Chiweenie Cost & Adoption

The first time I saw a Chiweenie for sale, it was at a small, family-run breeder in Sydney. The puppies were tiny barely the size of my hand but the price tags made me pause. Like many designer breeds, Chiweenies are in high demand due to their compact size, playful nature, and loyal personality. However, understanding what goes into the cost of a Chiweenie  from initial purchase to long-term care — is essential before you commit.

Chiweenie prices can vary dramatically based on breeder reputation, lineage, coat type, and even location. Puppies from ethical breeders who conduct health testing and early socialization often come with a higher price, but they also offer peace of mind regarding your dog’s health and temperament. On the other hand, adoption can be a more affordable and equally rewarding path for those open to rescuing an adult Chiweenie or an older puppy.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Chiweenie pricing and adoption, including:

• Average Chiweenie price ranges in the USA, Australia, and the UK.
   
• Factors affecting cost, from rare coat patterns to breeder quality.
   
• Adoption tips, fees, and where to find trustworthy rescues.
   
• Ongoing expenses, so you can plan realistically for the lifetime cost of owning a Chiweenie.
   

Whether you’re buying a puppy or considering adoption, this article pairs practical advice with insights from our Chiweenie Puppies Guide to help you make an informed decision.

The price of a Chiweenie for sale varies widely, but you can expect to pay between $500–$1,500 USD, AUD $800–$2,500, or £600–£1,200 GBP, depending on location, breeder reputation, and the puppy’s lineage. In some cases, rare coat colors like blue merle or long-haired Chiweenies can cost significantly more, especially when they come from champion bloodlines.

Chiweenies have become one of the most sought-after small designer breeds due to their compact size, loyal temperament, and low-to-moderate maintenance needs. The demand for these dogs has grown steadily over the past decade, pushing prices higher. According to Vetstreet, Chiweenies are often described as “big dogs in small bodies,” making them a favorite for urban dwellers and families alike.

A reputable breeder’s price usually covers much more than just the puppy. It often includes:

• Initial veterinary care: Vaccinations, deworming, and health checks.
  
  
• Microchipping: Required by law in many countries.
  
  
• Starter packs: Food samples, toys, or care instructions.
  
  
• Health guarantees: Ethical breeders often provide documentation of health testing for both parents.
  
  
• Early socialization: Exposure to household environments, sounds, and people during the critical 8–12 week period.
  
  

While lower-priced puppies may be tempting, they often come from puppy mills or backyard breeders who cut corners on health testing and socialization. These puppies can cost more in the long run due to unforeseen health problems.

• Smooth-Coated Chiweenies: Typically fall on the lower end of the price range ($500–$900 USD) as they are more common.
  
  
• Long-Haired Chiweenies: Can cost $800–$1,500 USD due to grooming appeal and less frequent availability.
  
  
• Rare Colors (Merle, Blue, Cream): May be priced $1,200+ USD, depending on rarity and demand.
  
  

Adult Chiweenies are often less expensive than puppies, particularly if they are being rehomed. Adoption fees for adults are generally lower, ranging from $150–$400 USD, and often include spaying/neutering and vaccinations. For more on finding a puppy or adult, see our Chiweenie Puppies Guide.

The cost of a Chiweenie for sale depends on several factors: breeder reputation, location, puppy lineage, coat type, and market demand. Prices also reflect the breeder’s investment in health testing, early socialization, and veterinary care before the puppy goes home. Understanding these variations helps ensure you get a healthy, well-adjusted puppy while avoiding unethical breeders or puppy mills.

According to Petfinder and Vetstreet, Chiweenies typically cost $500–$1,500 USD, but rare coat patterns or puppies from top breeders can exceed $2,000 USD. In regions where Chiweenies are less common — like Australia — prices can be even higher due to limited availability and interstate transport fees.

The USA offers the widest selection of Chiweenies due to a larger pool of breeders and rescue organizations.

• Low-End ($500–$800 USD): Often from small-scale breeders in rural areas or those without detailed health records.
  
  
• Mid-Range ($900–$1,200 USD): Typically includes health testing for parents, vaccinations, microchipping, and early socialization.
  
  
• High-End ($1,200–$2,000 USD): Puppies from well-known breeders, rare colors (e.g., merle), or long-haired coats.
  
  

Trusted Sources:

• AKC Marketplace (for dachshund or Chihuahua breeders who may have Chiweenies).
  
  
• Petfinder for Chiweenie rescues and puppies across the country.
  
  
• Rescue Me Dachshund Network often lists Chiweenies needing homes.
  
  

In Australia, Chiweenies are less common, which raises their price. Puppies from ethical breeders often cost AUD $1,200–$2,500, especially if they come from champion dachshund lines or are long-haired varieties.

Adoption Prices:

• Rescue groups like PetRescue list Chiweenies or dachshund-Chihuahua crosses for AUD $200–$500, often including desexing, vaccinations, and microchipping.
  
  

Additional Costs:

• State registration fees (varies by state, approx. AUD $50–$150).
  
  
• Transport between states (AUD $100–$300).
  
  
• Mandatory microchipping (covered by most breeders).
  
  

Chiweenie Prices in the UK

In the UK, the average price for a Chiweenie puppy is £600–£1,200 GBP, with long-haired or rare-colored puppies fetching higher prices. Puppies from breeders in larger cities like London or Birmingham often cost more due to increased demand and higher operating expenses.

Adoption Prices:

• Organizations like Dogs Trust or Blue Cross often have small-breed rescues, including Chiweenies, for £150–£300 GBP.
  
  

Additional Costs:

• Vaccinations and vet checks (£150–£200).
  
  
• Pet insurance (starting from £20–£30 per month).
  
  
• Microchipping (mandatory and often included by breeders).
  
  

1. Coat Type and Color: Long-haired and rare-colored Chiweenies (e.g., blue merle, cream, or chocolate dapple) often command higher prices due to their unique appearance and limited availability.
   
   
2. Breeder Reputation: Breeders who perform genetic health testing and provide early socialization often charge more but offer healthier, better-adjusted puppies.
   
   
3. Urban vs. Rural Location: Puppies in major cities typically cost 20–30% more than those in rural areas due to demand and higher living costs.
   
   
4. Parent Lineage: Puppies bred from champion dachshund or Chihuahua lines tend to cost more.
   
   
5. Market Demand: Designer breeds like Chiweenies have surged in popularity over the last decade, which continues to drive prices up.
   
   

Buying a Chiweenie is just the first expense — the real cost of ownership comes from the ongoing care required to keep them healthy and happy. On average, owners can expect to spend $800–$1,200 USD per year (or equivalent in AUD/GBP) on essentials such as food, vet care, grooming, insurance, and other supplies.

According to the ASPCA Pet Care Estimates, small dogs typically cost less to feed and groom compared to larger breeds, but medical costs and insurance can be similar across all sizes. For Chiweenies, preventive care (like dental cleanings and back health support) is key to avoiding expensive treatments down the road.

1. Food and Treats
   
   
2. • Monthly Cost: $20–$40 USD (AUD $30–$60 or £15–£30).
     
     
   • Chiweenies have small appetites, but high-quality small-breed food ensures proper nutrition. Treats for training or dental health add a small additional cost.
     
     
     
2. Routine Veterinary Care
   
   
3. • Annual Cost: $200–$400 USD (AUD $300–$600 or £180–£300).
     
     
   • Includes annual checkups, vaccinations, and flea/tick/worm preventatives.
     
     
   • Dental care, which is crucial for small breeds, can cost $300–$500 USD per professional cleaning if not maintained at home.
     
     
     
3. Pet Insurance
   
   
4. • Monthly Cost: $25–$40 USD (AUD $35–$60 or £20–£35).
     
     
   • Covers unexpected illnesses or injuries. Insurance is particularly beneficial for Chiweenies because back surgeries (e.g., for IVDD) can cost $4,000–$6,000 USD without coverage.
     
     
     
4. Grooming
   
   
5. • Annual Cost: $150–$300 USD (AUD $220–$450 or £120–£240).
     
     
   • Smooth-coated Chiweenies require only occasional professional grooming, while long-haired varieties may need trims and deshedding every 2–3 months.
     
     
     
5. Training and Socialization
   
   
6. • Cost: $50–$150 USD for group classes.
     
     
   • Early training helps curb stubbornness and barking tendencies. Our Chiweenie Training Guide explains how to keep these sessions effective and fun.
     
     
     
6. Supplies and Toys
   
   
7. • Annual Cost: $100–$200 USD.
     
     
   • Includes collars, harnesses, bedding, and enrichment toys (like puzzle feeders).
     
     
     

Chiweenies, like all breeds, may face sudden health issues that require urgent care. A single emergency vet visit can cost $500–$1,000 USD or more. Investing in insurance or maintaining a “pet savings fund” helps cover these surprises.

With an average lifespan of 12–16 years, a Chiweenie’s lifetime cost of ownership can reach $15,000–$20,000 USD (or more), depending on health, grooming, and insurance choices. Planning for these expenses upfront ensures you can provide the best quality of life for your dog.

Adopting a Chiweenie can be one of the most rewarding ways to bring this affectionate, quirky breed into your life. While buying a puppy from a breeder has its benefits, adoption is often more affordable, and you’ll be giving a dog a second chance at a loving home. Chiweenies frequently appear in shelters or rescue groups, especially when small-breed dogs are surrendered due to lifestyle changes or owners being unable to manage their needs.

• Lower Cost: Adoption fees are significantly less than buying from a breeder, ranging from $150–$400 USD, AUD $200–$500, or £150–£300 GBP.
  
  
• Included Services: Most adoption fees cover vaccinations, microchipping, spaying/neutering, and initial health checks — services that would cost several hundred dollars if done privately.
  
  
• Supporting Rescue Work: Adoption helps shelters continue their work of caring for and rehoming dogs.
  
  
• Adult Dogs Available: If you prefer skipping the puppy stage, many rescues have house-trained adult Chiweenies ready for adoption.
  
  

According to Petfinder, adoption not only saves lives but also ensures that the dog you bring home has undergone temperament testing and health screening.

1. USA:
   
   
2. • Petfinder — Search “Chiweenie” or “dachshund/Chihuahua mix” to find local listings.
     
     
   • Rescue Me Dachshund Network — Lists dachshund mixes, including Chiweenies.
     
     
   • Local Humane Societies — Many shelters have small-breed adoption programs.
     
     
     
2. Australia:
   
   
3. • PetRescue — A nationwide platform with listings for Chiweenie and dachshund mixes.
     
     
   • Breed-specific rescues like Dachshund Rescue Australia, which occasionally rehome Chiweenies.
     
     
     
3. UK:
   
   
4. • Dogs Trust — One of the UK’s largest rescue organizations.
     
     
   • Blue Cross — Specializes in rehoming small breeds and crosses.
     
     
     

• Research the Breed Mix: Understanding Chiweenie quirks — like their stubborn streak and alert barking — ensures a better match. See our Chiweenie Temperament Guide for insights.
  
  
• Ask the Right Questions: Inquire about the dog’s medical history, personality, and whether they’ve been socialized with other pets.
  
  
• Home Prep: Create a calm, safe space with a crate or soft bed, and have basic supplies (food bowls, harness, and toys) ready.
  
  
• Meet & Greet: Spend time with the Chiweenie before adopting to ensure your personalities are a good fit.
  
  

While buying a Chiweenie puppy from a breeder may provide predictable lineage and early socialization, adoption offers an opportunity to rescue a loving dog at a fraction of the price. Many adult Chiweenies in rescues are already trained and require less effort compared to raising a young puppy.

Finding a healthy Chiweenie for sale or adoption requires research and patience. While there are many breeders and online listings, not all sources prioritize ethical practices, health testing, or proper early socialization. Whether you’re looking for a puppy from a breeder or an adult dog from a rescue, knowing where to search — and what to avoid — is crucial.

1. USA
   
   
2. • AKC Marketplace (AKC Marketplace) — While Chiweenies aren’t AKC-recognized (as they’re mixed breeds), many reputable dachshund and Chihuahua breeders list planned or accidental Chiweenie litters.
     
     
   • Greenfield Puppies (Greenfield Puppies) — Lists vetted small-breed breeders, but due diligence is still necessary.
     
     
   • Local Breed Clubs: Regional dachshund or Chihuahua clubs often have breeder referrals.
     
     
     
2. Australia
   
   
3. • PetRescue (PetRescue) — A go-to platform for adoption and rehoming.
     
     
   • Registered Breeders: Search for breeders through Dogs Australia (ANKC) (Dogs Australia), focusing on dachshund and Chihuahua breeders who may have Chiweenies.
     
     
   • Community Recommendations: Ethical breeders often build their reputation through word-of-mouth in small dog communities.
     
     
     
3. UK
   
   
4. • Pets4Homes (Pets4Homes) — The UK’s largest pet listing site with breeder and adoption options.
     
     
   • The Kennel Club UK (The Kennel Club) — While not recognizing Chiweenies, many breeders of the parent breeds follow Kennel Club ethics.
     
     
   • Dogs Trust (Dogs Trust) — For adoption, this is one of the most reputable UK organizations.
     
     
     

Unfortunately, puppy mills and backyard breeders are common in the designer dog world. Here’s how to spot and avoid them:

• No Health Records: Ethical breeders provide proof of vaccinations, deworming, and parental health testing.
  
  
• No Interaction: If you’re not allowed to meet the puppy’s parents or see where they’re raised, walk away.
  
  
• Unrealistically Low Prices: A $200 “purebred” Chiweenie puppy is a major red flag — this often signals poor breeding practices or scams.
  
  
• No Questions Asked: Reputable breeders will ask you questions to ensure their puppies go to responsible homes.
  
  

Adoption Platforms

If adoption is your preference, focus on:

• Petfinder (Petfinder) — Nationwide search tool for shelters and rescues across the USA.
  
  
• Dachshund and Small-Breed Rescues: Many dachshund rescues frequently list Chiweenie mixes.
  
  
• Blue Cross (Blue Cross) in the UK and Dachshund Rescue Australia are also reliable sources.
  

Chiweenies come in an incredible variety of colors and patterns, making each one truly unique. Whether your pup is a glossy black-and-tan or a rare blue merle, their coat often reflects a mix of dachshund and Chihuahua traits. I once saw a chocolate Chiweenie at a dog-friendly café in Jamberoo — her coat shimmered like velvet in the sunlight, and her owner said she gets stopped at least three times on every walk. That’s the thing with Chiweenies: their looks are just as attention-grabbing as their personalities.

While Chiweenies can inherit any shade from their parents, some of the most popular colors include:

• Brown or Chocolate: A warm, rich tone often seen in dachshunds, giving the dog a soft, earthy look.
  
  
• Black and Tan: A classic dachshund pattern, with tan markings over the eyes, chest, and paws.
  
  
• Cream or Fawn: Soft, pale coats that are common among Chihuahuas.
  
  
• Tri-Color: A mix of black, tan, and white, reminiscent of beagle-like patterns.
  
  
• Blue or Silver: A rarer color sometimes seen when the dachshund parent carries dilute genes.
  
  
• Merle or Dapple: A mottled, speckled look that creates a patchwork-like coat pattern.
  
  

For photos and coat comparisons, see Chiweenie Shedding & Coat Care.

Chiweenies usually have smooth, short coats that are low-maintenance. However, if the dachshund parent is long-haired, you might get a puppy with slightly longer, feathered fur around the ears or tail. These coats need brushing 2–3 times a week to prevent tangles.

• Smooth Coats: Require only weekly brushing.
  
  
• Medium or Feathered Coats: Brush 2–3 times a week.
  
  
• Rare Wire Coats: A quick trim every few months and weekly brushing.
  
  

Chiweenies are moderate shedders. Seasonal changes in spring and autumn can cause heavier shedding, especially in mixes with thicker coats. A de-shedding brush can minimize loose hairs, and regular grooming also reduces allergens in the home.

For complete shedding tips, visit our Chiweenie Shedding & Coat Care Guide.

Bathing once every 4–6 weeks is sufficient for most Chiweenies. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, leading to dryness.

• Use a mild, dog-specific shampoo (oatmeal-based for sensitive skin).
  
  
• Dry thoroughly to avoid chills, especially for small, short-coated dogs.
  
  

The American Kennel Club recommends brushing before and after baths to reduce tangles and ensure a healthy, shiny coat.

Nail, Ear & Dental Care

• Nails: Trim every 3–4 weeks, or when you hear clicking on floors.
  
  
• Ears: Check weekly for signs of redness or wax buildup — Chiweenies with floppy ears can inherit beagle-like ear issues.
  
  
• Teeth: Brush 2–3 times per week, as Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems.
  
  

• Soft bristle brush or slicker brush (for smooth coats).
  
  
• Deshedding comb (for seasonal shedding).
  
  
• Nail clippers or grinder.
  
  
• Dog-friendly ear wipes and toothbrush.

Explore our complete Chiweenie collection for in-depth guides on temperament, care, and breed-specific tips:

• Chiweenie: The Complete Guide
  Your all-in-one introduction to Chiweenies — from history to personality traits.
  
  
• Chiweenie Temperament: Is the Doxie Mix Right for You?
  Learn about their personality, quirks, and how they fit into family life.
  
  
• How Long Do Chiweenies Live?
  Discover their lifespan and how to keep them healthy well into their senior years.
  
  
• Chiweenie Puppies: What New Owners Should Know
  Practical tips on raising a Chiweenie puppy, from feeding schedules to early training.
  
  
• Chiweenie Size & Growth Chart
  Track your puppy’s growth and learn what to expect as they mature.
  
  
• Chiweenie Cost & Adoption Guide
  A breakdown of price ranges, adoption resources, and trusted breeders.
  
  
• Chiweenie Health Guide
  Everything you need to know about common health issues and preventative care.
  
  
• Chiweenie Training Guide
  Proven techniques for housebreaking and teaching core commands.
  
  
• Chiweenie Shedding & Coat Care
  Grooming routines for every coat type, plus tips for managing seasonal shedding.
  
  
• Long-Haired Chiweenie
  Coat care tips and insights into this beautiful Chiweenie variety.
  
  
• Blue Merle Chiweenie
  A closer look at this rare and stunning coat pattern.
  
  
• Chiweenie vs. Other Designer Dogs
  Compare Chiweenies to other popular small-breed mixes to find your best fit.

This article was written by Ellie, a dachshund owner and enthusiast — not a veterinarian. Please consult your vet for personalized guidance.