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Meet the Pomchi: Pomeranian Chihuahua Mix

Is a Pomeranian Chihuahua Mix a Good Pet for You? The precious little cross-breed is also known as the “Pomchi.”

The adorable Pomchi lap dog is also sometimes called the “Chi-Pom,” “Pomachi,” “Chiapom,” or the “Chiranian.”

Pomchi
Pomeranian and Chihuahua Dog

Pomchis are popular designer dogs in the United States. They are prized for their cute looks and lively personalities.

In this article we will explore Pomchi temperament, training tips, medical care, nutrition, grooming, and much more.

We hope that this information will help you make an informed decision about whether a Pomeranian Chihuahua mix would be a good fit for your lifestyle.

This article will give you a balanced analysis of the good and bad qualities of the Pomchi temperament.

What is a Pomchi?

Before we get started, let’s answer an important question. What exactly is a Pomchi?

A Pomchi is a cross between two well-known purebred dog breeds: the Pomeranian and the Chihuahua.

Sometimes a Pomeranian Chihuahua mix happens inadvertently, and sometimes it is the result of intentional breeding.

When two purebred dogs are intentionally mixed to create a hybrid, that newly created crossbreed dog is called a “designer dog.”

Designer dogs are a very popular trend right now. Other well-known examples of designer breeds include:

As with all new fads, you should think carefully before diving in.

A dog is a living, breathing creature. It is not an item that can be discarded when the fad is over.

Make sure that you acquire a certain breed because it will be a good match for your household and not because it is cool or popular at this moment in time.

Also make sure you acquire your Pomchi from an ethical source. Do not buy a Pomchi from a puppy mill or a backyard breeder that is just trying to make money off of the latest craze.

We will talk more about how to adopt or purchase a Pomchi from an ethical source later in the article.

The History of the Pomchi

The Pomchi is a very modern designer breed so not much is known about Pomchi history.

The breed likely originated in the 1990s or early 2000s in the United States.

Since the Pomchi is a mixed breed dog, it is not recognized by the American Kennel Club or any other purebred dog registry.

Even though there is not a lot of history about the Pomeranian Chihuahua mix, we can learn more about the Pomchi by examining the history and traits of the parent breeds.

Let’s take a closer look at the characteristics of the Pomeranian and the Chihuahua.

History and Traits of the Pomeranian

Pomeranian Dogs Running

Pomeranians are small, fluffy companion dogs that originated in Germany.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies the Pomeranian breed as part of the Toy Group.

Like most dogs in the Toy Group, Poms were bred for entertainment and companionship—not as working dogs.

Pomeranians are known for being vocal, energetic, playful and amusing.

You can learn more about the Pomeranian Temperament here.

History and Traits of the Chihuahua

Like the Pomeranian, the Chihuahua is also part of the Toy Group according to the AKC.

Chihuahuas originated in South America and they are an ancient breed.

Chihuahuas come in two varieties: longhair and shorthair.

Chihuahua Price

These tiny dogs are known for having big personalities.

They might be small, but Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal and protective.

They tend to bond closely to one person, and they can be suspicious of strangers. This is especially true if they are not properly socialized.

You can read more about the Chihuahua Temperament here.

Pomchi Temperament Traits

When you combine a Pomeranian with a Chihuahua, you generally get a loyal and affectionate little dog.

Pomchis tend to be energetic, vocal, and very attached to their families.

However, all dogs are individuals, so it is important to remember that all Pomchis will have some variation in their behaviors.

Below is a list of both the positive and negative Pomchi personality traits:

Pros:

  • Silly, Entertaining
  • Affectionate
  • Loyal
  • Protective, good Watch Dogs

Cons:

  • Vocal
  • Stubborn
  • Difficult to Potty Train
  • Wary of Strangers

Pomchi Size and Appearance

What does a Pomeranian Chihuahua mix look like?

Pomchis are small, portable dogs.

The average Pomchi weight is between 4 and 11 lbs.

The average Pomchi height range is between 6 and 9 inches.

The following are examples of common Pomchi colors:

  • Golden
  • Black
  • Red
  • Fawn
  • Cream
  • Brown
  • Gray Sable

Pomchi fur is medium to long in length.

The Pomchi coat requires a fair amount of upkeep. We will talk more about Pomchi grooming in the next section of this article.

Pomchi Grooming Needs

The Pomchi coat is generally long and fluffy. It requires daily brushing and combing to remove dead fur and prevent matting.

You will also need to bring your Pomchi to a professional groomer for periodic haircuts, especially sanitary clips.

However, you can do some grooming at home if you purchase the right grooming supplies.

Pomchi Shedding

Does the Pomchi shed a lot?

Yes, indeed! The Pomchi is a heavy shedder. Daily brushing and frequent bathing can help reduce the amount of shedding.

However, if you own one of these dogs you need to be prepared for dog fur on your clothes and in your house.

Is the Pomchi Hypoallergenic?

Is the Pomeranian Chihuahua mix considered hypoallergenic?

Unfortunately, no. The Pomchi is not a hypoallergenic breed.

If you suffer from allergies, you can check out this list of hypoallergenic dog breeds for a list of other options.

Pomchi Training Tips

What is the best way to train your Pomchi?

Pomchis are clever little dogs, but they can be stubborn and difficult at times.

It is important to have plenty of patience and a good sense of humor as you embark on the journey to train your Pomchi.

Start training as early as possible. Keep training sessions short, positive and fun.

If possible, sign up for a puppy socialization class or a basic obedience class with a dog trainer in your area.

Just make sure you find a trainer that uses modern, positive-reinforcement training methods.

Avoid “old-school” trainers that use “dominance,” force, or painful equipment like shock collars or prong collars.

Pomchis respond much better to upbeat, reward-based training.

Pomchi Training Challenges

Pomchis can be difficult to housebreak.

Small dogs have small bladders. They simply cannot “hold it” for as long as larger dogs can.

If you work long hours, consider installing a doggie door or hiring a dog walker to take your Pomchi outside in the middle of the day. You can also buy puppy pee pads in case of accidents in the house.

Pomchis become very bonded to their owners and can develop separation anxiety. If you think your Pomchi is developing separation anxiety, talk with a trainer right away.

Pomchis can also be vocal. You can reduce barking by providing plenty of exercise and enrichment for your Pomchi.

Advanced Pomchi Training

If you would like to go beyond the basics, there are lots of fun activities that you can do with your Pomchi.

For example, you and your Pomchi can get involved in therapy work, agility, freestyle, nosework, rally obedience, and much more!

Helpful Online Dog Training Resource:

The Online Dog Trainer by Doggy Dan a world-class Dog Trainer from New Zealand is worth taking a look at. This online resource has hundreds of fun informative dog training videos that can help you learn the basics and more.

Pomchi Exercise

Even though they are small, Pomchis have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise.

Many people think that toy dogs will be content to sit on their laps all day. This is not the case!

Make sure you provide your Pomchi with physical exercise and mental stimulation on a daily basis.

It is true that they do not need as much as exercise as a working breed such as a German Shepherd or a Border Collie. However, Pomeranian Chihuahua mixes still need daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Staying Healthy: Pomchi Health Issues

No matter what kind of dog you get, it is important to become familiar with the health issues that could affect your new pet.

Luckily, mixed breed dogs are usually healthier than their purebred counterparts.

This is because they come from a wider gene pool and are therefore less likely to inherit genetic conditions.

Below are some of the medical issues that commonly affect Chihuahuas and Pomeranians.

Talk with your vet about these medical conditions to make sure that you will be prepared for them if they arise in your Pomchi:

Common Pomeranian and Chihuahua Health Issues

Helpful Dog Health Resource:

Note: Our Health is #1 Priority. It should be no different for your dog. But you need to help him. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is the answer. This handy guide will help you recognize the symptoms of the health problems above. Get the knowledge to stay ahead of these terrible issues that can rob your lovely dog from vigor and life. Help your friend make it to 14 yrs+ without pain and suffering.

Pomchi Veterinary Care

Like all dogs, your Pomchi should visit a vet at least once per year for an annual exam and important vaccinations.

As your dog gets older, you may want to add on yearly bloodwork and dental work as well.

Make sure your Pomchi always stays up to date on monthly flea, tick and heartworm prevention.

Your vet can advise you on the best preventative medications on the market for your pet.

Pomchi Nutrition

Pomchis are small so they do not require as much food as larger breeds.

However, it is still important to feed your Pomchi a high-quality diet.

Your vet can help you find a dog food brand that is free from filler ingredients like corn or animal by-products.

Even though it may be more expensive, it is worth paying a little extra to provide the best possible nutrition for your Pomchi.

Pomchi Lifespan

With good care, your Pomchi can live a very long life!

The average life expectancy for a Pomeranian Chihahuahua mix is between 12 and 18 years. Some have been known to live even longer!

Pomchi Adoption and Rescue

Do you think the Pomchi is the perfect dog for you?

If so, it is time to find one to add to your family.

Why Adopt a Pomchi?

A great option is to find a Pomchi available for adoption!

There are many homeless dogs in this country that need families—including small dogs like Pomchis!

There are many perks to adopting your new best friend.

Most importantly, you get to save a life!

Adoption is also less expensive than purchasing a Pomchi puppy from a breeder.

How to Find a Pomchi for Adoption

You can start your search by visiting your local animal shelter or humane society to see if they have any available Pomchis.

Make sure that you explain that a Pomchi is a Pomeranian Chihuahua mix. They might not be familiar with the nickname.

Even if they do not have any available on the day of your visit, you can ask if you can leave your phone number on file for the future.

You can also get in touch with local Rescue Groups. Rescue Groups are organizations that specialize in rescuing certain breeds or mixes.

You can also search online forums such as Petfinder.com and Adoptapet.com. These national websites will even let you set alerts so that you can receive emails when your desired breed(s) become available.

Finding a Pomchi For Sale from a Reputable Source

Some people may choose to buy their Pomchi puppy from a breeder.

If you go this route, be ready to do plenty of research to make sure that you get your Pomchi puppy from a good breeder and not from a puppy mill or backyard breeder.

The only way to know for sure, is to visit the breeder in person and check out their facility.

Never order Pomchi puppies online or buy them through a pet store. Always go directly to the source and look at the premises with your own eyes.

If a breeder tries to talk you out of visiting their home, this is a bad sign. Take your business elsewhere.

Good breeders will be happy to let you visit. They will be eager to show you medical records and registration papers for their dogs.

They will probably have some questions for you as well. Good Pomchi breeders want to make sure that their puppies go to outstanding homes.

Checkout our Complete Guide to Breeders:

We wrote the definitive guide on finding, selecting, and dealing with dog breeders. This will give you the smarts and confidence to save you money, time and heartache. Read On…

How Much Does a Pomchi Cost?

The Pomchi price will depend on many factors.

For example, if you adopt a Pomeranian Chihuahua mix from an animal shelter or rescue group, the adoption fee will probably be between $75 and $300. This adoption fee usually covers spay/neuter, vaccines and other basic services.

On the other hand, if you purchase a Pomchi puppy from a breeder, the cost will probably be at least $500-$1000. It could even be more depending on the breeder and the qualities that you are looking for in your Pomchi puppy.

We hope that this article has given you a better picture of the Pomchi personality and whether or not this cute little fluffball would the right addition to your family! Thanks for reading!