Last Updated on February, 2025
A Chiweenie is a popular and adorable designer hybrid. They are a mix between an ancient breed: the chihuahua, and the sausage dog with short legs: the dachshund.
The mix of these two breeds delivers a lovable hybrid that is famous in the canine world.
Were you looking to know if the popularity and the “designer” descent make them expensive to own?
Well, then, you are in the right place. This article will cover a comprehensive area of the financial aspect of owning a Chiweenie.
Quick Summary
The average cost for a Chiweenie is around $1,600 and can vary based on factors such as papers, breeding rights, and show quality.
Multiple factors affect the cost of a Chiweenie, such as breed quality & bloodline, registration & pedigree, breeder’s reputation, health guarantee, and training.
The initial cost of owning a Chiweenie includes food and treats, food and water bowls, bed, crate, collars and leashes, toys, grooming essentials, deworming, flea and tick medicines, initial health check-up, initial vaccines, neutering or spaying, dog license, microchip, and miscellaneous.
Table of Contents
- How Much Does a Chiweenie Cost?
- Different Prices for the Same Breed?
- Initial Cost of Owning a Chiweenie
- Dog License
- Total Annual Cost of Owning a Chiweenie
- Other Possible Additional Costs of Owning a Chiweenie
- Money Saving Tips for Chiweenie Mixed Breed Owners
- Where to Get a Dachshund Chihuahua Mix From?
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Chiweenie Cost?
Considering many factors, the average cost of all Chiweenies for sale is around $1,600.
The initial cost for a Chiweenie with papers but without breeding rights or show quality comes to a median price of $ 1149.99. But a Chiweenie puppy without papers will cost relatively low, and we don’t recommend you get a puppy without papers.
However, for show quality Chiweenie puppies with breeding rights and papers, the price will fit into a budget of $2,500 and upwards.
That said, Chiweenies with superior lineage and top-quality pedigree will cost you a premium amount that will definitely exceed $2,500.
Different Prices for the Same Breed?
As listed below, many factors affect the cost of a chihuahua-dachshund mix.
Breed Quality & Bloodline
This is a key determinant of a Chiweenie dog’s price.
A purebred chihuahua parent and a purebred dachshund parent can produce a champion litter of purebred chihuahuas.
Since the parent breed is pure in this litter, the inherited quality traits make this bloodline more expensive.
Similarly, the Chiweenie pups born through the crossing of Chiweenie dogs from this litter will cost less. And so on goes the pureness of the bloodline and breed quality.
Registration and Pedigree
Since Chiweenies are not purebred dogs, you can’t expect an American Kennel Club (AKC) registration.
But a Chiweenie hybrid can be registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR), and/or the Designer Breed Registry (DBR).
Breeder’s Reputation
Some breeders quote higher prices for the same dog breeds. This is because they have been in the industry for a significant time. And are recognized as reliable by many dog owners.
The higher price reflects the breeder’s experience, expertise, and assurance that the dog is bred and raised ethically and carefully.
Health Guarantee
Professional breeders always ensure that a dog’s health is followed up and maintained up to date.
Vaccinations from birth, deworming, dental care, routine health checkups, food, and nutrition are crucially followed by a good breeder to ensure happy, healthy, and active dogs.
When pricing a Chiweenie breed, a breeder considers all medical, health tests, and upkeep expenses from birth.
Reputed breeders also provide a health guarantee as an assurance for the pricing.
This guarantee usually ensures that the puppy/dog has no serious illness at the time of sale and covers any life-threatening congenital diseases for one year.
Training
If a dog has gone through a professional trainer for socialization and potty training sessions, this will affect the price tag. You will get a potty-trained and well-mannered Chiweenie who may not require much further behavioral training.
Here’s one of the best online dog training programs that you can get for free. Click here to check it out.
The popularity of the Breed
If the interest for a Chiweenie puppy is high in a given area, the prices tend to go up due to the rise in demand.
Age
There is a higher demand for Chiweenie pups than for adults. Chiweenie owners usually prefer to witness their dog’s growth from puppy to adulthood. So the Chiweenie pups cost more than the senior ones.
Appearance
The common coat colors descended from Chiweenie’s parents are black, fawn, tan, and white. But certain appearance marks and colors of a Chiweenie’s coat are considered rare and unique. Hence priced at a higher rate.
Initial Cost of Owning a Chiweenie
Besides the direct cost of the sale of a Chiweenie puppy, you should be aware of the initial expenses you will have to invest in supplies required by your puppy.
These supplies are essential for your dachshund chihuahua mix to ease into its new home. The following items will give you an idea of the costs involved in the first step of maintenance and care for your tiny dog.
Food and Treats
These designer breeds take after both their parent breeds. So they are an active and energetic dog breed. So these little dogs need high-quality nutrition-packed food and treats to keep them active. Treats come in real handy during positive reinforcement behavior training.
Dog food formulated specifically for the Chiweenies or small cross-breed dogs are the best option. Such food ideally costs around $50-$80.
Food and Water Bowls
A good quality food and water bowl will last longer and keep your dog’s meal time mess-free. Pick a size that will fit your Chiweenie, which should cost around $10-$25.
Bed
For a cozy and comfortable goodnight’s sleep or nap time, your Chiweenie will need a good quality cushioned bed, pillow, and blanket. Based on the size you prefer for your dog, this will cost from $30-$150.
Crate
For an active cross-breed like a Chiweenie, a strong crate is essential. Apart from containment, your dog can also rest in it. So it will cost anywhere between $30-$200.
Don’t panic, we’ve got you covered with the best dog kennels reviewed on our website.
Collars and Leashes
A collar and a leash are important to keep your dog safe during dog walks. It is helpful in obedience training, and the collar makes for fashion accessories too. You should allocate around $15-$50 to get a set of your preference.
Toys
Chew toys are essential for your dog’s teeth, especially during the teething age. It helps keep the teeth strong and releases stress. Good quality, pet-safe non-toxic toys will cost around $20-$30.
Grooming Essentials
Chiweenies need minimal grooming. Essential grooming products such as pet-safe shampoo, hair brushes, and nail clippers will cost you $30-$150.
Deworming, Flea and Tick Medicines
Routine deworming, flea and tick treatments are essential preventive medications to keep your dogs healthy and free from parasites. If these medications are due at the time of sale, you have to include this in your initial costs.
A sum of $50-$200 should cover these treatments.
Initial Health Check Up
It is always a good idea to make sure your dog is in good health condition. Initial health screenings recommended by the vet will reveal the presence of any health concerns, such as genetic diseases or common canine illnesses.
Based on the tests and procedures administered by the vet, the cost can vary between $100-$300.
Initial Vaccines
Core canine shots are crucial for Chiweenie puppies. It provides protection against common canine illnesses such as distemper, parvovirus, and influenza. Initial vaccine shots will cost at least $75-$200.
Neutering or Spaying
This one-time procedure will cost around $150-$500. If you don’t plan to breed your chihuahua dachshund mix, you should consider neutering because it can prevent any reproductive-related health issues.
Dog License
A dog license is an identity card with an identification number on the dog tag. It also contains the contact information of the pet parents in case your dog goes missing. This will cost between $10-$20.
Microchip
Like a dog license, microchipping your dog will allow you to find it easily when it gets lost. A veterinarian can implant a microchip into your pet via a minor procedure. And this will cost between $40-$60.
Miscellaneous
This includes supplements, poop scoopers, poop bags, and other required items that can be covered with $20-$30.
The table below summarizes the initial expenses you may incur when owning a Chiweenie puppy.
Expense type | Cost |
Food and treats | $50-$80 |
Food and water bowls | $10-$25 |
Bed | $30-$150 |
Crate | $30-$200 |
Leashes and collars | $15-$50 |
Toys | $20-$30 |
Grooming essentials | $30-$150 |
Deworming, tick and flea treatments | $50-$200 |
Initial health check-up | $100-$300 |
Initial vaccines | $75-$200 |
Neutering/spaying | $150-$500 |
Dog license | $10-$20 |
Microchipping | $40-$60 |
Miscellaneous | $20-$30 |
Total initial expense | $630- $1995 |
It is best to tend to these requirements before your puppy comes home. Remember that some of the requirements in the list are a one-time cost, and others will only require a yearly investment.
Total Annual Cost of Owning a Chiweenie
As pet parents, we know that owning a dog is a lifetime commitment. To make sure your puppy grows into a healthy and happy dog, you will have to provide for all its needs.
Considering the below monthly and annual costs will help you decide if you can commit to the costs to properly maintain and care for your Chiweenie puppies.
The table below summarizes the supposed yearly expense of caring for a Chiweenie.
Expense type | Yearly Cost |
Food and treats | $250-$750 |
Toys | $25-$100 |
Bed and crate | $60-$350 |
Leashes and collars | $15-$50 |
Grooming essentials | $100-$250 |
Deworming, tick and flea treatments | $150-$250 |
Routine vet visits | $200-$400 |
Vaccinations | $75-$250 |
Pet insurance | $500-$600 |
Miscellaneous | $30-$50 |
Total yearly cost | $1405- $3050 |
Average monthly costs | $117-$254 |
Although a total yearly cost of $1405-$3050 seems somewhat hefty, when broken down to a monthly cost; of $117-$254, it is pretty affordable.
However, the average monthly cost of owning mixed-breed small dogs is comparatively less than owning larger dogs. Big dogs have bigger needs.
A large sum of the total cost is allocated for recurrent expenses such as food and grooming supplies. Also, keep in mind that from a young age to adulthood, food intake will gradually increase.
Although not significantly for a small dog like a Chiweenie.
Routine vet visits for health checkups are essential to ensure your Chiweenie’s health is being taken care of. So an annual sum of $200-$400 is a vital allocation.
Although pet insurance costs a considerably significant amount of the yearly expense, investing in one has many benefits.
Typical pet insurance will cover medical bills relating to major injuries, health checkups, tests, medications, and surgeries. Based on the coverage of the insurance plan you choose, it will cost you anywhere between $500-$600.
Remember, these numbers may vary based on your location and choice of products. Check out the money-saving tips listed below to cut down on certain expenses.
Other Possible Additional Costs of Owning a Chiweenie
Apart from the initial ownership cost, welcoming your dog into the home costs, and annual expenses, it is advisable to allocate a certain amount for potential situations you may come across at some point.
Some of the potential encounters include the following;
Pet Boarding
At times when your Chiweenie can’t accompany you in your travels out of town, you will need to board your pet at a boarding center. This will cost you around $20-$0 per day.
Pet Sitter and Walking
A Chiweenie’s temperament is loving and friendly. These mixed breeds quickly form a bond with their loved ones. If you happen to be away for extended periods due to work or some other requirement, your dog may suffer from separation anxiety.
So it would be best if you considered getting a pet sitter and/or a walker to ensure your dog is taken care of. Expect to set aside around $20-$60 for this purpose.
Grooming Services
Aside from regular grooming at home, you may want to opt for a professional groomer for that perfect dog cut. A grooming session can cost you around $30-$60.
Accessories
Although not essential, some Chiweenie pet owners may want to adorn their dogs with designer clothes, collars, bags, and/or shoes. This may set you back around $50-$100.
Emergency Medical
Accidents can happen to anyone without any warning. Based on the extent of the injuries or illness and the medical procedures required, expect to spend around $100-$1000. But if you have pet insurance, this cost will be covered by the plan.
Almost all these expenses are optional except for the emergency medicine budget. But we recommend setting aside a certain budget for the other expenses as well cause you never know what you will encounter when.
Money Saving Tips for Chiweenie Mixed Breed Owners
Owning a dachshund chihuahua mix is a lifetime responsibility. It would be best if you committed to the financial aspect to ensure proper care for your Chiweenie.
There are ways you can cut down costs without compromising on the quality of care. Following the below-mentioned tips and hacks will help you do so in a resourceful and creative manner.
- Learn to groom your Chiweenie
Per grooming session with a professional groomer can cost you $30-$60. You can cut down on this cost by learning to groom your Chiweenie yourself. Besides brushing the dog, you can slowly learn to bathe and clip its nails.
- Purchase in bulk quantities
Buying in bulk is always better than retail because you are bound to save money on such purchases. Many stores offer discounts when bought in bulk.
- Homemade treats over store-bought
Home food is always better than store-bought. Because without a doubt, you can ensure hygiene, taste, and freshness.
Be Aware of your dog’s food allergies and gain suggestions from your vet on what food options are good as treats for your dogs.
- Try your creativity out
Many DIY tutorials on YouTube show how to make dog beds, clothes, collars, and crates at home. And most use recycled resources. If you are a creative person, you will very enjoy doing this.
- Follow up on vet visits
Make sure to follow up on the scheduled pet visits. Regular health screenings can prevent the development of any serious illnesses.
Spending monthly on a vet visit is better than spendings thousands to cure your dog of a disease. You can save your dog from the trauma too.
- Go for an online dog training program:
Training your newly-bought puppy isn’t going to be cheap. In fact, it is one of the most expensive aspects of bringing home a new dog.
You can expect to pay around $100 to $200 per hour for personal dog training depending on where you live.
That’s a lot, so online dog training is always a better deal when it comes to dog training.
You can not only expect to pay less but also can train your dog at your own pace.
Sometimes, you don’t even need to pay anything in the world of online dog training. K9 Training Institute is one of the FREE dog training programs available.
It’s excellent in every way and offers everything from potty training to obedience commands to train your new puppy.
K9 training institute is, in some cases, better than many of the paid training programs, plus two expert dog trainers put it together; Eric Presnall, the host of the Animal Planet TV show “Who Let the Dogs Out,” and Dr. Alexa Diaz, who holds a Ph.D. in animal behavior will be your trainers.
Now you know, spending on in-person dog training can contribute to half of the expenses, so it’s always wise to go with an online dog training program that is especially free, like the K9 training institute.
Where to Get a Dachshund Chihuahua Mix From?
Rescue/ Shelter
The adoption cost of a Chiweenie from a rescue or shelter can vary on its age and health status. This can range anywhere between $100-$400.
Chiweenies that are rescued are given shelter, medical attention, and behavioral education. Upon rescue, many of them are spayed or neutered and vaccinated before being available for adoption.
But most rescues are adult or senior Chiweenies. You rarely find any puppies.
If you want to adopt an adult Chiweenie check out the below-listed rescue centers;
- So Cal Chiweenie Rescue (SCCR)- A non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing Chiweenie and re-home them in loving homes by promoting ownership responsibility education. They are also working to make the Chiweenie an AKC breed.
- Chihuahua Rescue and Transport (CRT)- A reputed rescue center operation for over 25 years to rescue and re-home chihuahuas across the country. They also have Chiweenies in their care.
- Dachshund Adoption, Rescue, and Education (DARE)- Mainly dedicated to the dachshunds and dachshunds mixes in the Florida region.
Classifieds/ Breeder
Even though these small hybrid dogs are quite popular, finding a reliable breeder can be quite difficult compared to other dogs. You can check out the reputed places listed below to find your Chiweenie.
- Pentago- This website offers a massive database of breeders across the US that lists small dog breeds such as Chiweenies. They also display useful information such as location, breed, age, and gender.
- Puppyfind- This is another leading online platform for many dog breeds, including small hybrid designer dogs. They include a thorough profile on the dog for sale so you can find the best dog for you.
- PuppySpot- This site also lists many small designer dogs with important information.
Other Dog Breeds Pricing Guides:
- How Much Does an English Cream Golden Retriever Cost?
- How Much Does a Flat-Coated Retriever Cost?
- How Much Does a Chihuahua Cost?
Conclusion
These chihuahua dachshund mixes are great dogs as pets. This tiny chihuahua mix with floppy ears appearance makes them super adorable and great as lap dogs.
If you are absolutely sure you want a Chiweenie as your pet, you need to decide if you are willing to commit to the expenses.
Aside from love, care, and attention, the quality of life matters to keep your dog hearty and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
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