The Chestie is a delightful mix of the West Highland White Terrier and Chihuahua. With their cute, scruffy faces, these hybrids are known for being lively and full of energy. They make great companions for busy individuals as they require minimal care and don’t need much exercise. However, if you have the time to spare, you’ll find their constant need for attention quite endearing. Owners describe the Chestie as a loving and affectionate dog that truly excels as a companion.
Below, we look at Chestie dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Chestie, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and a lot more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Chesties!
| Dog Breed | Chestie |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 5-10 lbs (average) |
| Height | 8-10″ (average) |
| Location | North America |
| Ancestry | Chihuahua and West Highland White Terrier |
| Date of Origin | Unknown |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 14-18 years |
| Price | $900 – $1200 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The West Highland White Terrier, also known as the Westie, is originally from Poltalloch, Scotland. It is believed to have originated in the 17th century and was initially bred for hunting rats, badgers, and foxes. However, nowadays, they are mostly kept as companion pets. The breed was developed by Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch, who had a wheaten colored dog that was tragically mistaken for a fox and killed. To prevent such incidents, Colonel Malcolm decided to breed only white terriers for hunting. The Westie became a member of the American Kennel Club in 1908.
The Chihuahua is a small toy breed dog that shares its ancestry with the Techichi, another dog that lived in deserts. The Techichi dates back to ancient Mayan times and was considered a healer and a spiritual being. When its owner passed away, the Techichi was cremated so that it could assist the person in their journey to the afterlife. The Chihuahua was accepted into the American Kennel Club in 1904 and was once ranked as the 30th most popular dog in their registry. When these two breeds are combined, they create a lively and spirited addition to any household.
🐕 Chestie Appearance
Small breed dogs like the Chestie are said to have relatively delicate bones. These hybrids often have short to medium-length muzzles with a black or brown snout, as well as dark, round eyes that may protrude slightly, as seen in the Chihuahua parent. They frequently have short legs, are under 10 inches tall, and might have a petite frame or be somewhat stockier than the parent Westie. Chesties can have medium-to-long coats that are fawn, cream, white, black, or brown in color, depending on the dominant paternal genes. Although Chesties often have erect ears with rounded tips, this is not always the case. Typically, the snout region, ears, and chest will all have some degree of fur feathering. The tail will not be very thick and may stand erect or droop down.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Cream, Brown, Black, Fawn, White |
⚡ Fun Fact: Chestie dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Chestie
The Chestie is an energetic dog that has a strong sense of loyalty to its owners. Your Chestie can have a propensity to be needy, demanding, and to be by your side everywhere you go. Due of Chesties’ dislike of being left alone, separation anxiety may be a prevalent symptom of the trait. You might want to look around for a different kind of hybrid if you are someone who is not home very often or who works outside the home all day. If your dog is socialized from a young age, dog daycare is a possibility. The propensity of excessive barking, a characteristic common to this mix, might develop in a lonely dog. Chesties are frequently amicable and playful with kids and other animals, but if a kid is harsh with them, they could nip.
🤝 Are Chesties Friendly or Aggressive?
Chestie dogs are generally amicable with other pets, strangers, and children, making them a friendly choice for families. They are also cat-friendly and get along well with other dogs, making them suitable for households with multiple pets or for participating in dog meetups. Additionally, Chesties tend to be tolerant and accepting of elderly individuals, making them a good companion for older people. If you are looking to expand your furry family or want a sociable dog that can adapt well to various social situations, the Chestie breed could be an excellent option.
This breed is known for being:
- Independent
- Alert
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Friendly
- Affectionate
- Quick
- Devoted
- Lively
🐩 Chestie Care & Maintenance
Chesties require less upkeep because they are very tiny canines with short coats. The coat of this adorable mix should appear sleek and tidy with just a weekly brushing with a pin brush. The slicker brush works great also if his fur is short and silky. He is a generally clean small dog, so unless he has a tendency to roll around in the dirt frequently, washing should not be necessary. When he does require a bath, always use a shampoo that has been recommended by a veterinarian. He will need to have his nails cut every few weeks, and because he is little and has tiny teeth, there is a possibility that he could experience dental issues or tartar buildup. If at all feasible, cleaning your teeth every day is advised.
Chestie dogs are known for their minimal shedding, making them a great choice for those who are concerned about dog hair covering their furniture or car. If you’re someone who doesn’t tolerate dog hair well, getting a puppy from this breed could be the perfect solution. Additionally, Chestie dogs typically only require a bath every 4-6 weeks, making grooming a relatively low maintenance task.
🍖 Food: We recommend 1 cups daily, costing you about $0.70 – $1.00 daily, or around $20.00 – $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Chestie dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 8 miles per week, which equates to about 30 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Chestie dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Chestie Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Chestie Dog Breed can be:
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
- Collapsed Trachea
While minor concerns include:
- Deafness
- Cherry Eye
🤧 Important: Is Chestie hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Chestie.
⚡ Chestie Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Chestie a great choice for families with young children?
The Chestie is a great choice for families with young children because they are often friendly and playful with children. However, it is important to supervise interactions and teach children to be gentle with the dog to prevent nipping.
Is the Chestie breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Chestie breed is considered suitable for apartment living. They are small in size and require little exercise, making them a good choice for people living in smaller spaces.
How much exercise does a Chestie require compared to other breeds?
Compared to other breeds, the Chestie requires less exercise. They are low-energy dogs and do not need rigorous exercise routines. Short walks and playtime should be sufficient to meet their exercise needs.
Is the Chestie breed known for being good with other pets?
The Chestie breed is generally good with other pets. They are often friendly and playful, but proper socialization is important to ensure positive interactions with other animals.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Chestie?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Chestie include the Bichon Frise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Shih Tzu. These breeds also have minimal exercise requirements and are known for their affectionate nature.
What are the common health issues that Chesties are prone to?
Chesties are generally healthy dogs, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, patellar luxation, and allergies. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important to maintain their overall health.
Are Chesties known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Chesties can be moderately easy to train, but it may vary from dog to dog. They are intelligent and eager to please, which can contribute to successful training sessions. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and early socialization are key for training a Chestie.
Are Chesties more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Yes, Chesties are more prone to separation anxiety compared to some other breeds. They do not like being left alone and may exhibit signs of distress when separated from their owners. Proper training and gradually increasing alone time can help alleviate separation anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Chestie that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Chestie that are suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle and the Bichon Frise. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats, which means they produce fewer allergens and are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Chestie are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller sizes of dogs similar to the Chestie, such as the Chihuahua and the Shih Tzu, are best for individuals or families with limited space. These breeds can comfortably live in apartments or smaller homes.
Is the Chestie breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Chestie breed can be good with children with special needs, but careful supervision and training are necessary. Every dog’s temperament can vary, so it is important to assess the individual dog’s behavior and consult with a professional if needed.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Chestie?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Chestie are relatively low. They have a scruffy coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They are considered moderate shedders, so expect some hair around the house but not excessive shedding like some other breeds.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Chestie dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
