Chizer

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: March 24th, 2022

Full of fun traits and a good-natured, energetic character, the Chihuahua and Miniature Schnauzer mix is a whirlwind of joy.

Mel Kowasic/Shutterstock

Chizer Basics

The Chizer is a unique designer breed that is steadily captivating the hearts of owners around the world. Full of fun traits and a good-natured, energetic character, these tiny dogs are a whirlwind of joy. With the affectionate and loyal traits of the Miniature Schnauzer, and the goofy, temperamental aspects of the Chihuahua, a truly unique cross-breed emerged. The Chizer can be a handful, however, so if you want a calm and snoozy pupper – this might not work out! But if you want a fun and spirited companion, on the other hand, the Chizer will fit right in with your needs.

But don’t rush in just yet! Owning a Chizer can be a challenge for first-timers. Read on as we cover all the essentials surrounding this breed and give you the most important insights. This way, you’ll be able to see if a Chihuahua and Miniature Schnauzer mix would be too much of a handful or if they seem like the perfect dog for your lifestyle before you take on the responsibility.

Origin

Chizer is a name that stuck from the get-go, but this unique designer breed is also known as the Schnauchi – so don’t be confused. Either way, the origins are clear to deduce: this is the offspring of two small and energetic breeds: the Chihuahua and the Miniature Schnauzer.

One of the tiniest dog breeds, the Chihuahuas have very far-reaching origins. They are commonly associated with Mexico, and the eponymous state from which they originate – Chihuahua. But experts agree that these tiny puppers were bred by the ancient Aztecs! Talk about a long lineage! The Miniature Schnauzer, on the other hand, is a relatively “modern” breed, having originated in the mid 19th century. It was bred in Germany by farmers, mostly for use as herding and ratting dogs. Since then, they have been recognized as fantastic family pets with many great traits.

The Chizer was, as we can see, pretty much a match made in heaven. But it is a much younger breed than its parents are. It is believed that the Chizer mix originated in the United States in the late 1990s, during the period when unique designer breeds were all the craze.

Pedigree

As for official papers documenting the Chizer’s lineage, you won’t be able to get them, as these dogs are not recognized as a breed – although you can ask to see the pedigree papers of the purebred parents. One of the reasons for this is that there is no set standard for designer dog breeds in terms of uniform looks – it takes time and several generations to get a uniform set of traits, and all Chizers are first-generation mixes, aka mixed breed dogs. Plenty depends on their parents and the Chizer can take up after either one of the two original breeds. Still, some general appearance traits are a must!

For example, the snout of the Chizer can either be short or elongated, with both versions accepted. The height is generally the same always, averaging between 6 and 14 inches, with short stubby legs. The coat is generally thick and flowing, after the Schnauzer, while their ears can either be floppy or pointed. Nevertheless, you can quickly recognize them as the charming Chizers! The details are only drawn from the dominating parent breed.

Food / Diet

Diet plays an important role in your pet’s overall health and wellbeing. The Chizer is a generally small and stubby dog, and as such, it cannot be overfed or have an unhealthy diet. If you neglect their diet they can become obese and unhealthy. Still, they have tons of energy to spend, so all the calories and fat will be easily burned and maintained. You should adapt their diet to their appropriate level of energy and their size. It is also recommended to split their meals into two halves, or even better, feeding smaller portions several times per day.

The Chizer can suffer from some mild indigestion in certain cases, so try switching up their foods if you notice this. Of course, your vet will always give you the best advice, recommending the perfect diet suited for your dog. A lot depends on their size, age, and character.

Training

Interestingly enough, the Chizers might be a bit of a challenge to train. Firstly, it’s the parent breeds! Chihuahuas are known as spunky, temperamental, grumpy, and stubborn doggos. The Miniature Schnauzer on the other hand can be a bit aloof, but generally obedient and quick to learn. The offspring of the two are somewhere in the middle. There is definitely some stubbornness present, as well as all that excess energy. But even so, these dogs are very smart and can pick up commands very quickly. All that you need is consistency, routine, and patience. And treats too! Positive reinforcement works wonders for Chizer training.

Of course, you should start training as early as possible. It’s all about setting down the rules and showing who’s the boss. Once your Chizer gets the idea, the training process should be fairly smooth. Simple commands and tricks can also help speed up the process. Behavioral training is equally important since Chizers can be a bit temperamental and snappy, being prone to “small dog syndrome”. Early socialization will help with this, giving your pup a chance to understand the doggo social relations and what’s proper and what’s not. Do this right, and your Chizer won’t have any unwanted behavioral issues.

Weight

Chizers are rather small dogs – depending on their overall looks, they can weigh from 4 to 15 lbs on average. Add to that their relatively short height, and you get a stumpy little doggo. Of course, this weight will have to be maintained in order to avoid health issues. Plenty of exercise daily, a balanced diet with measured portions, and obesity will not be a threat.

Of course, their weight and size make them great pets in a variety of environments. They tend to do great in average-sized homes and can benefit immensely from a fenced-in yard. But they can also thrive in apartments in big cities. As long as they are not confined and have a chance to spend their energy both inside and outside - all should be well.

Temperament / Behavior

In many ways, the Chizer has a great balance of character traits and temperament. Thanks to the Chihuahua parent, these dogs can have quite a bold and confident attitude, with a bit of stubbornness added in as well. But in general, they are loving, loyal, fun, and gentle dogs that will be great fun to be around. Chizers can be ideal as pets for both families with or without kids and solo owners when trained and socialized on time. The Chizer loves being in the center of attention and will be surprisingly loyal and affectionate once that pet-owner bond is created.

However, everything depends on proper training and your relationship with your pet. You will need to socialize this unique breed, in order to avoid them developing a “short fuse” – i.e to avoid them being snappy and grumpy. Start in their puppy years and introduce them to plenty of new dogs and strangers. This will lay down great foundations for their future years.

Common Health Problems

A stocky and generally hardy breed, the Chizer won’t have many serious ailments throughout their life. However, this will happen only with proper care throughout their life. Of course, as with most designer breeds, the Chizer is bound to inherit some of the health issues that are present in the parent breeds. So, for example, a common issue can be ear infections, but luckily, when the signs are spotted on time, these are easy to treat. Other, more serious health issues can include rheumatism, kidney stones, respiratory problems, allergies, or diabetes.

Also possible are issues with wheezing and snorting, since Chizers can have short and stubby snouts. Either way, you should rely on regular visits to the vet. This will keep you on your toes and give you insight into your pet’s overall health. After all, your vet knows best and can help keep your Chizer in prime condition in all of their life’s stages.

Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Chizer can reach anywhere from 10 to 15 years on average. That’s quite a great lifespan for such a new and small crossbreed. With 15 being on the higher end of the high-range spectrum for life expectancy amongst dogs, you can expect your pet to be by your side for quite a great number of years.

Exercise Requirements

As most tiny breeds, the Chizes are also full of energy and spunk. The true lovers of playing and the zoomies, these dogs will need plenty of space to exercise. If you don’t have a fenced-in yard, you will have to practice daily walks and plays in the park. Also, make sure that there is ample free space in your home for the Chizer to stretch and play.

Vivacious and goofy, Chizers will always be on the move and ready for a new adventure.

They are very curious, and will often run after and bark at vacuum cleaners, brooms, lawnmowers, and other mowing things. Running about is just in their nature. Still, they always find time to rest and snooze! On average, these dogs need 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day. If that fits into your lifestyle and daily routine, the Chizer will be just the right companion.

Recognized Clubs

The Chizer – although a relatively new crossbreed – is accepted in some of the leading registries and recognized clubs. For example, they are a recognized designer breed with the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR), the Designer Breed Registry (DBR), and the Dog Registry of America (DRA). Just keep in mind that the clubs such as American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Designer Canine Registry recognize the breed as named “Chizer”, while the Designer Breed Registry accepts the name “Schnauchi”.

Coat

Just like its parent breeds, the Chizer is considered a moderate to low shedder. They have coats of medium length and require brushing 2 to 3 times a week at best. A light brushing routine will help keep everything tidy and avoid excess hair in your home. An occasional visit to the grooming salon can also benefit your pet, as a tidy and trimmed coat will prevent rashes, fleas, and skin issues. Some Chizers can have the iconic Schnauzer “mustaches” and “eyebrows”, as well as excess hair in the ears and over the head. Make sure that these are regularly trimmed in order to prevent ear infections and such. Bathing should be done “as needed”, but don’t overlook it!

Puppies

Chizer puppies are amongst the cutest in the dog world - no doubt about that! The litter size is usually about 3 to 5 puppies, more often than not each of them with unique looks. Tiny, gentle, and totally goofy, they will be a joy to care for. Avoid bringing these puppies into large crowds in those very early days, as they are quite delicate, but as soon as they are out of that fragile stage, you should start on their socialization. Meeting new friendly dogs, strangers, and dog-savvy kids will be essential for the formation of a well-socialized Chizer. Fail to do this, and they may develop some odd behavioral issues, such as excess barking and aggression towards strangers, over-protectiveness, and nippiness with kids.

Still, with plenty of care and attention, you shouldn't have a lot of trouble raising your Chizer. Remember that you will need plenty of patience and constant work in those early puppy days, in order to wrinkle out some of their less-attractive traits, such as stubbornness and snappy attitude.

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Nothing beats taking a dip in the cool, refreshing water when the temperatures skyrocket – and your dog knows it. Most pooches will take any chance to take a splash, be it in a pool, a river, or a small pond. However, not all water sources are safe for our canine companions to swim in or drink from. Contaminated water can harbor a variety of pathogens, and it can potentially lead to serious illnesses. That’s why all dog owners should be familiar with the dangers that grimy water brings – here’s what you need to know.What Diseases Can Dogs Get From Water?In the dog days of summer, your pooch will seek out any chance to quickly cool off, and drinking or taking a swim in cool water is the best way to do so. A swimming pool, the river, the pond, or even the sea – most doggos find these bodies of water irresistible for a quick dip or a little sip. But these waters are not always safe. The bacteria that they possibly carry can lead to all sorts of very serious illnesses that affect our canine friends. Here are just a few of the most common ones:#1 LeptospirosisThis is a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria species. Dogs can contract this disease by drinking, swimming in, or coming into contact with water contaminated with the urine of infected animals. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, and jaundice. In severe cases, it can lead to kidney or liver failure, and even death. Vaccination and avoiding stagnant and dirty water sources are key preventive measures.#2 GiardiasisThis illness is caused by Giardia, a protozoan parasite. Dogs typically become infected by ingesting water contaminated with feces from infected animals. Symptoms include diarrhea, weight loss, and dehydration. While not usually fatal, giardiasis can cause significant discomfort and requires treatment with specific anti-parasitic medications. Good hygiene and clean water sources are essential to prevent this infection. Don’t take a dip just anywhere!#3 CryptosporidiosisCryptosporidiosis is a disease caused by Cryptosporidium, another protozoan parasite. Dogs contract cryptosporidiosis through ingestion of contaminated water or food. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, weight loss, and lethargy. The disease is often self-limiting but can be severe in puppies or dogs with compromised immune systems. #4 BlastomycosisBlastomycosis is a fungal infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis. Dogs can contract it by inhaling spores from contaminated soil or water, particularly in areas with moist, decaying organic matter. Symptoms include coughing, fever, weight loss, and skin lesions. Early diagnosis and antifungal treatment are crucial for recovery. Avoiding known endemic areas can reduce the risk of infection.In order to avoid these water-borne diseases, all owners are advised to take necessary precautions. Naturally, you will want to avoid all suspicious bodies of water and prevent your pet from getting close or taking a swim. These include swamps, stagnant pools, visibly dirty water, forest ponds, and so on. Next, always provide clean drinking water. Fail to do so, and your pet will often try to drink from random pools. To make things easier when you are out and about, carry a special portable dog water bowl filled with fresh, drinkable water. That way you can rest assured that when your pooch is hydrating on a hike, he’s drinking only the safe stuff.

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

On March 20-22, 2024, pet industry professionals from across the globe gathered at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, for the Global Pet Expo. Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), the exhibit floor showcased 1,100+ companies, including 300 first-time exhibitors. This included 1,000+ product launches, the latest pet industry news, a packed New Products Showcase, and more! But what did we discover while attending the show? Here are some of the hottest trends in the industry, as seen at this year’s show: Mind the BudgetIn the last decade, we have seen a growing interest in spoiling our pets regardless of the cost. However, following the events of 2020, many pet parents are feeling the pinch that is society’s current financial state. So, how do we reconcile the two? Many brands came into this year’s show with a focus on providing high-quality pet care with a budget-friendly mindset. This included two distinct approaches. Some companies focused on finding ways to keep the price point low. This included changes to production, simplified designs, and sourcing quality supplies at a fraction of the cost. They then transferred these savings directly to the consumer, allowing you to spoil your pets without breaking the bank. The other trend we saw was to create premium products that, while requiring an upfront investment, are designed to last for years to come. By not having to replace them repeatedly, you will save money over the product's lifespan. Overall, we were excited to see so many ways pet parents can improve their pet’s quality of life, even when finances are tight. Sustainability for the Future A growing understanding of the impact of our pets on the environment has put pressure on the pet industry to find ways to prioritize sustainability. Some experts say that caring for a medium-sized dog can have a similar carbon footprint to driving a large SUV. How do we address this without giving up our pets? We saw several brands rising to the challenge! There was a growing number of companies creating adorable and functional toys from recycled materials. Snugarooz had a wide assortment of brightly colored, crinkly, and squeaky plush toys made from recycled water bottles. WestPaw added more products to their popular Seaflex line of 100% recyclable toys made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. We also saw a focus on sustainability in pet food and treats. One company that really stood out was Arch Pet Food. The company previously demonstrated their commitment to eco-friendly pet ownership by introducing alternative proteins in their food and treats. One product that we found very impressive was the Dehydrated Copi treats, made from an invasive species in our waterways. Other shifts towards sustainability included changes in packaging to reduce unnecessary plastics, the use of hemp-based bedding for small animals, and more sustainable decisions being made during production.

Are Collagen Chews Good for Dogs?

Are you searching for a tasty treat to keep your pup occupied? Have you heard the warnings made by experts about the potential dangers of rawhide chews and are struggling to find a healthy alternative for your dog? A newer type of dog chew is gaining popularity in the pet world, beloved both by pets and their parents alike. Let’s discuss the benefits of collagen chews and why this would be a great option for your dog. What Are Collagen Chews? Before we get into the benefits, we’ll start with the basics. What exactly is a collagen chew? Like rawhide, a collagen chew is a dried animal product. However, it is made from the inner layer of a cow's skin instead of the hide. This may seem like a minor difference, but it makes the product much easier to digest, making it safer for pet parents concerned about the risk of obstructions associated with rawhide. Collagen chew products are available in various forms, including flat chews, sticks, traditional bone shapes, and rings. Each variation of the chew ranges in size, thickness, and, therefore, chew difficulty level. Do Vets Recommend Collagen Sticks? Yes! Many veterinarians recommend collagen chews as a healthy alternative to rawhide. This healthy and natural chew option offers many health benefits, including joint issues and dry skin. Most collagen chews are made from all-natural ingredients and are free from fillers, artificial colors, and artificial flavors, making them a healthy replacement for your dog’s favorite rawhide bones.Is Collagen Better Than Rawhide? While both collagen chews and rawhides are long-lasting chew options, collagen chews address many of the health concerns related to rawhide. If your dog loves rawhide chews, this is a great alternative. Like rawhides, collagen chews are long-lasting. However, if your dog swallows a portion of the chew, its digestibility makes it less likely that you will find yourself at an emergency vet paying for surgery to remove an obstruction.

Yoga mat, water bottle,... lint roller?

Furry friends bring a new twist to traditional yoga.

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Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs?

When it comes to dog toys that engage and entertain – squeaky toys are a tried and true classic that fits the bill perfectly. While most dogs love the high-pitched tones these chewable and squeezable toys produce, some owners are not as thrilled and are wondering if there are any potential dangers when it comes to squeaky toys. Could the squeaker come off and pose a choking hazard, or can mold build up inside the hollow center, etc? These are all valid questions, so let’s see what the answers are. Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs? Safety Concerns To Have In MindSafety should always be paramount when it comes to choosing toys for your furry friend, especially when it comes to squeaky toys. Not every squeaky toy is created equal, and some may pose risks to your canine companion. Before selecting a squeaky toy, it's crucial to consider several safety factors.Firstly, pay close attention to the material of the toy. Opt for squeaky toys made from durable, non-toxic materials. Avoid toys with small parts that could be easily chewed off and swallowed, as this could lead to potential choking hazards. Ideally, the squeaker should be highly inaccessible, such as is the case in these  Multipet Loofa Dog Toys with a hidden internal squeaker. The long tubular body of the toy concealed the squeaker and is also super fun for pooches to carry and toss around.

Can Stress or Anxiety Cause Diarrhea in Dogs?

Dogs are no strangers to stress and anxiety. While most pooches are the picture of the tail-wagging, carefree dog whose only stress is that they have to wait for their next meal, some have it a bit more ruff. Anxiety in dogs can vary from mild to severe, triggered by specific and occasional stressors (such as  fireworks, for example) or present on a daily level. Naturally, your pet’s state of mind has a big impact on their overall health, so it doesn’t surprise that dogs with anxiety often have tummy issues. But does that mean that a stressful situation or anxiety can directly cause diarrhea in dogs? Having in mind that, in a way, your pet’s mental health is connected to their digestion, it sounds highly probable.How Stress and Anxiety Can Cause DiarrheaSo how does it work? The connection between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, plays a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of dogs. When dogs experience stress or anxiety, it can trigger a cascade of physiological responses, including changes in gut motility, secretion of digestive enzymes, and alterations in the composition of gut microbiota. These disruptions can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.When stress or anxiety takes hold, it's not just a matter of frazzled nerves. These emotional states can set off a domino effect within your dog's digestive system. Rather than a simple list of effects, think of it as a cascade of events:Picture your dog feeling anxious during a  thunderstorm or while being left alone. This emotional response triggers a surge of adrenaline, part of the body's "fight or flight" response. Blood flow shifts away from the digestive organs and toward the muscles, heart, and lungs, hastening gut motility.Meanwhile, the delicate balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, known as the microbiome, is disrupted by stress. This dysbiosis can lead to inflammation, changes in gut permeability, and an upset stomach.Furthermore, chronic stress weakens the immune system, leaving your dog more susceptible to infections and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.Beyond these physiological effects, stress-related behaviors like excessive chewing,  licking, or ingesting non-food items can irritate the digestive tract, exacerbating diarrhea.How To Deal With Stress-Related Diarrhea in DogsIf your dog is experiencing stress-related diarrhea, there are several things you can do to alleviate their discomfort and ensure a speedier recovery.Before anything else, it’s essential to identify and address stressors. Determine the underlying causes of your dog's stress or anxiety and take steps to minimize or eliminate them where possible. This may involve providing a calm, predictable environment, addressing separation anxiety, or using  desensitization techniques for noise phobias.Next, support their digestion with a mild, nurturing diet and the right supplements. Your pet’s tummy is upset, so you shouldn’t neglect the importance of rebalancing their gut biome and helping their digestion. Instead of their usual kibble, offer them a bit of broth, some cooked rice, or boiled chicken breast. Additionally, a digestive supplement such as  Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Powder can work wonders in managing symptoms of diarrhea. With a combination of special probiotics and antioxidants, this powdered supplement will quickly restore your pet’s GI tract and help their stool get back to its normal consistency. And since it’s packed with live microorganisms to benefit beneficial intestinal microflora, it can also help treat excessive gas and other digestion-related troubles, so it’s good to keep stocked in your pet’s first aid kit, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. 

Six Toes, Nine Lives, and a Famous Author

Key West's Hemingway Home and Museum houses 60 polydactyl cats descended from the author's beloved first six-toed feline.

What Do I Do if My Cat Ingests Marijuana?

We’ve all seen the funny social media videos of pets “greening out” after ingesting some weed, but can marijuana be dangerous for your cat? While it’s typically not fatal, marijuana toxicity can create a stressful situation for both you and your feline friend. In some cases, it can also have severe consequences. This guide will share the essential information you need to know about cats and marijuana, including the common symptoms of marijuana toxicity in cats, understanding the potential risks, and, most importantly, knowing what steps to take if your cat has ingested something they shouldn’t. Plus, we’ll discuss cat-friendly CBD products and share tips for calming your cat safely and effectively. Let’s get started… Is Marijuana Bad for Cats? With the growing number of states legalizing marijuana, this is a question that we have been hearing more frequently. Is marijuana toxic for cats? Should you be concerned if you accidentally leave something out and your cat now appears to be high? The short answer is yes! Cats are particularly sensitive to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound in marijuana that is responsible for the psychoactive effects (the relaxed, euphoric feeling that you experience). Plus, their small size means it takes significantly less to affect them. In most cases, if caught and addressed quickly, your cat will fully recover from marijuana toxicity. However, it can lead to long-term and even life-threatening complications. How Are Cats Exposed to Marijuana? In nearly all cases of marijuana toxicity, the affected cat wasn’t given marijuana to ingest. Instead, they get into something they shouldn’t, leading to trouble. There are several ways your cat may be exposed. If you or your friends/family smoke, ensure your cat is safely contained in another room. Even inhaling the second-hand smoke can have serious consequences. You can reduce the risk even further by placing a rolled towel along the bottom of the door to your cat’s safe room to block any smoke from entering. If you smoke outdoors, check first to ensure all windows are closed. Keep all marijuana and edibles up and out of your cat’s reach. Cats are curious creatures prone to nibbling on things they discover around the house. This includes live plants, dried weed products, marijuana-infused products, and even discarded joints. Signs of Marijuana Ingestion in Cats Most cases of marijuana toxicity aren’t identified because you see your cat nibbling on the offending product. Instead, it often starts with noticing that your cat is acting “off” and discovering the cause of trouble after a careful investigation. As cat parents, we should familiarize ourselves with the most common signs and symptoms. Knowing what to look for will allow us to identify and address the problem sooner. This includes: Drooling VomitingDilated pupils Extreme sleepiness or excitement Agitation, anxiety, or depressionExcessive vocalizationLoss of coordination or balanceLow blood pressure Slow heart rateLow body temperature TwitchingSeizures or comaSome cats will simply act "off." You know your cat better than anyone. Trust your gut, even if you can't pinpoint the exact signs or symptoms.

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