Chipin

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance dog, the Chipin is a good bet. Their coats need a going-over with a stiff bristle brush a few times a week, but nothing more than that. Parents can bathe their Chipin with a vet-approved dog shampoo, but a wipedown with a doggy wipe or wet face cloth often does the trick without removing as much of their natural oils.

Ears should be checked regularly for signs of redness, dirt or wax build-up. If needed, they can be cleaned with a mild cleanser. Other tasks to stay on top of include clipping nails and brushing teeth.

Chipin Health Risks

Although there are some canine experts that believe hybrid dogs to be healthier in general than purebred counterparts, there have been several health issues observed in the Chipin that parents should be aware of. These can include:

• Skeletal Conditions — including Patellar Luxation

• Color Dilution Alopecia

• Eye problems — including Cataracts

Be sure to only deal with responsible breeders that carry out screening and tests on their animals — these aren’t a failsafe way of preventing hereditary diseases being passed on, but it certainly lowers the risk.

Skeletal Conditions

Like many toy breeds, the Chipin is more prone to developing Patellar Luxation at some point in their lives. This happens when one of the knee bones frequently dislocates, leading to a characteristic hopping motion and a fair amount of pain. Fortunately, this can usually be treated successfully, via medication, physiotherapy or surgery.

Another potential disorder is Spina Bifida, a congenital abnormality of the spinal column. This is usually spotted when a dog is very young and can range in severity. Some dogs may have no or only minor symptoms, but others might be affected by weakness, incoordination or incontinence. Sadly, there are no treatment options for severe cases.

Color Dilution Alopecia

Chihuahuas are one of the breeds more likely to be affected by Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA), so it follows that the Chipin can, too — especially if they’re a diluted color, such as fawn or blue.

This inherited skin condition can cause hair loss, dry skin and bacterial infections. The condition itself can be cured, but your vet will be able to recommend treatments for the symptoms — this includes shampoos, ointments and medications.

Eye problems

The good news is that many dogs will be able to undergo a low-risk surgical procedure to treat Cataracts and recover within two to three months.

Another eye condition for which the Chipin is more predisposed to developing is Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). This is another hereditary disease that can vary in severity. Some dogs only suffer from minor vision loss and can adapt accordingly, but the worst affected can graduate to total blindness.

Unlike cataracts, PRA can’t be treated and the only thing that parents can really do is make their dog’s environment as safe as possible.

Regular veterinary testing can help spot health problems at a vitally early stage — this is one of the biggest perks with taking out a wellness plan for your pet.

What to Feed a Chipin

As a toy breed, a Chipin needs dog food specifically designed around the needs of small breeds. This will usually be more nutritionally dense as they can only eat smaller amounts. Kibble will be more appropriately sized for their mouths.

Be careful of overfeeding your Chipin. Even though they are quite skinny dogs, they can easily put on weight, which puts them at risk of health conditions such as Diabetes or Pancreatitis.

Need help picking what your Chipin has for dinner? Our partner Dog Food Advisor is an expert in this field and has put together a list of the best dog food for small breeds