Cross a Chihuahua and Great Dane and what do you get?
It may seem like an impossible pairing based on sheer size, but through artificial insemination, you could combine these two dogs for a canine that has the very best traits and characteristics of both breeds.
If you are lucky, your ‘Chi-Dane-Dane’ will have the gentle spirit of a Great Dane and the fierce loyalty of the Chihuahua.
Thinking about adopting your own Chi-Dane-Dane?
What a Great Dane Chihuahua Mix Looks like
A Chi-Dane-Dane mix will likely resemble a Corgi. These medium-sized pups will have short hair, short legs, and long bodies- depending on their lineage. A cross between a Great Dane and a Chihuahua will be about twice the size of the Chi, with large ears, expressive eyes, and loyal temperament.
The Chi-Dane-Dane
When you pair these two breeds, the result is the Chi-Dane-Dane. These dogs are gentle and quiet, not as vocal as other mid-sized breeds.
Generally, these mixed breed dogs will be about twice the size of the parent Chihuahua, though much of the size is related to and contingent on genetics.
These dogs are loving and loyal — the Chihuahua in your pup will make it fiercely loyal and protective of its humans. Chi-Dane-Dane puppies are strong and stubborn, but also like to lie around a bit.
Usually, these dogs have a short coat, but that is also related to genetic predisposition — if the parent Chihuahua has long hair, your Chi-Dane-Dane may, too.
Many report that the Chi-Dane-Dane resembles a dachshund, with a long body and stubby legs. The color and markings of your dog will usually mimic the parents.
Potential Health Risks
There is not a lot of information regarding the long-term health and associated issues with the Chi-Dane-Dane breed, since this is such an uncommon mix.
Vet providers may suggest that you see a specialized vet that can address specific health needs associated with the two breeds.
What is known is that this crossbreed is susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, primarily an issue with Great Danes, that afflicts their joints and bones.
It is important to provide your pup with plenty of fats and oils that will help lubricate and preserve your dog’s joints later.
As this can be a painful condition, see your veterinary provider for options to alleviate your dog’s discomfort.
Breeding Great Danes and Chihuahuas
It may seem impossible to safely breed these two distinctly different-sized breeds, and it is. These two breeds would never naturally mate, according to dog experts.
Typically, cross-breeding these two dogs would be a result of artificial insemination and the resulting puppies are considered a ‘designer’ breed.
Dubbed the Chi-Dane-Dane, these dogs are uncommon and distinctive. Looking a lot like a Corgi, with short legs and a long torso, these mixed breeds are about twice the size of the chihuahua — maybe bigger.
These breeds have big ears and expressive eyes, along with the gentle temper of a Great Dane and the fierce loyalty of the tiny Chihuahua.
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Great Danes
Great Danes are often called gentle giants, due to their playful and loving temperaments.
These dogs usually live around 7-10 years, which is significantly shorter than other breeds, but not unusual for larger breeds.
Great Danes are active and busy, fantastic with kids! Remember, however, that these dogs are very strong and muscular, with hearty appetites.
They are an active breed that thrives when they are working dogs, with a job to do.
Chihuahua
On the other hand, Chihuahuas can be lazy, preferring an afternoon nap to activity and exercise. Chihuahuas often live around 15 years, depending on genetics.
Chihuahuas make great pets, but be careful around small children as this tiny breed can be prone to injury. These dogs are sweet and protective, loyal to their humans, and not afraid to be fierce when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions about What a Great Dane Chihuahua Mix Looks like
Is a Great Dane and Chihuahua mix possible?
It is possible to cross-breed a Chihuahua and a Great Dane, but artificial insemination is the only way. This is an uncommon pairing that does not typically occur naturally.
What do you call a Chihuahua Great Dane Mix?
Breeders have dubbed this mixed-breed a ‘Chi-Dane-Dane.’ As both breeds come from Mexico, originally, they have also been called the ‘Great Mexican Dog.’
What is a Chi-Dane-Dane like?
Chi-Dane-Danes are loyal and protective, which makes them good security in a home. They are gentle, quiet, and loving with their humans, and can even be a bit on the lazy side, though the Great Dane in them may predispose them to be working dogs.
How big will a Chi-Dane-Dane get?
Depending on lineage, a Chi-Dane-Dane is usually a medium-sized dog, around twice the size of a Chihuahua, and close in size to the Corgi.
What health issues do Chi-Dane-Danes commonly experience?
Hip and elbow dysplasia are the most prevalent health issues a Chi-Dane-Dane can experience. Make sure that your dog gets routine care and regular veterinary wellness visits to watch for signs of this disorder, which can cause your dog discomfort.
How long do Chi-Dane-Dane dogs usually live?
Since Great Danes usually live up to 10 years and Chihuahuas have an average lifespan of 15 years, your Chi-Dane-Dane may have a life expectancy of around 12 years or more!
Conclusion
Thinking about a mixed Great Dane and Chihuahua? Talk with reputable breeders about the potential of finding a Chi-Dane-Dane, if you are looking for a loyal and protective dog with a gentle temperament.
These unique dogs may require specialized veterinary care, so talk to your vet to learn more.