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Pitbull Chihuahua Mix: 21 Pitchi Facts, Traits & Pics

Pitbull Chihuahua Mix (Pitchi)

If you want to learn more about the Pitbull Chihuahua mix, a.k.a. Pitchi, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article you’ll discover…

  • Common Pitchi health issues that you should be aware of.
  • Everything about Pitchis’ temperament, traits and characteristics.
  • If Pitchis are good family dogs (read this when you have children).
  • Pitchi training 101: Are they easy to train? And what works best for training them?
  • And much, much more…

21 Pitchi facts


#1: Pitchis are the best of both sizes

According to PetMD, a Pitbull weighs between 30 to 90 pounds. Chihuahuas typically weigh less than 6 pounds, according to The AKC.

The Pitchi, however, usually weighs between 20 to 30 pounds. That is a great medium-sized dog for anyone! Not too big and not too small!

This fact makes them excellent apartment dogs or dogs for small homes. 

They can go to most places without being a hassle. They also aren’t too small that you fear of them getting caught easily underfoot. 

Medium-sized dogs can have a lot of advantages.

They can play rougher and still be held. They can also be great travel companions since they fit easily inside a car. 

#2: Grooming is easy for Pitchis

Pitbulls and Chihuahuas both have a short and smooth coat. That means the Pitchi also has a short and smooth coat.

This makes grooming care for a Pitchi easy to manage. They require baths no more than every two weeks, monthly nail trimming, and ear cleaning. 

PIchis also require regular brushing for about 10 to 15 minutes daily with a rubber brush. These guys are nice low maintenance companions! 

If grooming is neglected, they can easily become dirty. They also need their nails done regularly to stop the pressure of the nails pushing against their feet.

Finally, if they aren’t regularly brushed, their shedding can get out of hand. This can cause a lot of unwanted hair in the home.

Note: You may also want to seek a groomer for help with grooming. They can help keep your Pitchi clean and the shedding to a minimum. 

#3: They are intelligent and easy to train

The Pitchi gets its wits from their parents. Chihuahuas are known for being small, yet smart. They want to please their owners.

Pitbulls on the other hand, are trained to protect, entertain, and assist their owners.

Each breed is smart in its own right. Hence, Pitchis are smart and easy to train. It may be necessary to get formal training. Yet, if you already have experience in training dogs, you can easily do that at home.

Their intelligence is great as long as it is channeled appropriately. Don’t let them go unstimulated, or they will find new challenges for themselves. Games, puzzle toys, or even learning new tricks can help them not be bored.

#4: A Pitchi can be all colors of the doggie rainbow

These cuties can be pretty much any color. Mix breeds can take on the color of either parent, including a mix of those colors. This means a Pitchi can be:

  • Tan.
  • Red.
  • Blue.
  • Black.
  • Merle.
  • White.
  • Dapple.
  • Spotted.
  • Dark brown.
  • Light brown.

Pitchis can be any color that you can think of! This makes them a unique breed visually.

#5: What is the Pitchi’s body type?

Since Pitchis are mixed, they can come in all shapes and sizes. Most have a longer body like a Pitbull. They also carry the same stout body as a Pitbull does too. 

This stocky build is great for running and playing! They are sturdy dogs and not too dainty and can rough house with the best of them!

#6: Pitchis are hyper pups

Pitbulls and Chihuahuas are both hyper breeds. This means that a Pitchi is going to be a hyper puppy. Pitchis need a lot of exercises. 

If you aren’t one to take long walks or go for runs, then having a yard is going to be necessary for the Pitchi. Pitchis need lots of time to play and run. Don’t forget to provide them lots of toys. 

Being so hyper can be great for families with children as well. They are ready to play, run, and have a good time.

If Pitchis don’t get their energy out, they can become destructive. This can lead to worsened habits in overtime. This hyper breed needs to get all its energy out daily. They can also use a dose of mental stimulation with puzzle toys or hidden treats.

In this video, you can see how hyper and excited these pups are for treats! 

#7: How healthy is the Pitchi?

A Pitchi is generally pretty healthy. However, even though this breed is healthy, they can still be prone to some health conditions. Heart conditions can often be found in Pitchis. Hip dysplasia is also a concern in PItchis. 

The hips of large dogs can sometimes have problems. Pitbulls are one of the breeds that commonly have hip dysplasia. So, you have to keep this in mind when getting a Pitchi. 

Collapsing tracheas are also a concern for Pitchis.

This comes from their Chihuahua parents. Small dogs tend to have a collapsing trachea, and Pitchis are no different.

Having good vet care is very important to any dog’s life. Make sure you find a vet you trust and can have a good relationship with. It may be wise to try and get pet health insurance as well.

#8: What is the life span of a Pitchi?

Pitchis can live up to around 13 years. That is a great age for a Pitbull. They tend to live for about 10 years. 13 is an average for a Chihuahua. 

Since Pitchis live a nice long life, you get to enjoy more time with them. That also means they are more of a responsibility.

Before adopting one, be sure that you think ahead. 13 years is a long time, and you don’t want to give your pet away. It is important to consider that life changes happen. Think about it good whether you’ll be able to commit to a dog that may live for 13 years.

Reading tip: How long does a Chihuahua-Husky mix live?

#9: Can you adopt or buy a Pitchi?

Pitchi is not a high demand crossbreed. This means that there are not many breeders for Pitchis. 

Pitchis are usually found in shelters. That doesn’t guarantee you can find them easily though.

There are many rescues for both Chihuahuas and Pitbulls. These places often times have mixed for adoption. Facebook groups can also help you find a place to adopt these breeds.

Pitchis are becoming more and more popular. Hence, more breeders could try to cash in on this new designer breed. 

Caution: It is important to be aware of bad breeders. 

#10: Pitchis are family dogs

Since the Pitchi has so much energy, they make great companions for children. Like any dog, if they are exposed to kids at a young age, they become more comfortable with them. 

Caution: Pitchis should be monitored with small kids, though. 

They are dogs still and can be unpredictable. Children can also be unpredictable.

The two should be watched together to make sure manners are kept between the two.

Even though most Pitchis are kid-friendly, it is important to remember every dog has its day. Sometimes they can get cranky too.

It is important not to overcrowd them and let them have a safe space.

Especially with grabby toddlers, your Pitchi will need a place to get away when they need a break.

#11: The origins of the Pitchi are a mystery

Chihuahuas come from Mexico. They specifically get their name from the city of Chihuahua. 

Pitbulls come from the United Kingdom. They were vermin hunters.

Both of these breeds are foreign to America. Yet, both breeds have become increasingly popular in the United States over the years.

The true origins of the Pitchi are unknown. No one can be sure where the first one was bred.

It could be that they were bred in America since they seem to be fairly popular in the states. 

Since neither of the parent breeds is found in the same place, it would make sense that their mix would be found in the melting pot of the world!

#12: Pitchis love to cuddle

While Pitchis are hyper and love to get their energy out, they also love to cuddle.

They love to snuggle up to their favorite people and enjoy a good nap. 

Many Pitchis even love to lay under blankets. They have thin coats, so they get cold easily. They love looking to their owners for a warm spot to get some love.

This snuggling trait comes from both their Chihuahua and Pitbull parents.

At the same time, Pitbulls lay near their owners to protect them. Chihuahuas may lay by their owners to feel protected.

It’s hard to say which instinct the Pitchi is acting on when they snuggle. 

Since Pitchis love to cuddle, be ready for excessive hair on your blankets and clothes!

It might be a good idea to get a lint roller around for these snuggly pups.

#13: What do you feed a Pitchi?

Pitchis, like many dogs, are not picky eaters. They will eat just about anything. It is important to make sure you’re feeding your pup the right type of food. 

Many dogs love wet food. With an energetic dog like you shouldn’t feed it only wet food.

Wet food doesn’t have the carbs needed to burn for an active pet. Dry kibbled is a good alternative to wet food.

Since this breed is midsized, no reason to feed it small kibble. You also do not want a food formulated for small dogs. 

These food are made for dogs that don’t get as much exercise. You want to find a food high in protein that fits the age group for your dog.

Caution: This article is not a substitute for a one on one vet consultation.You must seek proper professional advice and care for any digestion issues.

Sometimes dogs need something different. Every dog is their own and might need something other than the standard.

#14: How friendly are Pitchis?

Despite some beliefs, Pitbulls are extremely friendly.

Chihuahuas can be a bit stand-offish. The AKC even calls them ‘sassy.’ 

So, what kind of temperament does a Pitchi have?

Pitchis typically take after the Pitbull. They tend to be friendly and sociable. You will rarely have a problem with making friends. 

Sometimes they do take after their Chihuahua parent and can be a little bit shyer. In these cases, it’s best to slowly introduce your dog to others.

You don’t want to overwhelm your nervous Pitchi. If they are shy, they can easily be spooked.

They may even nip. The best way to introduce a nervous Pitchi to a new friend is slow. 

Follow these easy steps:

Let them check out the person or dog.

Have treats for positive reinforcement.

Stay calm. They can pick up your energy.

Don’t force it. If your Pitchi shows signs of aggression, take socializing one step at a time.

It may not be easy to socialize your shy Pitchi. But it is worth it and necessary for their well-being.

#15: How tall are Pitchis?

Pitchis are not very tall dogs. They average about 12 to 16 inches at the shoulder. That is shorter than a Pitbull and taller than a Chihuahua. They have a slow center of gravity! This makes them great tacklers! Be careful when playing with your friend.

Their lack of height makes it easy to dog-proof the house. You won’t need a tall gate to keep them out of unwanted areas. They also can’t reach food on high counters. 

Pitchis’ short stature may make them want to jump more, though. They want to have a closer look at things up high. This might make them a jumper. 

#16: Pitchis have the cutest ears

Pitchis get their large ears from their Chihuahua side of the family!

They usually stand up and don’t flop. They are large and in-charge!

This gives them the cutest goofy look! They can hear for miles.

Be careful, though, because large ears catch a lot of dirt! The dirt can enter when they roll around or even when they run.

So make sure you’re checking up on them and keeping them clean.

Read also: Are Chihuahuas Cute?

#17: Pitchis get their speed from the Pitbull

A Pitbull can keep a running pace of 20 to 30 mph. That is fast! 

A Pitchi can be just as fast! They might even be able to go faster since they are typically low to the ground and slender. This makes them great hunters; They can even be great for agility competitions.

#18: Pitchis are natural divas

Chihuahuas are sassy and graceful little dogs! These little guys walk with sass and grace in every step! 

Pitchis are no different! They trot and gallop, just like their Chihuahua parent with their head held high. They know they are adorable. They aren’t afraid to flaunt their cuteness.

Be careful. It can be easy to fall for their cuteness- Pitchis are notorious for getting away with a lot of thanks to that quality.

#19: Pitchis make great rat hunters

Pitbull Terriers were used in England to catch rats. That instinct has never been bred out of them. They still like to hunt vermin and keep a pest-free yard. They passed this trait down to the Pitchis. 

Since Pitchis are smaller but still quick, they can catch even more! They have the instinct to catch squirrels, rats, and birds! They can make a great hunting dog! They even make a great barn dog!

If you let your Pitchi hunt, be sure they are up to date on all their shots. You don’t want them to get sick from another animal.

#20: Pitchis have other nicknames

The Pitchi can be known by a few other names, including…

  • Chipit.
  • Pithuahua.
  • Mexican Bulldog.

#21: Pitchis descend from greatness

Chihuahuas ancestors, Techichis, were regarded as sacred in Aztec culture. They were important to them.

They were considered highly valuable. They were a high-status symbol. Similar to how Egyptians worshipped cats!

This means that the Pitchi is part of that sacredness! Since they come from that line, they are still regarded as having some greatness in them too!

They might not be royalty in Mexican culture now, but they have become internet royalty in this day and age.

BONUS fact: Pitchis aren’t as vocal as their Chi DNA would suggest


Pitchis do not bark as much as your typical Chihuahua does. They are pretty mellow when exercised properly. 

They may still bark at strangers or intruders in the home. However, they are not known to be yappers that bark when the wind blows.

This trait comes from their Pitbull parent. Pitbulls usually only bark when there’s a necessity for it. They bark when there is something to protect. Rarely do Pitbulls bark for no reason.

This can be a big bonus if you’re someone who likes quiet. This is also good for apartment living or families.

Having a dog that only barks when there’s an issue can be great for security as well. If you know your Pitchi only barks when there’s a threat, it can be easier to take them seriously when they do bark.

Conclusion

The Pitchi has a lot of fun and great qualities. They take the best of both worlds from their parents. This makes them great dogs for anyone looking for a friend!

This breed is relatively new with much on the horizon. There are so many new facts to learn about these adorable companions. They have continued to rise in popularity. So, we will hopefully get to learn more in the years to come.