Sheltie Shepherd vs Chihuahua Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahueño?
Compare the Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Sheltie Shepherd or a Chihuahueño? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Csivava, Chihuahueño
Weight
What is the average weight of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua?
60.0 pounds
( 27 kg )
4.5 pounds
( 2 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua
26.5 inches
( 67.3 cm )
7.5 inches
( 19.1 cm )
Hypoallergenic
Are Sheltie Shepherds or Chihuahuas hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, neither Sheltie Shepherd nor Chihuahua are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua dogs?
Do Sheltie Shepherds shed more than Chihuahuas, or which breed sheds more, Sheltie Shepherds or Chihuahuas?
Sheltie Shepherds are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.
Chihuahuas shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua?
The Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.
Origin
What is the origin of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua dog breeds?
United States
Mexico
Ancestry
What are the origins of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds?
Shetland Sheepdog and German Shepherd
Techichi Dog
Breed recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize/register Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua?
ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
American Canine Registry American Kennel Club America's Pet Registry Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc. Federation Cynologique Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Australian National Kennel Council Continental Kennel Club National Kennel Club New Zealand Kennel Club United Kennel Club
Date of Birth
When were Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds first developed?
2000s
100 AD
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua?
Black Brown
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds?
Black Brown Red Cream Fawn Silver Pied Sable Brindle
Black Brown Red Cream Blue White
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds?
Sheltie Shepherds are known for their coat length.
Chihuahuas have medium-length coats.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua?
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua?
6-10 puppies per pregnancy
A Sheltie Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
14-18 puppies per pregnancy
A Chihuahua can have a litter of 14-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahuas are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua, which breed is more prone to health problems?
The Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds are commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds?
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia Degenerative Myelopathy Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis Congenital Heart Defect (CHD)
Patellar Luxation
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua?
What occasional tests are recommended for Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds?
Hearing Eye Examination Skin Evaluation Diagnostic Imaging Cardiac Test Electromyography (EMG) DNA
Cardiac Knee Eyes Skeletal Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Sheltie Shepherds and Chihuahuas compare?
For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua breeds may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.
Social Needs
Sheltie Shepherd vs Chihuahua social needs comparison
Sheltie Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Chihuahua has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Exercise Needed
Sheltie Shepherd vs Chihuahua exercise need comparison.
Sheltie Shepherds need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.
Chihuahuas require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua?
Sheltie Shepherds sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Chihuahuas have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.
Tendency to Bark
Do Sheltie Shepherds or Chihuahuas bark more/less frequently?
Sheltie Shepherd dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.
Chihuahua dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Sheltie Shepherd vs Chihuahua?
Roaming urge
Sheltie Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua entertained?
Walking, Toy
Barking, Running, Sleeping, Sniffing, Marking, Walking, Walk, Eating Snacks, Brushing, Wlking, Dog watching, Fetch, Nap, Run, Chase, Jump, Treats, Socialize, Play, Tracking, Kissing, Other dogs, Bark, Sleep, Smelling, Playing, Napping, Cuddling, Go on Vacation, Snuggle
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Sheltie Shepherds or Chihuahuas?
Medium
Both Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua walk each week?
12 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Sheltie Shepherd, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
6 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Chihuahua, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Sheltie Shepherds or Chihuahuas require more exercise?
45 minutes
In general most Sheltie Shepherds usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
30 minutes
In general most Chihuahuas usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Sheltie Shepherds or Chihuahuas?
Sheltie Shepherds require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.
The Chihuahua is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua dogs?
Daily
Ideally, Sheltie Shepherd should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.
Weekly
Chihuahua should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Sheltie Shepherds and Chihuahuas?
Pin Brush Comb Deshedder Nail Clipper
Slicker Brush Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua in cups?
2.5 cups
For an average 55-65 pound (25 - 29 kg) Sheltie Shepherd feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
1 cups
For an average 3-6 pound (1 - 3 kg) Chihuahua feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua?
$2.20 - $3.40 / day
The average cost of a Sheltie Shepherd is somewhere $2.20 - $3.40 per day.
$1.10 - $1.40 / day
The average cost of a Chihuahua is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua?
$67 - $101 / month
The average per month expenses of a Sheltie Shepherd is between $67 - $101. This makes an average of $804 - $1212 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
$28 - $42 / month
The average per month expenses of a Chihuahua is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Sheltie Shepherds vs Chihuahuas
Sheltie Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.
Chihuahua has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How do Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua compare in sensitivity?
These dog breeds are particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, unfamiliar people, or animals. This dog breed is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Sheltie Shepherd vs Chihuahua?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua?
Sheltie Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Chihuahuas make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
Child Friendly
Do Sheltie Shepherds or Chihuahuas have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Sheltie Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.
Chihuahuas are not suitable for children.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua?
Cat Friendly
Do Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Sheltie Shepherds are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.
Chihuahuas are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua?
{Sheltie Shepherds and Chihuahuas are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.
Pet friendly
How do Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Sheltie Shepherd or Chihuahua?
Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua?
Sheltie Shepherd and Chihuahua have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Sheltie Shepherds and Chihuahuas compare?
Sheltie Shepherds are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
Chihuahuas are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.