Affectionately known as the “Rottchi” or a “Chiweiler”, this strange mixed-breed dog is a relatively new creation, the usual nimble nature of the Chihuahua is somewhat cancelled out by its Rottweiler counterpart to create a small to medium-sized dog with an ever-so-cute face and a loving and affectionate temperament.
Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix – At a Glance
| Weight: | 30-80 pounds |
| Height: | 8-20 inches tall |
| Lifespan: | 12-16 years |
| Coat Colors: | Mixture of black, brown, gold and white. |
| Temperament: | Affectionate, excitable, playful, energetic. |
| Most Suitable For: | Couples with/without children, single individuals, possibly the elderly |
What Does a Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Look Like?
The Rottweiler Chihuahua mix will likely borrow a healthy amount of its looks from either parent. It’s short-statured nature is inherited from the Chihuahua, as they will usually have a long nose and jawline, short, droopy ears and a downward tail. It will mostly resemble the Rottweiler in its nose and whiskery face.
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The History of the Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix:
Unfortunately, given the rarity of this crossbreed – partially due to the size differential between the two breeds (not many people breed the two dogs together). Therefore, little documentation exists about how or when the Rottweiler and Chihuahua were first cross-bred, but we can delineate that given the explosion of crossbreeding popularity in the last twenty or thirty years, the initial crossbreeding happened at some point during this period.
Rottweiler History
The Rottweiler’s history begins with the drover dog, a favourite cattle-herding dog of the Roman Legions. These Legions, who left Rottweil, Germany in the 9th century left behind these drover dogs who were adopted by the local population. After various cross breeding attempts, the Rottweiler was created throughout centuries of crossbreeding and emerged as a strong, powerful guardian animal of livestock and people that we know today. They’ve held various different positions including as police and military working dogs.
How Popular Are Rottweilers in the United States?
While this year’s most-popular dogs list is not out yet by the American Kennel Club, last year’s listing placed the Rottweiler as the 8th most popular dog in the United States. It’s no wonder, as these gentle giants often make wonderful family pets.
Who Are Rottweilers a Good Dog For?
Rotties make great companion dogs for just about anyone, with the possible exception of the elderly due to their size and strength. Couples with or without children, or single individuals will absolutely love the Rottweiler. Though ensure you can give it plenty of exercise if you do adopt or purchase a Rottie pup!
How Did Rottweilers Come About?
Rottweilers were crossbred with native German dogs over centuries. Left behind by the Roman Legions of the 9th century in the town of Rottweil, the Rottie’s history of cattle-herding and guardianship begin there.
When Did We First Cross-Breed Rottweilers?
While the exact timing of the Rottweiler’s crossbreeding is unknown, they do have a history in Rottweil, Germany, stretching back to the 9th century, so, we can surmise that some crossbreeding began at that time, with other native dogs of unknown breed.
Chihuahua History
The Chihuahua has a storied history as well. Though theirs begins in Mexico, sometime in the 19th century. The Chihuahua is thought to have been a result of breeding of the native dog, the Techichi, by the Toltec people of Mexico – an ancient Aztec tribe in the 9th century C.E.
How Popular Are Chihuahuas in the United States?
The Chihuahua, despite its energetic, fierce and stubborn nature, routinely ranks in the top forty most-popular breeds in America. In 2021, it came 37th on the AKC’s list of most-popular dogs.
Who Are Chihuahuas A Good Dog For?
Because of their short size, Chihuahuas are actually a great pet for the elderly, but they also fit well in a family unit, or with single individuals. Chihuahuas can be standoffish with other animals and strangers.
How Did Chihuahuas Come About?
Chihuahuas were the result of centuries of crossbreeding of various types of dogs in Mexico in the 9th century and are believed to have descended from the Techichi dog of the Toltec people – an Aztec tribe.
When Did We First Cross-Breed Chihuahuas?
As the breed is so old, there are no records of crossbreeding of the Chihuahua. However, given that it was created in the 9th century, we can confidently surmise that it will likely have been crossbred across many centuries with other native Mexican dogs.
What is the Temperament of the Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix?
You can expect your Rottweiler Chihuahua mix to be somewhat aggressive in the early stages of its development, though courageous and protective of you and your family. This aggression is usually tempered with age and training, so be prepared to train your Rottweiler Chihuahua mix well!
Your Rottweiler Chihuahua mix can also suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time, this is due to their affectionate nature.
Are Rottweiler Chihuahua Mixes Friendly?
In general, Rottweiler Chihuahua mixes are incredibly friendly dogs, though initially aloof/standoffish with strangers.
Are Rottweiler Chihuahua Mixes Easy to Train?
This mix may take a little while to train, as Chihuahuas of any stripe are routinely stubborn and fiercely independent animals.
How Much Can Rottweiler Chihuahua Mixes Weigh?
Most Rottweiler Chihuahua mixes will weigh anywhere between 30 and 80 pounds.
How Tall Can Rottweiler Chihuahua Mixes Get?
Most Rottweiler Chihuahua mixes can reach anywhere between 8 and 20 inches tall.
Similar Sized Breeds
Given that the Rottweiler Chihuahua mix can reach such a broad height spectrum, there are several similar-sized breeds – on the smaller size, we have dogs such as the Dachshund or Maltese. On the upper end of the size scale, we have the Brittany Spaniel, or the Border Collie.
Does a Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Shed?
Yes, the Rottweiler Chihuahua mix can best be described as a medium shedder! They don’t shed in large amounts very often, but will shed consistently throughout the year. This can be mitigated by a good brush every fortnight or so, but it’s not something you need to be doing constantly.
How Much Exercise Does a Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Need?
Both of the mixed-breed parents are quite energetic dogs. Therefore, you can imagine that the your Rottweiler Chihuahua will also be an energetic breed. This means that the Rottweiler Chihuahua will require plenty of exercise throughout its life, at least an hour’s walk each day, combined with off-leash time if possible and a more leisurely stroll on weekends.
How Long Does a Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Live?
The lifespan of the French Bulldog is between 8-10 years, while the Chihuahua is between 12-20 years.
Therefore we can assume the life expectancy of the Rottweiler Chihuahua mix is anywhere between 12-16 years.
Like with any dog, there are a number of factors that will determine the number of years your specific Rottweiler Chihuahua mix lives like diet and exercise.
What Health Conditions Could the Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Have?
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Patellar Luxation
- Separation Anxiety
- Cataracts
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Tooth Problems
How Can You Find a Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix For Sale?
While we highly recommend that you first search locally for a puppy to adopt, rather than purchase – you can look out for one at your local vets or animal shelter – you can also keep an eye on websites like AdoptAPet.com, that allows you to search for adoptable dogs in your local area.
Aside from that, if you are going to purchase a dog through a breeder, we recommend checking out the American Kennel Club’s advice on finding a reputable breeder.
How Much Does a Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix Cost?
You can expect to pay between $400 and $1000 for your Rottweiler Chihuahua mix pup! Prices vary depending on the breeder and the location.
Is the Rottweiler Chihuahua Mix the Right Breed For You?
If you’re looking for an active, energetic, loving and fiercely loyal companion dog, look no further than the Rottweiler Chihuahua mix. Despite their unusual breed mixture, the Rottweiler Chihuahua mix is the perfect dog for almost anyone! We hope our guide has answered the question of whether or not it is the right one for you.
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.
