Chihuahuas are tiny dogs known for their big personalities and spirited nature. However, a study that confirms common stereotypes about small dogs that they can be less obedient and more excitable, often appearing scrappy and skittish.1
Because of these traits, it’s important to choose their companions carefully. Here are dog breeds that might not get along with Chihuahuas.
1. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are friendly, energetic, and very playful. They love to run and have a strong pack instinct.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Huskies are much larger and more active than Chihuahuas. Their playful nature can be overwhelming for a tiny Chihuahua. Huskies may unintentionally hurt a Chihuahua during play, as they don’t know their own strength.
STOP BUYING GREENS: This Machine Grows $1000s Worth Automatically
✓ Set It & Forget It: Fully Automated Growing
✓ From Seed to Harvest in Days - No Experience Needed
✓ Grow Premium Microgreens Worth $50/lb Year-Round
Note: This is an affiliate link and we may earn a small commission if you purchase at no additional cost. This helps keep our website free to use.
2. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle, calm, and affectionate. They are great with families and love being around people.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: While they have a sweet nature, Bernese Mountain Dogs are quite large. Their size alone makes them risky companions for Chihuahuas. A simple bump or jump could seriously hurt a small dog, even if the Bernese means no harm.
3. Great Dane
Great Danes are friendly and gentle giants. They are usually good-natured and enjoy being around people.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds. Their size can pose a huge risk to a Chihuahua. Even a gentle step could cause injury. Plus, Great Danes require a lot of space, which can be overwhelming for a tiny dog.
4. Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are strong, friendly, and very playful. They are known for their loyalty and love for outdoor activities.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Like Huskies, Malamutes are large and energetic. Their playful nature can be too much for Chihuahuas, and they might unintentionally injure a small dog during rough play.
Their strong prey drive can also lead to chasing small dogs, which can be stressful for a Chihuahua.
5. Doberman
Dobermans are intelligent, loyal, and protective. They bond closely with their families and can be very affectionate.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Dobermans are also a larger breed, and their strong instincts can lead to issues with smaller dogs. While they can be gentle, their protective nature may turn into aggression if they perceive the Chihuahua as a threat or if they are startled.
This can make for a stressful environment for a tiny dog.
6. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are gentle giants. They are calm, loyal, and protective of their families. They are usually good with kids and have a loving nature.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Bullmastiffs are very large and strong. Even a gentle play session can be risky for a small Chihuahua. Their size and strength can unintentionally harm a Chihuahua, making them unsuitable companions.
7. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are friendly, considerate, and great with families. They are known for their patience and loving nature. They enjoy being around people and are usually calm.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Saint Bernards are one of the largest dog breeds. Their size can be dangerous for a Chihuahua. A simple wag of their tail or a curious nudge could hurt a small dog.
Their calm demeanor doesn’t change the fact that they could accidentally injure a Chihuahua just by being themselves.
8. Rottweiler
Personality: Rottweilers are strong, loyal, and protective. They are intelligent and can be very affectionate with their families. However, they can be wary of strangers.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Rottweilers are powerful dogs. While they can be gentle, their strength can be a problem for a Chihuahua. If a Rottweiler gets excited or playful, it could accidentally hurt a smaller dog.
Their protective instincts may also lead them to see a Chihuahua as a toy rather than a friend.
9. Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for being kindly and laid-back. They are friendly and love to relax, but they also have bursts of energy when they play.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Although Greyhounds are gentle, they are fast and powerful. Their speed can scare a Chihuahua, and during play, they may not be aware of their strength.
A Greyhound’s quick movements could lead to accidental injuries to a small dog.
10. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are energetic, playful, and very social. They are known for their friendly nature and love to be active with their families.
Why They Don’t Mix Well: Dalmatians have a lot of energy, and their playful behavior can be too much for a Chihuahua. They might play too roughly, not realizing that their small size makes it easy for a Chihuahua to get hurt.
Their high energy can also overwhelm a smaller dog, leading to stress or anxiety.
While Chihuahuas are full of energy and personality, they may not be the best fit with larger or more energetic dog breeds. The size and strength of these breeds can lead to unintentional injuries, and their play styles may overwhelm a small dog.
Choosing the right companions is key to keeping Chihuahuas happy and safe.
Source:
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.