencies.
What is the Temperament of the Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix?
Expect your Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix to be a dog that needs plenty of physical activity! Both the Chihuahua and Cocker Spaniel are very active, so expect their hybrid breed to be equally so. The Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix will likely exhibit the doting, loving and loyal behavioral traits of the Cocker Spaniel, while maintaining the spry nature of the Chihuahua.
Is The Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Friendly?
Generally, the Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix is a very friendly and affectionate animal. Their Chihuahua genetics may initially present some stubbornness and suspicion of strangers, but they will eventually warm to them.
When it comes to other pets and dogs, your Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix will be inquisitive, so you’ll need to learn to read a situation and prepare to step in, if it looks like your pup isn’t being well-received by another dog.
Is The Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Easy to Train?
You might experience some stubborn behavior from your Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix, but they do respond well to positive reinforcement training. You may need to be patient and persistent with your training, but your Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix will eventually get the gist.
How Much Can A Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Weigh?
The average weight of a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix is between 6 and 18 pounds.
How Tall Can A Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Get?
The average height of a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix is between 12 and 16 inches tall.
Similar-Sized Breeds
There are a few similar-sized breeds to the Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix. These include:
- Bichon Frise
- Boston Terrier
- Cairn Terrier
- King Charles Spaniel
- Jack Russell Terrier
Does the Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Shed?
You can expect your Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix to be a light to moderate shedder that will need regular grooming. Brushing your Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua mix at least once weekly would be best.
How Much Exercise Does A Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Require?
As a particularly active breed, your Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix will require a moderate amount of daily exercise. This includes about 45 minutes of walking, supplemented by mental stimulation.
Among other things, KONG toys are an excellent source of mental stimulation for dogs. If you’re planning to leave your pup alone for a period of time, invest in a KONG toy filled with their favorite treats.
How Long Can a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Live?
The average lifespan of a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix is between 12 and 15 years.
What Health Conditions Could the Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Have?
- Hip Dysplasia (Hip joint inflammation)
- Patellar Luxation (Kneecap Dislocation)
- Epiphora (Overactive Tear Glands)
- Hypothyroidism (Overactive Thyroid Gland)
- Hypoglycemia (Overproduction of Sugar)
- Corneal Ulcers (Eye Problems)
How Can You Find a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Puppy For Sale?
Before you start searching for Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix puppies for sale, we highly recommend you consider adopting one of these delightful mix breed dogs first! There are plenty of mixed-breed dogs that find themselves up for adoption due to accidental mating, or simply being a poor fit for their old family unit.
Check with your local vet clinic to animal shelter to see if anyone has dropped off a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix puppy to be adopted.
If that’s unsuccessful, try searching online at AdoptAPet.com, to see if there are any in your local area.
How Much Does a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix Puppy Cost?
The average cost of a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix puppy is between $500 and $1000! This is roughly double the cost of adopting one of these mix breed pups!
If you’re still intent on purchasing a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix puppy, we highly recommend that you do so through a reputable and well-established breeder of these mixed-breed pups. You should begin by reading our guide to finding and working with reputable breeders.
Is the Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix the Right Breed For You?
The most common home for a Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel mix is a family home that’s searching for an active companion pet and doesn’t mind the quirky, excitable nature of the Cocker Chi! If this sounds like your home, then the Cocker Spaniel Chihuahua may be the dog you’ve been searching for.
However, if you’re certain that the Cocker Chi isn’t the right breed for you – not to worry! We’ve compiled dozens of other breed guides to help you decide which is the best dog for your family.
Nick Meagher
I'm Nick Meagher, a lifelong dog enthusiast and the voice behind this blog. Having grown up with dogs, I've developed a deep understanding and an unbreakable bond with these amazing companions. Through MyK9Life, I aim to share insights, tips, and heartwarming stories, celebrating the joy and journey of life with our four-legged friends.
