Because of their similar size, shared upright ears, and sometimes similar coats, Miniature
Pinschers are often mistaken for Chihuahuas.
But, these are two very different breeds which came into existence in different locations
in both time and geography.
So, let’s check out the similarities and the difference in these two tiny dog breeds.
Which do you prefer?
Let us know in the comments below.
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History While these two small dog breeds are similar
in size, build and lifestyle, historically they have nothing in common, other than being
little dogs.
The Chihuahua is an ancient breed.
The most common theory is that Chihuahuas are descended from the Techichi, a companion
dog favored by the Toltec civilization in Mexico and Chihuahua-like dogs have existed
in Mexico at least 1400 years before Europen dogs ever arrived.
Although, genetic evidence reveals very little pre-European genetics in modern chihuahuas
at less than 2%, suggesting that interbreeding with European dogs has left little of the
original Techichi, but it does retain the original form.
Even with the ancient lineage, the AKC didn’t register the Chihuahua until 1904.
The origins of the Min Pin are up for debate, but historical documentation begins less than
200 years ago.
The Miniature Pinscher was developed in Germany for rat control.
Contrary to popular belief, the Min Pin is not a miniature Doberman.
In fact, the Miniature Pinscher is a much older breed and shares no lineage with the
much larger Doberman.
The AKC recognized the Min Pin in 1929.
Both breeds are part of the AKC’s Toy Group.
Appearance
The Min Pin and the Chi are not large dogs.
The Min Pin is slightly larger at 8-11 pounds and 10-12 inches tall, compared to the 3-6
pounds and 6-9 inches of the more diminutive Chihuahua.
The Miniature Pinscher is muscular and well-defined.
Comparatively, Chihuahuas tend to be more bony and fragile.
The Min Pin has a wash-and-wear, single coat of short, straight hair.
The Chihuahua, on the other hand, can be found with a variety of coat types, including double
and single coated varieties with long and short hair, which can be silky or straight.
While either breed can be found in a variety of colors, the Chihuahua has a much wider
range of colors and coat patterns.
Both the Chihuahua and Miniature Pinscher are easy to groom.
Personality
These two breeds may be small in size, but neither is small in personality.
The Chihuahua is often described as having a Terrier-like personality.
It’s alert and suspicious of strangers and makes an excellent small watchdog.
The Chi is a sensitive and affectionate companion dog that often bonds with one person, but
if introduced correctly is able to make new friends, but expect them to be reserved at
first.
The stereotype of a mean little Chi who snarls at all strangers often arises from a dog that
has not been socialized.
But, a well-socialized Chi can be a very social and friendly dog, even going as far as eagerly
greeting strangers.
The Miniature Pinscher has a spirited and confident personality.
The Min Pin is fearless and curious and wants to investigate everything.
Like the Chi, the Min Pin made it to our list of small watchdogs.
You can check out that video in the card.
The Min Pin craves attention and loves to entertain.
This affectionate and loving dog, much like the Chi, hates to be left alone.
Neither the Chihuahua or Miniature Pinscher are ideal with small kids.
Trainability
Due to its strong family-pack mentality, training a Chihuahua can be enjoyable.
They are successful in several different dog sports such as agility and obedience.
The Chihuahua packs a good amount of smarts in a small head.
But, they also have a tendency to ignore commands so you’ve got to be consistent and firm
with them.
Because the Min Pin really thinks it's a king, you must be a strong pack leader with the
stubborn Min Pin.
The Min Pin can quickly get the upper hand.
To successfully train a Min Pin, you must establish firm leadership.
They can learn, it just takes a firm consistent trainer.
Energy and Exercise
The amount of energy an adult Chihuahua is nothing less than surprising.
It’s willing to play as long as you are.
Chihuahuas enjoy walks, supervised romps around the yard, and retrieving toys.
And a good game of fetch in a hallway is always a good choice.
Miniature Pinschers are forever on the move.
This is good if you like activity and entertainment; this is bad if you already have a hectic household
or like peace and quiet.
This is among the most active of all breeds; fortunately, most min pins can burn off much
of their energy playing indoors and do not require wide-open spaces to exercise.
As much as they enjoy playing outdoors, neither breed should live outside.
They aren't safe from hawks, coyotes, or other larger dogs.
They’re bred as companions, and the best place for a companion is with you.
Lifespan and Health
Chihuahuas are among the longest-lived dog breeds with average lifespans between 15-20
years.
And while generally healthy, the Chi does have a few common health concerns to watch
for.
Those include: Collapsed Trachea, Heart Murmurs, Hydrocephalus, Hypoglycemia, dislocated kneecaps,
Open Fontanel (a condition where the soft spot in the skull remains into adulthood),
Pulmonic Stenosis and Shivering.
The lifespan of Min Pins is about average for a small dog breed at between 10-14 years.
Common ailments include Epilepsy, Hypothyroidism, Legg-Perthes Disease, Patellar Luxation, and
Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
So, which of these tiny dogs do you prefer?
Who won?
Let us know in the comments.
Not that we’re taking score.
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