Jack Chi: What to Know Before Adopting

The Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua mix, often called the Jack Chi, combines the lively spirit of the Jack Russell with the bold personality of a Chihuahua. This small but energetic dog is often smart, affectionate, and full of character. Whether you’re thinking about bringing a new Jack Chi into your home, or if you want to learn more about your current Jack Chi companion, this guide will help. Read on to learn more.

TL;DR: Chihuahua mixes, such as the Jack Chi, have a unique blend of traits and a charming appearance, making them ideal for those looking for a spirited, loyal, and small companion. It’s essential to understand the potential differences in size, appearance, temperament, and health — as well as what to expect in terms of grooming, training, and caring for these pups — before deciding to bring one into your home.

Why we love the Jack Chi

Jack Russell-Chihuahua mixes are really good dogs. They might have sturdy, compact builds that reflect their Jack Russell lineage, with facial features that carry the delicate, expressive looks typical of Chihuahuas, or a mix of something in between. Depending on which parent they take after, their ears may stand up or fold slightly. Similarly, their tail may be straight and erect, or it may have a gentle curve.

Either way, they can make excellent companions for families who appreciate their lively and affectionate nature, and they will thrive most when given frequent mental and physical enrichment, alongside plenty of love and attention. 

• Jack Chis tend to be small dogs. You can usually expect them to weigh eight to 15 pounds and stand eight to 12 inches tall. 

• Jack Chis usually have big personalities. They can be active and curious, and may have the energetic, intelligent spirit of the Jack Russell, while also displaying the loyal and alert personality of the Chihuahua.

• Jack Chis have a lot of color variety. Both parent breeds come in a range of coat colors that include being partially, predominantly, or entirely white. Because of this, Jack Chis can inherit a partially or entirely white coat from one or both parents, as well as tan, brown, black, or an assortment of other colors.

• Jack Chis can have long or short hair. While short hair is more likely, these mixes can inherit long hair from their Chihuahua parent, and if they do, their coats will be longer and softer than the typical Jack Russell coat. This means they may also have feathery patches around their ears, chests, legs, and tails.

• Jack Chis are very smart. Jack Chis inherit intelligence from both parent breeds: the Jack Russell, who is a quick learner, and the Chihuahua, who is sharp, alert, and perceptive. Because of this, they are often curious, love mental challenges, and tend to pick up commands and tricks with ease. 

• Jack Chis often inherit impressive longevity from their parent breeds. On average, a healthy Chihuahua–Jack Russell mix can live 13 to 17 years. That being said, an individual Jack Chi’s life span can still be influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care.

Oakland Animal Services/

Things to consider before you adopt a Jack Chi

Jack Chis may be small in size, but they rarely lack energy. They are often alert, lively dogs — spirited, affectionate, and people-oriented. Because of their Jack Russell side, they tend to thrive with plenty of active play. However, their Chihuahua side may mean they’ll be content with close, affectionate companionship. Here are some things to consider about this mix.

Jack Russell-Chihuahua mixes’ energy and exercise needs

Pet parents of small-sized dogs often underestimate the training their pets need. And Jack Russell mixes take this to another level. Jack Chis can be very strong-willed, which may translate as stubbornness if not properly trained for boundaries and good manners. This mix also tends to be incredibly energetic and curious, which may lead to unwanted behaviors such as barking, chewing, digging, or nipping. Keeping your pup mentally and physically enriched is key to preventing these behaviors, and consistent training can likewise be a constructive outlet for that energy. 

Jack Russell–Chihuahua mixes vary in size more than you think

While these mixes will be small dogs, don’t expect them all to be tea cup size. Chihuahua Jack Russell mixes can vary in size depending on their inherited traits. Jack Russell Terriers are small, sturdy dogs who weigh between nine and 17 pounds, and stand 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Chihuahuas are even smaller, with a more delicate frame. They typically weigh between two and six pounds, and stand five to eight inches tall. Being small dogs, Jack Russell–Chihuahua mixes reach maturity quicker than larger breeds, and stop growing in height around eight to 10 months of age. 

Jack Russell-Chihuahua mixes will shed

One often overlooked consideration for small dogs is their potential to shed. Jack Chis can have short-to-long coats depending on which coat types their parents have. Shorter coats tend to shed slightly more than long-haired ones. Regardless, shedding among Jack Chis is usually moderate, and can increase seasonally in the spring or fall. Frequent brushing — about once every week or so — can help remove any loose hair that is stuck in your pup’s coat.

Jack Russell-Chihuahua mixes will have unique coats

Because Jacks and Chis can have diverse coat types, lengths, and textures, you can’t be sure what any Jack Chi’s coat will look like. Jack Chis can inherit a broken coat (patches of both smooth and rough hair) from their Jack Russell parent. They may have smooth coats on their backs and abdomens, with patches of rough or wiry hair on their faces, or they may be entirely smooth-coated. Mix in a long-haired Chihuahua, and the coat possibilities are endless.

In addition to texture, Jack Chis may also have a double coat. With a double coat, their coat consists of two layers: an insulating undercoat made of shorter, softer hairs and a protective overcoat that is made of longer guard hairs.

Jack Chis are higher-maintenance than some dogs

Jack Chis can be slightly higher maintenance due to their energetic and intelligent nature. The combination of high energy from their Jack Russell side and strong will from their Chihuahua side often means that they need more mental stimulation, gentle exercise, and consistent training than some other small-breed dogs. Although they are not difficult to care for, they will thrive best with pet parents who provide them plenty of attention and interactive play.

Jack Chis may not be a good fit for young children

Jack Chis can be good with kids, but there are some things to keep in mind before letting your children interact with your pup. These pups may resource-guard their toys, food, or primary caretaker, which may make them feel protective or territorial when children are brought into the mix. Early socialization and slow introductions can ease any uncertainty that both parties may feel. 

Because Jack Chis are small dogs, they can be injured if play becomes too rough. As such, it is important to teach children how to handle them gently and how to respect boundaries if your pup begins to feel overwhelmed. These pups can be very energetic, which may match well with certain children. However, that energy may become overwhelming for those who are younger or less confident around dogs. All interactions between your pup and young children should be supervised in order to ensure positive interactions. 

Valeriia Harbuz / Pexels/

Jack Chi health considerations

Yes, Jack Chis can be prone to some health issues inherited from their parent breeds, though they are typically healthy dogs. These are some health concerns to watch out for.

1. Patellar luxation: This condition is common in small breeds and occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. It can cause pain and difficulty walking.

2. Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease: Often seen in Jack Russells, this disease affects the hip joint by causing the femoral head to deteriorate. Dogs who have this condition typically limp and experience pain.

3. Deafness: Congenital deafness sometimes occurs in Jack Russells, especially those with mostly white coloring on the head. Affected dogs may not respond to sounds or commands.

4. Dental problems: Small mouths often lead to overcrowded teeth, which can cause gum disease and plaque buildup. If untreated, this may result in tooth loss.

5. Heart issues: Older Chihuahuas are more prone to heart problems such as mitral valve disease. Symptoms include coughing, fatigue, and fluid buildup.

6. Hypoglycemia: This condition, characterized by low blood sugar, is very common in Chihuahua puppies. It can cause weakness, seizures, loss of consciousness, and potentially death if untreated.

7. Collapsed trachea: More common in Chihuahuas, a collapsed trachea causes coughing and breathing difficulties. It can worsen with excitement or exercise.

8. Seizures: Seizures may result from epilepsy, hypoglycemia, hydrocephalus, or other causes. They often involve sudden convulsions and a loss of consciousness.

Because Jack Chis are a mix, they may inherit any of these conditions. However, mixed breeds often benefit from a reduced risk of breed-specific issues. A balanced diet, gentle exercise, and regular vet check-ups can keep your pet companion happy and healthy. If you have any specific concerns regarding your pup’s health, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible. 

Ready to adopt?

Jack Chis can occasionally be seen at rescues and shelters. Although this specific mix might not always be available at your local shelter, Jack Russell mixes and Chihuahua mixes are quite common, so you will likely find a dog who matches your preferred appearance, temperament, or personality. 

Keep an eye on local shelter adoption pages, as well as small-breed-specific Jack Russell or Chihuahua rescues for Jack Chis who are up for adoption. You can also search for adoptable Jack Chis in your area today with Adopt a Pet’s simple search feature.

Commonly asked questions

Are Jack Chis terriers?

Yes, Jack Chis are part terrier. Jack Russells are considered true terriers, so Jack Chis do inherit some terrier genes from that side. But they also inherit toy breed genes from their Chihuahua side.

Are Jack Russell-Chihuahua mixes hypoallergenic?

Jack Russell-Chihuahua mixes are not hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, there are no truly hypoallergenic dogs, since the proteins that trigger allergic reactions are found in a dog’s saliva, dander, and urine — not just in their fur. That being said, shedding can spread these proteins, so dogs who shed often tend to trigger more allergy symptoms. 

Are Jack Chis ornery?

Yes, some Jacks Chis can be ornery. Jack Russells are serious working dogs, while Chihuahuas can be a bit sassy. Although a Jack Chi might be irritable, consistent training, plenty of exercise, and maintaining boundaries can help manage their behavior.