The Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix, or Cheeks, is a small-statured designer dog that combines the Chihuahua of Mexico with the Pekingese from China. Known for its big round-shaped eyes, sturdy body, and either erect or floppy ears, this adorable breed thrives as a loyal companion. With its sweet yet occasionally wary disposition, early socialization is critical to avoid shyness or aggressiveness around strangers.
The Cheeks is an excellent choice for seniors or families with older, gentle children, as its small size makes it prone to accidents if mishandled. Its loyal and affectionate nature, paired with its adaptability and humble charm, make this intentional cross a lovable pet for those seeking quiet companionship rather than an active running buddy.
What is a Pekingese Chihuahua mix called?
[su_highlight background=”#cbfafc” color=”#121d17″]A mix between a Pekingese and a Chihuahua is popularly known as a Pekachi (sometimes called Cheeks). This adorable designer dog breed combines the Pekingese’s royal, lion-like features with the Chihuahua’s tiny, spirited personality, making it a delightful choice for dog lovers.[/su_highlight]
Breed Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix (“Cheeks”) |
| Height | 10 to 14 inches |
| Weight | 3 to 9 pounds |
| Coat | Dense coat, can be short (like Chihuahua) or long (like Pekingese) |
| Colors | Black, blue, cream, red, white, brown |
| Temperament | Loyal, affectionate, kind, lively, gentle, sweet, clingy, sensitive, alert |
| Environment Suitability | Apartments, seniors with limited mobility |
| Activity Needs | Occasional barking, moderate activity |
| Climate Compatibility | Does not thrive in warm climates |
| Lifespan | 10 to 14 years |
| Group | Toy dog, watch dog |
| Other Names | Pekachi, Pee-chi, Pek-A-Chi, Pikachu, Pekachu |
| Good with Children | Yes, but supervision is needed due to small size |
| Competitive Registration | DRA, DBR, IDCR, ACHC, DDKC |
Appearance
Size and Weight
- Under a foot tall
- Weighs around ten pounds (similar to a honeydew melon)
- Small and compact size
Head and Muzzle
- Dome-like head (from Chihuahua) or flat broad skull (from Peke)
- Short muzzle
- Muzzle can be broad like the Pekingese or narrower and tapered like the Chihuahua
Eyes and Ears
- Dark round eyes that are prominent, but not bulging
- High-set ears
- Can be heart-shaped, triangular, straight, or floppy
Coat
- Usually has a double-layer coat
- Dense undercoat with longer fur
- Fur texture can be coarse or soft, depending on the parent breed
- Feathering around ears, feet, and tail
Personality and Build
- Eager, friendly, and intelligent
- Sturdy build and big appetites
- Prone to being a little chubby, which adds to their adorable charm
Hair Length
- Most are long-haired, but some may have short hair
Mature Weight
- Typically 5 pounds when fully grown
Overall Look
- Wide rounded heads
- Large dark eyes
- Compact and adorable appearance
Temperament and Personality
The Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix brings a unique combination of two distinct personalities, and their temperament will vary depending on the traits they inherit. These dogs are known for being loving, loyal, and deeply bonded to their owner, often following them wherever they go. Despite their affectionate nature, they can be shy, timid, and even aversive towards strangers.
Early socialization is crucial to avoid issues like small dog syndrome or aggression. If properly trained, they can be playful, expressive, and very goofy, providing endless entertainment for their families.
Their temperament may lean more towards the Pekingese or Chihuahua side. If they take after the Pekingese parent, they might be quiet and well-mannered, but if they inherit more of the Chihuahua traits, they could display a more active, amusing, and expressive nature. They are also very fragile due to their small size, so careful supervision is required when they interact with children or larger animals. Though they are generally patient with older children, they can become nippy if not handled gently.
Food and Diet
When feeding your Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix, it’s important to remember that they are a small hybrid breed with minimal daily food requirements. Their low energy output and small size mean they don’t need much food to stay healthy. You can feed them about one cup of high-quality dry kibble each day, and if you prefer wet food, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer guidelines on the packaging.
For those looking to offer a more natural option, We Feed Raw offers raw formulas with various proteins, and the beef recipe is particularly beneficial for their health. Beef is rich in leucine, magnesium, and vitamin E, all of which help support healthy muscles and joints.
If your dog has tender teeth or is missing some teeth, raw diets are a good choice because they don’t require much chewing. Additionally, these raw meals are free of complex carbohydrates, which helps avoid dental decay. If you decide to provide a mix of wet and dry food, you may want to reduce the amount of both to maintain a balanced diet. Don’t forget to include a healthy amount of nutrients to keep your Pekingese and Chihuahua mix in good health, with one-fourth to half cup of dry dog food per day, along with proper care in choosing the best ingredients.
Exercise
The Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix does not need much exercise due to its small size. A simple half-hour walk each day is sufficient for this breed, and if you have a yard, you can supplement the walk with some healthy play. These dogs are not typically suited for canine sports or agility classes, so keeping them active indoors with vigorous play is a good way to ensure they stay fit.
Although they don’t require extensive exercise, daily movement is still necessary to keep them physically and mentally energized. If the weather is extreme, their small size makes them more susceptible to temperature changes, so it’s best to limit outdoor exposure in such conditions.
Training
When it comes to training, the Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix can be stubborn, which may make training a bit challenging. To achieve positive results, start training early and keep the sessions short and fun. Using positive training techniques will help encourage your dog to perform tasks as you expect.
Rewards and praise are essential tools to reinforce good behavior and motivate them during training. Early socialization is also important to help your dog become well-adjusted to different experiences, people, and pets. Given their stubborn nature, it’s best if an experienced owner handles the training, as first-time dog owners may find it more difficult to manage.
Grooming
- Bathing: Bathe only when necessary, and no more often than every couple of months. Overbathing can strip the coat of natural oils that provide protection.
- Brushing:
- Brush your Cheeks at least once a week, ideally twice a week.
- Helps to spread protective oils and removes dead hair or matted coat.
- Dental Care:
- Start brushing your dog’s teeth at least three times a week from a young age.
- Regular brushing helps prevent dental disease, especially important due to their small mouth.
- Ear and Nail Care:
- Check ears for signs of infection regularly.
- Clip nails when you hear them clipping against hard floors.
- Coat Care:
- Short-haired Cheeks (like the Chihuahua) require weekly brushing.
- Long-haired or feathering coats need brushing at least thrice a week to prevent tangling and matting.
- Eye and Ear Hygiene:
- Clean your dog’s eyes and ears regularly to avoid infections.
- Climate Considerations:
- In cold regions, provide clothes to keep your dog warm.
- Overall Grooming:
- The grooming process is simple and ensures a lustrous and healthy coat. Regular care is essential to keep your dog looking and feeling great.
Health Overview
The Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix is generally a healthy and hardy breed that can live up to 12 years when cared for properly. While this breed doesn’t need a lot of exercise, it’s still important to keep them active with at least a short walk or some brief exercise each day to maintain their longevity and ensure they live a healthy life. However, like any breed, there are a few health issues to watch out for. Some common minor conditions include eye problems, heart problems, and skin problems. It’s essential to stay vigilant for any symptoms and seek veterinary help if needed.
Common Health Issues
As a hybrid breed, the Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix is typically less prone to breed-specific health issues or genetic illnesses, but it still may inherit some health problems from its parents. For example, Chihuahuas are known for common issues like dental disease, heart issues, and the risk of spinal cord injury. On the other hand, the Pekingese side may make the mix more susceptible to breathing difficulties, back sensitivities, and luxation of the patella (a dislocated kneecap). Additionally, this breed may also face problems like hypoglycemia, joint problems, and allergies, especially if they have a flat-faced structure.
Preventive Care and Monitoring
Regular physical examination and occasional tests, such as knee and heart x-rays, can help catch any underlying issues early. Overall, the Cheeks is a healthy dog as long as it is well cared for. Keeping an eye out for signs of health problems and ensuring regular vet check-ups is key to ensuring a long and happy life for your Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix.
Puppies
When looking for a Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix puppy, you have a few options. These dogs are a designer hybrid breed, meaning they are the result of breeders intentionally combining two purebred breeds to create a crossbreed that takes the best traits from both the Chihuahua and Pekingese. Both of these parent breeds are small breeds and have been popular with owners for many years.
Since Cheeks are relatively popular, you will have the opportunity to choose from a list of potential breeders. When selecting a breeder, it’s important to go beyond just budget and proximity—speak to several breeders and make sure to ask the right questions about their breeding practices.
You can also consider adopting a Cheeks puppy from a shelter or rescue. While the information available at shelters may be limited, it’s crucial to meet the dog in person before making any decisions. When adopting, make sure to introduce your children or other pets to the rescue dog and watch for any signs of aggression.
The best way to find a Pekachi of your own is through a rescue, humane society, or animal shelter rather than buying from an unethical breeder. There are some people selling Pekachis online, but buying from these sellers is not recommended as it is an unregulated market. Always consider checking your local rescues first, and if needed, use online rescue resources to search for the perfect Pekachi.
The History Behind the Chihuahua & Pekingese Mix
The Pekingese breed has a long history that dates back to before 700 BC. This ancient dog was primarily bred as a companion dog for Chinese royalty. The Fu-Lin, also called the Lion Dog, was believed to be the offspring of a marmoset and a lion. These small, noble dogs were cherished by the elite, often sitting on the laps and at the feet of their owners.
They were given as gifts to important visitors, which allowed them to spread to Europe and the Americas. The breed gained recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1906, though many of these dogs were sadly killed when the Qing Dynasty fell in the early 20th century. However, those gifted to foreign dignitaries were spared and helped preserve the modern Pekingese breed.
The Chihuahua, on the other hand, also has a mysterious and fascinating history. It is believed to be linked to the ancient Techichi, a native dog kept by the Aztec people. The Techichi was used for religious sacrifices and as a companion animal. The Chihuahua breed was not formally recognized until the mid-1800s when some early dogs were discovered in Mexico. Merchants from the state of Chihuahua began selling these portable and friendly dogs to visitors.
The American Kennel Club first recognized the breed in 1904, with just 30 dogs registered by 1913. Over time, the Chihuahua grew in popularity, eventually becoming one of the most well-known breeds globally, particularly in the United States, UK, Philippines, and Australia. In 1948, the United Kennel Club also recognized the breed, which had by then spread far beyond its humble Mexican origins.
What is the lifespan of a Chihuahua Pekingese mix?
The average lifespan of a Chihuahua Pekingese mix is 10 to 16 years, making them a relatively long-lived companion if properly cared for. Their longevity depends on factors like diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care. Like other small breeds, Pekachis may face some health challenges, such as:
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) issues inherited from the Pekingese.
- Dental problems, common in Chihuahuas.
- Eye concerns, like dry eye or corneal ulcers.
To help your Pekachi live a long and happy life, focus on a nutritious diet, gentle exercise routines, and routine health check-ups.
How much does a Pekingese Chihuahua cost?
The price of a Pekingese Chihuahua mix typically ranges between $300 and $800, depending on factors like:
- Breeder reputation: Professional breeders specializing in designer breeds may charge more.
- Location: Prices often vary by region.
- Lineage: Puppies with sought-after traits or parents with show-quality pedigrees may cost more.
If you’re on a budget, consider adopting from a shelter or rescue organization. Adoption fees are usually under $200, and you’ll be giving a loving home to a dog in need. Remember, owning a Pekachi also comes with ongoing expenses like food, grooming, and veterinary care, so plan accordingly!
What breed of dog is a Pikachu?
“Pikachu” is not an official dog breed. However, some people jokingly refer to certain dogs, like Pomeranians or Shiba Inus, as “Pikachu dogs” when they are groomed or dressed up to resemble Pikachu, the famous Pokémon character.
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