10-15 lbs
7-10"
United States
The Chigi is a hybrid breed. It is a combination of the parent breeds the Chihuahua and the Corgi. He is a wonderful, family-oriented dog. He is highly affectionate and playful. He is considered a toy breed, and he bonds wonderfully to his family. He is generally orange or tan colored, but may come in other variations as well. He has a short to medium sized coat. He may be a better watchdog than comparable breeds, and the Corgi in him may have herding tendencies. He is suited to live in many environments, including apartments or larger homes with a fenced-in area in which he can play.
While there is not much information on the Chigi breed itself, one can still learn much about the breed by studying the parent breeds. The smallest of the purebred dogs, DNA points to the Chihuahua as being descendants of the ancient Techichi dog of Mexico, a canine thought to have miraculous healing and medicinal powers. Kept by the Aztecs, these dogs were treated as regal beings - but were then cremated and buried with their owners at death. The smallest Chihuahua ever recorded was named Milly, weighing in at just one pound, and featured in the Guinness World Book of Records in 2014. Though the Chihuahua is a very tiny pet, he makes a good service and therapy dog. This breed was added to the roster of the American Kennel Club in 1904. The Corgi, according to legend, originated in the hidden sanctuaries of the Welsh fairies and were gifted to those who needed protection for their families and homes. The markings on the Corgi's fur were said to be marks from the magical saddles placed there by the elves and fairies. Indeed a fairy tale looking dog, the Welsh Corgi is a breed that truly did work the land well and were quite proficient at herding cattle and sheep. Thought to have maybe descended from Swedish cattle dogs called the Valhunds, this breed was registered with the United Kennel Club in the 1920's. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1934 and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi in 1935.
The smooth-coated Chihuahua has a smooth, shiny coat that is close to the body with a ruff of thicker hair on the neck. The long-coated Chihuahua has a soft coat that may be slightly curly. The ears will have an extra fringe of hair and a plumed tail. He may also have feathering on his feet. The Corgi is generally short in height with a long body. He is a light tan color and white markings are possible. He usually has long ears and a ruff around his chest and neck area. Typically, the Chigi looks like the larger of the parents, with the long low body of the Corgi. His facial features often lean towards the Chihuahua parent, though the nose is long. Colors in the Chigi may include black, fawn, chocolate, silver and brindle.
The Chigi has moderate grooming requirements. He is not difficult to maintain; grooming once a week is often more than enough to keep your Chigi looking smart and cared for. A pin brush will work well on a longer coat. Because smaller dogs often have a tendency to have trouble with their teeth, brushing them should be a daily occurrence, or at the very least, twice a week. Check the ears for dirt and moisture, though because the ears will most likely be upright, you shouldn't have an issue with bacteria. Do not neglect the nails; if they are left too long they may curl under causing difficulty with walking.
The Chigi is a happy, loving, and intelligent dog. However, they can be fiercely independent, and training may be difficult. They do like to please so be certain to praise lavishly and offer great encouragement when teaching commands. The Corgi parent is known to nip at the feet of children; their instinct as a herding dog is still strong. He does not intend to hurt anyone; he is simply herding his charge back where he or she should be! Good for the first time dog owner, your Chigi may exhibit some watchdog tendencies.
Because of the strong herding instinct that may be present in your Chigi, you should be careful while out at dog parks and other open areas with your dog as he may put his knowledge to practise. The family cat may find the herding to be a nuisance as well; otherwise, he is a very playful little dog with a good bit of energy. He requires daily exercise in order to maintain a healthy weight. Your Chigi will be happy to trail along with the family on outings; walks and games within a fenced yard are fun. He is adaptable to an apartment but ideally, a yard for running is best.
Written by Kathleen Egger
Published: 11/09/2017, edited: 10/30/2021
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