Jack Russell Chihuahua Mix: All About The Jack Chihuahua

The Jack Russell Chihuahua cross, also referred to as the Jack Chi or Jackahuahua, is a small and energetic crossbreed dog that brings together the vivacious nature of the Jack Russell Terrier and the prickly character of the Chihuahua.

The crossbreed is one of the popular breeds among city dwellers and those who love small dogs due to its tiny size, agility, and feistiness.

Whether you are interested in adopting a Jack Chi or simply wish to learn about this hybrid, this guide is here to take you through everything you would wish to know—everything from temperament, child and animal behavior, affection levels, barking propensities, and more. 

Breed Overview

Before we get to know more about this dog breed here is a few details that you should know about beforehand. 

Size	10 to 15 inches
Lifespan	13 -15 years
Weight	8 – 18 lbs
Color	White, cream, black, gold or dark brown
Coat	Short length but dense
Temperament	Loyal, highly energetic and loving
Do They Shed	Not as much
Socialization	They need socialization with people and other dogs at a young age.
Intelligence	Quite clever dogs
People Skills	Normally good with people
Destructive Behavior	Too much barking, hyperactivity, and chewing
Activity Level	Medium level but need about half an hour exercise daily.
Good With Children	Not great with small children but great with older children.

Breed Origin

If we look back in the past then it is hard to say where the Jack Russell Chihuahua mix first originated from. But a lot is known about their parent breed, the Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua mix. 

While the Jack Russell terrier first originated in the 19th century in England. It was first bred by Parson John Russell for hunting foxes. 

On the other hand, the Chihuahua was first discovered back in the 1850s, in Chihuahua, which is a state in Mexico. They were brought to the US by American tourists. Here they were registered with AKC in the year 1904. 

Physical Appearance

As we all know by now that the Jack Russell Chihuahua mix is definitely not a purebred dog, it is a mix of two dogs. So it is obvious that it will show the physical features of both breeds.

More often the breed does resemble the Jack Russell terrier than the Chihuahua, but that is not all the time. But the shape of the dog is more like the Chihuahua rather than the Jack Russell. With pointy and erect ears and large eyes, they have the shape of a Chihuahua. 

Although the dogs have short and thick, dense coats, they are not hypoallergenic and are not the best option for people having allergies. 

Temperament & Personality

It is hard to say what personality or temperament your Jack Russell Chihuahua mix is going to show. But one thing is for sure they are very energetic, as both the parents are quite energetic and active. 

They have a fun personality so it is for sure that you won’t be bored, but these dogs do suffer from separation anxiety if left alone. This is when they are prone to show certain destructive behaviors like chewing and barking. 

Health Issues & Care

With crossbreed dogs, there are always certain health issues such as.

• Glaucoma
• Patella Luxation
• Dental Issues

It is important for these dogs to have regular checkups from the vet and grooming sessions. And for breeds like these, always look for a reputed vet and a groomer, who have experience with such breeds. 

On average, the Jack Russell Chihuahua is an easy breed to take care of, so you shouldn’t find it difficult. The biggest advantage of such dogs is that they can live in a big house with a lawn and also a small apartment as they are smaller in size. 

These dogs also don’t need regular grooming sessions. As their coat is short and dense, they only require brushing once every week. 

Being such an active dog breed, the Jack Russell Chihuahua mix requires a lot of exercises. But since they are quite small in exercise, running around in the house is enough for them. 

Food & Diet

Jack Russell Chihuahua Mix are not heavy eaters, since they are smaller in size, they don’t eat as much even when they are all grown up. 

The Jack Russell Terrier Chihuahua mix requires good quality food which is dry dog food as well. Make sure that the dog food doesn’t contain any food coloring, wheat gluten, corn, or rendered fat. 

If you see that your dog is not quite active then they would require less quantity of dog food as they can gain weight pretty easily. Being smaller in size the Jack Russell Chihuahua mix is quick to gain weight. 

Coat Color And Grooming

In general, Jack Russell Chihuahuas are black, cream, fawn, golden, chocolate, and white in color. Sometimes the breed also comes in a mixture of two colors. There have been instances where a triple-colored Chihuahua has also been spotted. 

They have medium-dense coats with a straight texture. They do not require much and are quite low-maintenance. This types of breed only need their coat to be brushed once a week. This will help it retain the silky smooth texture of its coat. Giving them a bath once in a while would work as well. This breed is not a big fan of the cold weather, so it is better you pick a good warm jacket for them during the winters.

Socialization

Jack Chis is great with children. They are smart and playful and enjoy the company of a little human. But you have to keep in mind to teach your dog how to behave around a hog and how to treat them correctly. It is important to teach them that the dog might get aggressive if they are not treated well.

Jack chis are good with other pets and animals, but due to their hunting instincts, they might think of other cats as prey. So just be careful before you introduce some other animal or bring one at home. Try to get them socialized early, and reward them when they show good behavior, and stick to a training regime.

Exercise 

Though they are small in size, they are pretty active and have a lot of energy which does not match their size. They require daily exercise for approximately 30 to 60 minutes, and playtimes are required as well. It is best to keep them on a leash if you are outdoors because they might end up chasing a cat or a squirrel because of their nature.

Are Jack Russell Chihuahua Mixes Good with Children? 

Yes, but under supervision. Jack Chis can be an excellent pal to kids if socialized and trained well as a puppy. They enjoy playing games and will keep pace with energetic children.

Nevertheless, because they are small and high-strung or snappy if surprised, they are most suitable for families whose children are older and know how to handle little dogs gently. 

Tips: 

• Monitor small children and Jack Chis play at all times. 
• Educate children on how to approach and play with dogs in a respectful fashion. 

Are Jack Russell Chihuahua Mixes Friendly with Other Pets? 

Early socialization makes the difference. Jack Chis will or won’t co-exist with other pets, especially smaller pets or other dominant pets.

Jack Russells are high prey animals, and Chihuahuas are possessive, so your Jack Chi may have chasing or dominance issues. 

Key Points: 

• Socialize early and often to other pets.
• Slowly socialize them with cats or tiny animals such as rabbits. 
• They generally like same-sized and same-tempered dogs. 

Are Jack Russell Chihuahua Mixes Aggressive? 

Not really, but they are reactive. Jack Chis are not naturally aggressive but rather territorial, anxious, or reactive when they are not well trained.

Their small-dog syndrome—a tendency to act bigger and tougher than what they actually are—can manifest itself in barking, growling, or nipping at strangers or bigger animals. 

Behavior Management: 

• Socialization is very crucial from puppyhood. 
• Positive reinforcement training is excellent. 
• Steer clear of harsh punishments, which enhance their fearfulness and reactivity. 

Do Jack Russell Chihuahua Mixes Bark? 

Yes, they are talkative dogs. They are a barking breed and love to report everything with frequent barks. This is an asset, as they make excellent watchdogs, but it can be a problem if not managed.

Why They Bark: 

• Boredom or lack of exercise 
• Territorial behavior 
• Separation anxiety 
• Attention-seeking 

How to Minimize Barking: 

• Give them plenty of physical and mental stimulation. 
• Employ training commands such as “quiet” or reward-based distraction. 
• Try puzzle toys and interactive feeders. 

Are Jack Russell Chihuahua Mixes Affectionate? 

Yes. In spite of their sometimes tough exterior, Jack Chis are very affectionate and attached.

They’ll bond very strongly with one or two members of their pack and adore snuggling when they’re not trashing the house. 

Signs of Affection: 

• Cuddling and lap-sitting
• Ears up and tailing owners from room to room 
• Licking or nibbling softly as play 

Observation: 

• Some Jack Chis are “Velcro dogs,” i.e., they always want to be near their much-loved human. 
• They can develop separation anxiety-prone when left for long hours. 

Wrapping Up!

Now that I have given you all the details about the Jack Russell Chihuahua mix, now you can make an informed decision of whether you want this dog breed as a pet or not. So if you think this article was helpful for you then give us a like and comment down below.